Posts by Ryan Green

HUD Bans Using Arrest Records

The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) issued new guidance on April 4th, 2016 that is going to require all single-family and multifamily rental professionals to revisit their policies.
In a decision that is aimed at protecting the rights of “returning citizens”, HUD is limiting the use of arrest records in tenant screening nationwide for both public and private housing. While they are not discouraging the use of criminal records in the background screening process, they are requiring a conviction be reported for the record to be considered in the decision. Using an arrest record without a conviction is being viewed as discriminating against a consumer who has not been found guilty of having done anything illegal.

Investing in Yourself for Property Managers

Benjamin Franklin said “an investment in knowledge pays the best interest”, and for property managers who have a wealth of opportunity to grow with the multifamily housing industry, this quote has quite a bit of substance. While there are plenty of driven students who can’t find enough opportunities for learning, many people need some guidance and motivation to get back into the classroom after they have finished their primary education. There are plenty of different driving factors that make a person want to learn more about their craft, but it can sometimes to be difficult to find accessible options.
Depending on your level of interest, here are 3 fantastic opportunities to increase your multifamily credentials:

Re-Introduce Yourself to Learning

Sometimes we can all use a ‘jump start’ to get back in the classroom, and what better way than by choosing what you want to learn, when you want to study it and being able to do so inexpensively.

Identifying Threats from Within: Annual Screening of Employees

Managing a successful business is no easy feat when you factor in risks such as competition, inventory and staffing. What many businesses don’t take into account is the liabilities they may face from current staff who may have been involved in illicit activities outside of work. Employees with inclinations towards activities that violate company policy rely upon the fact that their job will stop looking into their background once they are hired. Annual updates of personnel records that include the same background check you perform upon hiring is something that many companies overlook, but can have a significant positive impact on overall operations.

Myths and Facts about Eviction Records (video)

Previously we discussed the myths surrounding criminal records and now we’re doing the same thing with this 2 minute video about eviction records. See how many of these myths you are familiar with, and how many we can help you bust.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3NweGjB0HA

Myths and Facts about Criminal Records (video)

Ever wondered whether you can use criminal records to help you decide on the best rental applicants? Have you been told that using criminal records is not permitted in your state? We have heard your misconceptions and want to clear up some of the most common myths.

Boost Your Rental Occupancy by Attracting Millennials (video)

The rental market is primed for properties that cater to the interests of millennials. This group of renters is often continuing their education or building a career, and are more in favor of temporary residences over finding permanent foundations that could hinder their ambitions. Learn some of the best ways to attract this growing group of potential tenants, and help your business succeed!

Unlocking the Secrets of Rental Property Maintenance Success (video)

Most renters have a story about a maintenance ordeal they dealt with at their apartment, town home, condo, etc. Usually these stories come across as property management nightmares if told to prospective tenants. The best way to improve your business is to follow these tips to be a property all star when maintenance needs arise.

States are Changing Their Hiring Laws, are You Affected?

All across the U.S. there are civil rights activists fighting for employees who are being discriminated against during the hiring process. There are arguments about the use of criminal records and credit history before an applicant has been interviewed, and how much of an impact the information should have on the decision for employment. Some states have already approved new legislation limiting what employers may ask or research before hiring a new employee, while others are in the review process.
In order to protect your business, be sure to keep up with changes your state might be making that will require a change to your employment policy.

Recent Rental Housing Legislation That May Affect Your Business

Recently there have been changes throughout the country that can affect the way your business must work with applicants during the rental screening process.  If you are affected by any of these changes, be sure your policies are updated, or that you voice your opinion to oppose them before it is too late.

Notify Applicants of Your Rental Decision Instantly

ApplyConnect®, the industry’s most advanced tenant screening solution for landlords and real estate agents, recently made enhancements to their users’ experience. The improved technology saves landlords and real estate agents time, allowing the tenant screening process to be completed faster and with improved security and protection for all users. This industry exclusive new feature gives the landlord or agent the ability to automatically notify the applicant whether or not they were approved for the property with an instant email decision.
After the landlord or agent has reviewed the tenant’s credit and background history and has come to a rental decision, they will now have the ability to notify the applicant of their decision immediately through the ApplyConnect.com website.