Each year, the summer rental season has many constants with a few nuances. The reality is that no one knows when a rental season begins in earnest or when it shifts from the entire season or monthly to short term.
The rental season frequently depends on weather and the personal plans and prior experiences of both Landlords and Tenants.
Many tenants who might have begun a rental search late in the season one year, might commence their search early, to secure the rental they want. The 2014 rental season began almost immediately after Labor Day 2013, with the bulk of rentals finalized by the end of February 2014.
Find out what's happening in North Forkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
Customers often do a broad internet search for the ideal rental and email their selections for a scheduled tour, writing “this is what we want.” Because the majority of rental properties are listed with every real estate agency on the island, but with different photos, frequently the customers duplicate the search. Many rental listings are not updated when rented which only complicates the process.
This season, many Landlords who listed their properties after Easter took short term rentals or remained vacant. Those who listed late who priced below the next closest comparable rental succeeded in securing a tenant.
Find out what's happening in North Forkfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
There are many Landlords who are experienced in renting their homes and working with the real estate brokerage community. Their homes are easy to access, with minimal accessories and personalized décor, and in showable condition.
The transition from July to August rentals was thankfully drama-free, except a clogged toilet, unplugged dehumidifier, and tiles stained by hair dye.
Each year, new experiences bring an opportunity to learn. Because the island is a small community where homeowners can form bonds with their real estate agents, new Landlords sometimes mistakenly think their rental, once listed by an agency, cannot be shown by other real estate agencies. In fact, any property listed for rent through one real estate agency can be shown by another company, with the listing agency coordinating access without compensation.
Our company offers a rental checklist to manage tenant expectations, outlining how the home will be presented to the tenant, eg dresser drawers emptied, batteries new. Streamlining communication and encouraging the Landlord to leave details on how to operate the home and who the vendors are in case of emergency are the start of a positive rental.
Aside from bedroom count, inland or waterfront, pool or no pool, the criteria most requested is “clean”. Wise Landlords have a professional housekeeper, good handyman and a critical eye.
Penelope Moore - Lic. Associate RE Broker - Saunders & Associates - 917-208-5519 PMoore@Saunders.com
