ReLISTO Blog

How to Professionally Respond to Meeting Time Requests: An Insight from ReLISTO

Our success at ReLISTO is built on a high level of professionalism and commitment to landlords. As our client base expands, we’re on the lookout for property managers, real estate assistants, and top-notch leasing agents who can embody our values. This process has inspired us to share how we expect our team to handle scheduling, a standard yet significant question often encountered on job platforms such as LinkedIn 

When as a job applicant, a leasing agent, or a property manager you are asked for three available meeting times, it’s crucial to respond with thoughtfulness and precision. Here’s a template that reflects these qualities:

“Thank you for reaching out. I am available to meet at the following times:

  • [Date and Time, e.g., Monday, August 15th at 10:00 AM]
  • [Date and Time, e.g., Tuesday, August 16th at 2:00 PM]
  • [Date and Time, e.g., Wednesday, August 17th at 4:00 PM]

Please let me know which time works best for you, or if you have other preferences. Looking forward to our meeting!”

While “anytime” might seem accommodating, it can lead to a lack of specificity, a perceived lack of commitment, scheduling conflicts, or imbalances in power dynamics. At ReLISTO, we value clarity, commitment, and confidence – attributes that resonate with our mission to care for landlords, properties, and residents.

Professional scheduling is more than a matter of convenience; it’s a reflection of character, responsibility, and attention to detail. Through this blog post, ReLISTO aims to equip not only potential team members but also anyone navigating the professional landscape with the skills to handle scheduling with grace. Whether you’re embarking on a job search, preparing for an interview, or striving to excel in your current role, these insights can set you apart. We invite you to explore opportunities with ReLISTO, where our culture of excellence translates into personal and professional growth. Visit our Careers page to learn more and become part of a leasing and management team that cares about more than just property – we care about people.

Positivity- Unlocking the Potential of Your Investment

At ReLISTO, we understand that your property is more than just a piece of real estate; it’s a valuable investment. Our team is dedicated to maximizing the potential of your assets, aligning our services with your goals, and taking a proactive approach to growth.

One of the key elements of our success is our commitment to positive thinking and constructive communication. We’ve cultivated a comprehensive list of language transformations that our teams are trained and coached on so they may effectively employ them in their day-to-day interactions with landlords, residents, and vendor partners. By carefully selecting words that reflect opportunities rather than challenges, we ensure that our mindset is aligned with solution-driven strategies, from representing a property’s unique character to handling tenant relations and maintenance.

Here’s a glimpse of how we transform our language to reflect our mindset:

  • Instead of calling a property “cheap,” we highlight its “affordability.”
  • We don’t see spaces as “cramped;” we see them as “efficient.”
  • When addressing maintenance, we don’t talk about “fixing;” we focus on “improving.”
  • A “problematic tenant” becomes a “challenging situation” that we’re prepared to handle.
  • Rather than worrying about “declining value,” we identify the “opportunity for enhancement.”

At ReLISTO, we’re not hired just to maintain your property; we’re here to elevate it. Our positive approach extends from our communication with you to our interaction with tenants and our management of every detail. If you’re ready to discover how we can contribute to your investment, let’s schedule a time to discuss our leasing and management services designed for success.

Discover the Exciting Opportunity at 95 Bluxome: Coming Soon for Rent on July 1, 2023

Are you searching for the perfect live/work loft in the heart of San Francisco? Look no further! We are thrilled to announce that 95 Bluxome is coming on the market and will be available for rent starting July 1, 2023. This incredible property, brought to you by Eric Baird and Joseph Johnston of the renowned team at ReLISTO, offers a versatile and comfortable living space that will exceed your expectations.

As you step inside, you’ll be captivated by the spaciousness of this three-level loft. The top floor boasts a magnificent master bedroom suite with breathtaking views, a private full bath, and ample closet space. The main level is an inviting space with soaring ceilings, a cozy gas fireplace, a wet bar, a fully equipped kitchen, an outdoor patio, and a full bathroom. Natural light floods in through the large windows, creating an airy and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the highlights of this property is the dream kitchen, featuring high-end appliances such as a large refrigerator with a double freezer, a cooktop range, a microwave, a dishwasher, a wine refrigerator, and a garbage disposal. The lower level offers a separate entrance, making it ideal for a second bedroom or a professional office. With built-in bookshelves, a convenient washer/dryer, and a delightful patio area, this level provides the perfect retreat.

Key features of 95 Bluxome include high ceilings, elegant wood flooring throughout, a patio and balcony with a BBQ for outdoor entertainment, street-level access on the lower level, and a top-floor conference area that adds to the versatility of this live/work loft. Moreover, you’ll have the convenience of an electric car charger in the two-car garage space, additional storage, and water and garbage included with rent.

Located in the vibrant Bluxome Street area, this loft is surrounded by a host of amenities. Within a short walk, you’ll find Caltrain, MUNI (N-Judah and T-Third Street), grocery stores, and a variety of restaurants. Bluxome Street itself has emerged as a retail and tech hub, making it an exciting and dynamic neighborhood. With an exceptional Walk Score and excellent biking and public transportation options, you’ll have everything you need within reach.

Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to rent a truly remarkable live/work loft. Contact Eric Baird and Joseph Johnson of ReLISTO today to schedule a viewing and discover the limitless possibilities that await you at 95 Bluxome. Be ready to make this extraordinary property your new home starting July 1, 2023.

Note: The availability and details mentioned in this blog post are subject to change.  For the direct link to the property, visit https://www.relisto.com/rentals/32223654

Berkeley Rent Board Fees Due July 3rd

Renting a home in Berkeley, California comes with certain regulations and requirements that both tenants and landlords must adhere to. One of these important obligations is the registration of rental units with the Berkeley Rent Board. The Rent Board has specific guidelines and fees for different types of rental units. In this blog post, we will explore the registration process and fees for partially-covered and fully-covered rental units in Berkeley.

LINKS:

 

Fiscal Year 2023-24 Registration Deadline: It’s essential for landlords to be aware of the upcoming deadline for rent board registration fees. For the fiscal year 2023-24, these fees must be paid by Monday, July 3, 2023. Failure to comply with this deadline may result in penalties or other legal consequences. Make sure to mark your calendars and fulfill your responsibilities promptly.

Partially Covered Unit Registration (Measure MM): The Rent Ordinance in Berkeley provides certain protections to partially covered units. These units are not subject to rent control but fall under the jurisdiction of the good cause for eviction and security deposit interest sections of the ordinance. The following rental units must be registered:

  1. New construction units: Units with a certificate of occupancy issued after 1980.
  2. Most single-family homes: Single-family homes fall under the partially covered category unless exempted.
  3. Most condominiums: Condos are also considered partially covered units unless exempted.

To learn more about exemptions, fees, and additional information regarding Measure MM registration, visit the Measure MM Registration page on the Berkeley Rent Board’s website. Alternatively, you can directly access the Rent Board’s online rent registry.

Fully Covered Unit Registration: Fully covered units are subject to rent control and additional regulations specified by the Rent Ordinance. After setting the initial rent for a new tenancy, landlords must comply with the Annual General Adjustment (AGA) set by the Rent Board for rent increases.

The following types of rental units fall under the fully covered category:

  1. Most units on multi-family properties built before June 1980.
  2. Single-family homes with current tenancies that began before 1996.
  3. Single-family homes with five or more rooms rented out individually with separate leases (each room is considered a unit).

For more information on exemptions, fees, and additional details regarding fully covered unit registration, visit the Fully Covered Unit Registration page on the Berkeley Rent Board’s website. The Rent Board’s online rent registry is also available for your convenience.

Conclusion: As a landlord in Berkeley, it is crucial to understand and comply with the Rent Board’s registration requirements and deadlines. By familiarizing yourself with the different categories of rental units and their corresponding fees, you can ensure that you fulfill your obligations and maintain a transparent and lawful rental process. Take the necessary steps to register your units and submit the required fees before the deadline to avoid any unnecessary penalties. For further information and clarification, refer to the Rent Board’s official website or contact them directly.

5 Star Landlord Review

Looking to rent an apartment from a great landlord? The landlord for this wonderful Sausalito Property just secured a 5 star review! relisto.com/rentals/694111

ReLISTO recognizes the significance of endorsing their landlords to quickly secure responsible tenants. To accomplish this goal, ReLISTO agents post reviews from prior tenants on our website within the ad promoting the property, highlighting the landlords’ qualities and exceptional services. These reviews serve as a powerful tool in attracting potential tenants, showcasing the positive experiences of previous renters. Renters are more likely to be drawn to an apartment managed by great landlords and feel comfortable renting from them. ReLISTO’s strategy to promote landlords through prior tenant reviews not only helps clients find responsible tenants quickly but also provides peace of mind for both tenants and landlords.

ReLISTO is a San Francisco-based real estate company that specializes in leasing and managing residential properties in the San Francisco Bay Area. Since its founding in 2008, the company has offered a wide range of properties in various locations throughout the Bay Area, catering to different budgets and preferences. ReLISTO is renowned for its personalized service, with a team of experienced agents who work closely with clients and customers to meet their goals.

 

San Francisco Security Deposit and Rent Increase Calculator Back Online!

Attention San Francisco Property Owners and Tenants! We have some exciting news for you! The San Francisco Security Deposit and Rent Board Fee Calculator is back online and continues to be free for all to use! Plus, we are happy to announce that the San Francisco Allowable Rent Increase Calculator has been reinstalled and is ready for general use!

The San Francisco Security Deposit and Rent Board Fee Calculator is an excellent tool for both property owners and tenants. This calculator helps determine how much security deposit interest landlords are to reimburse to their tenants while taking into account the amount landlords have paid the San Francisco Rent Board for their annual registration fees. With this calculator, tenants can also quickly figure out the accurate amount of interest their landlords are to reimburse them on their security deposit, giving them peace of mind and hassle-free discussions with their landlord.

As for the San Francisco Allowable Rent Increase Calculator, it tracks allowable increases and banked rent, making it an easy and usable tool for both landlords and tenants to refer to. This calculator is designed for both rent-controlled and non-rent-controlled San Francisco housing., helps landlords determine the maximum rent they can charge their tenants.

We understand the challenges that come with navigating the complex world of property rentals, leasing, and management. As such, we strive to provide you with the best tools to help you make informed decisions. These calculators are user-friendly and accessible to anyone, whether you are a seasoned landlord or a first-time tenant.

At ReLISTO, we are committed to making the renting experience as smooth and stress-free as possible. We hope that these calculators will be a valuable resource to both property owners and tenants in San Francisco. So head on over to our website and check out our calculators today! Both Calculators may be found using one single link https://www.relisto.com/calculators/

Thank you for choosing ReLISTO for your San Francisco Bay Area leasing and property management needs.

ReLISTO San Francisco Security Deposit Interest Calculator Updated

ReLISTO provides San Francisco a free calculator to determine the amount of security deposit interest due on funds held as security deposits.  The calculator has been updated to reflect the upcoming March rate. The rate of interest owed on deposits for the period March 1, 2023 through February 29, 2024 is 2.3%. The rate of interest owed on deposits for the period March 1, 2022 through February 28, 2023 is 0.1%.

Click Here To Use Calculator

 

December is one of the best months to rent your apartment

Landlords dread winter vacancies since there are fewer people seeking housing during this time of the year. Lets face it, there is a lot going on in December/January!  Here in San Francisco, not only are people enjoying the holidays, many leave town to visit with family, vacation or go skiing. This phenomenon applies not only to prospective tenants but to landlords and property managers as well. Many plan their yearly vacations during the slow months. and as a result, turnarounds take longer,  vacant properties will be held off the market (till the market gets better 🙂 )  or there will be fewer showings.

The fact that so many will keep their property off the market has become somewhat of a boon for us here at ReLISTO.  There are still people who need a place to live but are searching  in a much smaller pool of properties.  We leverage this for our landlords and continue showing our properties throughout the holidays. The end result is a fully executed lease, happy tenant and happy landlord.

For the 2022 Holidays ReLISTO is open for business.  Send us an email if you are in need of a qualified tenant for your vacancy or for year round property management services. We are here to serve.

Happy Holidays

Eric Baird
Lead Landlord Avocate

 

 

 

Don’t Let Lawmakers Force You to Stay in Business

Please contact your Assembly Member today and urge them to vote NO on two bills that threaten your right to sell your property, exit the rental housing market or move into your own home.

The following bills are on the Assembly Floor: AB 2050 (by Assembly Member Alex Lee, D-San Jose) and AB 2386 (by Assembly Member Richard Bloom, D-Santa Monica).

AB 2050 by Lee would require property owners to wait five years after purchasing a rental property before they can either sell the property or move in. AB 2386 by Bloom, meanwhile, would allow cities and counties to regulate the way in which owners hold property after converting from rental property to ownership property.

In rent control cities, one of the most common ways – and typically the only way – that owners can hold multifamily property after converting it from a rental property to ownership housing is as tenancy in common. Owners can then move in, along with other family members or individuals, and can each occupy a unit as their own.

Click here to send a letter.

Using Data to Secure Tenants Quickly & for Higher Rents!

Landlords Choose ReLISTO Agents Because We Do It Right

Landlords choose ReLISTO because we do it right. Our team is proactive, engaged, and prepared for any situation. Tracking data analytics on our landlords’ properties, ads, and more is one way that we accomplish this. In turn, this brings the highest quality of service to our landlords.

Why are Data Analytics Important?

Tracking data may seem like a mundane part of property management, but it is essential on decreasing vacancy time, getting the best rental rates for the current market, and securing qualified tenants.

Tracking numbers allows us to see important insights into a property’s performance. This data allows us to be proactive in marketing, interest, investment returns, and more. ReLISTO goes above and beyond with tracking data. This is why we’re able to secure quality tenants and high rents for our landlords while minimizing vacancy time and loss.

We know that your property is an investment for you, and we want to ensure you maximize your return and get the most out of your assets. 

It Starts With An Ad

When tracking data analytics, it starts with an ad. All of our property ads are syndicated on sites such as Zillow, Hot Pads, Trulia, Pad Mapper, and more, putting your property in front of as many prospective tenants as possible. All of our ads include stunning photography and videography to attract tenants and are optimized for SEO to ensure our ads are highly searchable to prospective tenants

What Data Does ReLISTO Track?

When tracking data, our team not only looks at the basics including phone calls about a property, rents on similar properties in the area, and how many showings a property has but at the more in-depth data as well. 

ReLISTO looks at the numbers to see how well our landlords’ properties perform on our syndicated rental sites.

How many people look at your ads? We look at these numbers to ensure that ads are performing as they should. We tweak SEO and marketing efforts when an ad isn’t getting the traction it deserves. 

Length of time someone spends looking at an ad. The longer someone looks at an ad, typically means they have a higher interest in the property. This is important data for gauging prospective tenants’ interest and is extremely helpful data in negotiations.

If someone looks at a property multiple times. When a prospective tenant returns to the ad multiple times, it often means they are highly interested, and can help with leverage in negotiations when the time comes.

If they are engaging with the ad. Are they sending the ad to someone else? Requesting more information? Saving it to their favorite? All of this is important data to know to gauge interest in a property.

Gauging prospective tenants’ interest in properties can help us be more aggressive in our negotiations. 

Talk to an agent today about letting ReLISTO care for you and your property, and track important data through data analytics.