On Sun, 29 Apr 2012 06:49:41 -0400, "dadiOH"
wrote:

The log house which my wife wound up with after her mother died - and into
which we have been pouring money, lo, these many months - is now ready to
sell or rent. Given the market, it is most likely to be rented. I have
only rented two unfurnished apartments in my life and that was years ago.

The first was totally bare...no stove, no fridge, no drapes, no nothing.

The second had drapes - rather nice ones - and a stove but no fridge.

Having no experience as either a renter or landlord, I would appreciate
knowing what you would expect if you were looking to rent an unfurnished
house.

Drapes?
Stove?
Microwave?
Dishwasher?
Fridge?
Washer & dryer?
Washer and dryer hookups only?
Anything else?

I'd also appreciate knowing if you would expect to do any of these yourself.
Change air filters? Buy them?
Maintain salt level in water softener? Buy the salt?
Cut the grass?
What other maintenance or repair?

Thanks for your time


I manage my own and have managed for others, single family homes for
over 25 years while being a license real estate broker. I used to
work with clients (buy, sell, manage, etc... ) but now only for
myself. I could answer these questions but won't because unless it's
around Houston, Tx., the answers could be different. You really need
to see what the competition is doing in your area so you can be
competitive. I'd suggest to talk to at least 2 Realtors locally and
ask them these questions and let them show you on paper the
competition to see what they provide as well as the pricing. I might
also suggest to list with a Realtor because they can do a lot of work
for you, answer your follow up questions and provide the lease as
well. Our lease over the years has gotten so long that it's now15
pages. It's quite comprehensive of course. Of course it's only a
piece of paper if you know what I mean. Oh some Realtors can manage
your property if you don't feel comfortable doing it but be careful.
You really only want experienced managers. Also check what the
licensing requirements for others to manage your property are, if you
go that route. I could tell you stories about managing property for
others but I don't know if it would help you. Besides if you don't
go this route, I'm wasting your time.