AAOL Articles

Retaining quality tenants is one of the most cost-effective strategies for maximizing rental income and minimizing turnover expenses. The cost of finding, screening, and moving in a new tenant can easily exceed $1,000–$3,000 per unit, not to mention the lost rent during vacancy periods. A good tenant—one who pays on time, maintains the property, and causes no problems—is worth keeping. This guide walks you through proven lease renewal strategies that encourage quality tenants to stay, from … [Read more...] about Effective Lease Renewal Strategies to Retain Good Tenants

Background checks are one of the most critical tools in a landlord's screening arsenal. A thorough, legally compliant background check can reveal red flags—criminal history, eviction records, financial irresponsibility—that protect your property and your bottom line. But running a background check isn't as simple as plugging a name into Google. There are federal laws, state regulations, and fair housing considerations that govern what you can check, how you can check it, and what you can do with … [Read more...] about How to Run a Background Check on Prospective Tenants: A Landlord’s Guide

Owning rental property means more than collecting rent—it means managing risk. Landlord insurance is the foundation of any smart risk management plan. The right coverage protects your property, your income, and your personal assets from unexpected loss, lawsuits, and disasters. In 2025, with stricter regulations and rising claims, understanding what’s required (and what’s just smart business) is more important than ever. This guide breaks down the essential insurance requirements for … [Read more...] about Landlord Insurance Requirements

The landscape of property ownership in America has become increasingly complex. Landlords face mounting regulatory burdens, frivolous claims, and shifting tenant protections that often seem to prioritize tenant interests over property owner rights. Yet, despite these challenges, federal law provides substantial protections that many landlords don't fully understand or leverage. This isn't about complaints—it's about knowledge. The more you understand your legal rights under federal law, the … [Read more...] about 5 Legal Protections Every Landlord Should Know

For landlords, effective tenant screening isn’t just a best practice—it’s a critical safeguard for your property, your income, and your peace of mind. In 2025, with evolving regulations and increasing tenant advocacy, landlords must strike a careful balance between thorough screening and strict legal compliance. This guide walks you through a comprehensive, legally sound approach to tenant screening. We’ll cover the essential steps, highlight key legal considerations, and share … [Read more...] about How to Screen Tenants Effectively

Eviction is often a landlord's last resort, but when it becomes necessary, understanding the legal process is critical. A single procedural mistake—a missed deadline, improper notice, or incomplete documentation—can derail your entire case and cost you thousands in legal fees and lost rent. This guide walks you through the eviction process step-by-step, covering the legal requirements, notice periods, court procedures, and critical documentation needed to evict a tenant successfully and … [Read more...] about How to Evict a Tenant Legally