Greater Washington DC Metropolitan Area Blog

Understanding Renter’s Insurance: What It Covers and Why You Need It

By Peta-Gay Lewis Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Many renters assume that their landlord’s insurance policy covers their personal belongings. In reality, landlord insurance protects the building—not the tenant’s possessions. This misunderstanding often leaves renters unprotected when unexpected events occur.Th...

Your Guide to Getting Your Full Security Deposit Back

By Peta-Gay Lewis Monday, January 12, 2026

For many tenants, the security deposit is a significant amount of money. Unfortunately, misunderstandings about move-out expectations often result in unexpected deductions. Knowing how security deposits work—and how to properly prepare for move-out—can greatly increas...

How to Submit Maintenance Requests the Right Way

By Peta-Gay Lewis Friday, January 9, 2026

Maintenance issues happen in every rental home. Knowing how to submit a maintenance request properly helps ensure repairs are completed quickly, accurately, and safely. Clear communication also prevents delays and misunderstandings between tenants and property managemen...

What Tenants Should Look for Before Signing a Lease

By Peta-Gay Lewis Wednesday, January 7, 2026

Signing a lease is a major commitment, and understanding the details upfront can help tenants avoid stress, unexpected costs, and misunderstandings later. Whether you’re renting for the first time or moving to a new home, knowing what to review before signing can protect yo...

How to Protect Your Rental Property During Vacant Periods

By Peta-Gay Lewis Monday, January 5, 2026

Vacant rental properties are more vulnerable to damage, vandalism, and costly repairs. Even a short vacancy can create risks if a property is not properly secured and maintained. Protecting your rental during these periods helps preserve its condition, reduce liability, and ensur...

The Benefits of Routine Property Inspections for Landlords

By Peta-Gay Lewis Friday, January 2, 2026

Routine property inspections are one of the most effective tools landlords can use to protect their investment. While many owners only inspect a property at move-in and move-out, regular inspections help identify issues early, reduce costly repairs, and maintain positive tenant r...

Tenant Turnover: What It Really Costs and How to Reduce It

By Peta-Gay Lewis Wednesday, December 31, 2025

Tenant turnover is one of the most expensive and underestimated challenges landlords face. While losing a tenant may seem routine, the true cost of turnover goes far beyond a vacant unit—it impacts cash flow, time, and long-term profitability.In this guide, we break down&nb...

How to Calculate the Right Rent Price for Your Property

By Peta-Gay Lewis Monday, December 29, 2025

Setting the correct rent price is one of the most important decisions a landlord makes. Price it too high and your property may sit vacant. Price it too low and you leave money on the table. The goal is to find a rent price that attracts qualified tenants while maximizing your re...

The Landlord’s Guide to Handling Late Rent Payments Legally and Effectively

By Peta-Gay Lewis Friday, December 26, 2025

Late rent payments are one of the most common—and stressful—challenges landlords face. How you handle them can impact your cash flow, tenant relationships, and legal standing. Acting too slowly can encourage bad habits, while acting incorrectly can lead to legal troub...

What to Expect From a Full-Service Property Management Company

By Peta-Gay Lewis Wednesday, December 24, 2025

Hiring a full-service property management company can completely change your experience as a rental property owner. Instead of handling tenant issues, maintenance calls, and legal compliance yourself, a professional team manages the day-to-day operations while helping you ma...