There is no way around it: if you want to find a great Charleston tenant, a great screening process is a must-have. A great screening process will help weed out the bad tenants from the good ones.

Ideally, a good-quality tenant is one who has the ability to easily obtain renter references from previous landlords, has solid employment and rental history, and has a good credit score.

In addition to this, a good renter treats you and your other renters with respect, pays rent on time, and is reliable in terms of taking care of your property and keeping it safe.

A good tenant screening process will increase your chances of landing a tenant with the aforementioned traits.

A Step-by-Step Guide on Screening Tenants for Your Charleston Rental Property:

1.     Pre-Screen Tenants with the Right Questions

The screening process should begin as soon as you have generated interest in your property. By asking the right questions you will save both you and your applicant’s precious time.

The following are the basic screening questions that you should ask prospective tenants:

• “Do you have any pets?”

It’s a deal breaker if a prospective renter has a pet and you have a “no pets” policy.

• “Have you ever been evicted?”

Although the renter might lie, it’s still worth asking.

• “Will you agree to a credit and background check?”

If a prospective tenant doesn’t authorize you to run these checks, it’s likely that they have something to hide.

• “Can you provide references from your former landlord and employer?”

A renter that has nothing to hide will not hesitate to give you these references.

• “How many people will be living in the apartment?”

The more people living in the apartment, the more wear and tear there will be in your Charleston rental property. Look for a maximum of two people per bedroom and make sure to follow the states occupancy rules.

• “Will you have the first month’s rent and security deposit available upon move-in?”

Only consider those who will have enough money to move in.

• “What is your monthly income?”

Only consider those that earn thrice the amount of the monthly rental fee.

• “Why are you moving?”

Consider a tenant moving for reasons such as wanting more room or changing rooms. Avoid those that are moving because of an eviction or those that are suing their landlords.

While there are many good questions that you may ask, there are also some questions that you must avoid asking as these can qualify as discriminative. The following are some examples of questions that you should not be asking a tenant for your Charleston rental property:

• Are you pregnant?
• Are you an alcoholic?
• In what country were you born?
• You have very dark skin, are you white or Hispanic?

2.     Request a Rental Application

Request that each and every potential tenant fills out a rental application. This is because a rental application will help you collect and verify tenant information, including references and rental history.

The rental application forms should cover all crucial details about the prospective renter. Preferably, it should cover personal, employment, and financial information.

Make sure that the application plainly states that the potential tenant is giving you authorization for personal, employment, and financial checks. Also, the application should clearly state that a credit check, criminal history report, or background check will be ordered, if appropriate.

Items that your rental application should look for include:

• Personal references

These include names, length of acquaintance, and phone numbers.

• Lifestyle information

For example, the number of occupants, and number and size of pets.

• Contact information for previous landlords.
• Financial information such as bank accounts and credit cards.
• Current income level

Check if the prospective renter’s income level is sufficient to cover rent and living expenses.

• Current and previous employers

3.     Run a Credit Check

The main goal of a credit check is to get a picture of the applicant’s financial health. Typically, a credit check in Charleston will go back seven to ten years.

The top two things that you need to check when reviewing a credit report are:

• Current debt

A prospective applicant who has multiple unpaid balances, large loans, or has their credit cards maxed out may struggle to keep up with rental payments.

• Credit history

Here, things to look out for include collection accounts, late payments, and bankruptcies.

4.     Check Their Rental Background

If you want a detailed report of the tenant’s past, this is the check to run. For a small fee, you can get investigative services from companies such as ScreeningWorks and StarPoint.

A background check will provide you with various public records, credit history, criminal history, and an eviction history.

Generally, you’ll need the tenant’s social security number to order a background check.

When you request a background check, consider the following:

• Public Records

If the prospective renter has been sued in the past or has been involved in a legal battle, it’ll show up in a background check. Beware of an application who has serious financial matter like unpaid child support, or one that was sued for unpaid rent.

• Criminal Records

Here, be on the lookout for a renter that has a serious or lengthy criminal record.

• Evictions

Check if the prospective tenant has an eviction history. If there is, get more details about it. Sometimes, even good people can fall on hard times.

5.     Contact the Previous Landlords

Contacting the previous landlord can provide you with more details about the potential tenant.

Ask the previous landlord the following questions:

• Would you want to re-rent your apartment to this tenant again?
• How much security deposit did you return to the renter?
• Did the renter have any problems with neighbors?
• Did the tenant cause any excessive property damage?
• Does the tenant have a history of late payments?
• Does the renter owe you any outstanding debt?

6.     Verify the Tenant’s Employment Details

Last but not the least, contact the tenant’s employer. Of course, you want a tenant that has an income that is steady and reliable.

There are two ways to verify the prospective renter’s income. You can either contact the employer directly, or you can ask the renter to give you a copy of their recent paystub.

A proper tenant screening process should be non-negotiable for every Charleston landlord. If you find the process overwhelming, consider hiring an experienced Charleston property manager.

The post 6 Steps for Screening Tenants for Your Charleston Rental Property appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

Routine inspections are necessary to keep your Charleston rental property protected and well-maintained. This will not only help protect your investment, it will also help attract quality tenants.

That is tenants who are responsible, respectful, creditworthy, and above all – able to make timely rent payments.

Top Reasons for Performing Inspections

1.   To Build a Healthy Landlord-Tenant Relationship

Regularly keeping an eye on your property’s condition will make the tenant see that you care about their quality of living. In turn, this will make the tenants care for the property.

A tenant who feels cared for is likely to renew their lease with you.

2.   To Check for Lease Violations

Regular inspections will help you check for lease violations. Common lease violations in Charleston include unauthorized pets and guests and unapproved alterations.

3.   To Ensure Tenants are Carrying out Their Responsibilities

Just like you (the landlord), a renter also has responsibilities under the Charleston lease or rental agreement. For example, it’s the renter’s responsibility to keep the rental unit in a clean and sanitary state.

4.   To Check for Needed Repairs

This is perhaps one of the main reasons why landlords conduct rental property inspections. Regular inspections will help identify repair issues early before they become costly.

5.   To Ensure the Property Adheres to Safety and Building Codes

It’s every landlord’s responsibility to ensure that their rental properties adhere to habitable living conditions. Regular inspections will help you identify when electrical problems start to happen or when the ceiling starts to crack.

Top Tips for Carrying out Rental Inspections 

• Maintain records. By its very nature, managing a property tends to accumulate paperwork. It is a good idea to save and label documents by date for ease of reference in the future. You should also keep a printed copy of all property information in a physical folder, as well as electronic versions on your computer.
• Be reasonable. It doesn’t mean your tenants will have the same housekeeping standards as yours. Unless what they are doing is causing property issues (like drying clothes in the bedroom causing dampness or face wipes in the toilet causing blockages), then, you need to be reasonable.
• Be thorough – but not too thorough. Rummaging through private wardrobes and drawers is unlikely to help you detect a faulty light or find a leak.
• Remember safety. Check to see that fire doors are closing properly. Also, check smoke alarms. Are they working properly?
• Use a checklist. A checklist will help ensure that you are not missing anything. It should include:
• Garden – is it clear of trash and well-maintained?
• General condition of fittings – are they in good condition and in working order?
• Visual inspection – are there any new stains that need further investigation? Are the carpets/floors, walls, and ceilings in good order and free of damp and mold?
• Heating, hot water, and lighting – make sure that every system is working efficiently by checking each light switch, radiator, and tap.
• Points of entry – check that all the locks are in working order, that windows and doors function properly, and taps don’t leak.
• Take maintenance requests seriously and respond to them quickly to prevent costly repairs. Repairing a leaky sink is much more affordable than replacing the floor due to water damage.
• Provide a small cleaning kit upon move-in. For instance, you could provide an all-purpose cleaner, bleach, and sponges. This not only empowers your new tenant to keep the property clean, it also helps establish a good relationship with them.

Rental Property Inspection Types

There are four types of rental inspections. They are as follows:

·      Move-in inspection

This is the kind of rental property inspection that every landlord in Charleston should be carrying out at the start of every lease term. The move-in inspection helps document the condition of the property to avoid confusion regarding property damage at the expiry of the lease term.

Record anything big or small. Check every room, wall, floor, window, and door. After both you and your tenant are done documenting the property’s condition, sign the paperwork.

·      Seasonal inspection

Seasonal inspections allow you check for any needed repairs and to ensure lease compliance. With each season comes the need for exterior and interior preventative maintenance tasks.

For example, weatherizing pipes during winter or cleaning gutters every fall.

·      Move-out inspection

Tenants are required to return the property back to the landlord in the same condition they found it when they moved in. A move-out inspection will help you check whether the tenant has caused property damage in excess of “normal wear and tear”.

For example, you can check for missing or damaged door locks/handles or a smashed bathroom mirror. If there any such damages, you’ll have the right to deduct appropriate costs from their security deposit amount.

You can’t, however, charge the tenant for damages resulting in normal wear and tear. For instance, dirty grout, loose door handles, faded color of the carpet, or a couple of small stains on a carpet.

·      Drive-by inspection

Finally, is a drive-by inspection. This type of inspection doesn’t require you to coordinate schedules with your tenants. Additionally, you don’t need to provide your tenants with prior notice.

A drive-by inspection will help you identify lease violations such as unauthorized pets and guests.

Except for a drive-by inspection, all the rest require that you provide your tenant with a notice. In South Carolina, the landlord-tenant law requires you to provide at least a 24 hours’ notice before entering a rental unit.

Besides providing the notice, the reason and time for the entry must be within reason. This helps make sure that your renter’s privacy rights are protected. Failure to do so puts you at risk of being accused of tenant harassment.

No matter how thorough your tenant screening process is, regular inspections are a must for any landlord. A 5-minute inspection at your Charleston, SC rental property can mean the difference between profitability and business failure.

The post The Importance of Performing Inspections at Your Charleston, SC Rental Property appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

A lease or rental agreement is a binding contract between a landlord and a tenant. For the agreement to be effective, it needs to have certain terms that both parties should abide by. Here are the most important lease terms you should include in your Charleston lease or rental agreement.

1.   Parties to the Lease

The lease agreement should list everyone bound by the lease or rental agreement. List your name as well as that of your renters. It’s crucial to list the names of every adult living in the Charleston rental unit as this will help protect you in case of lease violations.

For example, you’ll be able to terminate a lease or rental agreement if one of the tenants commits a serious lease violation. You’ll also be able to legally ask rent from any of them.

2.   Term of  Charleston, SC Lease or Rental Agreement

A lease term is a stated period of time, usually one year, during which the terms of the lease are legally binding. If you are focusing on long-term property management, your leases should be “fixed”.

On the other hand, if you are a vacation rental property, you should offer short-term leases. Regardless of the property management type, it’s crucial that the term of the lease is clearly specified.

3.   Description of the Property

As a landlord, you need to provide a legal description of the property when renting it out. A legal description of a property provides a clear and lawful definition of a property’s boundaries.

When writing a legal description of your Charleston property, make sure it describes three important things: the street address, the quantity of land, and the rental unit itself. Without a proper property description, a lease cannot be enforced.

4.   An Early Termination Clause

This clause describes what will happen if the renter breaks the lease early. There are many reasons that may cause a renter to break their lease early.

For example, a tenant may move in order to be closer to their new job. Or perhaps they may need to move in with their boyfriend or girlfriend. Sometimes, they are a student at the College of Charleston and only want to stay for the period the school is in session.

When establishing an early termination clause, you’ll need to ask yourself a couple of questions. One, what will the renter be responsible for? Two, will you allow subletting? And three, how much will it cost to market the property again.

5.   The Terms of Rent in Charleston, SC

Terms of rent should be clearly stated in a lease or rental agreement. This helps minimize confusion. Besides obviously stating the rent amount, you should also remember to include other terms.

For example, acceptable forms of payment, where the payment should be made, charges for late fees and bounced checks, and whether any grace period exists. If you charge late fee penalties, then you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions:

• Will you charge a percentage of the rent amount as a late fee? If so, how much?
• Will you charge a daily fee? If so, how much?
• Will you charge a flat fee no matter how many days the rent is late? If so, how much?

6.   Occupants of the Property

Only people who’ve signed a Charleston, SC lease agreement should be allowed to live in the rental unit. As such, make sure there is a clause that defines limits on occupancy. This prevents unauthorized subletting. It also gives you a legal cause to terminate a tenancy should the renter fail to comply.

7.   Right of Entry into the Charleston Rental Unit 

As stated in South Carolina’s rental laws, the landlord or property owner has a right to legally enter the rental unit. You may need to enter a rental unit to make agreed repairs, to carry out property maintenance, or to conduct property inspections.

That being said, this right is only guaranteed if the number of entries is reasonable. Unreasonable requests to enter the rental unit may constitute a breach of tenants’ privacy rights.

Aside from keeping the number of entries reasonable, you also need to adhere to local landlord entry laws. For instance, before entering a rental unit you need to notify the resident first. (In Charleston, you need to provide a 24 hours’ notice).

8.   Details About Pets

Your Charleston lease or rental agreement should specify whether you allow pets or not. If you do, you should clearly specify all your expectations. For example, the types of pets that are allowed or prohibited. You may also narrow down to the size of the pets allowed.

Also, will you ask for a pet deposit? Will it be refundable or nonrefundable? When drafting this part, make sure to check the local security deposit rules.

9.   Security Deposit Laws in Charleston, SC

Security deposits are often a source of conflict between landlords and residents. To help reduce any future issues, make sure that your rental agreement clearly specifies security deposit details.

Such details include the security deposit amount, how it’s to be paid, and when it’ll be returned. Many states, including South Carolina, have laws regarding security deposits. For instance, in South Carolina, landlords must return a renter’s security deposit within 30 days after a lease expires.

For more details on South Carolina security deposit laws, please click here.

10.   Property Repairs and Maintenance

If something needs repairing or gets damaged in a rental property, it’s important to know who’s responsible. Therefore, your lease or rental agreement should state both the landlord and renter’s responsibility regarding repairs and maintenance.

As a guide, a landlord is responsible for damage caused by normal “wear and tear”. For instance, if a carpet is worn out after years of normal use, it would be the landlord’s responsibility to replace it.

On the other hand, a renter is responsible for any property damage in excess of normal wear and tear. For example, an excessive number of holes in the wall.

A strong lease or rental agreement will help protect your rights and the rights of your Charleston tenant. If you find the drafting of the lease a bit daunting, consider hiring a qualified Charleston lawyer.

The post What to Include in Your Charleston, SC Rental Agreement appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

If you are thinking of moving to Charleston, choosing the right neighborhood is paramount. It’s an important decision that you have to make. Some experts even say that choosing the right neighborhood is more important than choosing the right home.

Here are the best neighborhoods in Charleston, SC.

1.   Cannonborough-Elliotborough

The Cannonborough-Elliotborough neighborhood is a diverse, high-density residential neighborhood in Charleston. Crosstown Expressway borders it to the north, King Street to the west, President Street on the east and Bee and Morris Streets to the south.

The neighborhood is located in historic downtown Charleston. The neighborhood is popular for its fine mix of commercial and residential establishments.

There are many things to see and do here. For shopping, head over to the hipster-friendly, surfer casual corner shop of Charleston – Rogue Wave. For a sumptuous meal, head over to Trattoria Lucca. It’s conveniently located close to the MUSC campus and the Upper King Street nightlife district and serves rich, authentic Italian cuisine.

2.   Harleston Village

The Harleston Village is one of the largest neighborhoods in Charleston. Calhoun Street borders it to the north, King Street to the east, and Broad Street to the south.

It’s popular for its quiet residential streets and amazing nightlife.

For shopping, the House of Sage won’t disappoint. It carries edgy clothing, housewares, and accessories for both men and women. It’s situated between the College of Charleston campus and King Street’s shopping district.

Foodies will also love the sumptuous delicacy offered by the Caviar & Bananas. Besides serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with pasta, salads, soups, and sandwiches, you’ll also enjoy their fine selection of wine and beers.

3.    Kiawah Island

The Kiawah Island is one of the best areas to stay in Charleston, SC. It’s a quintessential neighborhood hallmarked by the ribboning Kiawah River, golden mashes, meandering golf courses, and hedge-lined streets.

The neighborhood is popular for its beaches, which rank among the country’s best.

Kiawah Island boasts of an array of shops, boutiques, and studios. These can all be found at Freshfields Village. For an exceptional dining experience, visit Southern Kitchen, The Atlantic Room, and The Ocean Room.

Visit Kiawah Beachwalker Park for a relaxing and peaceful day in the sand. You’ll be delighted by the sparse crowds, the park’s facilities, and the gorgeous stretch of sand.

Kiawah Island is also a great fishing spot. If you are in search of your next big catch, visit Sonny Boy Charters or Heron Park Nature Center.

4.   Upper King

Upper King neighborhood is a place to shop, live and work. It features a fresh, modern community of shops, bars, and restaurants. The Upper King Street – located in the center of the Charleston Peninsula – is the city’s fresh hub of activity, creativity, and design.

The neighborhood is popular for its award-winning restaurants and energetic nightlife. If you love Southern American cuisine, try Chef Jeremiah Bacon’s classic Southern American dishes at the Macintosh.

For shopping, you’ll certainly love what the John Pope Antiques and George C. Birlant & Co. have to offer.

If you’re looking to picnic, Marion Square’s 6.5 acres of green city park space is a great spot. The park also features a variety of festivals and events such as the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, Food & Wine Festival, and Charleston Fashion Week.

5.   The French Quarter

The French Quarter is the oldest section of Downtown Charleston. The City Market bounds it to the north and Broad Street bounds it to the south. It’s popular for its attractive cobblestone streets.

This neighborhood’s architecture boasts relaxing piazzas, historic alleys, and lively courtyards and gardens.

If you love art, The French Quarter neighborhood is a dream come true. Stroll through tranquil narrow streets like Queen, Chalmers, Cumberland, and Church on an afternoon and add some new art to your collection.

When you are in the mood for good brews with good company in a cozy atmosphere, head over to the Blind Tiger. It’s a local favorite with a generous food menu and live music.

For an amazing dining experience, head over to McCrady’s. It’s headed by an award-winning chef and local hero – Sean Brock. It features exceptional hospitality and an open kitchen creating an intimate and adventurous dining experience.

6.    Summerville

Summerville features tons of amenities and attractive historic homes. From the turn of the century brick houses to bungalows. The public sculpture program is sure to catch the attention of arts and culture enthusiasts.

Foodies will love the amazing options offered by Jun Yakitori, Myles and Perfectly Frank.

7.   Hanahan

Hanahan is a good suburb of Charleston for young families. Located north of Charleston, the area features mid-century homes on large lots.

For the working community, Hanahan is a great place to live because it has the lowest average commute time. According to Movoto.com, it’s only 20 minutes away from the business hub.

For a well-laid back, welcoming atmosphere, head over to LG’s By the Creek. Shopping, options like PINK!, Victoria’s Secret, and Books-A-Million won’t disappoint.

Hanahan also has great schools.

8.   Folly Beach

Folly Beach is an amazing neighborhood in Charleston, SC for those seeking waterfront views. There are many things to do and see here.

Foodies can get their fix at local favorites like Black Magic Café, Rita’s Seaside Grille, and Lost Dog Café.

Outdoor lovers will find the picturesque Folly Beach County Park’s beaches and trails thrilling. And for those who love fishing, Folly Beach Fishing Pier is a great spot.

9.   Mount Pleasant

Mount Pleasant is just minutes from downtown Charleston. For shopping, head over to the open air Mount Pleasant Towne Center. For some outdoor activity, grab your pals and head over to the beautiful Memorial Waterfront Park.

Clearly, Charleston or The Holy City is a vibrant place to live, work and raise a family in. If you are planning to move here, this list of the best areas to stay in Charleston should get you started. If you need any help with rental properties in the Charleston area don’t hesitate to contact us today!

The post The Best Neighborhoods in Charleston, SC appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

Whichever your reason for moving out early, understanding the South Carolina Residential Landlord and Tenant Act is important. This way, you are able to have a better understanding of your rights and responsibilities.

Simply packing up and leaving the premises is unacceptable. This is because a lease is a contractual agreement between you and your landlord. Breaking it before its expiry often entails penalties. If you are a tenant in South Carolina and wish to know more about breaking a lease, then continue reading.

Tenant’s Rights and Obligations in South Carolina When Signing a Rental Agreement

In most cases, signing a lease means that when you move in, you occupy a rental unit for the entire lease term. Typically, the term goes for a year. It also stipulates the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and you. A landlord, for instance, cannot force you to move out before the lease is up unless you fail to pay rent or violate a lease term.

The landlord also cannot raise the rent. The landlord can only raise the rent if the existing lease term is over or if the existing lease allows it.

In the event that you have violated a lease term, the landlord is required to adhere to specific procedures to end your tenancy. For example, if you have defaulted in making rent payments, then your landlord is required to serve you with a 5-day notice to either pay or move out.

Likewise, signing a lease agreement in SC obligates you to pay rent for the entire lease term. If you break your lease midway, your landlord can hold you responsible for the remaining rent due under the lease. This means paying for the remainder of the rent due under the lease whether you continue living in the rental unit or not.

There are some exceptions to this blanket rule, though. Read to know more.

Legally Justified Instances When You Can Break a Lease in South Carolina Without Penalty

Breaking a lease doesn’t always attract legal and financial penalties. The circumstances which it’s broken significantly matter. In South Carolina, you may be able to legally break a lease in the following situations.

·      If Your Landlord Violates Your Privacy Rights

In South Carolina, tenants have a right to quiet enjoyment of their homes. This means that the landlord cannot enter the rental unit as he or she pleases.

Under the South Carolina lease laws, your landlord is required to serve you with a 24-hour advance notice. The notice should state the reason why they need to enter the rental unit and at what time.

Usually, landlords may need to enter a tenant’s rental unit for the following reasons:

• To provide regularly scheduled services such as changing furnace and air-conditioning filters
• In emergency (no notice or consent is required)
• To show the unit to prospective tenants or purchasers
• For inspection
• To make necessary or agreed on repairs, decorations, and so on

·      If Your Landlord Harasses You

All forms of harassment are illegal in the state of South Carolina. Harassment by the landlord is often called a “constructive eviction.” In such a case, you would have no further responsibility to continue paying rent as the landlord would have had technically evicted you.

Oftentimes, harassment by the landlord is meant to force you to abandon the property. Landlord harassment can take many forms. Here are a just a few examples of landlord harassment:

• Physical intimidation and threats of physical violence
• Threats of financial injury, such as refusing to provide positive references to future landlords or reporting you to a credit reference bureau
• Deliberate destruction of a tenant’s property
• Creating a nuisance
• Entering the property without a just cause or proper notice
• Failing to perform maintenance tasks in a timely and responsible manner
• Refusing to accept or otherwise acknowledge proper payment of rent
• Withholding amenities previously allowed, such as landscaping services or pool privileges

·      The Rental Unit is Uninhabitable

A landlord in South Carolina has a duty to maintain a premises that is habitable. A court would rule that you have been constructively evicted if your landlord fails to provide safe housing.

The specific requirements you must follow in order to move out are set out under South Carolina landlord-tenant law (S.C. Code Ann. § § 27-40-630 and 27-40-640).

Habitable housing means a house that has provisions such as:

• Weather-tight, water-tight and rodent-proof windows and doors
• Safely installed cooking and heating equipment
• Hot water connected to the kitchen and bathroom sinks
• Rodent-proof floors, walls, and ceilings
• Working electrical systems
• Adequate garbage disposal facilities
• Working smoke detection devices
• Working flush toilet

·      You are starting active military duty

Under the federal law, you have a right to break the lease if you enter active military service. Under the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act or SCRA, the following “uniformed services” are protected:

• Armed Forces
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Commissioned Officer Corps
• Activated National Guard, and;
• Commissioned Corps of the United States Public Health Service

You need to provide your landlord with a notice of your intentions to end the lease early. You may also need to provide proof of the deployment orders. Once delivered, your tenancy will then automatically end thirty days after the date that the next rent is due.

Does the South Carolina Residential Landlord Tenant Act Obligate Landlords to Find Replacement Tenants?

Yes, it does. This means that regardless of your reason for moving out, you may still get off the hook for paying all the rent due for the remaining term of the lease.

South Carolina lease law (S.C. Code Ann. § 27-40-730 (c)) obligates landlords to make reasonable efforts to find replacement tenants. If the landlord is successful in his attempts to find a new tenant, you may only need to pay a portion of the remaining rent due under the lease.

Suppose the landlord isn’t lucky, then you will still be liable to pay the remaining rent due under the lease. The landlord may also use your security deposit to help cover the money you owe. If the amount is insufficient, your landlord may file a lawsuit against you in a small claims court.

In re-renting the rental unit, the landlord:

• Still needs to find a qualified tenant
• Doesn’t need to rent the rental unit below the standard market value
• Can add legitimate costs to your bill. For example, tenant screening and advertising costs.

With all these, you may ask how can you minimize your financial liability in the event you lack a legal justification?

Well, you could:

• Provide an advance notice well beforehand
• Help the situation by providing the landlord with a qualified replacement tenant

This information is intended to be helpful and informational. However, it shouldn’t be used as a substitute for legal advice. Should you need more help, we recommend you seek advice from a licensed South Carolina attorney.

At Bridgepoint property management we specialize in handling rental properties throughout Charleston, SC and beyond. If you require any help with your rental property don’t hesitate to contact us today!

The post What You Need to Know About Breaking a Lease in South Carolina appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

Primary reasons why landlords evict tenants include:

• Failure to pay rent
• Illegal activity
• A breach of the rental agreement or lease conditions
• Expiry of the lease agreement

The following is the South Carolina Eviction Process:

Notice of Termination With Cause

Generally, this is the first step in the eviction process. The notice must contain the reason for the eviction. In South Carolina, failure to pay rent is the most common lease violation. Others include the commission of an illegal act on the premises or violation of the lease agreement.

To begin the South Carolina eviction process, you’re required to serve the appropriate notice. Following are the common types of notices.

Eviction Notices Offered in South Carolina

·      5-Day Notice to Pay Rent

Landlords may end the lease agreement and start eviction proceedings if rent isn’t paid within five days after it’s due. This notice isn’t however necessary if your lease agreement already contains a statement like this, “If you do not pay rent on time..”.

After the lapse of the 5-day period, you can then file an eviction lawsuit. But if the tenant pays rent, you must not proceed with the eviction.

·      14-Day Notice for breach of the terms of the rental agreement

Besides non-payment of rent, you can also evict a tenant for lease violations. The notice must specify the violations. After issuance of the notice, the tenant will have fourteen days to remedy the violation. Otherwise, you can file a lawsuit after the 14-day period.

Unlike other notices, this one can either be verbal or written.

·      14-Day Notice for failure to maintain the dwelling in a healthy and safe manner

The Landlord and Tenant Act require tenants to take care of the rental premises. Failure to do so allows landlords reasons to evict them. In case of emergency, the tenant must comply immediately. If not, they must comply within 14 days after you issue them with a notice.

The notice must specify the violation and request a remedy. If the tenant doesn’t remedy the violation within this time, you can begin the eviction proceedings.

·      7 or 30-Day Notice for Expiry of the Lease

Tenants must either renew their leases or vacate the rental premises at the expiry of their lease term. If not, you may file an eviction lawsuit. There are, however, instances where there is no definite term in a rental agreement. In such cases, you may end a rental agreement after serving a 30-Day written notice.

You must serve a tenant a 7-Day written Notice if the tenant pays the rent weekly.

·      An unconditional Quit Notice

You may serve a tenant an unconditional Quit Notice if the tenant has participated in an illegal activity on the rental property. Similar to other notices, an unconditional quit notice must inform the tenant of their violation.

But unlike others, this notice doesn’t offer tenants a chance to remedy their violations.

·      Abandonment of the rental unit by the tenant

This isn’t considered an eviction. It is an abandonment of the property by the tenant. You can take back possession of the premises if there’s an unexplained absence of a tenant from the rental unit for a period of more than 15 days.

In most cases, the rent is unpaid.

Notice of Termination Without Cause

For termination without legal cause, you must wait until the expiry of the lease term to evict a tenant. A notice may or may not be necessary.

Month-to-Month Tenancy

Here, you need to serve the tenant with a 30-Day Notice before filing a lawsuit. This notice must inform the tenant that they need to move out of the unit within 30 days or else face an eviction lawsuit.

Fixed-Term Tenancy

Unlike a month-to-month tenancy, an eviction notice isn’t necessary. This is because the lease itself is clear about the length of time it’s effective. Since you don’t have a legal reason to evict a tenant, you must wait until the expiry of the lease.

How to Serve an Eviction Notice Under SC Eviction Laws

To avoid dismissal of your eviction notice, you must serve the tenant the eviction notice properly. The following are ways to serve them:

• Using a certified mail
• Using a process server
• Through personal service

If the tenant corrects the problem then you cannot evict them. If the tenant doesn’t, you may proceed to file an eviction lawsuit. The notice must:

• State the reason for eviction
• Name the personal and premises details
• Identify the tenant, and anyone else residing in the property
• Clarify that they forfeit any rights under the agreement if they don’t quit and surrender.

Court

When the tenant fails to vacate the property, you may begin the eviction process. During the eviction proceedings, tenants have an opportunity to raise a defense. Common tenant defenses include:

• Landlord didn’t follow proper eviction procedures
• “Self-help” eviction was used
• Landlord discriminated against the tenant

Warrant of Ejection

In the event that the tenant fails to show up in court or their defenses fail, the court will issue you with a warrant of ejection. A deputy, sheriff or constable in South Carolina must serve the warrant of ejectment.

Stay of Execution

Tenants may appeal the decision of the court. In such a case, a court may grant a tenant a stay of execution. The court may also arrange how past due rent will be paid.

After the eviction of the tenant, you may discover that the tenant has left behind personal belongings. The SC eviction laws don’t require you to notify the tenant of your intention to dispose of their belongings. This is, however, assuming that the eviction notice clearly notified the tenant of your option to do so.

South Carolina landlords must follow specific rules and procedures when evicting a tenant. It’s illegal to use self-help methods. Examples of self-help methods include; changing locks, turning off the heat or electricity, or removing the front door.

The post The South Carolina Eviction Process appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

There has been high praise for this little piece of paradise. Together, Bridgepoint Property Managers have come up with 14 reasons to move to Charleston, SC.

1. Beaches

What’s better than beautiful weather? A nice beach to enjoy it on! Charleston offers 6 of the top beaches in South Carolina. In fact, nowhere else in the state is there such a wide selection of beachfront real estate.

Folly beach is a popular destination for surfers. For some seclusion, Seabrook and Kiawah are solid options. For an upscale and newer feel, head over to the Isle of Palms. Wild Dunes beach is great for people looking for some outdoor fun, while Sullivan’s Island located on the East Coast is great for adventure.

2. Mild weather

Don’t like winter that much? Charleston is certainly ideal for you. Mild weather means outdoor enjoyment year-round. It rarely snows during Charleston winters. From December to February, normal temperatures range from about 36 to 62 degrees Fahrenheit.

You can still enjoy outdoor activities even in the middle of winter. People who like taking a daily jog or a walk will particularly love it. The hottest months are usually May to August, where the temperatures typically range from 62 to 91 degrees.

In some rare occasions, the temperature can soar to slightly over 100 degrees. The warm weather is what makes Charleston such an attractive city.

3. A strong local economy

A strong local economy almost always equates to great job opportunities. In fact, many people move to Charleston for this reason alone. In the last couple of years, there have been huge investments in the city that have gone to creating new businesses.

Volvo and Boeing are perhaps the biggest additions. Some of the huge industries involve the medical field, the military, and the ports. In the United States, Charleston harbor ranks as the fourth biggest.

The military employs over 27,000 people in the Charleston area. According to estimates, the military alone accounts for about 3.28 billion dollars.

Besides the military, and the port, Charleston also relies heavily on tourism. It is estimated that tourism alone brings in about $5.4 billion each year.

4. Charleston is a Dream Town for retirees

Charleston has been named by AARP as being among the top five in the U.S. for retirees. The city is home to some of the best medical care facilities in the country. Retirees will be pleased to find that there are plenty of age-restricted communities.

One such popular community is the 55+ communities in Charleston.

5. Many young professionals prefer to stay in Charleston after graduating

There’re a couple of colleges and universities in Charleston. As such, there’re many students in the area. Some of the colleges and universities include:

• Trident Technical College
• Medical University of Carolina
• The Citadel
• The College of Charleston
• Charleston Southern University

After graduation, most end up living in the city.

6. A historical haven

Charleston is nearly 350 years old. It was founded in 1670 – and thus the oldest city in the country. It has the oldest community-based historic preservation group – The Preservation Society of Charleston.

Charleston is also the first city in the country to establish a board of architectural review. The board was established in 1931. There’s a nice collection of historical buildings reflecting a variety of architectural styles.

The styles include Victorian, Italianate, Greek Revival, and Federal. The beautiful aesthetics of Charleston make it an attractive tourist attraction.

7. Shopping

Charleston has some of the top boutiques in the country and the oldest antique establishments. King Street has all you want and more for your inner shopaholic. From 1-5 pm, King Street is blocked off from Calhoun to Queen Street on the second Sunday of each month.

With motorists out of the way, pedestrians are left to enjoy everything that King Street has to offer. There’s also live music to complement the leisurely strolling through the streets.

8. Events

If you live in this beautiful city, there’ll never be a dull moment on your social calendar. Don’t believe us? Some of the favorite local events include:

• The Holiday Festival of Lights
• The MOJA Arts Festival
• Charleston Fashion Week
• Charleston International Film Festival
• Charleston Food and Wine Festival
• Southeastern Wildlife Exposition
• The Charleston Marathon
• The Cooper River Bridge Run
• The Lowcountry Oyster Festival
• The Taste of Charleston
• The Historic Charleston Foundation’s Festival of Houses and Gardens

9. Fine Dining

Every Sunday, you’ll find that Charlestonians know how to brunch in style. There’s never a shortage of new menus to try and staple establishments to fall back on for. There are always a vast array of new restaurants and cuisines constantly opening their doors.

One of the most highly anticipated culinary events in the Charleston area is the Charleston Restaurant Week. This event is executed by the Greater Charleston Restaurant Association. Local restaurants that offer traditional cuisine along with professional and friendly services include:

• Lobster mac n cheese a cheese at Halls Chophouse
• Pig ear lettuce wraps at Husk
• Shrimp and grits at Slightly North of Broad
• She-crab soup at 82 Queen
• Coconut cake at The Peninsula Grill
• Seafood tower at The Ordinary

10. The Art scene

Both the oldest community theatre troop in the state (the Footlight Players) and the first theatre in America (Dock Street Theatre, 1736) can be found in Charleston. Also, Charleston has a symphony orchestra and professional ballet as well.

Again, the French quarter has over 30 art galleries and museums. Others include:

• Old Exchange Building
• Charles Town Landing
• Charleston Museum Mile
• USS Yorktown
• Gibbes Museum of Art
• The Charleston Museum
• Fort Sumter

11. Great Outdoors

Charleston is more than just one of the country’s most beloved cities. It is a great place for outdoor activities. To start with, it is home to 5 beach towns: Sullivan’s, Seabrook, Kiawah, Isle of Palms, and Folly Beach. Each having its own unique vibe.

With that comes a smorgasbord of outdoor activities: fishing, paddle boarding, shrimping and kayaking. Destinations for outdoor water sports and activities include:

• Surf the Washout at sunrise on Folly Beach
• Inshore fish the Intracoastal Waterway
• Deep sea fish the Atlantic Ocean
• Stand up paddle board at Isle of Palms
• Sail the Charleston Harbor
• Kayak Shem Creek
• Kiteboard on Sullivan’s Island

Besides water sports, Charleston area is also home to some of the best-rated golf courses. They include:

• Wild Dunes Golf Resort
• Seabrook Island Courses
• The Links at Stono Ferry
• Dunes West Golf Club
• Shadowmoss Plantation Golf Club
• Kiawah Island Golf Courses
• Rivertowne Country Club
• Patriots Point Links on the Charleston Harbor

12. Culture

Charleston is a culture rich city. Before making your final decision on moving there, here’re a few cultural traits you should be aware of:

• Charleston is a drinking community. Although the city has some of the best happy hours, tasting tours are also a fun local activity. Some of the breweries and distilleries in Charleston include High Wire Distilling, Holy City Brewing, Charleston Distilling, Striped Pig Distillery and more.
• There’s lots of live music. In this regard, there’s Royal American, The Charleston Pour House, Charleston Music Farm, and Charleston Music Hall.
• Charleston is a festival/event-driven community. You might be overwhelmed especially if you come from a small town with, say, five or ten major festivals. On a given week each summer, there’re probably 40-80 events. Including farmers markets, pop-up sales, fund-raisers, concerts, events, and festivals.
• Condos and cookie cutter apartments are being built at a rapid rate throughout the Lowcountry. You may choose Mount Pleasant, Summerville, Hanahan, North Charleston, James Island, or West Ashley. Each of these has its own personality, culture, and economic standing.

13. Quality of Life

In Charleston, the pace of living is more relaxed than in major US cities. Also if you’re thinking of moving to Charleston, not only is the cost of living below the national average, but young professionals have flocked the city for the emphasis on:

• An emerging technology industry
• Low unemployment rates, and;
• A “success is happiness” mentality

14. It’s a good place to raise a family

Buyers will find a great selection of homes and neighborhoods to meet their families’ needs. Charleston also has some of the best schools.

Furthermore, there’re lots of kid-friendly places too. They include county parks, the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, and the SC Aquarium. There’s also the children’s hospital at MUSC, which parents will certainly be pleased with.

Conclusion

As can be seen, Charleston is a great place to live in. The reasons are to live here are as varied as the people who give them. Charleston offers something for everyone, whether you’re searching for an exciting town in which to start a new career or you’re simply looking for a warm, sunny place to live.

The post 14 Reasons You Should Consider Moving to Charleston appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

Not to mention the fact that the property itself (as well as the profits coming from it) is being shielded by federal as well as state income tax.

Needless to say, it is always better to do the necessary research before you actually proceed to buy rental property in Charleston. Doing so will prevent you from making commonplace mistakes in real estate investment, as well as give you some vital peace of mind.

Are you planning to buy rental property in Charleston, SC? Then you should make it a point to follow these tips in order to make your investment smooth and hassle-free:

Take the Metrics into Consideration

As an investor, you must always look at a rental property in terms of its ability to generate wealth. In this process, you should consider several factors, including (but not limited to) employment pattern of local residents, trends of growth, the growth of population, demographics and vacancy rates.

You should also be wary of red flags such as sudden cutback of jobs and deviance. One good way of taking metrics into consideration is to try and predict the kind of people who are most likely to rent your property – retirees, families, or young and single professionals. Then continue to purchase the kind of home that suits the target population the best.

Get the Area Surveyed for Rent

It is always wise to make your calculations & try to find out the minimum amount of required rent. There are several ways to go about this, one of them is getting the area rent surveyed to find out whether the property has any actual potential.

Try looking at comparable properties within the neighborhood and find out the current rent rates. Thereafter, survey the current occupancy rates to see if the need for properties in the area (similar to the property you want to buy) is realistic enough for you to actually invest in that property.

Conduct a Thorough Inspection of Your Potential Properties

It is always good to take into consideration the overall health of the property when you’re actually buying it. Make sure to take a thorough look at the property and note down any issues that you may see.

Take note of things like basements that tend to flood after rain, a tendency to produce musty odors, patchy roofs, and malfunctioning appliances. Also, take note of whether the existing electrical system meets the local building guidelines & whether the plumbing system is up to the mark.

In this regard, it is always better to hire professionals who can do the job (unless you yourself are one in the first place). Certified home inspectors evaluate homes in a professional manner and find out whether the property in question has any issues with it – structural or otherwise.

While it may cost a little more, it is worth it given that it saves you ample time and most importantly money, that you would later have to spend in repairing damages.

Have a Team of Professionals by Your Side at All Times

The one common factor that is present in all real estate investors is the fact that they all have a dedicated team of pros by their side at all times who support their business at every hour. As an investor, you must find a team that comprises of:

– A seasoned real estate agent who is well-aware of the local market

– An appraiser who honestly evaluates properties

– A competent real estate attorney; and

– A trustworthy lender who can finance you and/or your buyers

Additionally, you will need other professionals such as painters, plumbers, and electricians who will conduct regular repair and maintenance work.

Instead of hiring professionals, you can try hiring a professional property management company that will handle the entire process of management of your property.

Track Your Investment Property’s Cash Flow

Costs related to renovation and repairs are a part and parcel of property maintenance. Investors such as yourself should make it a point to track the inflow and outflow of cash. After all, you do not want your business to get into generating losses.

In the events that the costs begin to run over, you should try to set away more than the needed estimates.

You can also try hiring a professional company that will handle any and all tasks related to management of your property in Charleston. Even then, you should make it a point to track the expenses.

Make sure to include the extras that you’ll be spending in terms of fees for the services rendered by the property management company. Contacting the manager to find out about the various fees and services is a good practice of this.

Make an Exit Plan

While the need of the hour for the investor is to have the correct property for the right price and in the right neighborhood, you should also realize that buying is not the only aspect of investing. Selling to is an important part of investing too.

You must, therefore, have an exit plan that will permit you to sell the property at the best price if and/or when necessary in the future. Another aspect of investment is to buy a sub-par rental property, renovate it, and then sell it for a higher price, after a year or so.

When you are taking into consideration the “when” of your strategy, do make it a point to consider the financing. For instance, if there is a balloon payment that will soon rise, it is always better to sell the property before that happens.

By following the aforementioned tips, you can avoid the small but significant mistakes that cost property investors a lot. They will help not only in terms of time and money but also in terms of good business practice and satisfaction.

The post Tips to Follow When Purchasing Investment Properties in Charleston, SC appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

Charleston has a population of 712,232 people. The city offers one of the best quality of life in the country with an average annual income of $43,560. Property is quite affordable. The median home price in the city is $223,519. Rents are also quite low with the average monthly rent fee at only $982.

How is living in Charleston, South Carolina?  

Charleston is a city that is rich in both culture and history. The city has lived through the American Revolution, the War of 1812 and the Civil War not to forget hurricanes, earthquakes, pirates and social revolutions. Despite all these challenges, the city has been able to preserve its past and is on its way to a great future. It is a popular tourist destination and offers a rich culture, wine, dancing and other related luxuries and offerings.

Here are some interesting things you should know about living in Charleston:

Charm:

Even though Charleston has become a thriving metropolis, it has still been able to retain its southern charm. The city is elegant, not too large and above, beautiful. Despite the modern buildings in the downtown area, the city has still preserved its architectural history and cobblestone walkways.

The Charleston Museum is a perfect example. Founded in 1773, it has still retained its mission of preserving and interpreting the culture and history of Charleston and the South Carolina Low Country. Modernization has led to an exciting nightlife and state of the art galleries and entertainment centers.

Holy City:

Charleston is called the Holy City because it has many churches, with the church steeples puncturing the city’s skyline. The city has seen a significant struggle for freedom and independence.

Charleston was founded by Protestants in 1670. Till the late 1700s, Jews were not even allowed to worship freely. Roman Catholics also had to undergo significant struggle and strive to be accepted. And now, Charleston has a blend of people from different faiths, religions, backgrounds, and cultures.

Jobs & Economy:

Charleston has a thriving economy. The Port of Charleston is among the top 10 container ports in the US. The port handles nearly $75 billion of goods each year.

Charleston is also a major tourist destination and that is why there are ample jobs in the private sector. You can also find part-time and full-time jobs in hotels, motels, restaurants, and the entertainment industry.

Low Taxes:

As far as taxes are concerned, South Carolina is one state that can boast low taxes for its residents. The average tax burden for residents in SC is under $3000 a year. The state’s property tax of 0.57% and a gas tax of 16.75 cents is much better than all other states in the top 10.

Cost of Living:

The best thing about Charleston is that it is an affordable city. The price of homes is much lower than many other places in the US. However, salaries can be lower here compared to other cities. That is why you do need to budget properly. Overall food and transportation tend to be slightly more expensive here than in other areas of similar size and population.

Food:

Being a coastal city, seafood reigns supreme here but you can get to taste almost every type of cuisine to satisfy any cravings. There are ample cafes and restaurants along the beach route serving all types of food items ranging from Southern full-breakfast with grits to the traditional American barbecued crabs and shrimps.

Transport:

Being a small city, the commute times in Charleston are very short. The public transportation system is superb. The airport is only 12 miles away from the city center making it very easy for people who want to travel. Charleston is a popular tourist destination so the roads do get congested and parking can be a problem during peak season. A lot of the locals are generally seen using bikes. The city is small, flat and easy to navigate.

Weather:

Charleston has warm weather all year round. Although the 2-3 months of summer tend to be hot and humid, the rest of the year is wonderful. The weather is perfect for almost any type of outdoor activity such as golfing, hiking, biking or sightseeing the colonial homes, eerie cemeteries, plantations, and estates. The city has around 230 days of sunshine each year. The average daily temperature here is around 65.6 degrees Fahrenheit.

Beaches:

There are Charleston beaches within a few minutes from the downtown area. The warm pristine blue waters and the soft sandy beaches are one of the key highlights of this city. These beautiful waters and help people relax and enjoy their summers. There are no long line-ups and parking issues. Even on weekends, parking is fairly easy to find and you can get a good spot on the beach. In addition, there are many types of water-related activities available for those who might be interested.

As a Charleston Business, we pride ourselves on knowing what our city has to offer and sharing it. The above information encompasses some essential information about Charleston, SC. This information will give you an idea of living in this beautiful city – a city that is full of history and culture.

The post #1 Resource on Living in Charleston SC appeared first on FYVE Property Management.

But when your property is vacant and you’re looking for someone to rent it from you, you also need to wear the hat of “Master Marketer.”

Sure, you probably have some ideas on how you can attract potential tenants, but do you know the best strategies and techniques? And do you have the necessary time to spend putting together a marketing plan and executing it? It’s not easy, especially when you’re not a skilled marketer, but there are some things you can do to make the entire process much simpler — and easier!

Make the Property Shine

The first step in the marketing process is making the property as appealing as possible. This means cleaning it thoroughly and turning it into a place that will “wow” prospective tenants.

It also means taking great photos and videos that you can use to entice renters!

List Your Property Wherever You Can

These days, you have to do much more than stick a sign on the side of the building or in the yard advertising your rental property. You have to take advantage of every possible listing location. This means using the Internet (social media, Craigslist and various listing websites) to your advantage. When you list in multiple locations, you stand a much better chance of attracting the right tenant.

Be Available

It’s hard to rent out a property when you’re never able to show it to people. You may have a ridiculously busy schedule, but if you want to get the rental income coming in like it’s supposed to, you need to make yourself available to prospective tenants on their schedules. Your schedule and your calendar will have to go on the back burner if you want to get your property shown — and rented — to the right tenant.

Consider Expert Assistance

When you work with a professional property management company like Bridgepoint, you can stop wearing so many hats! In particular, you can leave the marketing of your property to people who are actually experts at marketing.

We know how to get the word out on a property so that potential tenants come running. It’s totally worth it!

Learn More

Are you wondering how you can put the strongest marketing muscles to work for your Charleston property? Give Bridgepoint Property Management a call today at (843) 800-6005 and find out what we can do to help you get the most out of your property.

The post How to Market Your Rental Property If You’re Not a Marketer appeared first on FYVE Property Management.