Thinking of renting your home?

 Once you become a landlord, it's your responsibility to provide a safe and healthful home for your tenants. Your city will likely require a home inspection before you rent out your home for the first time. Make sure your home is up to code before inspectors show up.

In addition, an updated and clean home will not only increase your likelihood of finding a tenant, but it will also allow you to charge higher rent. How you do this will vary, depending on the condition of your home. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Cleanliness is key. The cleaner your home is, the easier you can find a tenant.
• Make sure all rooms are freshly painted.
• Any valuable or unique light fixtures should be removed.
• Make sure to fireproof your home.
• Look at your plumbing; fix any leaks and toilet problems. If you're keeping the water bill in your name, install low-flow showerheads to cut down on water use.