by Barker Realty, Inc. | Mar 5, 2019 | Local Property Management, Property Management Company, Raleigh Investment Property, Raleigh Property Management
When you are searching for a Raleigh NC property management company to take care of your investment property, here are a few essential qualities to look for.
Responsiveness
If a major issue arises in your investment property, such as a water main break or serious storm damage, you will want a company that is available 24/7 and able to communicate in a quick and timely manner. Look for a property management company that always gets back to you promptly.
Experience
When you are researching your property management options, be sure to inquire as to the number of clients the company has served and how many years it has been in business. A property management company that has experience managing multiple, diverse properties over a long period of time will be much more capable than a company which has only managed one or two.
Accounting Services
One of the best advantages of hiring an investment property management company is that it can manage rental fees, contractor payments, and miscellaneous financial elements for you. For this reason, when you meet with a potential company, be sure to inquire as to the financial or accounting services it offers.
Partner with a Raleigh NC Property Management Company Today
Barker Realty, Inc. is a full-service real estate brokerage firm with more than thirty years of experience in Raleigh NC property management. Whether you are interested in buying, selling, or investing, let us put our vast resources behind you and your real estate goals. To set up an appointment with one of our skilled property managers, click here.
by Barker Realty, Inc. | Feb 19, 2019 | Property Management Blog, Property Selection, Raleigh Investment Property, Raleigh Property Management
Raleigh is a booming city with a lot to offer. Its abundant attractions, high-quality school systems, and convenient central location earned it a #3 spot on WalletHub’s list of 2019’s Best State Capitals to Live In this year–the latest in a long list of accolades. WalletHub compared 54 key indicators of affordability, economic well-being, quality of education and health, and quality of life to reach its conclusion. Read on to learn why Raleigh is the perfect place to grow a career or raise a family.
Raleigh’s thriving economy
Raleigh’s economy is diverse and growing. It’s home to major employers like Duke University and Health System, Wake County Public Schools, and Duke Energy Progress. A major hub of science, research, and technology, Raleigh has no shortage of business opportunities. The city’s favorable tax laws make it easy to start a new business.
Raleigh real estate: affordable luxury
Raleigh real estate has been significantly increasing in value over the past few years. Since 2011, the average price of a home in Raleigh has doubled. However, Raleigh real estate is still more affordable than housing in the vast majority of US cities. The thriving real estate market is one of the reasons why so many people are investing in the city.
Top Raleigh schools
Raleigh is home to over 11 colleges and universities, including North Carolina State University, a major research center. Raleigh’s public school system has been nationally recognized for its diversity and innovation, and there are many excellent private schools, charter schools, and early college schools to choose from.
Recreation & activities
Anyone who enjoys being outside will love Raleigh’s mild weather and an abundance of recreational opportunities. Residents can bike, stroll, jog or play ball at many parks and community centers, or hike the mountains close to the area. As for indoor activities, there are countless museums, restaurants, theatres, and historic buildings to explore.
Invest in Raleigh real estate today
With so much to see and do, it’s easy to see why Raleigh was named one of the top places to live. If you’re interested in investing in Raleigh real estate, be sure to call the team at Barker Realty, and one of our associates will be happy to assist you!
by Barker Realty, Inc. | Jan 19, 2019 | Property Management Blog, Raleigh Property Management, Tenant Management, Tips for Landlords
Even if your rental property doesn’t allow pets, service animals are not considered pets, and therefore do not fall under any lease’s jurisdictions. But since service animals aren’t legally required to wear identification vests, upholding and enforcing accommodation laws can be a bit tricky. Here’s what you need to know when it comes to having service and companion animals on your property.
What is a disability? What is a service dog?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) classifies a “disability” as a condition in which a physical or mental impairment affects the quality of an individual’s life. According to the ADA, a service animal is a dog (not any other animal) that is trained to perform tasks for a disabled person. Importantly, the dog must be trained to take a specific action to assist its owner; for example, alerting a diabetic that his or her blood sugar levels are too low. People with disabilities have the right to train their animal themselves and are not required to use a professional service dog training program.
Service dog or emotional support animal?
The key to identifying a service animal is noting whether or not it takes any specific actions to help its handler. If a dog has been trained to sense an anxiety attack and takes a specific action to help its handler avoid or lessen its impact, that would qualify it as a service animal. However, if the dog provides comfort due to its mere presence, it is considered a therapy or emotional support animal and is not protected by the ADA.
Rules and regulations for service dogs
Again, a service dog is not required to wear an identifying vest. However, it is required to have a harness or leash. If the handler is physically unable to hold a tether, or if a tether would interfere with the animal’s tasks, the animal must be under the handler’s control through voice commands or hand signals.
More landlord questions? Call Barker Realty
When complying with state and federal regulations regarding service animals, landlords have the right to ask questions and enforce their “no pet” policies. Hopefully, these tips will help you be fully ADA compliant. If you have other property management questions, contact Barker Realty or our sister company, Barker Property Maintenance.