Based in Howard County, MD
Frequently Asked Questions
How many properties do you currently manage?
We started in 2023 and manage a rapidly growing portfolio in Central Maryland. We see this as an advantage as we are growing rapidly in the residential space with our adoption of technology, high-level processes and exceptional communication.
How do you handle tenant screening?
We partner with Realtors who conduct background checks and help to screen potential tenants, ultimately letting the property owner make the final selection.
How do you handle rent collection and delinquent tenants?
We have an easy to use online and app payment platform for payments. When it comes to delinquent tenants, we follow Maryland law and act in a firm but understanding manner to ensure timely payment from tenants.
What types of properties
do you manage?
We manage a variety of properties, including condos, townhomes, single family homes, and multi-family residential properties
How do you handle repairs?
We coordinate repairs with vetted service providers to ensure high-quality workmanship and timely resolution of maintenance issues. We make sure they are licensed prior to conducting any work.
How do you communicate to property owners?
We communicate effectively with property owners by phone and by using a web-based app, which allows for easy, 24/7 access to important information and updates
What are your fees?
Our fee for all property management services is 8-10% of the gross monthly rent, which includes coordination of repairs with vetted service providers, free annual inspections with digital reports and pictures, and effective communication through a web-based app
How often do you inspect the property?
We provide a free inspection every year with a full digital report and pictures to help identify any maintenance issues or potential problems.
Can you provide references?
Yes, we can provide references for you to talk to upon request!
Property Damages
TENANT RESPONSIBILITY
Our tenant screening process assures you have renters that pay on time and take care of the property; however, in the case of damages it is the responsibility of the tenant to repair the property at their own expense.
HVAC
SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
Our rental agreement covers responsibilities of the tenant, but it is good to know that the heating and cooling systems are considered as both an owner and tenant responsibility.
The owner is to ensure the major functions of the heating and cooling systems are in working order.
The tenant is responsible for changing the filters regularly and keeping the drain line open. If the system is not treated properly, that will fall on the tenant as well.
Plumbing
SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
Owners are responsible for circumstances outside of a tenant's control, such as: water heater failure, tree roots in the sewer line or worn out plumbing fixtures.
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The tenant is responsible for clogged toilets, toilet seats, flappers and handles. As well as jammed garbage disposals, clogged drains and anything resulting from misuse or neglect.
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If a septic system is on-site, it will be the responsibility of the owner to have it pumped out, along with any sump pump failures or clogged drain fields.
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This will also be covered in the rental agreement.
Windows and Screens
TENANT RESPONSIBILITY
Prior to the tenant living in the home or condominium, it will be assured that the windows and screens are in good condition. Then, it will be the responsibility of the tenant to repair broken glass or damaged screens, which includes screen doors and sliding doors.
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Exceptions will be made for natural disasters.
Pest Control
SHARED RESPONSIBILITY
We recommend the owner the owner have the property inspected for pests and pest damage at least once (1) per year.
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The landlord is responsible for providing a pest-free home prior to leasing. The tenant will be responsible for removing any pests during the term of the lease, except for termites, carpenter ants, pharaoh ants and rodents.
Yard Care
TENANT RESPONSIBILITY
In our rental agreements, it is a tenant responsibility to keep the yard in the same condition as it was upon the beginning of tenancy.
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The tenant may elect to pay for lawncare services. Approved landscapers can be provided upon request.
Swimming Pools
OWNER RESPONSIBILITY
In order to ensure the best maintenance of the pool, we have found it best for this service to be provided by the owner.
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Weekly service can be done on the pool, but we'll ask about the owner's preference prior to hiring out this service.
Pets
OWNER DECISION
We believe it is the owner's right to deny or accept pets.
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Talk with your Realtor about pet fees, such as deposits and monthly charges. It is important to know that it is unlawful to charge pet fees for a service animal.
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Farm animals are not permitted, and only small to medium-sized, nonviolent, common domesticated animals are considered.
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Persons with disabilities will be allowed a therapy pet without being charged a pet fee. See the Fair Housing Laws for any further clarification.
When the Property Becomes Vacant
When your property becomes vacant, we conduct the following to minimize out-of-pocket costs to the owner:
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Move-out inspection
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Make any appropriate claims against the security deposit
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Prepare the property for re-rent
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Have the carpets cleaned ​
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Have the walls painted and more
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This is also a great opportunity to make any improvements and conduct a rent review to see if we are meeting the current market conditions.
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Legal/Insurance
If you plan on renting out your residence, it will be important to call your preferred insurance agent and ask for a landlord's policy.
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It is required that tenants have renter's insurance.
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Make sure your Landlord's policy has limits that are no less than $100,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence.
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We ask the owner to add Portfolio Property Management, LLC as an "additional insured." Most agents will do this at no cost to you.
