Basics of Property Management: Screening Potential Tenants
First Time Renting A Car? 4 Tips To Help You Save Money
Jesse Obrien
If you are renting a car for the first time due to a business trip, family vacation, or moving to another state, below are five tips to help you save money. For example, you can make sure you get gas before you drop the car off, choose a compact car, and more.
Get Some Gas
Some car rental companies will charge you for gas if you bring the car back on an empty tank. Their gas prices will be much higher, so it will save you money if you make sure you bring it back with a full tank. Not all car rental companies require this, so make sure you ask.
Do Not Rent a Car at the Airport
It is convenient to rent a car at the airport, but it may cost more money. Check their prices, and then check a local car rental company and compare their rates. You may find there is a difference. Most car rental companies will pick you up, so you will not have to find a way to get there.
Choose a Compact Car
If you do not mind driving a compact car, you can save money by renting one. Rental companies charge less for compact cars, and the price goes up as the vehicles get larger. Many people do not like driving compacts, and most rental companies order more mid-size to full size vehicles. Because they do not have as many, they may not have one when you get there. If not, they will likely offer you a free upgrade.
Say No to Insurance
The clerk at the car rental company will offer to sell you insurance on your car, and you should decline. Check with your insurance company and ask if they will cover any damages. It is likely that they will cover rentals. In many cases, credit card companies will provide collision coverage, as long as you pay for the rental car using their card. If you are going on a long trip, talk with your insurance company about purchasing some travel insurance.
If you are renting a car outside of the country, your insurance or credit card company may not pay for damages, so make sure you check on this.
When going on a trip, it is beneficial to rent a car (such as from Hertz Clifton-Passaic Rent A Car). You will not have to put wear and tear on your car, and you may get a car that has better gas mileage.
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For the last several years, I've used a property management firm to help with my rental properties. One of the tasks that they handle for me is screening applicants who would like to move into one of my vacant units. Their expertise has helped me lower my tenant turnover and find people who want to stay with me for years. Part of the process is a tenant screening credit check. Before any further contact takes place, my manager orders credit reports from at least two agencies. That is enough to tell us if an applicant is a good financial risk. Assuming the references work out, I meet the candidate and make the final decision. If you own rental properties, let me tell you more about the benefits of having a property manager. I'm betting you'll find this type of arrangement will work for you too.