How Landlords Save the World

The title of this entry is over-the-top, I admit, but I am just here to stick up for the landlords out there who are trying to do some good. The word “landlord” in itself has some negativity associated with it, and the use of “lord” in this context is distasteful in our American sensibility. In media, landlords are portrayed as misers ready to make a buck on the poor and take advantage of families.

Please!

Let me tell you about the landlords, the real estate investors, I know.

First and foremost, there is a commitment to maintain the property and keeping the tenant happy and comfortable, even with the high occupancy rate and the increasing rents. I am not suggesting any altruism here, but it is cheaper to keep than replace tenants. It only makes sense that tenants stay for a long-run, and take care of the property, as it is their home. Fostering that environment is essential for positive tenant-landlord relations, which is the relationship you want in between any consumer and supplier.

A rental property is a huge financial commitment and a landlord idiot enough to not take care of it and ensure it’s livability is ill suited for the job.

Yes, there are many terrible landlords out there. The worse of them are the ones who neglect their properties, fail to keep up with safety codes, and don’t treat their tenants with the respect they deserve. Just like in any occupation, in any aspect of humanity, there are some bad apples.

For more on tenant-landlord rights in Massachusetts, click here.

Ruth Lerner, Real Estate, Dwell360Ruth Lerner is a Senior Sale Associate with Dwell360, a residential real estate firm based in Boston and Newton Massachusetts. Ruth, as a part of Dwell360, services the cities and suburbs of metro Boston. Contact Ruth at Ruth@Dwell360.com or 617-807-0471