How to Protect Your Property as a First Time Landlord?

Published on: 24 November 2018 Last Updated on: 13 December 2021

No matter what route you take to the rental market, you’re making an exciting step in life. Many people believe that becoming a landlord is fail-proof. However, although the process can be both financially and mentally rewarding, there are downsides and potential pitfalls. Renting out a second property is ideally an investment and, as such, several risks come with it. As a result, you need to protect your investment and mitigate against risk. Here’s how you can do just that to make sure that you are getting returns for your investment.

1. Take Out Insurance Being The Landlord:

Traditional insurance doesn’t usually cover rental properties. As a result, you should take out specialist landlord insurance. As well as protecting your home in the same way traditional home insurance would, landlord insurance can protect you against other problems, such as unpaid rent or a tenant injuring themselves at your property. Get a company that offers the best insurance deals to landlords and insure your property with them.

2. Draw Up the Correct Contract:

The correct tenancy agreement can help you in case you need to evict a tenant or take action against them. The vast majority of rental agreements come to an amicable end, but there may be times when you need to evict your tenant. A correct tenancy agreement will provide you with the framework to issue either a Section 21 notice (giving them two months’ notice) or a Section 8 notice, which allows the person to seek possession under particular grounds such as rent regions and anti-social behaviour (more information on both of these notices can be found here). Make sure that the tenancy agreement that you craft will protect you under all circumstances.

3. Take A Security Deposit:

Taking a security deposit or a damage deposit (usually a month’s rent) allows you to protect you and your property against any breakages or damages. It is important to put these measures in place if you want to be sure that you are on the safe side.

You must place the deposit in a concern that is regulated by a government deposit scheme, such as the Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme. The deposit is then returned to the tenant at the end of the tenancy unless they fail to meet the terms of a tenancy agreement, cause damage to the property or fail to pay rent and bills.

4. Ensure There’s an Inventory:

Before your tenant moves in, you should complete an inventory of everything currently in the property. As well as listing everything currently in the property, you should also list its current state, including any dents, scratches or stains.

Once this is complete, you should have a walk around the property with the tenant. Then you can both confirm everything listed is present and the condition described is accurate. When this process has been completed, you should both sign and date the inventory.

5. Have a Financial Buffer:

Finally, you should ensure you have a financial buffer, in case you have to pay for running repairs. The costs for running a rental property can quickly stack up. Although you could take out an installment loan to finance any major payments, it’s advisable to have a pot of savings before you begin, in case you need to finance any running repairs.

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What Embracing Crypto-Backed Lending Means for the Finance Industry

You probably know that cryptocurrency is becoming more in-demand with each passing year. Bitcoin is extremely popular, but other forms, such as Ethereum, are also making a splash. However, some financial institutions are reluctant to fully embrace cryptocurrency, thinking it’s just a flash in the pan. In time, they may want to change their tune since the finance industry seems poised to allow companies and individuals to use cryptocurrency for more mainstream transactions. Once they do so, they can take on new clients in a variety of industries and niches. The LQD Business Finance company is one that recently started embracing crypto-backed lending. Let’s look at what they have to gain by doing so and what this strategy means in the larger finance industry context. The First Bitcoin-as-Currency Commercial Lending Platform: For LQD Finance, transforming the finance industry is nothing new. They periodically use emerging technology as it becomes available if they feel it will benefit their would-be clients. By setting up the first Bitcoin-as-currency lending platform, they can take away the mindset that it’s strictly a digital asset. If you’re a business owner, and you have invested in Bitcoin heavily, as so many have, this is probably what you have anticipated. Now, you can utilize that cryptocurrency for buying and selling various business assets that your company needs. There are three particular ways this step by the LQD Business Finance company will alter the financial industry’s cryptocurrency outlook. Let’s go over each one. Broader and More Wide-Ranging International Applications: Many businesses want to take their sales to the next level, which means going international. US-based companies often take this approach at a certain point, but so do foreign ones. Either way, these businesses can face logistical challenges. For instance, they might generally utilize their own country’s currency, and they find that foreign suppliers are reluctant to accept it. They can use banks or finance companies to exchange their currency, but that’s time-consuming and potentially frustrating since they must pay fees if they go this route. Cryptocurrency like Bitcoin is an international monetary form. When a well-known company like LQD Business Finance says they’re setting up a lending platform using it, many businesses are likely to want to jump on that opportunity. They know they can use Bitcoin in any market because the world decides its worth. Customer Satisfaction is More Likely: The second way this decision will shake up the finance industry is that customer satisfaction with this type of lending platform is highly likely. Cryptocurrency investors have certainly made plenty of money off trading this commodity up to this point, but they have more ambitious plans for it. This is the first huge sign their patience is paying off. Bitcoin reaching the mainstream market through a lending platform in this way means the larger and more prominent lending companies are starting to come around. Many small and mid-sized businesses that own Bitcoin and have waited for this day are going to move aggressively within their niche because they know they have a reputable financial institution backing them. Individuals Can Diversify Their Portfolios Like Never Before: The third shakeup that’s likely to occur is that investment-minded individuals can diversify their portfolios more aggressively than they could previously. A major commercial lender treating Bitcoin as actual currency instead of a mere niche investment means that clients can completely rethink their investment strategies. For instance, someone who would not sink any real money into Bitcoin up to this point might make their move now and buy up quite a bit of it. Cryptocurrency mainstream success is something that serious investors can’t ignore. You might have an individual investor or day trader who buys Bitcoin aggressively now. You may have a hedge fund manager who has hundreds or thousands of clients in tow, and they decide Bitcoin is the new must-have. Either way, a diverse portfolio from this point forward is almost always going to be the one that includes Bitcoin. This is probably far from the last lending company that will accept Bitcoin in this broader way. It was likely to happen at some juncture, and the moment has come. It will certainly be fascinating to see which other cryptocurrencies will reach this favored status. Some seem to be on the mainstream success borderline, but watching lending companies like LQD Business Finance will always be a strong indicator. You know they would not make this move unless they were certain of Bitcoin’s newfound legitimacy. Read Also: How To Become A Successful Cryptocurrency Trader In 5 Easy Steps The Profit Revolution: The Best Bitcoin Trading And Investing Platform Most Common Bitcoin Trading Blunders – You Must Avoid

Ideal Retirement Age Planning: Strategies For Financial Freedom

When approaching retirement planning, it is widely recognized that starting early is a cornerstone of ensuring a secure and comfortable retirement. The notion of an ideal retirement age may vary individually, but there are certain age-related milestones that can guide individuals in maximizing their retirement benefits and minimizing penalties. Consistent saving from the beginning of one's career, coupled with a clear understanding of these milestones, is essential in laying a strong foundation for the future. Retirement planning is not a one-size-fits-all process; it involves a series of strategic decisions tailored to an individual's life stages and financial situation. Assessing how much do I need to retire on $100,000 a year in retirement is another critical component of the process. This involves not only saving but also making informed choices about retirement accounts and investments to ensure that the funds will grow adequately over time. Individuals must also be mindful of specific age benchmarks that impact retirement planning. For example, being aware of when they are eligible for certain government programs and the implications of withdrawing retirement funds at various ages can help in avoiding unnecessary fees and optimizing benefits. This strategic management of timing in relation to age is a key aspect of effective retirement planning. Determining Your Retirement Goals When planning for retirement, individuals must carefully assess their financial needs and health factors to establish a clear and realistic set of goals. Assessing Financial Needs A critical step in retirement planning is determining the amount of savings required to sustain one's desired lifestyle. Retirement calculators can be instrumental in estimating the necessary nest egg. These calculators assess current income, savings, and anticipated retirement age to provide a personalized savings goal. To tailor these estimates, individuals should consider: The proportion of current income they aim to replace during retirement is often recommended to be around 70-80%. Expected major expenses, such as housing and leisure activities. Potential sources of retirement income, including Social Security benefits, pensions, and annuities, which can reduce the reliance on personal savings. Evaluating Health and Life Expectancy Individuals' health status and life expectancy play a significant role in retirement planning. Those in good health may require a larger nest egg to support a potentially longer retirement period. Key considerations include: Life expectancy data to inform the duration of retirement savings should last. The cost of health care, generally rises as one ages, necessitates a larger reserve in the retirement fund. Long-term care insurance can mitigate the risk of high unexpected health-related expenses. By focusing on these aspects, individuals can establish a retirement plan that aligns with their unique circumstances and supports a financially secure and healthy retirement. Retirement Savings Strategies Optimal retirement savings strategies are centered on maximizing contributions to retirement accounts, understanding the significant effects of compounding over time, and balancing risk with investment choices. Maximizing 401(k) and IRA Contributions Individuals should aim to contribute the maximum allowed amounts to their 401(k) and IRA accounts each year. For 2024, the contribution limit for 401(k) plans is $20,500, with an additional $6,500 in catch-up contributions permitted for those aged 50 and over. IRAs offer a lower threshold, with a contribution limit of $6,000 and a $1,000 catch-up contribution. Taking advantage of these limits can significantly enhance one's retirement savings, especially when employers match a portion of 401(k) contributions. Understanding the Impact of Compounding The power of compounding cannot be overstated in the context of long-term investment. When returns are reinvested, they generate additional earnings over time. This effect is particularly potent for those who start investing early. For instance, investing just $100 a month starting at age 20 could lead to a substantial accumulation by retirement age, assuming a modest annual return. Balancing Risk and Investment A well-balanced investment portfolio blends various asset classes, such as stocks, bonds, and possibly other investments, to align with one's risk tolerance. Typically, stocks offer higher growth potential but come with increased risk, whereas bonds traditionally provide more stable, but often lower, returns. As individuals approach retirement age, they may consider shifting their investment focus towards more conservative options to preserve capital. Additionally, the use of a Roth IRA can be beneficial for tax-free growth and withdrawals in retirement, depending on an individual's tax situation. Navigating Government Benefits Government benefits for retirees hinge on correct timing and a thorough understanding of eligibility requirements. This section guides through Social Security and Medicare, two pivotal components of retirement planning. Optimizing Social Security Benefits To maximize Social Security benefits, individuals must consider their full retirement age (FRA), which varies from 65 to 67 depending on their birth year. Claiming benefits at the FRA ensures the full monthly benefit amount. However, one can begin receiving Social Security payments as early as age 62, but this results in permanently reduced benefits. Before FRA: Reduced benefits At FRA: Full benefits After FRA: Delayed retirement credits Strategically, delaying Social Security benefits beyond the FRA can increase the monthly payment by a certain percentage until the age of 70, offering one of the simplest ways to enhance one's retirement income. Planning for Medicare Eligibility Medicare eligibility begins at age 65, regardless of one's FRA for Social Security. Enrolling in Medicare on time is critical as late enrollment can result in penalties and gaps in coverage. Medicare includes several parts: Part A: Hospital insurance, usually premium-free if one has paid Medicare taxes for a sufficient number of years. Part B: Medical insurance, covering doctor's visits and outpatient services, which requires a monthly premium. Part D: Prescription drug coverage. Understanding the interplay between Medicare and other health benefits is also important, as it might affect decisions regarding employment benefits or Marketplace coverage. Individuals should review their options within the IEP or Initial Enrollment Period (IEP). It begins three months right before the month of their 65th birthday whereas it ends after three months. Conclusion: Preparing for the Unexpected In retirement planning, addressing potential risks and preparing for unforeseen healthcare expenses are crucial. They often advise individuals on incorporating health insurance and long-term care into their financial strategy and emphasizing the importance of an emergency fund and insurance options. Incorporating Health Insurance and Long-Term Care One must assess the risk of healthcare expenses and the necessity for long-term care. Health insurance is vital for managing costs associated with medical care during early retirement, especially prior to Medicare eligibility at age 65. Long-term care insurance can safeguard one's finances by covering expenses that traditional health insurance does not, such as in-home care or assisted living facilities. Assess Early Retirement Needs: Individuals retiring before age 65 should plan for their health insurance coverage to bridge the gap until Medicare. Long-Term Care Costs: Evaluate the potential need for long-term care services, which can quickly deplete retirement savings. Building an Emergency Fund and Considering Insurance Options An emergency fund is a backbone of financial security, acting as a buffer against unexpected expenses. They also stress considering various insurance options, such as life insurance, to mitigate financial risks to dependents. Furthermore, understanding penalty-free withdrawals from retirement accounts can provide greater financial flexibility in case of emergencies. Emergency Fund Size: Aim to save at least three to six months' worth of living expenses in an easily accessible account. Insurance as a Safety Net: Life Insurance: Provides financial support to beneficiaries in the event of the policyholder's death. Flexibility with Retirement Funds: Familiarize with conditions under which penalty-free withdrawals from retirement accounts are allowed, to avoid unnecessary financial strain during emergencies. Read Also: Smart Ways to Invest in Gold How To Start Your Investor Journey: 5 Credible Options To Explore What Investors Should Know about Investment in Gold and Silver Assets

Discovering And Recovering From Identify Theft

Identify Theft is not a big problem if you have the right gadget with you. It is a real problem that affects millions of Americans every year. And, the number of victims keeps growing. According to Javelin Strategy And Research, over 16 million cases of identity theft were reported in 2017 resulting in over $16 billion in stolen money. Different Ways You Can Identify Theft For Your Betterment There are multiple ways you can identify theft for your betterment. Make things easier for yourself to enjoy the day. Work out the plans that can help you to achieve your goals. Identity Theft Explained: Stated by a credit repair company in San Antonio, when your personal and sometimes sensitive information is stolen from you and then used to open accounts in your name, you become a victim of identity theft. Stolen information includes your name, social security number, credit card numbers, bank account information, and other financial data. Your information can be taken via discarded mail, email scams, attacks on financial institution databases, or through any other company that stores a list of sensitive consumer data, for that matter. Thieves may start off with just a couple of pieces of information about you. They use this information to access further data that are key in opening accounts in your name and racking up debt. The Impact Of Identity Theft On Your Credit Score: Simply put, the longer identity theft continues the more it ravages your credit. If you have not put an identity theft monitoring mechanism in place, months may pass before you realized someone has been using your identity. You may not notice until the day you apply for a loan and are surprisingly turned down. Discover the victim before you identify theft. Identity thieves have no interest in protecting your credit. They’ll use your identity as long as they can to spend money until your score is so negatively affected no more lines of credit can be opened in your name. This means, depending on the condition of your credit when your identity was stolen, thousands upon thousands of dollars of debt can accrue before you ever realize your identity has been stolen. Then, your score will plummet from too much debt and have to start rebuilding your credit score. Recovering From Identity Theft: Once you discover you’ve been a victim of identity theft, you must contact all the financial institutions affected such as credit card companies, banks, and other lenders. Report the incident with them, and they’ll help you begin the process of filing your claim and freeze all fraudulent accounts. You need to identify the theft that can work well for you. Next, you’ll need to have new cards issued for any existing accounts you had before identity theft took its toll on your credit. Next, put a freeze on all future lending with a fraud alert. Instituting fraud alert mechanisms will tell lenders to take extra precautions before granting a new line of credit in your name for the next 90 days. Protecting Your Credit: The best way to ensure you don’t become a victim of identity theft is to use a credit monitoring service. These services often come as a no-cost benefit offered by many existing lenders. Credit monitoring will alert you any time there is a change in your credit score. It will also let you take a peek at your credit any time you need to check in on it. You can also protect yourself by using unique, strong passwords at each of the financial websites you have credit lines with. Never click on emails asking for personal information from you. Shred all financial documents, and never give out passwords on the phone. Read Also: Debt Consolidation Plans For Your Debt Relief How To Stay Safe When Making Mobile Payments How To Start A Blog Without Breaking A Bank? The Best Strategies For Retirement Funds Distribution What Are The Types Of Debt That Can Be Discharged In Bankruptcy? How To Check Someone Out Online: 5 Tips On Finding Out Someone’s Personal History

How to Protect Your Property as a First Time Landlord?

1. Take Out Insurance Being The Landlord:

2. Draw Up the Correct Contract:

3. Take A Security Deposit:

4. Ensure There’s an Inventory:

5. Have a Financial Buffer:

How to Protect Your Finances While in a Nursing Home

A Little on the Side…Or Not? Your Guide to Supplemental Insurance

Content Rally

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

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Related

What Embracing Crypto-Backed Lending Means for the Finance Industry

Ideal Retirement Age Planning: Strategies For Financial Freedom

Discovering And Recovering From Identify Theft

How to Protect Your Property as a First Time Landlord?

1. Take Out Insurance Being The Landlord:

2. Draw Up the Correct Contract:

3. Take A Security Deposit:

4. Ensure There’s an Inventory:

5. Have a Financial Buffer:

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How to Protect Your Finances While in a Nursing Home

A Little on the Side…Or Not? Your Guide to Supplemental Insurance

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

Leave a Reply

Popular

Follow Us

Recent

Related