Navigating the Challenges of Showing an Apartment as a Landlord
Hello everyone, I’m back with an update on my recent experiences managing rental properties. Some of you may recall the earlier challenges I faced with rent increases and negotiations with leasing agents (feel free to check my profile for the full story).
Recently, my circumstances changed, and I found a larger, more suitable apartment in Sutherland for $600 per week—closer to my family and offering more space. Naturally, I notified my current tenants of my intention to break the lease early, providing a two-week notice along with the applicable early termination fee.
Shortly after, the leasing agents contacted me to arrange a viewing of the apartment. They requested to show it this weekend, which is a busy time for packing, but I agreed to accommodate their schedule. When I inquired whether I should wait for the agent’s arrival to let prospective tenants in, I received a surprising response: “Our agent won’t be there, so we’ll send you a list and you’ll show them around.”
This response was quite unexpected, as proper inspection protocols typically require a licensed agent or property manager to be present during viewings. Recognizing the importance of adhering to legal requirements and best practices, I took proactive steps to clarify the situation. I scheduled an email notification for later today, advising the agents that they need to either arrange for a licensed representative to conduct the viewings or cancel the inspections altogether.
This experience underscores the importance of understanding tenants’ rights and ensuring property showings are handled professionally and within the bounds of property legislation. Clear communication and adherence to legal standards help safeguard the interests of both landlords and tenants while maintaining a smooth leasing process.
