10 Common Mistakes New Landlords Make (and How to Avoid Them)

Click here to see our downloadable checklists to help you

Click here to download

Becoming a landlord can be rewarding — consistent rental income, property appreciation, and the satisfaction of owning real estate. But for first-time landlords, the learning curve can be steep. Small missteps often lead to unnecessary stress, lost income, and even legal issues.

Here are 10 common mistakes new landlords make — and practical ways to avoid them.

---

1. Skipping Tenant Screening

The mistake: Accepting the first applicant without properly checking credit, rental history, employment, or references.

How to avoid it: Always run background and credit checks, verify income, and call previous landlords. A reliable tenant is worth the extra effort.

2. Not Having a Strong Lease Agreement

The mistake: Using generic leases from the internet that don’t comply with local laws or cover key issues.

How to avoid it: Work with a property manager or real estate attorney to create a legally sound, detailed lease that protects both you and your tenant.

3. Underestimating Maintenance Costs

The mistake: Thinking rent is “pure profit” and not budgeting for repairs.

How to avoid it: Set aside at least 10–15% of your rental income for maintenance and unexpected expenses. A well-maintained property attracts better tenants and retains value.

4. Overpricing (or Underpricing) Rent

The mistake: Guessing rent prices without research.

How to avoid it: Analyse the local rental market, compare similar properties, and adjust based on amenities and location. Overpricing leads to vacancies; underpricing leaves money on the table.

5. Neglecting Property Inspections

The mistake: Assuming tenants will care for the property without oversight.

How to avoid it: Schedule regular inspections (with proper notice) to catch small problems before they become major repairs.

6. Failing to Understand Landlord-Tenant Laws

The mistake: Not knowing local regulations around evictions, security deposits, or fair housing.

How to avoid it: Research your state and city landlord laws—or partner with a property manager who already has this knowledge.(or in the future).

7. Getting Too Friendly with Tenants

The mistake: Blurring the line between professional and personal relationships, making it harder to enforce rules.

How to avoid it: Be approachable and respectful, but keep interactions professional. Enforce your lease consistently.

8. Delaying Eviction When Rent Isn’t Paid

The mistake: Letting late payments slide for months, hoping tenants will “catch up.”

How to avoid it: Have a clear late-payment policy, communicate expectations, and follow through with legal steps if necessary.

9. Not Keeping Proper Records

The mistake: Treating rental income casually and not tracking expenses, receipts, or communication.

How to avoid it: Use accounting software or property management tools to stay organised. Good records make tax season and legal disputes much easier.

You can also remind them of other resources you have on your website as well as paid services or events that you offer. Don’t be shy. They may have more questions after reading (or in the future). Invite them to leave comments below the post so they stay engaged.

10. Trying to Do Everything Alone

The mistake: Handling tenant screening, rent collection, maintenance, and legal compliance without help.

How to avoid it: Consider hiring a professional property management company. They’ll save you time, reduce risks, and help you maximise rental income.

Final Thoughts

Being a landlord doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right systems, knowledge, and support in place, you can avoid costly mistakes and build a smooth, profitable rental business.

👉 If you’d rather skip the headaches, our team at Maple Management Services can handle everything from tenant screening to maintenance and legal compliance. Contact us today to learn how we can help you manage your rental property with confidence.