According to BUILD magazine, the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Rockville, MD was about $2,310 per month in April 2024. For landlords, this is good news, as it's higher than both the state and national averages.
However, you can't just leave your property alone and keep charging the same rent. Tenants will become unhappy, and ultimately, you'll have vacancies you can't fill. Even the best lease renewal strategies won't help here.
It may be difficult to know when you need to perform property maintenance and repairs though. If you're struggling, then read on for some great tips.
Do Seasonal Maintenance
One of the best preventative maintenance strategies is to perform maintenance as the seasons change. In general, you should do major tasks in the winter, then again in the spring and summer.
In the winter, make sure that pipes are insulated to prevent freezing, as winters in Rockville can be harsh. Clean out the gutters to avoid ice dams, and check that your heating system is working before the cold sets in.
For the spring and summer, look for any winter damage to the roof or siding. Inspect the following for cracks:
- Decks
- Driveways
- Patios
If you want to do lawn care, then the best time is in the spring. Fertilize and address draining issues, which are common in Rockville's clay-heavy soil.
In addition, have your HVAC system inspected twice a year (before summer and winter). Change the filters regularly to ensure efficiency, especially since the area can have high humidity.
Having a seasonal maintenance checklist can be beneficial, as you can refer to it every year.
Plumbing and Water Management
Plumbing problems are some of the worst to run across, whether you're a tenant or landlord. So make sure that you inspect the pipes for leaks and check water heaters for signs of wear.
If your property has a basement, then monitor your sump pumps. Avoid flooding by keeping them in good working condition.
Hire Professionals
DIY property repairs are almost never worth it. Not only do they take time, but the quality may be mediocre too, leading to more problems in the future.
Instead, hire licensed professionals to ensure quality work and avoid potential legal issues. If you don't have the resources or energy to do this yourself, then consider hiring a full-service property management company. Not only can they arrange for maintenance and repairs, but they can handle other tasks like:
- Tenant screening
- Rent collection
- Evictions
Keep Up With Maintenance and Repairs
Maintenance and repairs are essential if you want to keep your tenants happy. Plus, if you're proactive and address things seasonally, it'll be easier to protect your investment.
So be an excellent landlord and do your best to have your property in top condition. These efforts will pay off since you'll earn a stellar reputation, and you won't have to make costly repairs in the future either.
Get in touch with us for expert property management services. We at PMI Maryland Solutions will provide your tenants with real-time access to maintenance requests and more.
