Your Landlord Resource Podcast

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Managing utilities in rental properties has become increasingly challenging for small landlords. In this shorty episode of the Your Landlord Resource Podcast, we discuss a strategy many landlords are beginning to implement: charging tenants a flat monthly utility fee.

Many duplexes, fourplexes, and older multifamily buildings have shared water meters, which means landlords often include water, sewer, trash, and recycling in the rent. Historically this worked well when utility costs were predictable. But as rates continue rising in many areas, landlords are often unknowingly subsidizing tenant usage.

In this episode, we explain how a flat utility fee works and why landlords may choose this method as a cost-sharing solution. They also discuss how tenants typically respond when this change is introduced and the importance of communicating clearly and implementing the fee properly through lease renewals.

Stacie shares real examples from their own rental properties and explains how they calculated a fair utility fee while still maintaining positive tenant relationships. The goal is not to increase profit but to allocate shared building expenses more fairly while helping landlords maintain sustainable rental operations.

If you own small multifamily rentals and are struggling with rising utility costs, this episode provides practical insight to help you decide whether a flat utility fee might be right for your property.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• Why many landlords historically included utilities in rent
• How rising water, sewer, and trash costs impact rental property profitability
• What a flat monthly utility fee is and how it works
• Best practices for implementing a utility fee at lease renewal

Links & References

EZ Landlord Forms State Specific Leases and Forms

TurboTenant The best tenant management software for self-managing landlords.

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

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Ever feel like you're running a marathon but you can't remember why you started running in the first place?

That was our entire 2025. Between two destination weddings, a home renovation that went 300% over budget (with roofers literally falling through our ceiling THREE TIMES), rental property turnovers, portfolio decisions, and trying to be present for our aging parents and adult kids—we were completely burnt out.

In this raw and honest episode, we're pulling back the curtain on what really happened, why we had to hit pause on the podcast, and what we learned about saying no, setting boundaries, and protecting our time as landlords and business owners. We're talking about the seven-plex we walked away from, the winter vacancies we'll never do again, helping our son with his first rental property, and why our 2026 word is RESET.

If you've been feeling overwhelmed or like your rental business is running you instead of the other way around, this episode is for you. Let's talk about what really matters.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE:

• Why walking away from deals can be the smartest investment decision
• Real costs of home improvement projects (and why you should always add 40%)
• When to say no to opportunities that don't align with your operating standards
• Strategies for rental turnovers during difficult seasons
• Why renewal strategy matters more than ever in today's market

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

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In this episode we’re discussing why renters are moving less than at any point in the last 40 years, and whether you manage one unit or ten, this affects your strategy, revenue, and renewals in a big way. So, Kevin and I are unpacking what’s behind the sharp drop in renter mobility and what it means for your business. 

We talk through why renewing a lease is cheaper than moving, why ownership remains out of reach for many renters, and how construction slowdowns and underbuilding are freezing vacancy chains. We also break down demographic shifts — from long-term renters in their 50s+ to younger renters relocating less because of job instability and cost-of-living pressures. Climate migration plays a surprising role too — many renters want safer living locations but can’t afford to relocate, which means staying put longer than ever. 

Most importantly, we share practical strategies to help you adapt: improving renewal conversations, creating predictable systems, using landlord software, and screening wisely to prevent fraud. Longer tenancies can be great — but only if you proactively manage communication, planning, maintenance, and rent increases. 

If you want to run your rentals like a real business — with professionalism, confidence, and systems — today’s episode is packed with insight you can put to work immediately. 

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Listen to Episode 2: Improving Tenant Retention and Renewals 

TurboTenant

Rent Redi

DoorLoop

Avail

Buildium

Smart Move Tenant Screening

Tenant Alert Tenant Screening

EZ Landlord Forms

Connect with Us: 

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

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Managing rental properties comes with a big decision: should you handle everything yourself or hire a property manager?

In this episode, Stacie Casella and Kevin Kilroy share the real pros and cons of self-managing versus outsourcing — from cost savings and control to the realities of late-night calls, legal paperwork, and burnout. Together, they discuss how each option fits different lifestyles, investment goals, and seasons of life.

You’ll hear stories from their own experience managing a Sacramento 6-plex, a long-distance four-plex in Idaho, and everything in between — plus practical tips to help you make the best decision for your business.

Whether you’re a new landlord just starting out or an experienced investor scaling up, this episode will help you confidently decide which management style supports your goals.

 🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Listen to Episode 39: 50+ Must-Ask Questions When Hiring a Property Manager, Pt.1

Listen to Episode 40: 50+ Must-Ask Questions When Hiring a Property Manager, Pt.2

Listen to Episode 79: Accounting Software Options for Real Estate Investors

Listen to Episode 84: Tenant Screening Software, What Landlords Need to Know

Listen to Episode 106: The Benefits of Being a Digital Landlord

TurboTenant

Rent Redi

DoorLoop

Avail

Buildium 

Connect with Us: 

🌎 Visit our website 

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter.

👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

➡️ Give us a review: Apple or on Spotify or YouTube 

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Stop Guessing, Smart Budgeting — it’s time to take control of your rental property finances.

In this week’s episode of Your Landlord Resource Podcast, we share smart budgeting tips for rental property owners that turn your rentals into a confident, well-run business.

Building on Episodes 78 (Bookkeeping & Accounting Tips for Landlords) and 79 (Accounting Software for Landlords), we discuss how self-managing landlords can create a practical budget, forecast expenses, manage reserves, and plan for profit. You’ll learn how to track cash flow, prepare for maintenance and capital projects, and stop reacting to financial surprises.

We also dive into the best tools to help landlords stay organized and in control and explain which ones fit best depending on your portfolio size and experience level.

By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use budgeting as your most powerful business tool — not just to survive, but to grow.

What You’ll Learn

• How to build and manage a rental property budget
• Why reserves matter and how to fund them
• How to plan for maintenance and CapEx
• How to budget for profit, not just expenses
• Which software tools make it easier

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Listen:

Episode 78: Bookkeeping and Accounting Tips for Landlords

Ep 79: Accounting Software Options for Real Estate Investors

Ep 28: The Cash Reserves Blueprint: Protecting & Expanding Your Portfolio

QuickBooks

TurboTenant

Rent Redi

DoorLoop

Avail

Buildium

Connect with Us: 

🌎 Visit our website 

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter.

👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

➡️ Give us a review: Apple or on Spotify or YouTube 

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In this week’s episode of Your Landlord Resource Podcast, Kevin and I dive into one of the most common modern-day questions—can landlords legally install video cameras at their rental properties?

We break down the legal guidelines on where cameras are allowed, how to respect tenant privacy, and what to include in your lease addendums to keep you covered. We also talk about the etiquette behind using surveillance, who should have access to footage, and the hidden responsibilities that come with cloud-based storage systems.

Plus, we discuss how to handle situations when tenants install their own devices, such as doorbell cameras or interior security systems, and what your options are if those devices capture common or shared areas. You’ll also hear our recommendations on affordable, weatherproof cameras for both single-family and multi-unit properties, and the pros and cons of wired versus battery setups.

If you’ve been curious about adding smart technology like video surveillance or want to know what’s legal and what’s not, this episode will walk you through every step so you can make an informed, professional decision for your rentals.

🔗 Links & Resources

Listen to: 

Episode 103: Installing Property Wide WiFi

Episode 6: Standard Operating Procedures 

Episode 32: Our Lease and Addendum Breakdown, Pt 1 

Episode 33: Our Lease and Addendum Breakdown, Pt 2

Episode 34: Our Lease and Addendum Breakdown, Pt 3

Video Cameras discussed: Ring, Blink, Arlo, Wyze, Eufy, Reolink 

Connect with Us: 

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

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Fall is here, and that means it’s time for landlords to get ahead of seasonal maintenance and tenant communication before winter sets in. In this shorty episode of Your Landlord Resource Podcast, I’m sharing a quick checklist to help you stay proactive, avoid costly emergencies, and keep your tenants safe and happy.

Kevin and I break down the key areas to focus on: property prep, tenant reminders, seasonal safety checks, and a few timely extras for this year. From HVAC servicing and gutter cleaning to energy efficiency upgrades, you’ll walk away knowing exactly what to prioritize. We also cover how to communicate with tenants about winter responsibilities, rising utility costs, and safe practices during the holiday season.

You’ll even hear our personal stories (including the ongoing AC debate!) that remind you — being a landlord doesn’t have to feel overwhelming when you plan ahead.

Don’t forget to grab our free Fall Maintenance Checklist — it’s linked in the show notes so you can stay on track.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

FREE Download: Fall Maintenance Checklist

Outdoor Water Faucet Cover, 2 Pack

Listen to Episode 27: Fall’s Checklist

Listen to Episode 29: Fire Safety Essentials, Pt 1

Listen to Episode 30: Fire Safety Essentials, Pt 2

Listen to Episode 31: Halloween Tips for Landlords

Listen to Episode 82: Fire Safety, Landlord & Tenant Responsibility

Listen to Episode 86: Winter & End of Year Prep for Your Rental Property

Connect with Us: 

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

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As landlords, one of the most important and sometimes confusing, responsibilities we face is handling reasonable accommodation requests from tenants. These requests, protected under the Fair Housing Act, ensure tenants with disabilities have equal access and enjoyment of their rental homes. But where do you draw the line between reasonable and unreasonable? And how do you protect yourself while staying compliant?

In this episode, Kevin and I break down everything you need to know. We’ll explain what reasonable accommodations are, who qualifies for them, and how they differ from modifications. We’ll also share examples of requests landlords are most likely to encounter — from service animals to parking adjustments to flexible rent due dates.

You’ll hear best practices for documenting requests, avoiding common mistakes, and protecting both your tenants and your business. We’ll also cover when landlords can say no, how to engage in the “interactive process,” and why empathy and professionalism go a long way in avoiding costly mistakes.

Whether you own one rental unit or ten, this episode will help you approach accommodation requests with confidence, compliance, and clarity.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Listen to Episode 61: Fair Housing and Emotional Support Animals (ESA’s)

Listen to Episode 73: Senior Aged Tenants, What You Need to Know

Listen to Episode 6: Creating Operating Procedures for Your Rental Property

The Fair Housing Institute, 15% OFF with code YLR2025

Connect with Us: 

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👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

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As self-managing landlords, one of the toughest parts of the rental process is saying “no” to an applicant. In this episode, Kevin and I break down how to deny a rental application while staying compliant, ethical, and professional.

We cover the legal side, including Fair Housing laws, the Fair Credit Reporting Act, and why an Adverse Action Notice is required when denials are tied to credit or background checks. We also explain the differences between straight denials, conditional acceptances, and partial denials—and when each applies.

We’ll share how to create clear written criteria, apply them consistently, and protect yourself with documentation. You’ll also learn the common mistakes landlords make when denying applicants and how to avoid them.

Denying an application isn’t fun, but it’s a necessary part of running your rental business. With the right systems, you can handle it fairly, confidently, and legally.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

Denial Letter Resource Pack. 3 Denial/Conditional Acceptance templates to use to create your own personal Denial Notices.

Listen to Episode 106: The Benefits of Being a Digital Landlord

The Fair Housing Institute, 15% OFF with code YLR2025

Learn more about Turbo Tenant, Avail, Buildium, and AppFolio.

Tenant Screening Software we recommend: SmartMove, TenantAlert, & RentPrep.

Connect with Us: 

🌎 Visit our website 

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter.

👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

➡️ Give us a review: Apple or on Spotify or YouTube 

✔️Course Waitlist

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In this episode of Your Landlord Resource Podcast, Kevin and I are diving into what it really means to be a “digital landlord.” We’ll walk you through how using technology in your rental business can save you hours each month, keep you organized, and improve both your experience and your tenants’ experience.

From e-signing leases to screening tenants in under a minute, we cover the practical tools that make self-managing easier. We’ll compare software options by breaking down their features, costs, and when each might be the right fit.

We’ll also talk about the real differences between paper-based and digital systems—what you gain in efficiency, what you might lose in hands-on control, and how to find the right balance for your style. Plus, you’ll hear our honest take on what we use, why we use it, and even where we still stick to paper.

Whether you own one unit or a growing portfolio, this episode will help you understand the benefits, drawbacks, and opportunities of going digital as a landlord.

🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned

The Fair Housing Institute, 15% OFF with code YLR2025

Learn more about EZ Landlord Forms, Turbo Tenant, Rent Redi, DoorLoop, Hemlane, & Avail.

Tenant Screening Software we recommend: SmartMove & TenantAlert

Our Accounting Software: QuickBooks

Best product for de-icing rental walkways: Safe Paw

Connect with Us: 

🌎 Visit our website 

📧 Subscribe to our newsletter.

👆 FREE Landlord Forms and Doc’s

🤳Text Us: 650-489-4447

📩Email us at: [email protected], [email protected] 

➡️ Give us a review: Apple or on Spotify or YouTube 

✔️Course Waitlist

📱 Instagram, Facebook, &  Private Facebook group