Columbia, a university city with a youthful college vibe, has fantastic eateries, incredible museums, artsy entertainment, and glorious natural attractions.

Cleanliness

The cleanliness of a rental property Columbia MO is one of the most important aspects to look for. If a rental is not clean, it won’t be easy to attract tenants and keep them there.

The landlord should ensure the property is hygienic and free of rodents and vermin. It should also be free of environmental contaminants such as mold and lead.

Another vital thing to check is the state of the plumbing and heating. There should be no clogged pipes or broken water heaters. It is also essential to have working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

These are not only good for the health of your tenants but also required under the law. Federal laws require landlords to provide a habitable rental. It must meet essential health, safety, and building codes.

Convenience

The opportunity for a consistent revenue stream exists when investing in rental property. However, you need to know how to manage your property effectively. It includes responding to tenants’ maintenance requests and adhering to all local housing and real estate laws.

Whether looking for a two, three, or four-bedroom apartment, you have options in Columbia. Use the search filters to reduce your possibilities and find a rental that suits your preferences.

When it comes to living comfortably, convenience matters. 

Size

While real estate investing can be lucrative, specific responsibilities are also involved. As a landlord, you must ensure your property is appropriately maintained and abides by all local regulations. Additionally, finding the right tenant for your investment would be best. A good tenant is reliable and complies with all lease agreement terms.

Energy Efficiency

Investing in a rental property can yield high returns and recurring income. However, it is crucial to do your research first. Ensure you understand the local market and how it is expected to behave in the future.

The city’s Climate Action Plan includes goals to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 35% by 2035, compared to the baseline. That is a significant reduction for a city the size of Columbia.

It includes weatherization efforts to help low-income households lower their electricity and natural gas costs. The city has pledged $250,000 over five years to fund Central Missouri Community Action’s Home Energy Assistance Program, which assists eligible homeowners. These services include insulation, air sealing, duct cleaning, and more. These efforts can lower a weatherized home’s average annual fuel usage by 35%.

Safety

Under Missouri landlord-tenant law, a landlord must provide a property that meets essential health, safety, and building codes. When a tenant finds that a landlord still needs to meet this obligation, they can withhold rent payments until the property is brought up to code.

A safe rental property is a home with proper smoke detectors, working fire extinguishers, and a functioning carbon monoxide detector. Additionally, the rental should be free of hazardous materials and pests. It should also have a secure, locked entryway with an alarm system or security gate. The rental should also have well-lit hallways and stairways and be insulated and weatherproofed. In addition, the landlord should follow local and state laws when collecting, storing, or returning a tenant’s security deposit.