Western Montana Chapter
National Association of Residential Property Managers Supporting professional and ethical practices of rental home management through networking, education and certification.
Members: At Your Service Property Management Addie Brown-Testa Bitterroot Property Management Nina Sverdsten Cardinal Properties, Inc. Barbara Liss Fidelity Management Services Geoffrey Bayliss Five Star Rentals & Property Management Jill Zignego Garden City Property Management Lisa Gohrick Richard Wilcomb Gatewest Management Mandy Muller Grizzly Property Management Jodi Corette Annie Kremin Dan Williams Indigo Real Estate Services Stacy Parker King Property Management Rebecca King Martin's Property Management JoAnne Martin Victoria Martin
Plum Property Management Jennifer S. Plum Professional Property Management Tom Chapman Robin Poire Louise Rock Amy Getz Dyana Finnegan Prudential Missoula Properties Devan Struppler Real Estate Management Group Michelle McLinden Bruno Friia Marsha Friia Karli Friia Brittni Friia Rocky Mountain Property Management Tara Harbin Summit Property Management Aaron Gingerelli Chira Gingerelli-Hegg Mary Hurd Wahlberg Property Management Courtney Wahlberg Honorary Members Casey Richardson Rob Scheben Jamie Merrifield
Missoula Property Management Sherrie Featherly Lantha Rienhart Kari Neumiller Toni Morgan Kristy Virga
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Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
Affiliates:
Lawns of Montana
Always Preferred Restoration & Janitorial
Lolo Glass
ASUM Off-Campus Renter Center
Missoula Housing Authority
Collection Bureau Services
Missoula Independent
Council Grove Apartments
Lawns of Montana
Loren’s Carpet One
Missoulian
Dayspring Restoration
Nature’s best
Everclean Carpet Care & Restoration
Orr Law Offices
First Security Bank
Temp Right Service
HomeWORD
The Help Zone
Servpro of Missoula
Karl Pare
Chapter Officers: Michelle McLinden - President Karli Friia - President-Elect Aaron Gingerelli - Past President Kari Neumiller - Treasurer Jennifer Plum - Secretary Lisa Gohrick - Education Chair Sherrie Featherly - Chapter Webmaster Lantha Rienhart - Board Member
• NARPM® promotes a high standard of business ethics, professionalism and fair housing practice. • NARPM® members know that education and communication raise the level of our profession, so that we may better represent our clients. • NARPM® is here to represent the interest of property managers. • NARPM® wants professionals like you! For membership information contact any NARPM® member.
For more information: w w w. n a r p m m t . c o m
Parade of Apartments A Renter’s Resource Guide Table of Contents Roommates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Average rental rates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Pet friendly? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Simple ways to improve your credit . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Affordable housing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Signing on the dotted line . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 Movin’ in . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Movin’ out . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 The grass is greener . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Resource listings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
WE OFFER THE LARGEST AND BEST SELECTION OF RENTAL PROPERTIES Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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Roommates:
Reach an agreement before moving in By Beki Hartmann Off-Campus Renter Center In the cult classic Harold and Maude, the young Harold tells his 79-year-old love Maude “You sure have a way with people.” Maude replies, “Well, they are my species!” As much as we would love to believe in Maude’s assertion that it is possible to get along with humans simply because we are of the same species, it just doesn’t always work so easily – especially while sharing living quarters. Plenty of epic roommate stories are heard in the Renter Center, an ASUM agency providing resources to UM student renters. Some of these tales go far beyond the standard roommate annoyances of dirty dishes and hair in the sink. One of the worst problems students encounter with troublesome roommates is non-payment of rent, which could be mitigated or totally avoided with a written roommate agreement. The signed agreement can provide protection for you and your roommate(s). Before renting with roommates, check out some of the following questions received from students: “My landlord is pursuing me for the entire month’s rent, even though I signed a lease with two roommates who aren’t paying their share. Can she do that?” Unfortunately, we’ve seen many of these situations and you can be held responsible because you signed a lease with other people agreeing to pay the entire month’s rent. Leases usually don’t stipulate how much each person is required to pay. The best thing to do when getting into a lease with roommates is to draft a separate document stating how much everyone is responsible for paying. Then have everyone sign it. “My roommate was never put on my lease and now won’t pay rent. Can I make him pay?” 4
Short of taking him to Justice Court, there probably isn’t much you can do. The problem in this situation, again, is there is no signed document stating the roommate will pay rent. The Montana Tenant/
else to replace him; can he do that?” Yes, but he shouldn’t if he is concerned about his karma! As stated in a previous answer, everyone is responsible for paying rent but that doesn’t mean
What to include in a roommate agreement By Bruno Friia Real Estate Management Group When moving in with a roommate it is recommended that a written agreement be executed. This document should reflect the names of all roommates, the general terms of the lease, and should cover the following issues: 1. Each party acknowledges agreement to the terms of the lease 2. Division of responsibility for expenses such as utilities, long distance phone charges, repairs or improvements to the property
Landlord Act sees verbal agreements as good as written agreements but the problem is proving the verbal agreement. “My roommate moved out before our lease was over without helping us find anyone
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
3. Division of security deposit 4. Options for when a roommate wishes to move 5. Pet owner’s responsibilities 6. Overnight guests 7. Miscellaneous concerns which could cause discord down the road In many ways the roommate relationship is not unlike the relationship between landlord and tenant. When there are clear guidelines and mutual respect for property and privacy rights, the end result is harmony. If you’d like to see a sample roommate agreement, contact me at the Lambros office.
that everyone has to pay equal shares, or even any, of the rent. If one of your roommates wants to move out, talk about it as a house and work together to find someone to replace him/her. If someone decides to
be a jerk and leave you hanging for rent, it may be difficult to get the money. Take the initiative and place an ad, and also check the UC Housing Board and the Off-Campus Renter Center’s online housing finder (coming summer 2010). When you come home to find the dishes still not done, the bathroom sink littered with beard remnants and your place reeking of stale beer, learn from the experience rather than giving up on the affordable – and sometimes quite enjoyable – option of sharing your space. Just be more careful in choosing your next roommate! You’ll find a model roommate agreement, in addition to other useful information regarding renting on the Renter Center’s website: www. umt.edu/asum/rentercenter. UM students who have questions regarding roommate agreements or other renting issues, are encouraged to contact the OffCampus Renter Center. Disclaimer: The Off-Campus Renter Center does not employ attorneys and the information given here is intended for educational purposes only. If you are a student, please consult ASUM Legal Services for legal advice. If you’re not a student, contact your attorney.
Average rental rates By Sherrie Featherly Missoula Property Management With 85,000 residents, a vibrant arts community, a strong business base, a superb educational system and the best of outdoor recreation at our doorstep, the “Garden City” is undeniably a great place to live. The price we pay for all those amenities is that our overall cost of living and housing costs are slightly higher
than the national average. It should be noted, however, that residents do get a break on some expenses: for example, the cost of utilities is 20% below the national average. Before you start your search for rental housing in the Garden City, it’s important to calculate what your costs will be. The following average rental rates charts should provide you with a good first step in making those calculations.
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Pet friendly?
By Lisa Gohrick Garden City Property Management So, you have a pet or want to get one. While the Missoula community is regarded as pretty “pet friendly,” not every rental unit allows pets and it will take some extra effort to accommodate this member of your family. Following are some tips on finding a home in Missoula for you and your pet: Be upfront about your animals. Most management companies have places available and appropriate for pets, but not every unit will allow animals. Some units will accept pets, others just cats or only dogs. Talk to the agent about your needs and they will work with you to find a place that is appropriate. Don’t think that you can rent a “no pet” property and sneak your feline or canine companion in; your landlord will find out about the pet. If you are caught with an unauthorized animal, Montana State Law section 72-24-422 (1)(b) states that the landlord shall issue the tenant a three-day notice to remove the animal. Section 72-24-422 (1)(e) states that if the same violation (unauthorized animal) occurs within six months, the landlord may terminate the rental agreement with five days notice. An
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Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
important note: if you are evicted for an unauthorized pet, you are not relieved of your responsibilities under the lease agreement. You are still responsible for rent and utilities until the unit is re-rented or until your lease agreement expires, whichever comes first. It is in your best interest to find housing where your pet is allowed rather than sneaking them in and getting caught! Have your records near. Some landlords will require copies of your dog license and vaccination records; some will not. Almost every landlord will want to know the breed of the animal, its age and if he or she is neutered or spayed. Some insurance companies do not allow landlords to rent to certain breeds of dogs because of the liability risk associated with the breed. Check with your landlord before renting a place or getting a dog to make sure the pet you are considering is one that is accepted. Be prepared to pay an additional deposit and possibly “pet rent.” Many landlords will require an additional deposit to cover any potential damage caused by your pet. This amount will vary, as there is no rule as to how much may be charged. Remember, this Continued on page 16
Simple ways to improve your credit By Jennifer R. Betz homeWORD Inc. Ever wonder why your credit report matters? Banks have always used credit scores to approve home and car loans. But did you know that poor credit can prevent you from getting a phone, a job, or even an apartment? Good credit says you are more likely to pay bills on time and act responsibly. Bad credit implies just the opposite. The following five tips are from the Federal Reserve on how to improve your credit score: 1. Get copies of your credit report and then make sure the information is correct. Go to www.annualcreditreport.com. This is the only authorized online source for a free credit report. Under federal law, you can get a free report from each of the three national credit reporting companies every twelve months. You can also call 877-3228228 or complete the Annual Credit Report Request Form at www.ftc.gov/bcp/edu/resour ces/forms/requestformfinal. pdf, and mail it in to the address provided. 2. Pay your bills on time. Delinquent payments and collections can have a very negative impact on your credit score. If you have missed payments, get current and stay current. The longer your history of paying bills in a timely manner, the better your credit score. 3. Understand how your credit score is determined. Your credit score is usually based on the answers to these questions: • Do you pay your bills on time? The answer to this question is very important. If you have paid bills late, have had an account referred to a collection agency, or have ever declared bankruptcy, this his-
tory will show up in your credit report. • What is your outstanding debt? Many scoring models compare the amount of debt you have and your credit limits. If the amount you owe is close to your credit limit, it is likely to have a negative effect on your score. • How long is your credit history? A short credit history may have a negative effect on your score, but a short history can be offset by other factors, such as timely payments and low balances. • Have you applied for new credit recently? If you have applied for too many new accounts recently, that may negatively affect your score. However, if you request a copy of your own credit report, or if creditors are monitoring your account or looking at credit reports to make prescreened credit offers, these inquiries about your credit history are not counted as applications for credit. • How many and what types of credit accounts do you have? Many credit-scoring models consider the number and type of credit accounts you have. A mix of installment loans and credit cards may improve your score. However, too many finance company accounts or credit cards might hurt your score. 4. Beware of credit-repair scams. Scammers often provide very little detail on what exactly you are paying for and will use hard-sell tactics to get you to say yes. If they can’t clearly explain the plan for repairing your credit, that’s a red flag. Any offer of guaranteed credit or a quick-fix is usually fraudulent. You can repair your credit for free yourself. There is no magic cure and it does take time and dedication.
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Continued on page 16 Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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Affordable housing A glimmer of hope in hard times By Jim McGrath Missoula Housing Authority Times are tough. Try as they might, many Missoulians struggle to get by, and the housing piece can be the hardest to fit into the puzzle. If your household makes less than $20,000, or even $30,000 per year, you may qualify for some housing assistance. Missoula Housing Authority and others in Missoula do provide housing and programs to help. But accessing them can be daunting. Following is a brief overview of affordable housing in Missoula.
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you're over your head, or about to be put out in the street, unless you can't avoid it. While there are some programs that provide short-term limited assistance, permanent afford-
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Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
able housing programs have wait times of many months to several years. So you might as well sign up now. MHA has walk-in orientations three days a week, Tu e s d a y s a t 5 : 1 5 a n d Wednesdays at noon at MHA's office 1235 34th Street and Mondays at noon at the Palace Apartments downtown at 149 W. Broadway. Also, “First Call for Help” or 2-1-1 is a general referral number operated by the Human Resource Council, at 1801 S. Higgins. There are also a number of individual apartment complexes that you can sign up at depending on your need, such as Council Groves, Creekside, or Glengarra Place. MHA can provide a complete list. 2. Low-rent versus assisted. Publicly funded affordable housing falls into two basic categories: subsidized, or assisted; and rent-restricted, or affordable. In subsidized programs, the household pays what they can afford – usually 30% of their income at a given time – and the rest of the housing cost is subsidized by the government, such as through housing assistance payments to your landlord. So if you make $1000 per month, you pay $300. Hard to find a unit at that price in Missoula.
Rent-restricted housing is what it sounds like: the owner cannot charge more than an amount set by the state, because the developer received tax credits to build or rehab the units and preserve them for low-income renters. The key difference is that in rent-restricted housing you must pay the full amount of the rent, regardless of your actual income at a given time. If your rent is $450 but you lose your job, your rent is still $450. MHA operates about 900 subsidies, and the Human Resource council also has vouchers; in addition, Sentinel Vi l l a g e , G r a n d v i e w a n d Council Groves operate projects, and Silvercrest and Glengarra Place provide subsidized senior housing. MHA owns and manages approximately 300 units of affordable housing, and a number of other complexes are in town, including Wildflower, Creekside, Union Place, River Ridge and Burlington Square. 3. The paper chase. Any of these programs require documentation of your household. The information asked includes age, Social Security numbers, proper identification, and income and assets. So be prepared. They also have rules and regulations to follow. 4. But I need help NOW! If you do need emergency assistance, First Call For Help can make referrals to emergency housing providers. Depending on the time of year, your circumstances and other factors, you may be eligible for modest short-term assistance. Affordable housing for all Missoulians remains an elusive goal, but MHA and other community organizations are working to reach that goal.
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Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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Signing on the dotted line
By Karli Friia Real Estate Management Group A lease/rental agreement is a legally binding agreement prepared for the lessee (tenant) and lessor (landlord) when renting a property. The lease agreement outlines the responsibilities and obligations for all parties involved, and it is important that you enter this legal agreement with an understanding of what those obligations are. The following tips should help you get better acquainted with the process. TIP #1 Ask for a sample copy of the contract before submitting a security deposit. “If I would have known about this section of the lease agreement, I would not have rented the property.” It is always wise to be prepared. Most rental companies will have a sample copy available for your review. Obtaining a copy of the agreement in advance will allow you enough time to thoroughly read the lease and make note of questions you may want to ask your property manager during the lease signing. Oftentimes a lease agreement will be written by an attorney, thus containing legal jargon you may not understand. Make certain to highlight sections of the lease that are 10
ambiguous or confusing. Although your property manager cannot legally interpret the lease; they may be able to help clarify. On the flip side, you may also find that by reading the sample lease you are not prepared to commit. TIP #2 Read the final lease agreement carefully. “Why should I be responsible for late payment? I thought rent was due on the 10th of the month.” The sample lease will help you understand the bulk of the lease. However, the final lease will be customized with details that apply specifically to your rental property. Do not abstain from reading the final contract just because you have reviewed the sample lease. Failure to read the final contract may result in a misconception down the road. Your final lease will provide details that include, but are not limited to, your responsibilities for utilities, the length of lease term, special conditions, outstanding payments, etc. Be certain you understand and are prepared to commit to the lease you are signing. TIP #3 Consider the important elements of a lease agreement. “How do you expect me to read a lease agreement with 20
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
pages?” Lease Term or Length of Contract – Length of time you have committed to live at the property. Rent Payment – Be aware of rent due-date, the repercussions of paying late, and how to remedy those circumstances. Payments – Review the itemized list of financial requirements (e.g., security deposit, prorated rent, pet rent, pet deposit, rent owing for the term, rent per month, unpaid balance). Statement of Condition – You will agree to accept the property in its current condition. Be certain to obtain a Property Condition Report with your lease agreement. It is important to be detailed when completing the condition report. If you must attach a few photos to document significant damage, please do so. This report will be your sole protection during your move-out. If you want to receive your full security deposit back, be thorough! Any damage or cleaning in question should be documented. Utilities – Recognize the utilities you are responsible for paying. Furnish a New Address When Departing – If you want your security deposit returned in a timely fashion, provide a forwarding address with your written 30-day (or other
required) notice to vacate. Tenant Rules and Regulations/Termination – Recognize the terms for non-compliance to avoid lease violations or eviction. Joint and Several Liability – Recognize that each tenant is equally liable for rent payment and all other provisions of the rental agreement. TIP #4 Make certain you receive a copy of the signed lease agreement and keep it for your records. Oftentimes when a landlord mails a lease violation, the landlord will include a section pertaining to the breach of contract from lease agreement. With an accessible copy of your rental agreement, you may refer to a specific section of your contract for clarification. TIP #5 Adhere to the contract you have signed. For the best rental experience, adhere to all lease terms and regulations. Remember to maintain all areas of the property in good condition. The property you are renting may be a temporary home for you, but it is another person’s home and/or investment. If you act in accordance with the lease agreement, you should be awarded your entire security deposit after you move out.
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www.missoulaapartments.biz (406)327-1212 Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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Movin’ in By Michelle McLinden Real Estate Management Group You signed the rental agreement and you’re ready to move into your new home. What’s the next step? First, you need to inspect the unit and agree to the overall condition prior to moving in. In addition, there will be some administrative work you will need to handle, so read on!
The Walk-Through Inspection Your rental agreement should contain a provision for inspection of your new rental unit prior to moving in and again when moving out. You and your landlord should inspect the unit and agree on its condition. Most management companies will inspect the unit and provide you with a checklist that may be referenced as a Property Condition Report. They should allow time for you to inspect the unit and note your concerns. The checklist/report is to be filled out and signed by you and the 12
landlord. If a Property Condition Report is not provided, you should research a sample checklist. Also, you should consider taking photos or videotaping the walkthrough for future reference. It is best to use a device that displays the date on the picture. If you have proof of prior damage, the landlord cannot hold you responsible for those damages. The checklist/condition report will itemize various items in your unit by room, such as windows, counter surfaces, floors, walls, light fixtures and so on. With each item you will note the condition at the time of your move-in. The same checklist will be used when you move out, and the condition will again be noted. After the move-in inspection is completed and you and your landlord sign the checklist, be sure to get a copy for your files. You should pay special attention to the following: • Number and location of nail
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
holes in each wall • Number and description of any stains, rips and worn places in carpets, curtains, furniture, etc. • Scratches, dents, stains, or similar marks on floors, walls, appliances, etc. (Describe each mark. For example, note 6” scratch on lower left side of refrigerator) • Cracks in plaster, chips in sink • Dirt behind washer, dryer, stove, refrigerator, toilet, etc. • Grease build-up on stove vent hood and inside the oven • The presence or absence of operable smoke and carbon monoxide detectors (test the detectors) • Missing light bulbs, ice cube trays, curtains and curtain rods, screens, broiler pans, etc. Most management companies allow a certain timeframe to complete the Property Condition Report and return it. Be sure you are clear on your deadline, as failure to meet it could result in denial of your completed report
and the landlord will then be compelled to refer back to their own report.
The To-Do list There are a number of administrative things you must do prior to – or at the time of – move-in. Check with your landlord to determine your responsibilities as they relate to your lease. Your list will likely include, among other things: • Contact various utility companies and have service put in your name (e.g., electric/gas, garbage, sewer, water, cable/internet.) • Purchase a renter’s insurance policy. (If your landlord requires you to have renters’ insurance, each tenant occupying must have their own policy to cover their personal belongings.) • Notify creditors, friends, and family of your new address and phone number. • Initiate newspaper service, if desired. Continued on page 16
Movin’ out By Lantha Rienhart Missoula Property Management Your lease is ending and you’ve given your landlord notice that you’ll be vacating. What can you expect now? It’s important to understand that the property manager’s main objective is to determine if there are any damages to the rental and if the residence is being returned to them in the same condition as received at move-in. Different management companies and l a n d l o rd s h a v e d i ff e re n t requirements at move-out, so it’s a good idea to contact your landlord and get a list of what’s required in your situation. The manager will perform a move-out inspection to ascertain if additional cleaning is required. They will also determine if there are damages beyond reasonable wear and tear. Damages are considered to be things that are a result of defacing or destroying property in a neglectful or careless manner. Normal wear and tear is considered to be deterioration of the premises in relation to the age of the property, and whether or not the wear is as a result of the intended use of the residence. In order to deter-
mine cleaning or damage charges, the property condition report that was provided to the resident upon move-in will be used as reference while doing the move-out inspection. As mentioned in an earlier article, every resident should ensure that the condition report was completed and that all items of concern are noted accordingly. If a resident does not pass their inspection, the manager will give them 24 hours to perform the necessary cleaning. If the resident doesn’t have the cleaning done, the manager will arrange to have the cleaning and repairs completed and these charges will be deducted from the security deposit. Within 30 days of the moveout inspection, the manager will provide the resident a statement of deductions for any outstanding rent, cleaning, or damage charges that were deducted from the security deposit. This statement will be sent to the last known address if the resident does not provide a new address to manager. Ultimately, you can expect that the move-out process will go more smoothly if you’re communicating thoroughly and promptly.
MHA Management manages 10 properties throughout Missoula. All properties are part of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program. This means the State sets affordable rents on the units and tenants must income qualify. These apartments do not come with rental assistance/ subsidy. Tenants pay flat rent each month regardless of income. Section 8 welcome. Find out if you are eligible today! Call Missoula Housing Authority or stop by and pick up an application.
• Green building technology including solar panels, low VOC paint, recycled building materials, water and energy saving features • Handicap accessibility • Close to shopping and transportation • Community centers and gardens in select properties • Washer/dryer hookups in select properties • Affordable rates
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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The grass is greener By Noreen Humes Nature's Best, Inc. Keeping up with your lawn maintenance can sometimes feel overwhelming. Most people have questions about when and how much to water their lawn, and how to keep it looking healthy. The following tips from Nature’s Best should get you well on your way to maintaining a thick and beautiful green lawn. Add good organic matter. There are many benefits from using a quality fertilizer on your lawn, and there are traditional and organic options to supplement the nutrients lost – such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, and types of composted materials and manures. A five-application fertilizer program prevents disease and increases winter hardiness by replacing nutrients lost over time. The best program you can implement utilizes soil nutrients and provides impor14
Aerate the soil. Soil compaction is one of the major causes of unattractive and problematic lawns. Aeration helps control thatch, improves the soil structure, helps create growth pockets for new roots, and opens the way for water and nutrients to reach the root zone of your lawn. Annual or semiannual aeration is advised for all lawns. In addition, to keep your lawn weed and dandelion-free, over-seeding (spreading new grass seed on top of your lawn) after aerating will help to create a beautiful lawn from the ground up.
look less healthy. A weak lawn cannot hold up very well against the seasonal elements and actually can assist those pesky dandelions or crabgrass to take over. Instead, water less frequently but for longer periods of time to help stimulate longer root growth. Watering every other day or every third day, depending upon the summer heat, and watering for 45 – 60 minutes is preferred for most grass species. The best and most efficient time to water your lawn is later in the evening after the sun has set or early in the morning while it is still cool. This will eliminate up to 60% of water evaporation that can occur and allows the water to reach the grass roots. These recommended watering times also conserve water.
Water Appropriately. The key here is to keep it simple. Watering too frequently – e.g., every day for 20 minutes – can actually encourage short root growth, causing your lawn to be less hardy and
Mow Regularly. If you’re responsible for maintaining a lawn, keeping up with the mowing and trimming is a task that must be continued throughout our short growing season. If you
tant trace elements necessary for growth and development, stimulation of soil microorganisms, and resistance to both disease and insects.
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
let it grow too long, it becomes a real headache and isn’t healthy for the lawn. It is recommended to mow and trim once a week in the spring and summer months, while you can – depending on your lawn – cut back to mowing every other week once we get into early September. When in Doubt, Seek a Professional. If these lawn maintenance tips seem overwhelming or you just don’t have time to keep up with it, consider hiring a lawn maintenance company to help you keep up with your responsibilities. A good lawn maintenance company will get back to you promptly, offer you a free estimate and talk with you about your preferences and choices for natural lawn care – especially if you have pets or children to consider. For more information about tips on YOUR Landscape Care SOLUTION, please visit www.naturesbestinc.com and let us know how we can help.
Helping YOU with all your rental needs. Call Vickie today @ 544-0799 Visit
www.ClarkForkRealty.com for more information 512 E Broadway 406-728-2621
Check out our alwaysin-demand rentals.
Expect the best.
www.rentinmissoula.com 2809 Great Northern Loop • 251-8500 Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
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Pets, continued from page 6 additional deposit is still considered a security deposit and is refundable as long as the unit is returned clean and undamaged, and no money is owed to the landlord. Some landlords charge additional rent each month for the pet being at the property. (Is Fifi’s company worth an additional $600 per year in rent? Ask yourself this question before getting a new pet.) Pet damage can be costly. If your roommate decides to get a dog and you look the other way, it could cost you money in the end. Most rental agreements are “joint and several.” This means you are just as responsible for any damage done by the pet as your roommate is. Here is an example: Joe decided to get an unauthorized dog and his roommates said nothing. The cute little
puppy used the entire main floor of the house as his own personal bathroom; again the roommates did nothing. When Joe and the gang vacated, the urine damage was so extensive that the carpet had to be replaced at a cost of $2,500. Not only did Joe have to pay for this, but his roommates were on the hook as well. Don’t let your roommate’s unauthorized pet cost you hundreds of dollars! There are many units out there for you and your animal, so take the time to find a place where your pet is welcome. This will help ensure your dog is in a place where she has a yard to stretch her legs and is not locked up in an apartment all day urinating on the carpet. After all, a happy pet = a happy pet owner!
Credit, continued from page 7 5. If you are having trouble making ends meet and want advice on repairing your credit, contact your creditors and see a legitimate credit counselor. This won't improve your credit score instantly, but if you start to manage your credit and pay in a timely manner, your score will get better over time.
If you are interested in learning more about getting financially fit, contact homeWORD to find out when the next Financial Fitness Class is being offered. Course topics are presented by a variety of financial professionals from the Missoula community. Refreshments and free childcare are also provided. Call 406-5324 6 6 3 o r v i s i t w w w. h o m e word.org.
Moving, continued from page 12 • Check to see that your name is placed on your mail box, if required. • Fill out a change of address at the post office. • Introduce yourself to your neighbors. (Introducing yourself and keeping an open line of communication with your neighbors can go a long way in avoiding unwanted disagreements in the future.) Remember, your security deposit is held to cover any damages and/or cleaning not noted on your checklist/condition report. Be sure to thoroughly complete the report when you move in. The more accurate you are in relaying the 16
Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
condition, the better your chances are of receiving the majority or all of your deposit back. If there is additional cleaning necessary at the time of your inspection, be sure to mark it on your checklist/condition report so you are not charged for cleaning at moveout. However, you must remember you will need to clean all areas of the unit since you did occupy the unit for some time and may have added to the problem. Just be sure to mark what areas are not clean so you can remind your landlord that the area was not clean upon move-in.
QUICK REFERENCE GUIDE Apartment Complexes
Property PROPERTY Managers MANAGERS
Copper Run at Reserve 2200 Great Northern Ave. (888) 696-4532 www.copperrunapts.com Studio, One and Two Bedroom Apartment Homes • On-site management and maintenance team • Outdoor heated pool and spa • 12-person movie theater • Business center • Fitness center • Pet friendly Open 7 days a week Monday - Saturday 9am to 6pm, Sunday 10am to 4pm. Come in for a tour today! Welcome home!
Garden City Property Management 422 Madison, Missoula (406) 549-6106 • www.gcpm-mt.com Garden City Property Management is proud to have served Missoula for over 30 years. We are committed to providing a high standard of service for our property owners and tenants. Visit our website or stop by our office for a list of of available rentals. We're open Monday-Friday 8:30am-5:30pm, Friday 8:30am-5pm and Saturday 9am-1pm. Thank you, Missoula, for voting us the #1 property management company for the past two years!
Council Groves Apartments 1904 S 3rd W, Missoula 542-2922 Low-Income Multi-Family Housing. We are continuing to take applications for 1, 2, 3 & 4 bedroom apartments for placement on a waiting list. Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-Noon or afternoon by appt. TDD/TTY:711. Boys & Girls Club offers an afterschool program. Neighborhood Network computer lab is currently open Sunday through Thursday from 6 pm to 9 pm. Crestview Apartments 4200 Expressway, Missoula 327-1212 www.missoulaapartments.biz Vacation living that you can call home! Each Crestview unit is beautifully designed and equipped with range, microwave, dishwasher, washer and dryer. Just outside your door you can enjoy the heated pool, hot tub and exercise facility or stroll along the pond. Call us about our leasing specials. homeWORD 127 N. Higgins, Suite 307 Missoula, MT 532-HOME www.homeWORD.org homeWORD offers affordable apartments for rent in five sustainably-built housing developments in Missoula. Must meet income restrictions. Contact MHA Management at 549-4113 for vacancy information. Mountain Wood Estates 1101 Greenough Dr. W Missoula • 880-0947 Missoula's Premier Hillside Luxury Condos & Apartments, Unfurnished for short or long term stays and furnished for extended stays – vacationers or corporate needs. The ultimate location near Downtown & t h e U n i v e r s i t y, y e t s u r r o u n d e d b y 100 acres of hillside trails & nearby Greenough Park with a river that runs thru it. No pets. 8am to 4pm 880-0947. River Rock Apartments 4200 Expressway, Missoula 327-1212 www.missoulaapartments.biz Looking for an apartment value? River Rock units feature a practical and efficient design with the features you desire. Each unit is equipped with a washer and dryer, dishwasher, range and refrigerator and includes covered parking and storage. Call us about our leasing specials.
Grizzly Property Management 542-2060 • www.grizzlypm.com Grizzly Property Management is a local Missoula company dedicated to outstanding service for landlords and tenants since 1995. With superior rentals and competitive rents, we offer a wide selection aimed to please. Grizzly Property Management: where landlords and tenants call home. King Property Management P O Box 565 Lolo, MT 59847 406.241.0095 • www.KingPM.com We specialize in nice single-family homes for rent in Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley. We limit the number of homes we manage so that we can give each property individual attention and care. If you are looking to rent a really nice home or property, check out our website or call us. Missoula Housing Authority 1235 34th St. Missoula • 406-549-4113 www.missoulahosing.org The Missoula Housing Authority (MHA) is a public non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe, decent and affordable housing to individuals and families in Missoula, MT. Currently, the Missoula Housing Authority owns and/or manages over 270 housing units and administers rental subsidy for nearly 850 units throughout the community. Missoula Property Management 2809 Great Northern Loop Suite 400 • Missoula 251-8500 • www.rentinmissoula.com Missoula Property Management is a full service property management company. We strive for honesty, accuracy and timeliness in all aspects of our business and work to build strong relationships with our clients and tenants. We offer a wide variety of rental units; please check our website for more details. PPM 2685 Palmer St, Ste. B, Missoula 721-8990 www.professionalproperty.com Professional Property Management, Inc. began managing residential, commercial and industrial property in Missoula, Montana, and its surrounding areas in 1982. We offer long-term invaluable experience in the Missoula rental market, and also maintain a remarkable inventory of residential, commercial and industrial space.
Comprehensive Service Management • Maintenance • Leasing Residential • Commercial • HOA/COA
We Guarantee Outstanding Responsiveness, Reliability & Customer Service 24 Hour Maintenance Service Serving Missoula & Surrounding Areas
Aaron Gingerelli • Owner, Licensed Property Manager 2009 President, Western MT Chapter: Assoc. of Residential Property Managers
406-549-3929 Visit us online: www.rentspm.com
500 N. Higgins Ave Ste. 208 Missoula, MT 59802
What is the Off-Campus Renter Center?
Common Issues: • Incomplete Repairs • Inability to Terminate Lease
The Renter Center helps students find housing, understand their rights and responsibilities, and resolve conflicts they are having with their landlords. We also advocate for student renters at the state and local level to make rental housing in Missoula more safe, affordable, and efficient.
• Roommate Concerns
What can we do for you?
• Wrongful Security Deposit withholding
• One-on-one counseling.
• Wrongful Eviction • Building Code Compliance
• Help you understand your rights under the Montana Landlord-Tenant Act. • Draft grievance and protest letters when appropriate. • Coming Summer 2010! Visit our website to find rentals, roommates, sublets, carpools, and furniture.
www.umt.edu/asum/rentercenter Monday-Friday 9 AM-5 PM • ASUM Suite 105 University Center • 406.243.2017
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Real Estate Management Group www.RE-MG.com 532-9300 • (888) 735-7368 Real estate management is our business. We have been meeting the needs of property owners for over 40 years. Our management and support personnel are highly trained, educated, and experienced in the management of all types of real property. We work to build long-term relationships with property owners and tenants alike.
Low-Income Multi-Family Housing continuing to take applications for 1, 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Apartments for placement on waiting list.
Office Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-Noon or afternoon by appt TDD/TTY:711
406-542-2922 • 1904 S 3rd W, Missoula
Summit Property Management, LLC. 500 N. Higgins Suite #208, Missoula • 549-3929 www.rentspm.com Summit Property Management is a locally owned company committed to excellence in property management. We offer a comprehensive range of services to address the needs of both property owners and renters. Contact us today for information on rental properties including: residential single family homes and apartments, commercial office and retail space, storage, leased parking and vacation properties. We look forward to hearing from you!
Services SERVICES ASUM Renter Center Suite 105, Missoula 243-2017 www.umt.edu/asum/rentercenter The Off-Campus Renter Center helps students find housing, understand their rights and responsibilities, and resolve conflicts they are having with their landlords. The Renter Center also advocates for student renters at the state and local level to make rental housing in Missoula more safe, affordable, and efficient. The agency serves as a consumer advocate for the approximately 10,000 Missoula area student renters, offering one-on-one counseling to assist in resolving tenant/landlord disputes. The agency also maintains the Off-Campus Housing Finder located on the agency’s webpage. In addition to the Housing Finder, the website provides access to the Montana Landlord and Tenant Act and other useful renter information. The Renter Center is a service provided by ASUM and the UM Office of Student Affairs.
Busy Hands • 1527 South Ave W 549-1119 • bsyhands.com DROP-IN Child Care Fun Center ages 6 mos. - 12 yrs. Open early, close late, 7 days a week. Movie room, air hockey, slide, big kid lounge, video games, toddler area, crafting and summer camp headquarters. Eagle Self Storage, Inc. 4101 HWY 93 S, Missoula • 251-8600 The safest move in town. Rentals starting at $20 per month. Family owned & operated. Clean new storage units. Paved. NO DEPOSIT. Electronic security gate. Residential or commercial. Locks, boxes, & moving supplies. U-Haul truck & trailer rentals. We specialize in large indoor RV & boat storage units. Access 7 Days a Week!
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Parade of Apartments: A Renter’s Resource Guide 2010
James C. Olson Farmers Insurance 800 Kensington Ave #102 Missoula, MT 59801 James C. Olson has over 25 years experience as an insurance agent. Let him guide you through the process of getting renter’s insurance or any of your insurance needs. Package discounts available to all that qualify. Call him today! 728-1833
Gilly's Gas Inc. 2340 S. 3rd St. W., Missoula 542-1086 www.gillysgas.com Gilly's Gas and Grocery is Missoula's U-Haul dealer. We also offer mini-storage, moving supplies and packing supplies. We have 156 storage units, ranging in sizes from 10x10 to 12x20 with 24hour access via pin numbers. Also, check out our fine selection of beer, wine, soft drinks, pizza and snacks. Green Hanger 146 Woodford St. 728-1948 960 E. Broadway 728-1919 "Missoula's Clean Spots." Dry cleaning/ laundromats/car wash. Eco-friendly cleaners. WI-FI, alterations, & FREE laundry soap. Clean & comfortable. homeWORD 127 N. Higgins, Suite 307 Missoula • 532-HOME www.homeWORD.org homeWORD provides first-time homebuyer and financial education as well as foreclosure prevention counseling through its walk-in HomeOwnership Center in downtown Missoula. Visit our website for information. Unique Auto Service 1414 Montana St., Missoula 728-3144 Domestic & Japanese cars • Trucks • 4x4's. Factory-trained technicians. Nationwide warranty; ask for details. Automotive service excellence. Tune-Ups • Fuel injection • Carburetors • Fast lube & oil • Starters & alternators • Brakes & clutches • Rebuilt engines • Transmissions • Major & minor repairs • Shocks & struts • Computer repairs. Open Monday thru Friday 7:30am-6:00 pm Western Montana NARPM Chapter 549-3929 www.narpmmt.com The Western Montana chapter of the National Association of Rental Property Managers is an association of real estate professionals who know first-hand the problems and challenges of managing single-family and small residential properties. We seek to support the professional and ethical practice of rental management through networking, education and certification.
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Garden City
PROPERTY MANAGMENT
Proud to have served Missoula for over 30 years! Thank you, Missoula, for voting us the #1 property management company in 2008 & 2009
WWW.GCPM-MT.COM 422 Madison • Missoula, MT 59802 • 406.549.6106