MLS: Cooperation in Competition

The Multiple Listing Service (MLS) is like a guild for real estate brokers. It's where they gather and share information about real estate properties for sale, and put it up in their databases for buyers to see. In exchange, brokers agree to compensate each other for providing the details, usually a portion of their commission.

The Stress of Being a Landlord

It's not easy collecting rent without receiving a subtle scowl from the tenant, but it must be done. As a landlord, you provide the basic necessities in your property in exchange for a fee; you even have those in writing. Why would you be frowned upon, if not turned down, for something you've a right to?

Perhaps it's the mode of collecting rent that irritates them. Landlords are often depicted in pop culture as mean, like the Pig Sty landlady from Kung Fu Hustle and Ms. Wicket from Mr. Bean: The Animated Series. Perhaps all it takes is as simple as a smile. Of course, when the renters are trying your patience, you have to exercise your authority.

Working with Houston Property Management Companies—What to Look For

A rental property, be it residential or commercial, is a great venture to invest part of your portfolio in, due in large part to the prospect of earning steady, monthly income from your tenants while allowing you more free time to spend whichever way you like. This holds especially true for property owners in Houston, where the apartment scene is slated to see quite a boom in the coming year. That being said, to make sure that your earnings are running at a good rate and your property remains well-managed and maintained, you should consider a couple of helpful tips before hiring the services of property management companies in Houston.
http://www.texasrenters.com/working-houston-property-management-companies-look/

Property Management in Houston: 2015 Projected to be a Hot Market

2015 is shaping up to be an opportune time for prospective Houston-based rental property owners, as Space City is projected to have the most number of apartments by the end of next year. According to Property Management Insider article, and as likewise emphasized in a recent MPF research report, Houston is set to have approximately 19,662 apartment unit completions in 2015, edging out Washington, DC, with its 10,875 slated units; Washington held the most number of apartments in 2014. The article also noted that Houston would also beat Los Angeles, as the latter is projected to build fewer apartments next year, wherein 2015’s projected number of LA apartments stands at 7,107 units, which is a 31% drop from the completed apartments during 2014.
http://www.texasrenters.com/property-management-houston-2015-projected-hot-market/