http://propertyplannerbuyerandprofessor.com.au/ In this week's episode of the Property Planner, Buyer and Professor Podcast, the team delve into the top fears that keep landlords up at night and what you can do to safeguard yourself. Dave, Cate and Pete dissect: 1. The property market dipping CoreLogic capital city data shows that 5 out of the 8 cities have started growing in value or remained at the same level, while Melbourne and Sydney have dropped slightly further. It appears that we are now at an inflection point. Contrary to the property doomsayers, we haven't yet seen a gross drop of 5%, which has been our central case since April. 2. Tenants claiming COVID financial distress Anecdotally we've seen 8% to 14% of tenants looking for reductions in rent, as a result of loss of income due to COVID. There are also areas that have seen a much lower percentage of tenants claiming COVID financial distress - due to location demographics and property features that may attract a particular quality of tenant. Careful tenant selection is critical. 3. Debt and cash flow management Treat your investment property like a business! That means understanding how to manage your risk and selecting an appropriate repayment strategy and buffer. Letting your money goals drive strategy and price point will mean that you are prepared and comfortable, when income ebbs and flows. 4. Repairs and maintenance - does your buffer cover rainy days (and leaks)? Unexpected repairs can burn deep holes in your pockets, but an appropriate risk management strategy will avoid the financial stress of having to carry out major repairs on your property. 5. Building and pest inspections Do your due diligence and get a building and pest inspection done before you purchase. This will help guide your negotiations if you know there are maintenance issues lurking! 6. Tenants from hell From non-payment of rent to trashing properties, a tenant from hell can be a landlord's worst nightmare. Starting with a good property manager and selection process can help you avoid a painful tenant. Listen to episode 41 "Tenants from hell" for more education on how to select a quality tenant and property manager. 7. Protecting yourself with insurance It is critical to know the difference between accidental, deliberate and malicious damage and how your insurance policy covers you in these situation - it can be difference between a successful claim or not! 8. And of course, our 'gold nuggets'