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Real estate industry news, interviews, and educational resources.
31
Aug
2026
Raise NOI on an occupied rental without renovating. See where money leaks, two case studies, and when you can make changes.
6
The best pro loyalty programs and store discounts for US landlords - save on repairs, materials, paint, and DIY supplies at Home Depot, Lowe’s and more.
29
Jul
The best landlord apps for 2026, from all-in-one management to receipt scanning, e-signatures, and mileage tracking. Build your landlord tech stack.
13
Free security deposit return letter template, itemized deduction rules, and the state deadlines you must meet to avoid penalties when returning a deposit.
Free non-renewal lease letter template for landlords, plus notice-period rules and exactly what to include so the tenancy ends cleanly.
Free lease termination letter template plus a step-by-step guide on what to include, notice periods, and how to send it so it holds up.
Jun
You can still evaluate applicants fairly without a social security number. Here’s how to verify identity and income with documents and stay Fair Housing compliant.
12
We analyzed 3.5 million landlord and tenant actions on our property management platform over 3.5 years to reveal trends landlords can plan ahead for.
10
New analysis of HUD data ranks Section 8 waiting list times by state. Maryland tops 5 years; see how 50 states changed from 2022 to 2025.
18
May
Real estate commission is fully negotiable post-NAR settlement. Here’s how real estate investors and sellers cut agent fees and commissions.
11
Tenant moved out and left a smell behind? Here’s how landlords can remove cigarette smoke and bad odors before the next tenant tours the property.
7
Yes, digital signatures are legally binding on US leases under the ESIGN Act and UETA. Learn the four rules, exceptions, and how to keep them airtight.
Compare the best eSign lease tools for landlords. Find the right e-sign tools to help manage leases and agreements for your rentals.
20
Apr
Keep your personal and rental finances separate. Learn why it matters, how to do it, and get a free list of landlord bank account options.
17
Learn the difference between lessor vs lessee, including each party’s rights, responsibilities, and role in a lease agreement.
24
Mar
Is restructuring your 401(k) so you can invest in real estate without a penalty worth it? Understand the rules, restrictions, and whether you should.
4
Learn how to evaluate rental property deals using cash on cash return, ARV, and the updated 1% rule from an investor who has closed over $175M in deals.
2
Self-file your rental property taxes or hire a CPA? Compare costs, complexity, and when each option makes sense for landlords filing Schedule E.
Automated rent collection cuts late payments and admin. See why 65% of property managers now use it, and how to set it up for your rentals.
Feb
What prorated rent is, how to calculate it using four methods, and when you must charge it, plus a free calculator and worked examples.
16
Self-managing landlords leave thousands in legitimate deductions unclaimed. Learn what qualifies, how to document it, and where repairs end and improvements begin.
22
Jan
A practical guide to the best digital signature tools for landlords, comparing features, pricing, and ease of use to help you streamline lease signing, manage documents securely, and save time.
8
Reporting rental income on Schedule E in 2026 - what counts as income, which expenses are deductible, and how to avoid an IRS audit.
A rental property bookkeeping checklist - the monthly, quarterly and annual tasks that maximize deductions and keep your records compliant.
1
This guide outlines proven methods to organize and categorize rental expenses, and provides a free downloadable spreadsheet template.
23
Dec
2025
Learn how rental property owners can use the QBI deduction to cut taxes, about the 250-hour rule, and maximize real estate tax savings with Landlord Studio.
We explore what landlords need to know about reporting their rental income tax and tax deductible expenses for their properties.
A guide to the Section 179 deduction - the new $2.5M limit, which assets qualify, and how to use it in your real estate tax strategy.
How real estate tax reforms, market corrections, and shifting rental dynamics are creating the best acquisition opportunity for investors since 2010.
Property management software for small landlords should pack all the features you need in a cost-effective, scalable, and easy-to-use system.
15
Explore the best real estate markets to invest in for 2026. Strategies for cash flow, balanced growth, and contrarian opportunities in the US.
14
Compare 2026 pricing, free tiers and features for the best rental property management software: Landlord Studio, TurboTenant, DoorLoop, Baselane and more.
Choosing the right real estate accounting software is key to maximizing profits and avoiding losses in your rental business. Here’s what you need to know.
Complete guide to rental property depreciation: calculate your deductions, understand the 27.5-year timeline, avoid recapture taxes, and maximize ROI.
Download a free rental property chart of accounts template and streamline your bookkeeping with IRS-aligned categories for landlords.
We take a look at the 9 best property management software and how they can help you save time and maximize your real estate portfolio ROI.
A landlord’s guide to how automatic rent payments work, their benefits and challenges, and how to set them up to reduce late rent.
We compare the best property management apps on the market, their pros, cons, pricing, and key features to help you choose the right software for your needs.
Whether you use QuickBooks for rental properties or Landlord Studio, the right tool to track your expenses will save you time and money.
27
Nov
Collect rent efficiently with ACH or credit card payments. This article breaks down fees, speed, and best use cases for landlords and tenants.
A move in and move-out inspection checklist allows you to identify damage caused by tenants and any maintenance that needs to be carried out.
Depreciation recapture is a tax provision that allows the IRS to collect taxes on the profitable sale of a depreciated asset.
Accelerated depreciation can be a powerful strategy to increase the profitability of your assets in the early years.
Cash vs accrual accounting for rentals affects tax timing, performance insight and transparency. Learn which one fits your business.
19
A rental property income statement is central to understanding your portfolio and is a key figure for several important real estate metrics.
According to the IRS regulations, landlords and property managers must now ensure they file form 1099 for rental income over $600.
There are several 1099 requirements for landlords, for example, if they hire an independent contractor and pay them more than $600 over the course of the year.
Create your personalized rental property analysis spreadsheet and learn the importance of cash flow for real estate investing.
Pet screening for landlords and tenants: legal considerations, best practices, and how to reduce risk while expanding your applicant pool.
Landlords should give adequate notice of renewal or non-renewal of lease stating whether or not they intend to renew the lease agreement.
Learn how 100% bonus depreciation works for real estate investors. Maximize tax savings with cost segregation and immediate deductions.
21
Oct
What’s the difference between capital improvements and repairs? And how do each need to be accounted for according to the IRS guidelines?
30
Sep
We take a look at the different factors that go into determining how much profit you should make on a rental property.
25
Understanding rental property taxes and rental property tax deductions is essential if you want to operate a profitable rental portfolio.
Discover the tax benefits of HELOCs for real estate investors, including deductible interest and strategies to maximize your property ROI.
This rental property tax deductions checklist outlines 21 deductible rental expenses that landlords need to track.
Learn how passive activity loss limitations restrict rental deductions, plus exceptions like the $25K allowance and real estate professional rules.
28
A cash-out refinance on a rental property is a strategy that allows investors to release equity in order to scale their portfolio and build wealth.
26
Find out if landlords can deduct remodeling expenses for rental properties, which costs qualify, and how to maximize tax deductions.
Learn how to depreciate improvements on rental properties, maximize tax benefits, and track expenses accurately to boost your investment’s profitability.
Accurate bookkeeping is essential to running a profitable rental portfolio. Here are our top five rental property accounting tips.
Discover free rental property spreadsheet templates to track income, expenses, and tenants. Streamline property management with organized, accurate records.
5
What Is CapEx in real estate, how do you calculate it, and why is tracking capital expenses with Landlord Studio key for smart property investment?
3
What should your rental property spreadsheet include, and what can real estate investors use instead of clumsy, error-prone spreadsheets?
A rent roll lists every unit, tenant, lease term, rent, deposit and payment status in a rental property. Learn what to include, with a worked example.
Whether you own one unit or a hundred having a solid understanding of real estate accounting is essential for success in the industry
2024
The home office deduction for rental property owners - who is eligible, what it is worth, and how software simplifies your tax prep.
How landlords deduct uninsured casualty and theft losses. What qualifies, how to calculate the deduction, and tools to simplify the process.
Struggling to track income and expenses for your rental properties? We explore the strengths and weaknesses of Quicken Rental Property Manager.
In this guide, we look at how to track and categorize rental property expenses and what the different IRS expense categories are.
Explore the different tax benefits to investing in rental properties and see how you can leverage them to increase the profitability of your rental portfolio.
Track rental property income and expenses on the go with powerful tools designed for you. Save time and maximize your deductions at tax time.
Real estate investing metrics help you tell a bad deal from a great one. Here are the 11 numbers you need to reach rental profitability.
Keeping detailed records of your finances across your investment portfolio will ensure you pay the correct capital gains tax.
The pass-through deduction allows qualifying real estate investors to deduct up to 20% of net business earnings from their income taxes.
The net cash flow formula describes income and expenses during a given period of time helping investors understand profit and loss.
9
Owning and managing rental properties comes with several advantageous tax rules. However, they can be complex and often trigger IRS audits.
2023
The rental property expenses investors often miss, and how to track them so you can maximize deductions and run a more profitable business.
We outline 15 rental property tax deductions that every landlord needs to know if they want to minimize tax liabilities and maximize ROI.
Positive rental property cash flow is essential if you want to run a profitable, scalable business. But how much cash flow in real estate is good?
Everything you need to know about property management accounting, and how to choose the right software to keep your books up to date.
Understanding rental income tax forms like the Schedule E is essential if you want to operate a profitable and scalable portfolio.
We explore why and how to transition from paper and spreadsheets to Landlord Studio for managing your rental property accounting.
Find the best alternative to spreadsheets for managing your properties and make tracking your income and expenses as easy as possible.
If you want to run a profitable rental portfolio you need the tools and knowledge to streamline operating costs and maximize your tax deductions.
Keeping track of your mileage will allow you to save hundred on your taxes each year as a landlord. Here are 7 of the best mileage tracker apps for landlords.
2022
Real estate investor software like Landlord Studio is essential for scaling your portfolio, levelling up productivity, and maximizing ROI.
A value based pricing strategy for your real estate accounting firm will help both you and your clients achieve your financial goals.
As an accountant, having a niche can help you grow your business. Consider offering services tailored to real estate clients.
Learn how to craft effective lease renewal letters, retain great tenants, and find free templates to simplify your property management process.
Learn how to write a lease non-renewal letter, when to send it, and why it’s essential, plus, get a free template.
Learn the difference between pet deposits, pet fees and pet rent. Covers the legalities, market rates, and best practices for pet-friendly rentals.
Ending a tenancy? Our 60-day notice to vacate guide and free template help landlords and tenants navigate the process smoothly and legally.
What a notice to vacate is, when and how to use one, and what to include, plus a free landlord and tenant template you can download and customize.
What a rental history report is, how to get one free on prospective tenants, and how Landlord Studio streamlines your tenant selection.
Learn everything you need to know about month-to-month lease agreements, their pros and cons, key legal rules, and best practices for managing them effectively.
What makes a great tenant? Discover how to screen applicants for financial stability, good communication and a long-term tenancy that protects your property.
Discover the best tenant screening questions to ask potential renters, so you get the information you need to reduce risk and secure great tenants fast.
Discover the top 12 free rental listing sites to get your vacant property in front of as many renters as possible and find great tenants fast at no cost.
A cash for keys agreement is when a landlord pays a tenant to move out voluntarily, avoiding eviction and regaining possession of the property faster.
Learn the full property leasing process, from preparing your rental and screening tenants through to managing the lease and handling move-outs.
Learn what to do if your property continues to receive mail from a previous tenant and your tenant has not provided a forwarding address.
Learn how to advertise an apartment for rent so you can find great tenants and fill expensive vacancies fast.
Discover how Premium Listings boosts your property’s visibility on rental platforms like Zumper and Realtor.com, helping you fill your vacancies faster.
A tenancy at will is a flexible rental arrangement, but what does that actually mean, how does it work, and how is it different from standard lease types?
Tenant screening is an essential step in selecting a tenant. In this article, we explore how to screen tenants and what to look for in a great tenant.
A move-out inspection is a detailed assessment of a rental property’s condition, conducted when a tenant is moving out. Get the free inspection template.
Learn 9 essential steps to renting out your house for the first time, from prepping your property to finding tenants and managing rent.
Learn how to write a clear and professional lease termination letter and manage end-of-lease processes legally and easily.
As a landlord, you will likely have to raise the rent sometimes. We take a look at how to write a friendly landlord rent increase letter.
10 ways tenants can show proof of income during screening, so you can tell whether an applicant can actually afford the asking rent.
The rent to income ratio is a simple calculation that can help you assess whether a prospective tenant is a good fit for your rental.
Learn where to advertise your property for rent so you can maximize your listing’s exposure, reduce expensive vacancies, and find great tenants fast.
Learn about rental property maximum occupancy laws and how landlords can set safe and legal occupancy limits for 1 and 2-bedroom apartments.
Knowing how to check for evictions is essential if you want to select a tenant who will stay long-term, pay rent on time, and look after your property.
Portable screening reports are tenant-obtained credit and background checks shared with landlords normally valid for 30 days.
The best way to assess a rental applicant is to get a tenant credit report as part of your application and tenant screening process.
We take a look at the six key steps that every landlord needs to know to find the best tenants as quickly as possible.
Evictions are not something everyone wants to avoid. They are costly, take time, and could have long term ramifications for both parties.
Download a free residential rental application form template or leverage Landlord Studio to streamline your applications and tenant selection processes.
The Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) specifies several important laws that landlords need to be familiar with when finding and screening tenants.
Under the FCRA, landlords must send an adverse action notice should they deny a tenant’s application based on information gained from a credit report.
Renting out a room in your house can be a good way to generate income and help cover the mortgage. Learn about regulations, taxes and more.
A tenant screening report provides landlords with essential information on prospective tenants so they can make informed tenant selection decisions.
Rental application fee laws vary by state with some locations limiting the fee amount and dictating how the fee must be applied.
How much should I charge for rent is one of the first questions landlords need to answer in order to operate a cash flow positive business.
Understanding how to calculate vacancy rate and reduce it for your rental properties is vital for operating a professional, profitable rental business.
We take a look at 15 essential questions to ask prospective tenants and what you should be looking for in their answers.
Collecting rental applications is key to tenant selection. Gather essential info like personal details, income, and rental history.
When handling and declining rental applications landlords must follow best practices and applicable laws, such as the Fair Housing Act and FCRA.
TransUnion Smartmove tenant screening helps landlords identify the best tenants for their rentals with accurate credit, criminal, and eviction reports.
We explore some of the best rental property advertising strategies you can use to drive high intent leads and find great tenants fast.
A landlord reference letter is an opportunity for a current landlord to inform the future landlord of any issues with a tenant during their tenancy.
What is a background check for renters and how can landlords use background checks to determine which prospective tenants to select for their rentals?
We take a closer look at each stage of listing a rental property and how you can leverage tools like Landlord Studio to find great tenants faster.
Zillow Rental Manager review (2026): Features, pricing, real user feedback and how it compares to alternatives. Is it worth it for your rental business?
Tenant communication is an essential part of mastering your rental property management. We explore what you need to know to master it.
Listing your rental property on Craigslist can be a great way to increase exposure and collect more tenant leads. Here’s what you need to know.
Master sending a compliant rent increase notice. Learn legal requirements, timing, and get a free template to confidently adjust rent while maintaining tenant trust.
We compare the best rent collection apps and online rent payment systems for landlords - including platform costs, ACH and card fees, and which tools include accounting.
Reduce late rent payments with these 7 proven strategies for landlords, from online rent collection to clear lease terms and automated reminders.
The best ways for landlords to collect rent: compare online platforms, ACH transfers, and traditional methods for secure, on-time payments.
Security deposit insurance is a flexible alternative to traditional security deposits, lowering rental entry costs.
Discover everything landlords need to know about average rent increases per year and how to set competitive rental prices.
Learn how to write a proof of rent payment letter with our step-by-step guide. Download free templates and simplify the process using Landlord Studio.
What counts as a reasonable rent increase in 2026, including market conditions, legal requirements, and tips for managing rent hikes well.
Should you be using Zelle, Venmo, or PayPal to collect rent or a landlord-specific system like Landlord Studio?
There are a number of things a landlord can do to avoid missed or late rent payments, from efficient tenant screening to regular reminders...
There are numerous reasons not to use payment apps for rent collection, and now the IRS is cracking down on them too.
A security deposit return letter should be provided at the end of a tenancy detailing the amount of deposit being returned and itemizing any deductions.
A security deposit receipt serves as proof of payment for the tenant and indicates where the deposit will be held during the lease period.
When and by how much a landlord can raise the rent, plus the full process for writing and serving a formal rent increase letter to tenants.
There are several aspects to consider if you want to benefit from collecting the first and last month’s rent while staying within legal guidelines.
We take a closer look at what exactly rent control is, how rent control works, and its impact on landlords, tenants, and the housing market.
However you collect rent, providing your tenant with a rent receipt is a good business practice, and in some states is a legal requirement.
Collecting back rent must be done properly and in compliance with the renter’s rights. Here’s what you need to know...
A formal process to increase the rent will make the process easier and ensure that everyone involved is on the same page.
The challenge for real estate investors is understanding what counts as operating expenses and what’s not included.
2021
It can be tempting to accept multiple rent payments in advance, however, doing so could land you in trouble later.
An easy-to-use rent collection system for your commercial property will help tenants stay on top of their payments and save you time.
We explore strategies for landlords and real estate investors to increase rental property cash flow and overall profitability
When it comes to the collection of security deposits and first months rent landlord must follow best practices and keep detailed records.
What are the steps landlords can take if the rent is late? And how can you encourage on-time rent with tools like online rent collection?
Should you or shouldn’t you accept partial rent payments? And if you do what’s the best way to handle them so that everyone wins?
We look at the pros and cons of collecting rent online versus more traditional methods like cash or check.
By combining these four points you can dramatically reduce both late rent payments and the time and stress of chasing up missed rent.
2020
We take a look at 3 simple things landlords can do to simplify and improve their rent collection processes to avoid missed rent payments.
The purpose of any software is to help you optimize your processes. Using Zelle for rent collection allows landlords to do just that.
Rents vary greatly from market to market, from one street to the next. Use our free custom rent report and these 6 tips to help get your rent prices right.
Maximize ROI on rental renovations with the right upgrades and proper cost tracking. Discover top renovations that lift property value and rent.
Discover the 30% rule home renovation tip and explore the best ROI home improvements to boost your rental property’s value and tenant appeal.
Good property maintenance management will keep tenants happy and prevent large unexpected maintenance bills. Here’s what landlords need to know...
Well-maintained roofs can reduce energy bills for tenants and make the property more appealing, leading to lower vacancy rates and increased rental income.
Knowing the types of rental property maintenance expenses to expect can help you evaluate potential purchases and budget for future maintenance costs.
Compare the 12 best property maintenance software tools for US landlords, with a transparent methodology, scores, and pricing for each.
This vacation rental inventory checklist provides you with a baseline of the amenities and furnishings you need to provide.
We ask, what are the pros and cons of using a smart lock or rental lock box for your property and how do you choose the best one for you?
Pests in a rental can compromise the structure of the property, and the health of your tenants. Are landlords responsible for pest control?
Providing an itemized list of damages will set a clear expectation for your tenants, should any property damage occur during their stay.
Do you keep your rental property in good shape? In the long run, preventative maintenance can save you time, money and stress. It’s a win-win.
Wear and tear is part and parcel of operating a rental property. It is the minor damage that comes about through normal everyday living.
The best flooring for your rental property is cost-effective, durable, and easy to clean. We outline the pros and cons of common floorings.
We explore the best way to manage and track maintenance expenses to ensure you never miss a deductible expense again.
While maintenance is still a requirement for your properties, carrying out maintenance safely during COVID-19 is a new challenge.
When it comes to property maintenance, there’s always seems to something that needs attention. How can you optimize maintenance management?
2019
We outline 9 renovation ideas to consider when planning your property refurb. Find out how to add value and appeal to your investment property...
Landlords often find themselves with many roles and positions, everything from property management to prospective therapist.
Every property has its own idiosyncrasies, and a rental is no different. Here are 10 maintenance jobs you can do yourself to save yourself $1000s...
We look at the Schedule E form from a real estate investor’s point of view and what the Schedule E categories mean.
Understanding tax on rental income and how to track and report expenses will enable you to reduce your tax bill and increase portfolio profitability.
Learn how the Augusta Rule allows tax-free rental income for up to 14 days per year and how you can use this IRS tax strategy for your home.
Is it possible to pay no taxes on rental income? If so how? Discover actionable real estate tax strategies to defer taxes, minimize liability, and increase ROI.
Real estate professional status for 2026: the IRS 750-hour and more-than-half tests, how to qualify, and the tax benefits and deductions it unlocks.
Lear how to avoid paying capital gains tax on investment property with strategies like 1031 exchanges, tax-loss harvesting, and more.
Should you use cash-on-cash return or cap rate when assessing real estate, and what is a good cap rate for your rental properties?
Some rental property closing costs are immediately deductible, while some must be added to your cost basis and depreciated. Learn more.
Learn how to streamline your real estate tax prep and avoid common tax mistakes and IRS audits with expert tips from CPA Thomas Castelli.
Learn how to calculate depreciation on rental property, including methods like straight-line and accelerated depreciation, to maximize tax benefits.
The key IRS requirements for landlords, the common audit triggers, and how to simplify tax prep with accounting tools.
Cost segregation lets real estate investors accelerate depreciation and cut tax liability in the early years of owning an investment property.
Travel and mileage make up a significant tax deduction for landlords. Keep detailed records using software like Landlord Studio.
1031 exchange rules enable investors to exchange like-kind properties and defer capital gains tax as part of their wealth building strategy.
Learn how to handle an IRS audit with confidence. Follow these 6 essential steps to safeguard your financial standing and navigate the audit process smoothly.
Having access to advanced reports including a rent ledger will allow you to gain deeper insights into your portfolio performance.
What is a profit and loss statement for a rental property, what needs to be included, and how it can be used by real estate investors?
Learn the pros, cons, and tax implications of converting your primary residence to a rental property, plus tips for a smooth transition and maximizing benefits.
With the right real estate tax planning strategies you can significantly reduce your tax liability, improve cash flow, and increase ROI.
What is material participation? What are the material participation tests? And what does it mean to materially participate in real estate?
To help you streamline your tax season we’ve put together this guide outlining the main landlord tax documents you need to know about.
We take a look at rental property cost basis and the role it plays in capital gains tax and depreciation recapture.
Safe harbors are rules implemented by the IRS to allow qualifying entities to simplify their tax filings and save money.
Is rental income deemed active or passive by the IRS and how does this affect how rental income is taxed?
The short-term rental tax loophole lets investors offset earned income with real estate losses to reduce rental income tax. How it works.
A great real estate CPA can help you improve cash flow, minimize tax liabilities, and grow your portfolio.
How you can use TurboTax for your rentals and why so many investors use Landlord Studio and TurboTax together for an easier tax time.
Discover how the IRS knows if you have rental income, the risks of misfiling, and essential property management tools to keep you compliant.
What is real estate professional status, how do you qualify, and how can it help you reduce your rental property taxes?
Learn about Schedule C vs Schedule E and which form you need when declaring your rental property income and expenses at tax time.
Below, we take a look at essential real estate investing tax strategies that investors need to know to mitigate taxes and increase profits.
There are no states without property tax. See the US states with the lowest and highest effective property tax rates for 2026 and what they mean for investors.
What is a T12 in real estate, and how should real estate investors track income and expenses to create an accurate and useful trailing twelve months report?
When it comes to filing your short-term rental tax, your financial records need to be organized and accessible.
Gross yield for real estate is a calculation that lets you easily compare properties with different values and rental returns.
Taxes on a rental property sale can quickly compile. Landlords need to be aware of these taxes and plan accordingly.
With some exceptions, landlords are entitled to deduct operating expenses, including HOA fees and COA fees, from their taxable rental income.
What is pro forma in real estate and how can real estate investors use pro forma calculations to analyze potential deals.
Landlord-tenant laws at federal, state and local levels aim to protect both parties during the rental process.
The Cap Rate and ROI are good starting points when comparing multiple potential investments. How’re they calculated and how’re they different?