Lumping all renters into one category is just wrong. I was a renter for a long time before I purchased my first property. I was the type that took care of the house even though it was not mine. I tried to get along with everyone and generally was well liked.

I turned that into owning a couple properties now and look for the tenants who are like I was. I want someone who will take care of the place and get along with the neighbors.

I just rented out one house and received an email back from one of the neighbors saying the new tenant met with their approval. Keeping the neighbors happy is an important part of property management in my mind. If the house is ever vacant while looking for a new tenant, who will be there to watch out for something wrong? A neighbor who likes you will keep an eye out much better than one that can't stand you. All the neighbors who live around my properties have my home and cell numbers to get a hold of me for any reason.

__________________