Blog

Effective January 1, 2020, Freon will be illegal to import or manufacture in the US.

In 2010, the EPA banned the production of any new systems that used R-22 units due to harmful effects on the ozone layer, and a complete ban on manufacturing and importing starting January 1, 2020.

So what does this mean for you? First, you need to know if your current system is using R-22 Freon. If it does, any repairs related to Freon after January 1^st will not be permitted and a replacement would be required. If you’ve purchased a new HVAC system since 2010, you should be fine. However, an older unit you can check on the sticker on the side. If it says “R-22 or HCFC-22” that wou...

Here are five easy steps you can take to help protect your investment property against potential damage.

1. 
   

   Use glossy or semi-gloss paint

   
   

This makes it easier to clean walls and remove things like smudges and scuff marks

2. 
   

   Install Door stoppers behind every door

   
   

Prevents damage if doors are slammed and bang into a wall

3. 
   

   Forget about Carpet, go with tile, faux wood or bamboo flooring

   
   

These flooring options are much more durable and last much longer than carpet.

4. 
   

   Simple landscaping

   
   

Renters may appreciate a few plants here and there, but less is more and it’s best to keep it as low maintenance as possible

5. 
   

   Require tenants to replace AC filters

   
   

Be sure to include a clause in your lease tha...

As an investor of a rental property, it’s important to make a profit, and raising the rent is one way to keep your profits up. Here are some tips on how to raise rent without losing your tenant(s).

1. 
   

   Consistency

   
   

Every year, you should raise the rent even if it’s only a small amount. This sets the expectation that rent will go up at least a little bit every year. And most renters aren’t bothered by a small increase and won’t go through the hassle of moving over $15 a month.

2. 
   

   Give enough notice

   
   

Legally, a notice of rent changes must be given 30 days in advance, however, more notice is always better. Give renters enough time to know there will be an increase so the...

Normal wear and tear is damage that naturally occurs in an investment property due to aging. It typically results from a tenant living in the property and is considered normal depreciation. Here are some examples of normal wear and tear vs. excessive damage.

As an owner of an investment property, it’s important to know the lifespan of certain things in your home. This helps plan for the future when these large monetary repairs are needed.

HVAC System: Many homeowners decide to replace with a newer system after about 10-15 years, but the average life expectancy of an HVAC system is about 15-20 years. Arizona HVAC can be on the lower end of the lifespan due to the constant use.

Exterior Paint: Stucco surfaces typically last ten years, though wood surfaces typically only last five to seven before it begins to fade/deteriorate. Using neutral tones will help the paint last longer and less noticeable fading.

Water Heater:...

Change AC Filters:

Change out your AC filters every 30 days; ensure they are installed correctly and are the correct size; cheap isn’t always best (take into consideration pets, amount of people, allergens, etc)

Clean out your dryer vent:

Unplug your dryer (if it’s gas, shut off the gas); pull unit out from the wall and disconnect the clamp from the hose; with a vacuum hose and dryer vent brush, clean out the opening of the dryer as high up as you can go; clean the hose in the same manner; clean out the lint trap with a toothbrush under hot, soapy water; be sure to rinse and dry thoroughly before putting back into dryer slot.

Clean Refrigerator Coils:

Pull fridge away fr...