https://www.marterraproperties.com https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-marterra-properties-is-the-trusted-choice-for-property-management-in-orange-county <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Why Marterra Properties is the Trusted Choice for Property Management in Orange County </span> </h3> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/Balboa-1204-Living-Room-07.jpeg"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> Maximize Your Investment with Local Expertise </strong> </p> <p> <span> Owning rental property in Orange County offers incredible opportunities—but managing it well takes time, expertise, and consistent attention to detail. At Marterra Properties, we simplify property ownership by delivering comprehensive, hands-on management services that protect your assets and grow your returns. </span> </p> <p> <span> Whether you own a single-family rental in Costa Mesa or a multifamily building in Newport Beach, we handle every detail—so you don’t have to. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> What Sets Us Apart </strong> </p> <p> <span> ✅ Local Market Knowledge – We specialize in high-demand Orange County neighborhoods, including Costa Mesa, Irvine, Huntington Beach, and Tustin. Our team knows what local renters expect and how to position your property to attract and retain high-quality tenants. </span> </p> <p> <span> ✅ Transparent, Tech-Driven Management – We use AppFolio to streamline everything from rent collection and maintenance requests to owner statements and financial reporting. </span> </p> <p> <span> ✅ Dedicated Maintenance Coordination – Protect your property’s value with responsive, cost-efficient maintenance handled by vetted local vendors. </span> </p> <p> <span> ✅ Compliant Leasing &amp; Renewals – California rental laws are complex. We ensure lease agreements, rent increases, and notices follow the latest regulations—so you stay protected. </span> </p> <p> <span> ✅ Full-Service Tenant Support – From 24/7 emergency response to proactive communication, we provide tenants with the professional service they expect, helping reduce turnover and vacancy rates. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> Serving Owners Who Care About Their Properties </strong> </p> <p> <span> Our clients include long-term investors, accidental landlords, and homeowners preparing to sell down the line. No matter your goals, Marterra Properties provides a customized management plan designed to minimize stress and maximize value. </span> </p> <p> <span> We don’t just manage properties—we manage relationships, reputations, and results. </span> </p> <p> <span> Schedule a Free Property Management Consultation </span> </p> <p> <span> If you're looking for a reliable, responsive, and knowledgeable property management team in Orange County, contact Marterra Properties today. Let’s talk about how we can protect your investment and take your rental income to the next level. </span> </p> </div> Mon, 12 May 2025 15:31:33 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-marterra-properties-is-the-trusted-choice-for-property-management-in-orange-county thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/navigating-california-s-2025-rental-laws-what-property-owners-in-newport-beach-costa-mesa-tustin-huntington-beach-and-irvine-need-to-know <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> This is a subtitle for your new post </span> </h3> </div> <div> <img src="https://irt-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/dmtmpl/dms3rep/multi/blog_post_image.png"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> As we move through 2025, California has introduced several new laws that significantly impact property owners and landlords, particularly in Orange County cities like Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Huntington Beach, and Irvine. Staying informed and compliant is crucial to protect your investments and maintain positive tenant relationships. Here's a breakdown of the key legislative changes and their implications for property owners in these areas. </span> </p> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> &#55356;&#57312; 1. Stricter Just Cause Eviction Requirements (SB 567) </span> </h3> <p> <span> Effective April 2025, Senate Bill 567 tightens the conditions under which landlords can evict tenants. "Just cause" is now required for evictions, including reasons such as non-payment of rent or lease violations. Notably, "no-fault" evictions, like owner move-ins or substantial renovations, now mandate relocation assistance to tenants. This law affects all rental properties not exempt under the Tenant Protection Act. ​ </span> <a href="https://stephanieyounggroup.com/blog/new-california-rentals-laws-changes-in-2024?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Beach Front Property Management Inc.+2Stephanie Young Group+2Los Angeles Times+2 </a> <a href="https://www.malakaisparks.com/huntington-beach-landlord-laws-staying-compliant-in-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Stephanie Young Group+3The Malakai Sparks Group+3Orange County Property Managers+3 </a> <a href="https://caanet.org/new-2025-laws-for-the-rental-housing-industry/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> CAANet+1The Malakai Sparks Group+1 </a> </p> <p> <strong> Implications for Property Owners: </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Ensure all eviction notices clearly state the just cause.​ </span> </li> <li> <span> Budget for potential relocation assistance costs.​ </span> <a href="https://ocgoodlife.com/orange-county-rental-laws/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Orange County Property Managers </a> </li> <li> <span> Review and update lease agreements to align with the new regulations.​ </span> </li> </ul> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> &#55357;&#56496; 2. Security Deposit Limitations (AB 12) </span> </h3> <p> <span> Assembly Bill 12, effective July 2024, caps security deposits at one month's rent for both furnished and unfurnished units. Previously, landlords could charge up to two months for unfurnished and three months for furnished units. ​ </span> <a href="https://bfpminc.com/californias-new-real-estate-laws/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Stephanie Young Group+2Beach Front Property Management Inc.+2Orange County Property Managers+2 </a> <a href="https://ocgoodlife.com/important-legal-updates-for-california-landlords/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Orange County Property Managers </a> </p> <p> <strong> Implications for Property Owners: </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Adjust financial planning to accommodate the reduced upfront funds.​ </span> </li> <li> <span> Implement thorough tenant screening processes to mitigate potential risks.​ </span> </li> </ul> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> &#55357;&#56568; 3. Enhanced Security Deposit Documentation (AB 2801) </span> </h3> <p> <span> Starting April 1, 2025, landlords must provide photographic evidence of a property's condition before move-in and after move-out, especially if deductions from the security deposit are made for repairs or cleaning. This aims to increase transparency and fairness in deposit deductions. ​ </span> <a href="https://caanet.org/new-2025-laws-for-the-rental-housing-industry/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> CAANet+1Orange County Evictions+1 </a> <a href="https://www.orangecountyevictions.com/eviction-attorney-security-deposits/california-ab2801-security-deposit-law-changes-for-orange-county-landlords/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Orange County Evictions </a> </p> <p> <strong> Implications for Property Owners: </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Establish a standardized process for documenting property conditions.​ </span> <a href="https://www.car.org/riskmanagement/qa/New-Laws/2025-New-Laws?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Orange County Lawyers+5Car.org+5The Malakai Sparks Group+5 </a> </li> <li> <span> Maintain organized records to support any deposit deductions.​ </span> <a href="https://www.orangecountyevictions.com/eviction-attorney-security-deposits/california-ab2801-security-deposit-law-changes-for-orange-county-landlords/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Orange County Evictions </a> </li> </ul> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> &#55358;&#56830; 4. Rent Payment Credit Reporting (AB 2747) </span> </h3> <p> <span> Effective January 1, 2025, landlords of certain properties must offer tenants the option to have their positive rent payments reported to at least one nationwide credit bureau. This applies to landlords owning multiple properties or operating as a corporation, LLC, or REIT. ​ </span> <a href="https://www.malakaisparks.com/huntington-beach-landlord-laws-staying-compliant-in-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> The Malakai Sparks Group+1CAANet+1 </a> </p> <p> <strong> Implications for Property Owners: </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Implement systems to track and report rent payments accurately.​ </span> </li> <li> <span> Inform tenants about their options regarding credit reporting.​ </span> </li> </ul> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> &#55356;&#57304;️ 5. Local Ordinances: Costa Mesa's Eviction Protections </span> </h3> <p> <span> Costa Mesa has enacted additional protections requiring landlords to provide a 60-day notice for certain evictions, offer one month's rent as relocation assistance, and notify the city within three days of issuing an eviction notice. ​ </span> <a href="https://www.latimes.com/socal/daily-pilot/news/newsletter/2023-11-15/tn-dpt-me-timesoc-latest-news-in-orange-county-costa-mesa-evictions-timesoc?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> Los Angeles Times </a> </p> <p> <strong> Implications for Property Owners: </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Stay updated on local ordinances that may add layers to state laws.​ </span> </li> <li> <span> Consult with legal experts to ensure compliance with both state and local regulations.​ </span> </li> </ul> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> <span>  </span> &#55356;&#57313; Partnering with a Local Property Management Expert </span> </h3> <p> <span> Navigating these complex legal changes can be challenging. Partnering with a property management company specializing in the Newport Beach, Costa Mesa, Tustin, Huntington Beach, and Irvine areas can provide invaluable assistance. Such companies offer: </span> </p> <ul> <li> <strong> Compliance Assurance: </strong> <span> <span> Ensuring all properties meet current legal standards.​ </span> </span> </li> <li> <strong> Tenant Relations: </strong> <span> <span> Managing communications and maintaining positive tenant relationships.​ </span> </span> <a href="https://www.malakaisparks.com/huntington-beach-landlord-laws-staying-compliant-in-2025/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> The Malakai Sparks Group+1Wikipedia+1 </a> </li> <li> <strong> Financial Management: </strong> <span> <span> Handling rent collection, deposit management, and financial reporting.​ </span> </span> <a href="https://caanet.org/new-2025-laws-for-the-rental-housing-industry/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" target="_blank"> CAANet+1Orange County Evictions+1 </a> </li> <li> <strong> Maintenance Coordination: </strong> <span> <span> Overseeing property maintenance and repairs efficiently.​ </span> </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span> Staying informed and proactive is key to successful property management in 2025. By understanding and adapting to these new laws, property owners can protect their investments and foster positive tenant experiences. </span> </p> </div> Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:41:39 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/navigating-california-s-2025-rental-laws-what-property-owners-in-newport-beach-costa-mesa-tustin-huntington-beach-and-irvine-need-to-know thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-property-owners-in-costa-mesa-trust-marterra-properties-for-professional-management <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Discover why Costa Mesa property owners choose Marterra Properties for expert property management services. From tenant screening to maintenance, we do it all. </span> </h3> </div> <div> <img src="https://irt-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/dmtmpl/dms3rep/multi/blog_post_image.png"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <strong> 1: Full-Service Property Management in Costa Mesa You Can Count On </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Owning rental property in </span> </span> <strong> Orange County </strong> <span> <span> is a smart investment—but it comes with challenges. From handling late-night maintenance calls to screening tenants and managing rent collection, property ownership can quickly become a full-time job. That’s where </span> </span> <strong> Marterra Properties </strong> <span> <span> steps in. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> At Marterra Properties, we simplify property ownership by offering </span> </span> <strong> comprehensive property management services </strong> <span> <span> tailored to both residential and commercial properties throughout </span> </span> <strong> Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and surrounding areas </strong> <span> . </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> 2: What Sets Marterra Apart From Other Property Management Companies </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> We’re more than just a management company—we’re </span> </span> <strong> local real estate experts </strong> <span> <span> who treat every property like it’s our own. Here’s how we stand out: </span> </span> </p> <ul> <li> <strong> Experienced Local Team </strong> <span> <br/> Our team lives and works in the communities we serve. We understand the local market and provide personalized service that large, out-of-town firms simply can’t match. </span> </li> <li> <strong> Thorough Tenant Screening </strong> <span> <br/> We screen for reliable tenants with verified income, strong rental history, and background checks—reducing vacancy and increasing stability. </span> </li> <li> <strong> 24/7 Maintenance Coordination </strong> <span> <br/> We handle all repair requests and emergencies, using trusted local vendors to ensure quality and cost-efficiency. </span> </li> <li> <strong> Transparent Financial Reporting </strong> <span> <br/> Owners receive monthly statements, maintenance logs, and year-end reports—all accessible through our online portal. </span> </li> <li> <strong> Legal Compliance &amp; Risk Management </strong> <span> <br/> We stay up to date on California’s landlord-tenant laws to help you avoid costly mistakes and stay protected. </span> </li> </ul> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> 3: Who We Serve </strong> </p> <ul> <li> <strong> Accidental landlords </strong> <span> <span> looking to rent out a single property </span> </span> </li> <li> <strong> Investors </strong> <span> <span> with multiple units or a growing portfolio </span> </span> </li> <li> <strong> Out-of-state owners </strong> <span> <span> who need reliable local management </span> </span> </li> <li> <strong> HOAs and small apartment complexes </strong> <span> <span> seeking professional oversight </span> </span> </li> </ul> <p> <span> <span> Whether you own a </span> </span> <strong> condo in Newport </strong> <span> <span> , a </span> </span> <strong> single-family home in Costa Mesa </strong> <span> <span> , or a </span> </span> <strong> multifamily building in Huntington Beach </strong> <span> , we tailor our services to meet your goals. </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> 4: Maximize Your Rental Income with Marterra Properties </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> We don't just maintain your property—we help it perform. Our </span> </span> <strong> market-driven rental pricing </strong> <span> <span> , </span> </span> <strong> vacancy reduction strategies </strong> <span> <span> , and </span> </span> <strong> cost-effective maintenance plans </strong> <span> <span> ensure you're getting the most out of your investment. </span> </span> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <strong> 5: Get Started with a Free Rental Analysis </strong> </p> <p> <span> <span> Not sure if your property is being managed efficiently? </span> </span> <strong> Contact Marterra Properties today </strong> <span> <span> for a </span> </span> <strong> free rental analysis </strong> <span> . We’ll evaluate your property's potential and show you how to increase ROI while reducing headaches. </span> </p> <p> <strong> &#55357;&#56525; Proudly serving Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Tustin, Irvine, Huntington Beach, and surrounding Orange County neighborhoods. </strong> </p> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <br/> </p> </div> Thu, 24 Apr 2025 16:16:23 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-property-owners-in-costa-mesa-trust-marterra-properties-for-professional-management thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-property-management-in-orange-county-is-more-important-than-ever-in-2025 <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Why Property Management in Orange County is More Important Than Ever in 2025 </span> </h3> </div> <div> <img src="https://irt-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/dmtmpl/dms3rep/multi/blog_post_image.png"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> The body content of your post goes here. To edit this text, click on it and delete this default text and start typing your own or paste your own from a different source. </span> </p> </div> Tue, 22 Apr 2025 16:02:08 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-property-management-in-orange-county-is-more-important-than-ever-in-2025 thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-marterra-properties-is-orange-countys-go-to-property-management-company <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Trusted Property Management in Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, and Beyond </span> </h3> </div> <div> <img src="https://irt-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/dmtmpl/dms3rep/multi/blog_post_image.png"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Owning rental property in Orange County should be a profitable, low-stress experience. At Marterra Properties, we make that possible. Based in Costa Mesa, we specialize in full-service property management across Orange County, helping property owners maximize their rental income while minimizing hassle. </span> </p> <p> <span> Whether you own a single-family home in Newport Beach, a duplex in Huntington Beach, or a small apartment building in Costa Mesa, our experienced team is here to protect your investment and provide exceptional service. </span> </p> <h3> <br/> </h3> <h3> <span> <span>  </span> What Makes Marterra Properties Stand Out? </span> </h3> <h4> <br/> </h4> <h4> <span> <span> ✅ </span> </span> <strong> Local Expertise </strong> </h4> <p> <span> We live and work in the communities we serve. Our Costa Mesa-based property managers understand the Orange County rental market inside and out. From accurate rental pricing to navigating local ordinances and tenant laws, we bring hyper-local knowledge to every property we manage. </span> </p> <h4> <br/> </h4> <h4> <span> <span> ✅ </span> </span> <strong> Full-Service Management </strong> </h4> <p> <span> We handle everything so you don’t have to. Our Orange County property management services include: </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Strategic rental pricing and marketing </span> </li> <li> <span> Tenant screening and placement </span> </li> <li> <span> Lease management and legal compliance </span> </li> <li> <span> Rent collection and financial reporting </span> </li> <li> <span> Maintenance coordination and 24/7 emergency response </span> </li> <li> <span> Annual property inspections </span> </li> </ul> <h4> <br/> </h4> <h4> <span> <span> ✅ </span> </span> <strong> Transparent Communication </strong> </h4> <p> <span> At Marterra, we believe communication is key. You’ll always know what’s happening with your property through our owner portal, monthly statements, and real-time updates. Our team is responsive, proactive, and easy to reach. </span> </p> <h4> <br/> </h4> <h4> <span> <span> ✅ </span> </span> <strong> Protection for Your Investment </strong> </h4> <p> <span> From thorough tenant screening to routine inspections and timely maintenance, we prioritize long-term value over short-term gains. Our systems are designed to reduce vacancies, prevent costly repairs, and ensure consistent cash flow. </span> </p> <h3> <span> Property Management in Costa Mesa and Surrounding Areas </span> </h3> <p> <span> We proudly manage rental properties throughout Orange County, including: </span> </p> <ul> <li> <span> Costa Mesa </span> </li> <li> <span> Newport Beach </span> </li> <li> <span> Huntington Beach </span> </li> <li> <span> Irvine </span> </li> <li> <span> Fountain Valley </span> </li> <li> <span> Tustin </span> </li> <li> <span> Dana Point </span> </li> </ul> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, we customize our approach to match your goals. </span> </p> <h3> <span> Why Property Owners Choose Marterra </span> </h3> <p> <span> Here’s what our clients say: </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <blockquote> <span> “Marterra helped me rent out my Costa Mesa home quickly and handled everything seamlessly. I never have to worry about late rent or maintenance issues—highly recommend!” – Chris L., Newport Beach </span> </blockquote> <blockquote> <br/> </blockquote> <blockquote> <span> “I used to manage my duplex myself, but Marterra took over and made my life so much easier. The tenants are happy, and so am I.” – Jennifer M., Huntington Beach </span> </blockquote> <h3> <span> Ready to Partner With Orange County’s Best Property Management Team? </span> </h3> <p> <span> If you’re looking for reliable, professional property management in Orange County, Marterra Properties is here to help. Let us take care of the details so you can enjoy peace of mind and steady income. </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> &#55357;&#56525; </span> </span> <strong> Based in Costa Mesa | Serving All of Orange County </strong> <span> <br/> &#55357;&#56542; Call us today at 949-413-0912 <br/> &#55356;&#57104; Learn more at www.marterraproperties.com <br/> &#55357;&#56553; Schedule a free property management consultation! </span> </p> </div> Mon, 21 Apr 2025 15:49:01 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/why-marterra-properties-is-orange-countys-go-to-property-management-company thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/blog/large-appliance-care-tips Large Appliance Care Tips <div data-rss-type="text"> <h1> <span> <span>          Is Your Refrigerator Running?!              </span> </span> <span> Let's keep it that way... </span> </h1> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/pexels-photo-6508357-9964555d.jpeg" alt=""/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> As a tenant, maintaining the appliances in your rented home is not only essential for your daily convenience but also contributes to the longevity of these costly devices.  </span> </span> <span> <br/> </span> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> In this blog post, we'll explore some crucial tips to help tenants care for their appliances effectively. And before servicing any machine, what do we do? We read the owner’s manual (you too, guys). </span> <span> <span> </span> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> REFRIGERATOR MAINTENANCE </span> </p> <p> <span> DON'T BLOCK THE VENTS </span> </p> <p> <span> The vents circulate air between the freezer and the fridge compartment and are critical to a fridge’s cooling functions. Blocked vents could lead to a host of issues, including your refrigerator freezing up or overheating and killing the motor. </span> </p> <p> <span> CLEAN REFRIGERATOR COILS </span> </p> <p> <span> If your fridge stops working, check the coils. You can access them by removing the front grille. Use a coil cleaning brush to clean them, or pull out the fridge to access and clean the back coils. Clean coils will cool more efficiently and save you money on your utility bill! <br/> </span> <span> <br/> </span> <span> DISHWASHER TLC </span> </p> <p> <span> KEEP IT CLEAN </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Remove the filter and clean off any food or grime. The fix takes two minutes. Simply pull out the lower rack and remove the filter cover inside the dishwasher. If it's clogged, water can't make it to the spray arms to clean the dishes in the top rack. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> WASHER (&amp; DRYER) WISDOM </span> </p> <p> <span> DON'T OVERLOAD THE MACHINE (with clothes OR detergent)! </span> </p> <p> <span> This is one of the most common causes of maintenance requests we encounter related to washing machine performance and functioning. Overloading any washer or dryer leads to damage to motors, belts, and other moving parts, resulting in very expensive repairs. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> STOVE SMARTS </span> </p> <p> <span> CLEAN UP SPILLS IMMEDIATELY </span> </p> <p> <span> If a stove burner won't come on, the likely culprit is spilled food. Use a toothbrush to clean off food spills from the igniter.. </span> </p> <p> <span> Never spray cleaning solution directly onto stovetop. Spray onto a paper towel or rag instead, then wipe down surface. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/Large-Appliance-Care-94d2ae9f.png" alt=""/> </div> Thu, 07 Dec 2023 00:16:35 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/blog/large-appliance-care-tips maintenance tips,tenant resources,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-deal-with-noisy-neighbors <div data-rss-type="text"> <h1> <span> Zen Tenant's Guide To Dealing With Noisy Neighbors </span> </h1> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> Apartment living comes with some compromises. Unlike private dwellings, where you are likely to have a good distance between you and your next door neighbors, apartments are much closer, and renters are frequently subjected to noisy neighbors. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> How can you deal with a rowdy neighbor who keeps blaring music during quiet hours? We have put together several things you can do to live a life free from noisy tenants. So, let’s dive in! </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <h2> <span> Set Reasonable Expectations </span> </h2> <p> <span> Before you get upset with your noisy neighbor and file a noise complaint, take a step back and ask yourself if your expectations are reasonable </span> <span> <span> . </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> California law generally defines noise complaints as being valid when the noise is excessive, continuous, and unreasonable. This means that the noise must go beyond the normal and expected sounds of everyday life. If it’s a Monday night and your neighbor is blaring music, you have a right to feel annoyed. If it’s a Saturday night, though, and things are little louder than usual, you might not have a very strong case for yourself. Sometimes, it’s worth it to address the noise your neighbors are making. When it’s only a one-time noise issue, though, it’s usually best to let it go. </span> </p> <h2> <span> <br/> </span> </h2> <h2> <span> Be Diplomatic and Try to Talk to Your Neighbor </span> </h2> <p> <span> Sometimes, the best way to solve a problem is to talk it out. </span> <span> <span> </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> That is why it is important to bring up any noise problem with your neighbor before taking any actions that might worsen the situation. In some cases, the noise during quiet hours may not be as big of an issue as you think, and you could find a way to work it out together. </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> With that said, you should talk to your neighbor first to avoid being perceived as a “bad” person and causing friction between the two of you. The most important thing to keep in mind when addressing the problem is to make sure that the other person knows that you are doing this because you care about them, not because they are a bother to you. </span> </span> <span> Be specific about when they were loud and let them know why it was a problem. Offer to exchange phone numbers, too, so you can call or text them in the future and tell them to keep it down. Most importantly, be cool. No need to go talk to your neighbor while you are “all fired-up.”  </span> </p> <h2> <span> <br/> </span> </h2> <p> <span> Document Excessive Noise </span> </p> <p> <span> When your neighbors continue to be loud, try to collect evidence. </span> </p> <p> <span> Keep track of when they’re being noisy, what time of day it is, and what you’ve done to try and address the issue yourself. You might want to use your phone or computer to record the noise as well. Video and audio recordings are beneficial in this type of scenario. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> <br/> </span> </h2> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/md/pexels/dms3rep/multi/pexels-photo-4474042.jpeg"/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Speak To Other Neighbors </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> See if there are other people who are aware of the sound levels. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> It helps to know that you’re not the only one who’s frustrated with the noise issues. If multiple people in an apartment complex have complaints about a neighbor, it’s easier to address the issue with the landlord, too. You may also find the problem is unique to your apartment. Other tenants may not be experiencing the loud noise levels. It is good to get a better perspective on the issue. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h2> <span> Speak to Your Landlord </span> </h2> <p> <span> <span> Speaking of landlords, if all else fails, it’s a good idea to talk to them about the noise issue. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Nobody wants to be “that person.” Sometimes, though, it’s the only option. Bring your evidence to the landlord and explain the noise issue to them. If possible, coordinate with your other neighbors who have issues with the noise so you can all talk about the issue together. Since every renter has the right to quiet enjoyment, many apartment communities include this “quiet enjoyment” provision in their lease agreements or and/or community rules, both of which are signed by all tenants prior to moving into the apartment. The quiet enjoyment provision usually specifies the hours during which the renter must be silent or not disturb the other tenants in any way. Sometimes it could be the same as the city’s noise ordinance laws. <br/> </span> </p> </div> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 19:54:31 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-deal-with-noisy-neighbors tenant resources,tenant tips,maintenance tips,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-light-your-wall-heater-pilot-light A Step-By-Step Guide <div data-rss-type="text"> <h1> <span> Baby, Its Cold Inside!    </span> <span> <span> How To Reignite The Flame... on your pilot light </span> </span> <span>   </span> <span> <span> </span> </span> </h1> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span>   </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Wall heaters are a popular choice for keeping your living space warm and cozy, especially during the colder months. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> These heaters often come with a pilot light, a small flame that ignites the main burner when the heater is turned on. However, if the pilot light goes out, you'll need to know how to relight it safely. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of lighting your wall heater's pilot light. Or, check out the video below! </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/s-l400.jpg" alt=""/> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <br/> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Now, let's dive into the step-by-step process of lighting your wall heater's pilot light: </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Step 1: Turn off the remote thermostat and power ON/OFF switch on the control unit at the bottom of the furnace. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light and Control Knob </span> </p> <p> <span> Find the access panel on your wall heater. This is typically a small, hinged door near the base of the unit. Open the access panel to reveal the pilot light and control knob. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 3: Set the Control Knob to "Pilot" </span> </p> <p> <span> Locate the control knob, often marked with "Off," "On," and "Pilot" settings. Turn the control knob to the "Pilot" position. You may need to push it down and then turn it to align it with the pilot position. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 4: Depress the Control Knob </span> </p> <p> <span> Press and hold the control knob in the "Pilot" position. This action allows gas to flow to the pilot light. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 5: Ignite the Pilot Light </span> </p> <p> <span> While still pressing the control knob, push the red reset button all the way and hold in. Continue to hold red reset button in for about (1) minute after the pilot is lit. Keep holding the control knob down for about 30 seconds after the pilot light ignites. This helps ensure the pilot light remains lit. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 6: Release the Control Knob </span> </p> <p> <span> Release the control knob slowly. If the pilot light stays lit, it's a good sign that your wall heater is ready to operate. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 7: Turn the Control Knob to "On" </span> </p> <p> <span> Turn the control knob from the "Pilot" position to the "On" position. This should activate the main burner, and your wall heater will start providing heat. Then, securely close the access panel. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Remember to periodically check your wall heater's pilot light to ensure it stays lit. If the pilot light keeps going out or if you smell gas when attempting to light it, you should contact a qualified technician to inspect and repair your heater. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Safety is paramount when dealing with gas appliances, so always exercise caution and follow the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines. </span> </p> <p> <span> By following these steps and taking the necessary precautions, you can keep your wall heater running efficiently and your living space warm and comfortable throughout the winter months. <br/> </span> </p> </div> Tue, 31 Oct 2023 19:43:07 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-light-your-wall-heater-pilot-light maintenance tips,tenant resources,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/plumbing-maintenance-tips-for-tenants Easy DIY fixes for common plumbing issues <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Slow Draining Sink, Tub or Shower </span> <span> <br/> </span> </h3> <p> <span> <span> Please submit a maintenance request for major blockages. However, if your sink or shower takes a long time to drain, try these tips first, before requesting visit from a plumber. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 1. </span> <span> <span> </span> </span> <span> PREVENTION IS KEY! </span> </p> <p> <span> Never put fat or oil down the drain as these clog up the pipes. Use a hair catcher in your shower or tub to prevent hair from going down the drain, and eventually causing a clog. <br/> </span> <span> Step 2. Clear the Sink Drain </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> Clear old food and buildup from kitchen pipes with baking soda and vinegar (see video for instructions), flush pipes with boiling water. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> In the bathroom, try pouring boiling water down the drain to clear away old hair and soap from the pipes. If that doesn't work, and you think the blockage may be the result of excess hair in the drain, you may want to attempt the following, rather than incur a charge for the plumber: </span> </p> <ol> <li> <span> Try using a plunger or flexible drain auger to clear the stoppage. </span> </li> <li> <span> Clear hair and old soap from the waste pipe and U bend by putting a bucket under the pipe, unscrewing it and removing the debris. Re-attach the pipe and pour boiling water down the drain. </span> </li> </ol> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> Running Toilet </span> </h3> <p> <span> A running toilet is not only irritating, but can be a HUGE contributor your water bill. Check out these simple steps you can take to stop your toilet from running. If you continue to experience problems, please submit a maintenance request through the portal. <br/> </span> <span> Step 1. Locate the Shutoff Valve </span> </p> <p> <span> <span> There is a water turnoff valve behind the toilet. If the toilet is running and may cause an overflow, then immediately turn this valve off to stop the water flow. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 2. Basic Troubleshooting Steps </span> </p> <p> <span> Check out the video link below. If you're able to resolve the issue without addressing the flapper, congratulations- you just fixed your toilet! If it appears as though the flapper may need to be need to be replaced, let us know and we'll take it from there! Steps outlined in the video: </span> </p> <ol> <li> <span> Check the Overflow Tube Height </span> </li> <li> <span> Lower the Water Level in the Tank </span> </li> <li> <span> Inspect the Flush Valve Chain </span> </li> <li> <span> Check the Flapper </span> </li> </ol> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> PLEASE NOTE: Plumbing issues caused by tenant misuse, such as excessive hair in the drain or an object jamming the disposal, will incur charges for the unit. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> Sun, 23 Apr 2023 20:22:51 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/plumbing-maintenance-tips-for-tenants maintenance tips,tenant resources,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/electrical-maintenance-tips-for-tenants Easy DIY fixes for common electrical issues <div data-rss-type="text"> <h3> <span> Outlet Isn't Working </span> <span> <br/> </span> <span> Step 1. Check your GFCI Outlets </span> </h3> <p> <span> GFCI outlets are most commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms, but may have been installed in other rooms as well. GFCI outlets looks different than standard outlets because they have two buttons between the top and bottom outlet, a “TEST” button and a “RESET” button. Pressing "RESET" on a tripped outlet should return power to the area the outlet controls. </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> Step 2. Check Appliances </span> </h3> <h3> <span> If you've recently introduced a new appliance to the home, such as a coffee maker, toaster, portable AC unit, etc., it may have caused an overload. Plug an electrical appliance into a GFCI outlet, and press the "TEST" button. The appliance should turn off. Press "RESET" to turn the appliance back on. Do this at every GFCI outlet in the house. Eventually, you may find an outlet that caused your problem. Pressing "RESET" on a tripped outlet should return power to the area the outlet controls. You may need to double check the breaker box as well. If a breaker has been tripped, reset it, and then reset the GFI again. </span> </h3> <h3> <span> <br/> </span> </h3> <h3> <span> Partial Outage or No Power </span> </h3> <p> <span> If you  </span> <a href="https://www.electricrate.com/partial-power-outage" target="_blank"> lose power in just one room </a> <span> <span> , or section of the home, there is no reason to panic. There could be a number of reasons this could have happened, and you can resolve most of these on your own, with no tools. </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <p> <span> Step 1. Look for Clues in the Circuit Breaker Box </span> </p> <p> <span> Find the breaker panel in your home - it may be in your garage. You'll want to check the breakers to see if any are tripped, perhaps as a result of an overload.  Resetting may be needed even if it doesn’t look like the breaker is tripped. Be sure to reset all breakers by switching them off and back on, one by one. </span> </p> <h3> <span> <br/> </span> <span> Step 2. Check your GFCI Outlets (described above) </span> </h3> <p> <span>   </span> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <h3> <span> Step 3. </span> <span> <span> </span> </span> <span> Check with the Utility Company </span> </h3> <h3> <span> If a local outage has occurred, it should be reported on their website. </span> </h3> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> Mon, 03 Apr 2023 03:43:36 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/electrical-maintenance-tips-for-tenants maintenance tips,tenant resources,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-reset-a-garbage-disposal A Step-By-Step Guide <div data-rss-type="text"> <h1> <span> <span> Garbage Disposal Not Working?  </span> </span> <span>   </span> <span> Try These Simple Fixes First </span> <span> <br/> </span> </h1> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> <span> We hope these steps will be helpful in getting your garbage disposal back up and running! </span> </span> </p> <p> <span> If you continue to experience problems, please submit a maintenance request through the portal. </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> Reset the Garbage Disposal: </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <ol> <li> <span> Turn off the power switch for the garbage disposal. This is important to ensure your safety while working on the device. </span> </li> <li> <span> Look for the reset button on the bottom of the garbage disposal. Usually, this button is located at the bottom of the device near the motor. </span> </li> <li> <span> Press the reset button. Make sure to hold it down for a few seconds to ensure that the reset process is completed properly. </span> </li> <li> <span> Turn on the power switch for the garbage disposal. </span> </li> <li> <span> Turn on the water and turn on the garbage disposal to check that it has been reset successfully. </span> </li> </ol> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <p> <span> If the Reset Button Does Not Work: </span> </p> <p> <span> <br/> </span> </p> <ol> <li> <span> Check if the GFCI outlet has tripped. If it has tripped, the reset button will not work until you reset the GFCI outlet first. </span> </li> <li> <span> Find the GFCI outlet in your kitchen or bathroom. It's usually the outlet with two small buttons labeled "test" and "reset." </span> </li> <li> <span> Press the "reset" button firmly until it clicks. </span> </li> <li> <span> Go back to the garbage disposal and press the reset button as previously instructed. </span> </li> <li> <span> Turn on the power switch for the garbage disposal. </span> </li> <li> <span> Turn on the water and turn on the garbage disposal to check that it has been reset successfully. </span> </li> <li> <span> <span> You may need to try the reset button again if the GFCI has not been reset. </span> </span> </li> </ol> </div> <div> <img src="https://irp.cdn-website.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/gfci-cab0d97b.jpg" alt=""/> </div> Tue, 28 Mar 2023 22:20:37 GMT team@marterraproperties.com (Marterra Properties ) https://www.marterraproperties.com/how-to-reset-a-garbage-disposal tenant resources,maintenance tips,resources,maintenance thumbnail main image https://www.marterraproperties.com/pet-friendly-rentals-in-orange-county <div data-rss-type="text"> In Orange County there is a shortage of pet friendly rentals. We believe that creating pet friendly rentals in Orange County can be accretive to your investment. <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> The Issue: </span> </div> <div> Pets can cause significant damage to a property. Their damage can include hot spots on grass, odors in carpet and furniture, and claw marks on doors and walls. Pets can also create difficulties for property managers when trying to address maintenance issues for tenants who are away from the home. But, at the end of the day, we love our pets and will do anything for them. Given all the potential headaches allowing pets at your rental can cause, does it make sense? </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Before we get into ways to address the issue, let me introduce you to our dog. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/Dog-1-300x300.jpg" alt="dog"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> He is a total mutt. I am sure he looks sweet and innocent in the picture above, but would a sweet and innocent dog do this…. </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/the-damage-225x300.jpg" alt="dog paws"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> At 4-months old, our pup did this! He opened an unopened gallon of paint and had some creative free time throughout our entire house. This is just the tip of the iceberg of the damage he did. Point being, if there is anyone on the planet who understands the damage a dog can do to your property, I am that person. <div>   </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> The Solution: </span> </div> <div> There are certain upgrades that you can make to your property that will limit the damage that a pet could do to your property. One upgrade that we like to recommend is to replace carpet with laminate wood flooring. As a property manager, we recommend making this upgrade as it will reduce/eliminate the turnover costs associated with replacing/cleaning carpet. This upgrade will benefit the landlord whether or not the tenant has a dog or not. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Additionally, by charging the tenant a pet deposit a landlord can in a sense insure their property against any damage the pet my cause. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Through our experience leasing units throughout Orange County, we have found, that pet friendly rentals in Orange County demand a premium and that renters are happy to pay a pet deposit. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> See the link below to for some additional ideas on how to make your home safe for your fur babies. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <a href="https://www.houzz.com/magazine/pet-proofing-your-home-a-room-by-room-guide-stsetivw-vs~22944505" target="_blank"> Making Your Home Safe For Pets </a> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> We offer pet friendly rentals in Costa Mesa, Orange, Tustin, Huntington Beach, Irvine, Laguna Hills, Aliso Viejo, Fountain Valley, Santa Ana, Newport Beach and the rest of Orange County, </div> </div> Thu, 29 Aug 2019 20:25:28 GMT https://www.marterraproperties.com/pet-friendly-rentals-in-orange-county https://www.marterraproperties.com/self-manage-or-hire-a-property-managerf49fbc71 <div data-rss-type="text"> Should you self manage or hire a property manager for your rental property? Well, that depends on you. So let’s weigh the options. <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Self Management </span> </div> <div> There is really only one perk to self management, and that is saving on the monthly property management fee. Other than that, landlords who self manage get to look forward to dealing with maintenance calls, late rent, marketing their property and a whole host of landlord headaches. After hiring several of our competitors prior to starting this company, we understand how you might not see the value in hiring a property manager. We have had managers steal quarters from our laundry rooms, rent units for less than market and over pay family members to do repairs on our property. Why would anyone want to pay for service like that? We had no interest in paying a manager for that type of service, and neither should you. The fact is a good property manager will create more value than the cost of their fee. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Property Management Company (Good Ones) </span> </div> <div> As we said before, a good property manager will pay for themselves through value creation. Many of our clients have previously self-managed their properties and upon hiring us found their profitability increased while their headaches decreased. How is this possible? Simple, our expertise, network and processes help drive revenue and while managing costs. The fact of the matter is, someone who works a 9-5 office job does not have the time to effectively market their property to maximize revenue. See Previous Post On Leasing Strategies. We have found landlords who self manage are often uncomfortable raising their tenants rents. Over time this leads to rents that are even further below market. Maintenance is another area where owners who self manage leave money on the table. Because of volume and contractor relationships, we are able to get significant discounts that we pass on to our clients. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Conclusion </span> </div> <div> So to answer the question: self manage or hire a property manager, unless you are a full time real estate professional, we believe you are better off hiring a <b> good </b> property manager. </div> </div> Fri, 22 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT https://www.marterraproperties.com/self-manage-or-hire-a-property-managerf49fbc71 ventures https://www.marterraproperties.com/tenant-screening-and-selection <div data-rss-type="text"> Tenant screening and selection is an important part of the leasing process. Selecting the wrong tenant can be an absolute nightmare. Selecting the right tenant is great for the bottom line and helps you sleep at night. <span>   </span> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Tenant Screening. </div> <div> During our aggressive marketing campaign, we generally receive numerous applications for each rental property. How do you pick the best candidate? We have a process for tenant screening and selection. We stick to our process, and we believe it helps guide us in making the best decision. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> First of all, the prospective tenant has to come view the property. This is probably the most important part of the process. Our property manager will be onsite during each of the mini-open houses (discussed in a previous entry). The property manager will make sure to take time to speak to each prospective tenant. These short conversations serve as informal interviews and are a great way to feel out the person and gauge their interest. Our property manager will take notes on the prospective tenant so in the event they submit an application, we will have anecdotal information on the tenant. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> If the tenant likes the property the property manager will send them a link to our online application. Our online application allows us to collect their basic information. We receive their social security number, employment history, income, and current bank account balances. If we come to general terms with the prospective tenant, they pay an application fee and we do a background check. We check their credit, criminal and eviction history. Below is a sample of what our background check generally looks like. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/AppFolio_screening_service.jpg" alt="screening report"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> Ideally, the prospective tenants income is 3x the asking rent and their credit score is north of 750. However, its common to see a prospective tenant either have great income or great credit, but not both. Lacking in one of the two main financial qualifiers does not mean a prospective tenant will not be a great tenant. <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Going Beyond The Numbers. </span> </div> <div> A lot of property managers will base the tenant screening and selection process almost exclusively off credit scores. We prefer to go beyond the numbers and look at the tenant from a holistic approach. Hands down, the worst tenant we have ever managed had a +800 credit score and great income. In fact, they are the only tenant we have ever had to take to small claims court to collect rent. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> If a prospective tenant lacks in one of the two main financial qualifiers, we learn more about the tenants specific situation. There are many factors that can be detrimental to one’s credit score that do not necessarily make the prospective tenant a riskier tenant. Divorce, medical bills, or identify theft are not necessarily indicators of a prospective tenant that is likely to become delinquent on their rent. Additionally, the income stated on a tenants W2 might not be a full picture of the tenants income or financial picture. We had a tenant apply for a property, that had a W2 that only showed income 2x the asking rent. However, the tenant was making 100% of their salary moonlighting as a consultant. This was verifiable through their tax returns and meant their actual income was 4x the asking rent. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span>  Mitigating Factors. </span> </div> <div> When a prospective tenant is leaving something to be desired in either of the two main financial qualifiers, there are strategies you can employ to mitigate the risk. When a property manager shoots down a prospective tenant based only on their credit score or income, they maybe leaving money on the table. We have found good tenants with less than desirable credit scores are willing to work with the property manager to help mitigate risk. Here are a few real examples of tenants who were lacking in one of the 2 main financial qualifiers and how we were able to mitigate the risk. </div> <div> <ul> <li> 3 college students had very limited income. Their parents signed on as guarantors. </li> <li> A recently divorced single mom with bad credit volunteered to an increased security deposit. </li> <li> Young entrepreneur’s failed company destroyed his credit. He offered to pay 3-months rent in advance with an increased security deposit. </li> </ul> </div> <div> Ideally, everyone in our portfolio would have income 3x the rent and credit scores north of 750. However, unfortunately that can not always be the case. The tenants that we have worked with to help get them qualified because of some challenge related to their credit score or their income have often been fantastic tenants. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> If you are interested in applying to live in our of properties, we encourage you to check out vacancies <span> <a href="/vacancies"> HERE </a> </span> . </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Lastly, and perhaps, most importantly. Marterra Properties is an equal opportunity housing provider and we are proud of the diverse and vibrant homes and communities that we manage. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/Equal-Housing-Opportunity.jpg"/> </a> </div> Fri, 15 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT https://www.marterraproperties.com/tenant-screening-and-selection ventures https://www.marterraproperties.com/leasing-strategies-to-drive-revenue <div data-rss-type="text"> We at Marterra Properties take great pride in our ability to push top line revenue for our clients. As property managers, we implement several leasing strategies to drive revenue for our clients. Although these strategies are simple, many of our competitors do not implement them, because they are more costly and require more work. In this blog entry, we explore some of the leasing strategies that we implement. <span> We have increased rents by +40%, immediately after taking over a property that was previously managed by a competitor. </span> <div>   </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Marketing Channels. </span> </div> <div> We will begin our discussion on leasing strategies to drive revenue by exploring marketing channels. The market price for any rental property is the intersection of the supply and demand curve. While we can’t impact the supply of rental properties in the market, we can be a strong influence on demand. In order for a prospective tenant to “demand” a particular rental property, they must first be aware that the properties exist. This is the first step in the leasing process where we can add-value to our clients. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Some of our competitors (self-managing landlords) limit their marketing efforts to Craigslist and their own websites. We maximize your rental properties exposure by listing it on <span> <b> literally </b> </span> hundreds of websites, including but not limited to: Zillow, Trulia, Apartments.com and Craigslist. Different tenant profiles use different rental websites, so we try to capture every tenant profile by blanketing your rental property on a diverse platforms. Every prospective tenant in the marketplace sees your rental property due to our multi-channel marketing. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Photos </span> . </div> <div> There are plenty of websites that document the history of bad real estate photos. My favorite is: </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <a href="https://terriblerealestateagentphotos.com/"> http://terriblerealestateagentphotos.com/ </a> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> I can keep going, but I think you get it. Rental property photos have a massive impact on the first impression your property, because it is likely the first time a prospective tenant sees a rental home is online. As we all know, you never get a second chance at a first impression. So why do some landlords settle for such low quality photos? We firmly believe that investing in high quality photos lead to higher rents and quicker lease-ups. Below are photos from a property that we recently leased in Orange and one that we leased in Newport Coast. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/vernon-12-300x188.jpg" alt="dining room"/> </a> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/north-tustin-13-300x200.jpg" alt="kitchen"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <div> <span> The Application Process. </span> </div> <div> One of the things that frustrates us most about property managers is the way they show property. Their showing process is not designed to drive traffic to the rental property. Rather their process is designed to drive application fee revenues for themselves and to limit the amount of time they spend showing properties. The sad thing is, this process is common place in the property management industry. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> One property manager requires prospective tenants to come into their office and pay an application fee prior to seeing the property. This process is burdensome and expensive for the prospective tenant and ultimately deters many from ever viewing the property. Our process is the opposite. Our goal is to get as many prospective tenants into the property as possible. Since more traffic means more demand for the property, we try to make it as easy and simple for prospective tenants to see the property. If the prospective tenant is interested in the property after seeing it, we send them an online application. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Showing The Property. </div> <div> It is time consuming to show the property to every interested party, as a result, that is why most property managers try to decrease the number of showings and require the prospective tenant to come into the office first. One of the most basic, yet important leasing strategies to drive revenue is what we call the “mini-open house”. The mini-open house enables us as property managers to accommodate as many showings as possible while helping create a sense of urgency for the prospective tenant. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> Generally, we schedule several mid-day open houses during the work week. These are great for service industry and retail workers who might need to work nights and weekends. We also schedule several mini-open houses weekday evenings and on weekends to accommodate the more traditional 9-5 hours of employment. By limiting the showings to several convenient time slots, we are able to schedule several showings at the same time. This helps create a sense of urgency with the prospective tenants. We have seen this sense of urgency lead to rental applications offering rental amounts above the asking rate. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <span> Conclusion. </span> </div> <div> These leasing strategies to drive revenue really work. The results are undeniable. However, they require some additional work that many of our competitors are not willing to do. We are often able to raise revenue by 10-40% after taking over a property that has been managed by another competitors or self managed properties. Many of our clients find that the top line revenue growth we are able to achieve more than pays for our service. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <a href="/contact-us"> Contact us </a> today to learn how our leasing strategies to drive revenue can benefit your investment property! </div> </div> Thu, 14 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT https://www.marterraproperties.com/leasing-strategies-to-drive-revenue ventures https://www.marterraproperties.com/creating-value-for-our-property-management-clients <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/DSCN1418-300x350.jpg" alt="exterior"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> Welcome to the Marterra Properties blog—your Orange County Property Manager! In our blog entries we will present some case studies, discuss current events that are relevant to real estate investment, design trends and other various topics of interest. Today’s blog entry will discuss creating value for our property management clients through a landscape renovation. <div> <br/> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <b> THE PROPERTY. </b> </div> <div> Today, we will discuss a landscaping renovation for a landlord at an apartment community in Costa Mesa, CA, also known as “Costamazing“. Upon taking over the management of this complex we conducted a SWOT (Strength/Weaknesses/Opportunities/Threats) analysis. This analysis to helped define us our strategy for the property. When the property management turned over to Marterra Properties, it was a rather large eyesore. Situated on a corner lot within a Costa Mesa neighborhood, this 6-plex had plenty of deferred maintenance. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <b> THE PROBLEM.  </b> </div> <div> During our SWOT analysis, we identified several areas of opportunity. One area of opportunity that surprised us was the monthly water bill. The bill just for water was over $460 per month or 10% of the total operating expenses. Not to mention, the landscaping was very dated and very unattractive. We came up with a landscaping design that featured decomposed granite, water saving succulents and artificial turf. Before and after photos are below. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/El-Camino-Before-300x200.jpg"/> </a> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/apartments-300x225.jpg" alt="lawn"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> <div> <span> <b> THE SOLUTION. </b> </span> </div> <div> The landscaping renovation cost a total of $12,000. It created a monthly water savings of +$200/month and a $20/month savings in landscaping maintenance. That is an annual return on investment of 22% for the landlord. The landscaping is frequently complimented by tenants and neighbors. In addition to the savings, this remodeling process improved the properties curb appeal. Besides the financial merits, the renovation is great for the environment, as water usage for the property was cut in half. </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> <a href="https://www.thebalancesmb.com/conservation-efforts-why-should-we-save-water-3157877" target="_blank"> The Benefits Of Water Conservation </a> </div> <div> <br/> </div> <div> The image below shows the water usage at the property for the 11-months after we completed the project. The water usage dropped dramatically from July of 2016 to July of 2017. The water usage in the month of July 2016 was typical for the property prior to the renovation. </div> </div> <div> <a> <img src="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/b982ecfe/dms3rep/multi/IMG_1111-300x225.jpg" alt="chart"/> </a> </div> <div data-rss-type="text"> We take pride in creating value for our property management clients. Contact us today to see how we can create value for you. </div> Tue, 12 Sep 2017 07:00:00 GMT https://www.marterraproperties.com/creating-value-for-our-property-management-clients ventures