Key Takeaways
- Compliance and Tenant Selection Are Critical – Long-distance landlords must stay up to date with Texas landlord-tenant laws and screen tenants thoroughly to reduce risks, ensure compliance, and maintain a reliable rental income stream.
- Local Support Ensures Smooth Operations – Building a network of trusted contractors, neighbors, and service providers, or hiring a property manager, helps address maintenance needs promptly and provides on-the-ground oversight.
- Communication and Market Awareness Protect Investments – Consistent tenant communication, regular property check-ins, and monitoring local rental market trends allow landlords to maintain property value, reduce turnover, and maximize returns.
Managing a rental property from hundreds of miles away is no small task. Many Texas property owners live in other cities or even other states, yet still want to benefit from rental income. The challenge is making sure the property and tenants are taken care of and that legal requirements are met, all without being physically present.
The good news is that with the right approach and support, being a long-distance landlord can be both practical and profitable. Propertycare Property Management put together this article to help remote landlords understand what steps to take so their investment remains secure and productive.
Stay on Top of Texas Landlord-Tenant Laws
Texas has its own landlord-tenant rules that cover topics such as lease agreements, security deposits, and eviction procedures. There are also clear notice requirements for ending a lease or entering a property.
For long-distance landlords, keeping up with these rules can be challenging. Laws may change over time, and handling compliance issues from out of state is difficult. This is one of the main reasons many landlords choose to work with a property manager.
A local property manager understands Texas regulations and ensures that leases, deposits, and notices are handled properly. Having professional support helps landlords avoid costly mistakes and keeps their property in full legal compliance.
Screen Tenants Thoroughly and Rent to Reliable People
Since long-distance landlords cannot quickly respond to issues in person, it becomes even more important to rent to tenants who are reliable. Screening should always include checking credit history, confirming employment, and reviewing rental history. A thorough process helps ensure that tenants can pay rent on time and take care of the property.
It’s also helpful to meet prospective tenants virtually through video calls. This allows landlords to set expectations early and establish clear communication. Choosing tenants carefully reduces the risk of late payments, property damage, or lease violations, which can be very difficult to handle remotely.
Build a Reliable Local Support Network
Even the most reliable tenants will occasionally need repairs or maintenance. For landlords who don’t live near their property, having a network of trustworthy local professionals is essential. This network might include contractors, plumbers, electricians, and cleaning services.
In addition to service providers, it’s wise to establish relationships with neighbors or local contacts who can occasionally check on the property. Having people nearby who can provide updates gives landlords peace of mind and helps ensure that small issues do not grow into major problems.
Consider Hiring a Property Manager
Many landlords eventually decide to hire a property manager, especially when they own more than one property or live far away. A property manager can handle tasks such as tenant placement, rent collection, and routine maintenance. In the state of Texas, management fees are usually based on a percentage of the monthly rent, which is often worth the cost for the convenience and expertise provided.
Property managers also understand local regulations and market conditions, which reduces the risk of mistakes. For long-distance landlords, this professional support makes it possible to keep the property running smoothly while still enjoying the benefits of rental income.
Keep Communication Open and Consistent
Long-distance landlords should make communication a top priority. Tenants should know exactly how to contact the landlord or property manager when issues arise. Prompt responses build trust and prevent misunderstandings.
It’s also helpful to schedule regular check-ins with tenants. Even a simple email or phone call can go a long way in keeping tenants satisfied and reducing turnover. Consistent communication ensures that both the landlord and tenant are on the same page regarding rent, repairs, and property rules.
Monitor the Local Rental Market
The Texas rental market is competitive and can change quickly depending on the city or neighborhood. Long-distance landlords should monitor local rental rates, vacancy trends, and new developments.
Understanding the local market also helps landlords anticipate tenant needs. For instance, if new businesses or schools are opening nearby, the area may become more attractive to long-term tenants. Keeping up with market conditions ensures the property remains profitable and appealing to renters.
Schedule Regular Property Check-Ins
Even with reliable tenants and a strong support network, landlords should still make an effort to visit the property at least once a year. An in-person visit allows landlords to verify the condition of the home, address any concerns directly, and plan for future improvements.
If visiting in person is not possible, hiring a local inspector or property manager to conduct a walkthrough is another option. Regular check-ins protect the long-term value of the property and reassure tenants that their landlord is committed to maintaining a safe and comfortable living environment.
Bottom Line
Being a long-distance landlord in Texas comes with challenges, but it’s entirely manageable with the right approach. Staying informed about landlord-tenant laws, carefully selecting tenants, building a dependable local support system, and considering professional management are key steps. Consistent communication, regular property check-ins, and awareness of the rental market all help protect the property and maximize returns.
Propertycare Property Management specializes in helping landlords who live far from their investment properties. From tenant screening to maintenance coordination and local market insights, our property management team provides the on-the-ground support needed to keep rental homes in excellent condition. If you own property in Texas and want peace of mind while living elsewhere, contact us today to learn how we can help manage your property successfully!