Communication is a key part of any relationship, including that between a landlord and tenant. Good landlord-tenant communication practices can lead to a positive rental experience, even when times get tough. So what are the top tips for effective landlord-tenant communication?
Landlord-Tenant Communication Should Be Professional
The relationship between a landlord and their tenant should be strictly professional. Your tenant is a customer, in a sense, and should be treated as you would any other business relationship. This means maintaining a respectful and unemotional communication style. Smile and maintain eye contact when meeting face-to-face. Be aware of your non-verbals, such as crossed arms or other offensive or aggressive body stances. The key is to be friendly yet firm.
Keeping things professional is a good way to set up a productive relationship from the get-go and helps maintain order when things get rough. If you have a hard time interacting with your tenant in a professional manner or don’t have the time to do so, consider hiring a property manager like Real Property Management Colorado to maintain that relationship for you.
Be Flexible With Communication Styles
All of us have different preferences when it comes to how we like to communicate and be communicated with. Some prefer email or text, others phone calls. Some of us just want to meet face-to-face. When it comes to landlord-tenant communication, being flexible in how you communicate with your tenant can make a world of difference. Find out how your tenant prefers to be contacted, whether that’s phone, email, text, or even by mail. Some people rarely check their personal emails, so it may be more effective to reach out to them in a different manner. Some people prefer multiple means of communication, such as a follow-up email after a phone call. And while there are certain situations that require a specific type of communication method, be sure to communicate with your tenants in a way that you know they’ll receive the message.
More is Better
Over-communication isn’t always a bad thing, especially when relaying important information. You want to make sure that your tenants understand exactly what you’re telling them and that the conversation hasn’t been misinterpreted. Make sure you communicate clearly and effectively and that everyone involved understands exactly what you wanted to say. This means using your tone and body language as effectively as you do your words.
Remember We’re All Human
People in general want to build positive relationships. It’s just part of human nature. Keeping that in mind can be a great way to establish an effective landlord-tenant relationship that benefits all parties involved. So remember, keep it professional, communicate in ways that work for everyone, and ensure your message is clear. And at the end of the day, remember we’re all human.
