30 Days to Be a Better Landlord Challenge
On January 8, 2026 By newsroom Topic: How To
30 Days to Be a Better Landlord
Because fair housing is good business.
| Day | Old Habit | Upgrade | Action Taken | Result |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rent-first thinking | Habitable-first | Reviewed safety checklist | Issues identified |
| 2 | Slow responses | Clear response times | Set 48-hour SLA | Tenant relief |
| 3 | Defensive replies | Calm acknowledgment | Confirmed receipt | Tension reduced |
| 4 | Deferred maintenance | Preventive maintenance | Scheduled inspection | Problems avoided |
| 5 | Unclear rules | Transparent policies | Shared house guide | Fewer disputes |
| 6 | Fee surprises | Upfront disclosure | Itemized charges | Trust built |
| 7 | Minimal communication | Regular updates | Monthly check-in email | Better rapport |
| 8 | Contract rigidity | Reasonable flexibility | Approved minor request | Goodwill |
| 9 | Delay repairs | Prioritize essentials | Fixed plumbing fast | Tenant comfort |
| 10 | Assume tenant fault | Investigate fairly | Inspected before blaming | Fair outcome |
| 11 | Entry without notice | Respect privacy | Provided 24-hr notice | Legal compliance |
| 12 | Minimal cleanliness | Move-in standard | Deep cleaned unit | Better reviews |
| 13 | Deposit anxiety | Clear criteria | Shared deposit rules | Reduced conflict |
| 14 | Price hikes abruptly | Explain increases | Provided justification | Retention |
| 15 | Ignore tenant feedback | Log feedback | Created issue tracker | Patterns found |
| 16 | Vendor delays | Reliable vendors | Pre-vetted contractors | Faster fixes |
| 17 | Minimal documentation | Clear records | Logged all repairs | Protection |
| 18 | Short-term thinking | Long-term value | Invested in upgrades | Property value |
| 19 | Legal edge pushing | Legal compliance | Reviewed local laws | Risk reduced |
| 20 | Impersonal tone | Respectful tone | Used names | Human connection |
| 21 | Assume turnover | Retention mindset | Asked renewal needs | Lease renewed |
| 22 | Delayed refunds | Timely refunds | Returned deposit promptly | Positive closure |
| 23 | Minimal accessibility | Reasonable accommodation | Approved adjustment | Inclusive housing |
| 24 | Tenant blame | Shared responsibility | Split fix costs fairly | Trust restored |
| 25 | Reactive management | Proactive planning | Annual maintenance plan | Stability |
| 26 | Opaque billing | Clear statements | Provided breakdown | Transparency |
| 27 | Minimal upgrades | Quality improvements | Upgraded fixtures | Satisfaction |
| 28 | Conflict escalation | Early mediation | Resolved issue quickly | No dispute |
| 29 | Rent-only success | Tenant stability | Measured retention | Predictable income |
| 30 | Property owner mindset | Housing steward | Maintained fair, safe home | Long-term trust |
