Karen or not, ensure that the community rules are applied consistently to every resident. By doing so, you establish a clear understanding of boundaries and expectations among all residents. Consistency in rule enforcement is not only appreciated by the entire community but also ensures compliance with Fair Housing guidelines. By treating everyone equally and upholding the rules uniformly, you create a fair and inclusive living environment for all residents.
ASK KARI: “Karen Tenants”: How to Keep the Drama at Bay
Kari Negri, CEO-SKY Properties • September 22, 2023
"Dear Kari, I’m about at my wit's end…One of my tenants is so demanding that it’s making me crazy. What should I do?"
Karen (Slang / Noun): A slang term originating from internet culture and popularized in the 2010s used to describe a stereotypical person, who exhibits entitled and demanding behavior. Typically associated with individuals who frequently complain, make unreasonable demands, and seek to assert authority over others in various scenarios; often characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a tendency to escalate minor issues into conflicts, and an expectation of receiving preferential treatment.
As property rent regulations continue to lean in the favor of tenants, dealing with tenants can get trickier. Now more than ever, tenants are savvier about what they are entitled to, and they are not afraid to speak up. At the very least, they expect proper living conditions and fair treatment, but sometimes entitlement creeps in and the requests surpass the basics. New air conditioning and heating, new flooring, extra parking, special privileges...the expectations from renters are higher than ever before. Many of today’s tenants will have no reservations about negatively hitting your social media or trying to rally city departments to get their way.
As landlords or property managers, we need to stay on top of tenant laws, keep communication open, and handle issues as fairly as possible. It’s all about building good relationships and making sure things run smoothly at our rental properties. However, what happens when you encounter a Karen tenant?
Ahh, the notorious Karen tenant. Brace yourself for a unique challenge! These tenants require exceptional patience and a tactful approach to address their concerns while maintaining a harmonious living environment for all. Karen tenants tend to believe they are always right, regardless of the facts, and have no qualms about causing disruptions or confrontations with landlords, property managers, or fellow residents.
Here are some tips to help you handle those Karen’s and assert your authority like a boss!
Tip 1: Enforce Building Rules Consistently
Tip 2: Document Everything
It’s crucial to maintain a detailed written log of a problem tenant’s behavior for future reference. This documentation serves as solid evidence in case legal action becomes necessary. Additionally, consider taking relevant pictures and, if possible, installing affordable security cameras to capture any Karen moments or rule violations. It is also important to keep copies of all letters or notices sent to the problem tenant about their behavior. By staying organized and having these records readily available, you’ll be well-prepared to address any issues that arise with the tenant in a clear and effective manner.
Tip 3: Keep Emotions Out of Documentation
Don’t let your emotions run wild when documenting the antics of a Karen or any problem tenant. Keep it cool, calm, and collected. Stick to the facts and avoid getting personal or biased in your documentation. By staying objective, you can maintain a professional approach and keep the focus on addressing the issues at hand. So, take a deep breath, put those emotions aside, and let the facts do the talking!
Tip 4: Serve 3-day Notices Quickly
Don’t dilly-dally when it comes to serving those 3-day notices, especially when dealing with troublemakers in your community. Not sure which notice to use? Here’s a helpful guide:
• If the tenant refuses to pay rent, serve the 3-day notice to pay or quit and stick to the timeline like glue! If your policy states that notices go out by the 5th of the month, make sure they’re on their doorstep by that day.
• If the tenant needs to stop specific behavior or acts within 3 days, like causing disturbances or restricting owner access to their unit, use the 3-day notice to perform or quit.
• If the tenant has violated the lease or committed a breach that cannot be fixed, use the 3-day notice to quit. Being prompt in your enforcement shows that you are serious and dedicated to maintaining peace in the community. So, don’t waste any time! Get those notices out and let the Karens know you’re on top of things!
Tip 5: File Immediate Police Reports for Any Illegal Activity
When you have a tenant causing a ruckus with their illegal activities, waste no time in dialing the police. It’s crucial to report those incidents pronto! Get to know your local police department’s Senior Lead Officer for your area or reach out to local law enforcement to figure out the best way to file reports. Taking swift action ensures you’re looking out for the safety and well-being of the whole community. So, don’t hesitate to make that call and show those troublemakers that their antics won’t fly in your building!
Tip 6: Raise Their Rent
If you’re dealing with a troublesome tenant, consider a rent increase. But first, check if your building is rent-controlled. You can increase the rent by any amount, just give proper notice beforehand. For rent-controlled units, know the regulations in your area for the allowable increase. Raising the rent not only keeps cash flow consistent but also gives problem tenants a gentle nudge to explore other housing options. Let’s face it, nobody wants to pay more, and maybe that’ll be the motivation they need to find a new place. Sometimes, despite your best efforts, there are tenants you can’t please. So, the best outcome is for them to move on.
Dealing with difficult tenants is just another aspect of property management. Just remember to stay cool, handle it with grace, and maintain a fair and inclusive living environment. Your professionalism and composure will set the tone for a harmonious community. So, keep your cool and manage like a boss!
This blog is from an original article by Kari Negri, published in the Apartment Age magazine from AAGLA https://aptnewsinc.com/aagla/2023aa09/#p=65
Kari Negri is the Chief Executive Officer of Sky Properties, Inc. and is a member of the Board of Directors of the Apartment Association of Greater Los Angeles. Do you have a question for Kari? Please send your questions and comments to Kari@SKYprop.LA.
SKY Blog & Media
Independent rental owners (IRO)—often referred to as “mom-and-pop” housing providers—are small-scale owners and operators making a difference in local communities across the country. Among the 49.5 million rental housing units in the U.S., nearly 46% of them are small rental properties, over 70% of which are owned and self-managed by small-scale owner-operators, according to the National Association of Realtors. IROs are, in many ways, the backbone of the affordable housing stock in many major cities nationwide. Here are two individuals who embody the essence of IROs with unique stories. Meet Lynnette Horton Lynnette Horton is a resident of Boise, Idaho, and for nearly two decades, she has skillfully managed her family’s extensive portfolio of 357 units. Following a career in law enforcement, Horton made a purposeful decision to join her family’s mission of providing housing to renters within her community. Horton and her company, CBW Properties, hold a unique perspective when it comes to their residents. To them, residents are not merely faceless unit numbers; they are regarded as an extension of their close-knit, family-like community. The company takes genuine delight in commemorating residents’ birthdays, sharing their moments of happiness, and extending a supportive hand during challenging times. Similarly, CBW Properties recognizes that vendors and suppliers are the lifeblood of their operations. When challenges arise, the team turns to these essential partners for resolution. In return, suppliers provide the vital materials that fuel the company’s endeavors. On an annual basis, CBW Properties expresses deep appreciation to their suppliers and vendors through a heartfelt appreciation BBQ, a warm gathering where they honor and celebrate these crucial contributors. This event is not limited to employees; it extends to include their families as well. Within their team, every member is embraced as a part of their close-knit family, guided by a simple yet powerful motto: “Work hard and play hard.” Horton’s company is also deeply committed to giving back to the community in various meaningful ways. They come together as a team to serve local shelters, deliver meals to the less fortunate during the holiday season, collaborate with nursing centers, and engage in a multitude of service projects. Their goal is to serve their community at least once per quarter, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to making a positive impact. Moreover, CBW Properties pays it forward by directly assisting those in need. Horton, in her role as the company’s Regional Manager, instills a sense of benevolence by offering a month’s rent to a deserving family who may be experiencing financial difficulties. She encourages her staff to identify families in need, and this act of kindness is not only a blessing to the recipients but also holds deep personal significance for Horton. She is acutely aware of the blessings she’s experienced in her career and recognizes the impact of providing countless families with the home they deserve, a place to cherish and respect, every single day. Meet Lorenzo Donatelli With only $50 in his pocket and a third-grade education, Lorenzo Donatelli’s venture to the United States marked the start of an incredible story. His first encounter with the English language unveiled the harsh realities of unfamiliarity and was a foreshadowing of the challenges ahead. Initially, Donatelli lived in a spare room with his aunt and uncle in Pacoima, a neighborhood nestled within the vast expanse of Los Angeles. He entered the workforce as an asphalt layer, a grueling job that he considered one of the most challenging. He later tried his hand at bricklaying before landing a job at General Motors (GM). With the assistance of his cousin, Donatelli secured a position as a floor sweeper at the GM assembly plant. On one occasion, a critical issue arose on the assembly line, prompting Donatelli to swiftly abandon his broom and step in to assist. This spontaneous action led to a summons to the office of the plant’s head, and initially, Donatelli feared he might face dismissal. To his surprise, the plant leader was deeply impressed by Donatelli’s initiative and promptly promoted him to the metal finish assembly line. Paired with an experienced employee, Donatelli received a crash course on the job. The mentor provided him with the tools of the trade and clear instructions. With a reassuring wave, the seasoned worker affirmed, “you’ve got this,” and indeed, Donatelli did. After about three years, Donatelli ran the entire division, working multiple shifts regularly. During this time, Donatelli was able to buy his first rental property, a house in Pacoima. With unwavering determination, he was able to pay for it in a year by working night and day. Driven by ambition, he decided to sell that house to buy a larger home in Burbank, where he carved out a one-bedroom and bathroom for himself and rented out the rest of the home to another family. He then saved every penny and purchased the house next door to rent out as well. Within five years, he had expanded his real estate portfolio and had bought most of the block while still living in his one room and paying off all debt owed. However, life took an unexpected turn, and after 15 years, a piece of equipment on the assembly line malfunctioned and he hurt his back, leaving him unable to work on the line and ending his time with GM. With vision and hard work, he went on to construct a 10-unit apartment building, a testament to his resilience and his commitment to the community he held dear. Today, this apartment building stands as a vibrant hub, housing numerous families and bearing witness to Donatelli’s unwavering dedication to shaping his neighborhood’s future. Donatelli’s story is a lesson in determination, resourcefulness, and the ability to turn challenges into opportunities. Through his hard work and investments, Donatelli not only improved his own life but also contributed to his community by providing housing for multiple families. It serves as an inspiration for anyone facing obstacles on their path to success, showing that with the right attitude and hard work, one can overcome difficulties and create a better future for themselves and their communities through real estate investment and management. —Powered by IRO Check out the original article published in the National Apartments Association's (NAA) March Digital Magazine .
Kari Negri, SKY CEO, shares insights on the numerous innovative ways apartment building owners can increase income from their rental properties. Multifamily building owners can maximize their assets' revenue by applying the sound advice she shares in the article. Kari shares her knowledge and expertise from over 27 years of providing expert property management in Los Angeles.
Kari shares insights on challenges faced by property owners in renting vacancies and why applying best practices in conducting market surveys and advertising are key factors in keeping apartment home occupancy at its optimum.
