Phil Querin Q&A

Phil Querin Q&A: What are the limitations on late fees?
Question:  What are the limitations on late fees?
Read the answer »
Phil Querin Q&A: Tenant Access to Their Records
  Question:  A resident wants to see their file kept by the landlord.  Does the landlord have to show the resident the file?    
Read the answer »

Mark Busch Q&A

Background Checks – Always
  This article is general in nature and is not intended as legal advice for any specific issue that might arise, since every situation is different. Always consult a knowledgeable landlord attorney with your specific legal issues.    A very recent court case highlights the ongoing importance of always conducting background checks on potential tenants.  …
Read the answer »
RV Eviction for Nonpayment of Pre-COVID Rent?
Question:  We have a couple living in a nice RV in our park on a month-to-month rental agreement.  They have been here for about two years, are retired, and have never had trouble paying the rent.  To make a long story short, we refused their rent earlier this year in January, February and March until we resolved a dispute with them regarding their dogs.  …
Read the answer »

Property Management

Fair Housing Alert: Hidden Flaws in ChatGPT, Bard, Bing, and Other Generative AI Products - Potentially Discriminatory
Like other real estate businesses, you may be using ChatGPT, Bard, Bing, and other generative AI products, a.k.a. chatbots, for marketing purposes, such as developing advertising strategies, analyzing housing markets, and generating property listings, ads, social media posts, and other marketing content. Just recognize that for all their potential benefits…
Read more »
Fair Housing Pitfall: Overly Restrictive Occupancy Standards
  While vital to prevent overcrowding, occupancy standards may violate fair housing rules to the extent they have the effect of excluding families with children. Spot the Discrimination Mistake A tenant who shares a one-bedroom apartment with her husband tells the landlord she’s pregnant with the couple’s first child. Along with a smile and warm…
Read more »