The DIY Landlord Trap: When Leasing It Yourself Costs More

Many San Diego property owners start by leasing their homes on their own. At first, the process can seem straightforward.

But the work can quickly take more time than expected: dozens of inquiries, missed showings, incomplete applications, and questions that are not always easy to answer.

Leasing a home in California is more than posting a listing and picking a tenant. There are rules that protect tenants and landlords, and getting them wrong can be costly.

Here is where DIY landlords most often get caught:

Deposit Limits Changed. Since July 2024, most California landlords can only collect a security deposit of up to one month's rent, with limited exceptions for certain small landlords.

Screening Must Be Consistent. Every applicant must be held to the same written standards. Treating applicants differently, even unintentionally, can create Fair Housing problems.

Time Is a Cost. Every call, showing, and follow-up takes time. For busy owners, that time often costs more than they expected.

The market is fair, but it is not forgiving. Leasing on your own can work, but it works best when you know the rules before you start.

Next week, I am going to share the "Screening Standard" every landlord needs before accepting an application.