How to Start a Home Rental Business

In the rental property industry, entrepreneurs invest in one or more single family homes. These income-producing properties are either self-managed by the owner or by a property management company. Owners lease their rental units out to tenants in exchange for rental fees.

Ready to turn your business idea into a reality? Tailor Brands is our top recommendation because it guides you through every step of the formation process with hands-on support — from paperwork and compliance to devising a detailed plan to help you achieve your business goals.

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Start a home rental business by following these 10 steps:

  1. Plan your Home Rental Business
  2. Form your Home Rental Business into a Legal Entity
  3. Register your Home Rental Business for Taxes
  4. Open a Business Bank Account & Credit Card
  5. Set up Accounting for your Home Rental Business
  6. Get the Necessary Permits & Licenses for your Home Rental Business
  7. Get Home Rental Business Insurance
  8. Define your Home Rental Business Brand
  9. Create your Home Rental Business Website
  10. Set up your Business Phone System

We have put together this simple guide to starting your home rental business. These steps will ensure that your new business is well planned out, registered properly and legally compliant.

Exploring your options? Check out other small business ideas.

STEP 1: Plan your business

A clear plan is essential for success as an entrepreneur. It will help you map out the specifics of your business and discover some unknowns. A few important topics to consider are:

Luckily we have done a lot of this research for you.

What will you name your business?

Choosing the right name is important and challenging. If you don’t already have a name in mind, visit our How to Name a Business guide or get help brainstorming a name with our Home Rental Business Name Generator

If you operate a sole proprietorship, you might want to operate under a business name other than your own name. Visit our DBA guide to learn more.

When registering a business name, we recommend researching your business name by checking:

  • Your state’s business records
  • Federal and state trademark records
  • Social media platforms
  • Web domain availability

It’s very important to secure your domain name before someone else does.

What are the costs involved in opening a home rental business?

Financing for investment properties is very different from securing a personal home loan. Rules change periodically, so make sure you understand the down payment required prior to making any major decisions. Under today’s financing, investors who own more than four rental properties are expected to put down 25%. 20% down is required for entrepreneurs who own less than four. If you have enough cash flow to pay for your investment in full, consider this decision carefully. Many investors recommend using this capital to purchase multiple properties. This should increase both your monthly income and long-term equity.

Each rental property should have adequate insurance to protect both the property and your liability. A portion of your budget should also be set aside to make any necessary improvements and to maintain the property.

What are the ongoing expenses for a home rental business?

There are a number of expenses associated with a home rental business. Seek guidance from other professionals in the community or organizations such as the Institute of Real Estate Management when setting a budget and rental rates.

  • Standard expenses include:
  • Maintenance
  • Repairs
  • Property taxes
  • Loan interest
  • Insurance
  • Some landlords absorb the cost of lawn maintenance, while others require their tenants to cover these costs.

Who is the target market?

When considering potential investments, consider your target market. Do you want to fill your portfolio with HUD housing or do you wish to target tenants in a different demographic? While both are positive investments, defining your demographics will ensure you purchase property that can yield your target returns.

How does a home rental business make money?

As a landlord, you will collect rent from each of your tenants on a monthly basis. This does not, however, guarantee that your investment will generate passive income. When determining your rental rates, carefully consider all ongoing expenses. Collecting rent higher than the property’s expenses will ensure an income each month. Entrepreneurs just starting out in this industry are urged to invest in properties that can generate a steady cash flow and to set money aside each month for unexpected expenses that will come up from time to time.

The most significant income, however, comes from your long-term investment. The equity in each property will be a meaningful asset in your portfolio. A majority of rent collected will go towards your business’ profits and, when you so choose, you can sell the home at a higher price than your initial investment.

How much can you charge customers?

Rental fees vary based on location, the specifics of the property, and landlord costs. When setting your rates, carefully consider all costs.

How much profit can a home rental business make?

Profit is directly tied to the number of properties you own, loan amounts, ongoing expenses, and the amount of rent you charge. A professional accountant should be able to assist you in determining your rate of return on investment prior to purchasing.

How can you make your business more profitable?

The most obvious way to increase your profits is to invest in as much quality property as possible. Investors are urged to minimize costs and pay off loans as quickly as possible. Many business owners opt to partner with another investor, significantly reducing expenses and responsibilities.

Want a more guided approach? Access TRUiC’s free Small Business Startup Guide – a step-by-step course for turning your business idea into reality. Get started today!

STEP 2: Form a legal entity

One crucial aspect that cannot be overlooked when starting your home rental business is the importance of establishing a solid business foundation. While sole proprietorships and partnerships are the most common entity types for small businesses, they’re a far less stable and advantageous option than LLCs.

This is because unincorporated business structures (i.e., sole proprietorships and partnerships) expose you as an owner to personal liability for your business’s debts and legal actions, while LLCs protect you by keeping your personal assets separate from your business’s liabilities.

In practice, this means that if your home rental business were to face a lawsuit or incur any debts, your savings, home, and other personal assets could not be used to cover these costs. On top of this, forming your business as an LLC also helps it to appear more legitimate and trustworthy.

Ready to Turn Your Business Idea Into a Reality?

Tailor Brands is our top recommendation because it guides you through every step of the formation process with hands-on support — from paperwork and compliance to devising a detailed plan to help you achieve your business goals.

FORM YOUR LLC

Note: If you’re interested in more information before getting started, we recommend having a look at our state-specific How to Start an LLC guide (DIY) or our in-depth Best LLC Services review (for those opting for a professional service).

STEP 3: Register for taxes

You will need to register for a variety of state and federal taxes before you can open for business.

In order to register for taxes you will need to apply for an EIN. It’s really easy and free!

You can acquire your EIN through the IRS website. If you would like to learn more about EINs, read our article, What is an EIN?

There are specific state taxes that might apply to your business. Learn more about state sales tax and franchise taxes in our state sales tax guides.

STEP 4: Open a business bank account & credit card

Using dedicated business banking and credit accounts is essential for personal asset protection.

When your personal and business accounts are mixed, your personal assets (your home, car, and other valuables) are at risk in the event your business is sued. In business law, this is referred to as piercing your corporate veil.

Open a business bank account

Besides being a requirement when applying for business loans, opening a business bank account:

  • Separates your personal assets from your company’s assets, which is necessary for personal asset protection.
  • Makes accounting and tax filing easier.

Recommended: Read our Best Banks for Small Business review to find the best national bank or credit union.

Get a business credit card

Getting a business credit card helps you:

Recommended: Apply for an easy approval business credit card from BILL and build your business credit quickly.

STEP 5: Set up business accounting

Recording your various expenses and sources of income is critical to understanding the financial performance of your business. Keeping accurate and detailed accounts also greatly simplifies your annual tax filing.

Make LLC accounting easy with our LLC Expenses Cheat Sheet.

STEP 6: Obtain necessary permits and licenses

Failure to acquire necessary permits and licenses can result in hefty fines, or even cause your business to be shut down.

State & Local Business Licensing Requirements

Certain state permits and licenses may be needed to operate a home rental business. Learn more about licensing requirements in your state by visiting SBA’s reference to state licenses and permits.

Most businesses are required to collect sales tax on the goods or services they provide. To learn more about how sales tax will affect your business, read our article, Sales Tax for Small Businesses.

Certificate of Occupancy

If you grow your business to the point where you own multiple properties, it is likely your business will be run out of an office.  Businesses operating out of a physical location typically require a Certificate of Occupancy (CO).  A CO confirms that all building codes, zoning laws and government regulations have been met.

  • If you plan to lease a location:
    • It is generally the landlord’s responsibility to obtain a CO.
    • Before leasing, confirm that your landlord has or can obtain a valid CO that is applicable to a home rental business.
    • After a major renovation, a new CO often needs to be issued. If your place of business will be renovated before opening, it is recommended to include language in your lease agreement stating that lease payments will not commence until a valid CO is issued.
  • If you plan to purchase or build a location:
    • You will be responsible for obtaining a valid CO from a local government authority.
    • Review all building codes and zoning requirements for your business’ location to ensure your home rental business will be in compliance and able to obtain a CO.

STEP 7: Get business insurance

Just as with licenses and permits, your business needs insurance in order to operate safely and lawfully. Business Insurance protects your company’s financial wellbeing in the event of a covered loss.

There are several types of insurance policies created for different types of businesses with different risks. If you’re unsure of the types of risks that your business may face, begin with General Liability Insurance. This is the most common coverage that small businesses need, so it’s a great place to start for your business.

Another notable insurance policy that many businesses need is Workers’ Compensation Insurance. If your business will have employees, it’s a good chance that your state will require you to carry Workers’ Compensation Coverage.

Find out what types of insurance your Home Rental Business needs and how much it will cost you by reading our guide Business Insurance for Home Rental Business.

STEP 8: Define your brand

Your brand is what your company stands for, as well as how your business is perceived by the public. A strong brand will help your business stand out from competitors.

If you already have a logo, you can also add it to a QR code with our Free QR Code Generator. Choose from 13 QR code types to create a code for your business cards and publications, or to help spread awareness for your new website.

How to promote & market a home rental business

Most cities across the United States have a real estate investment club. Networking with other members will prove invaluable. Most are willing to share the knowledge they have gained over years in the industry. This should include strategies regarding finding quality tenants. Marketing techniques vary based on demographics, but landlords have found success through: rental sites, newspaper ads, realtors, word of mouth, and social media.

How to keep customers coming back

Tenant retention is the most effective way to maintain profits and avoid destruction of property. A thorough screening process is important. Once your tenant moves in, try to maintain a balanced relationship. Check in periodically, but give them their space. Avoid large increases in rent at lease renewal. Most importantly, when a renter calls about a complaint or issue, work to resolve the problem swiftly and at minimal inconvenience to them.

STEP 9: Create your business website

After defining your brand and creating your logo the next step is to create a website for your business.

While creating a website is an essential step, some may fear that it’s out of their reach because they don’t have any website-building experience. While this may have been a reasonable fear back in 2015, web technology has seen huge advancements in the past few years that makes the lives of small business owners much simpler.

Here are the main reasons why you shouldn’t delay building your website:

  • All legitimate businesses have websites – full stop. The size or industry of your business does not matter when it comes to getting your business online.
  • Social media accounts like Facebook pages or LinkedIn business profiles are not a replacement for a business website that you own.
  • Website builder tools like the GoDaddy Website Builder have made creating a basic website extremely simple. You don’t need to hire a web developer or designer to create a website that you can be proud of.

Recommended: Get started today using our recommended website builder or check out our review of the Best Website Builders.

Other popular website builders are: WordPressWIXWeeblySquarespace, and Shopify.

STEP 10: Set up your business phone system

Getting a phone set up for your business is one of the best ways to help keep your personal life and business life separate and private. That’s not the only benefit; it also helps you make your business more automated, gives your business legitimacy, and makes it easier for potential customers to find and contact you.

There are many services available to entrepreneurs who want to set up a business phone system. We’ve reviewed the top companies and rated them based on price, features, and ease of use. Check out our review of the Best Business Phone Systems 2024 to find the best phone service for your small business.

Recommended Business Phone Service: Phone.com

Phone.com is our top choice for small business phone numbers because of all the features it offers for small businesses and it’s fair pricing.

Is this Business Right For You?

Many people are drawn to this business venture, as they recognize the short and long-term value of investing in real estate. Through their tenants’ rent payments, owners are able to successfully manage each property’s mortgage and expenses, while building equity and further expanding their portfolio. Those with discipline and a sound business plan are able to reach their passive income goals on schedule and under budget. This business is not right for everyone, however. Successful home rental business owners must be confident enough to take investment risks and disciplined in saving money, both for additional investments and to ensure their current investments are properly maintained.

Want to know if you are cut out to be an entrepreneur?

Take our Entrepreneurship Quiz to find out!

Entrepreneurship Quiz

What happens during a typical day at a home rental business?

Until you have accrued a great deal of property investments, the home rental business will typically not require your attention on a daily basis. In fact, many business owners choose to use this as their primary source of income, while working on part-time projects they are passionate about.

Your responsibilities include:

  • Finding and screening tenants when one of your properties comes up for rent.
  • Having leases drawn up and signed by both you and your tenants.
  • Managing properties, handling issues as they arise.
  • Researching common repairs that are typical in rental properties and interview contractors, plumbers, and/or handymen, etc. that can handle problems you are unable to address yourself.
  • Networking within the community would also prove beneficial. Many property owners choose to join local real estate investing associations. This can lead to potential business partners. Additionally, the contacts you make will prove invaluable in ensuring you are able to manage your property successfully and economically.

What are some skills and experiences that will help you build a successful home rental business?

Success in this business requires a certain set of skills. You must possess strong business acumen and understand the intricacies of real estate investment. Not all properties are created equal. If this is not a personal strength, consider seeking the advice of someone more knowledgeable on the subject.

Being a landlord is not as easy as many make it sound. It is important that you treat it like a business. This means being financially frugal during the initial years, maintaining the property at all times, and making difficult decisions regarding tenants who are not fulfilling their lease responsibilities.

A personable personality and the ability to make connections spanning a broad spectrum of people would also prove beneficial. Connecting with others will help keep your tenants around for years. It could prove beneficial when a property needs attention that is outside of your capabilities.

New investors are urged to attend REIA meetings. A Landlord’s Association is also recommended. These groups will offer support and education throughout your journey. They also provide access to business tools such as lease contracts, tenant application forms, and credit search services.

What is the growth potential for a home rental business?

This business venture offers significant opportunity for growth. While some landlords choose to stick to local investments, the only real limitations are available cash flow and your personal vision. Many entrepreneurs choose to expand their portfolio to include properties across the country, or even the world. When considering investment opportunities outside of your region, it’s important to conduct thorough research. Not all properties increase in value or offer enough rent to cover all expenses.

Take the Next Step

Find a business mentor

One of the greatest resources an entrepreneur can have is quality mentorship. As you start planning your business, connect with a free business resource near you to get the help you need.

Having a support network in place to turn to during tough times is a major factor of success for new business owners.

Learn from other business owners

Want to learn more about starting a business from entrepreneurs themselves? Visit Startup Savant’s startup founder series to gain entrepreneurial insights, lessons, and advice from founders themselves.

Resources to Help Women in Business

There are many resources out there specifically for women entrepreneurs. We’ve gathered necessary and useful information to help you succeed both professionally and personally:

  • Funding
  • Events
  • Guides
  • Support

If you’re a woman looking for some guidance in entrepreneurship, check out this great new series Women in Business created by the women of our partner Startup Savant.

What are some insider tips for jump starting a home rental business?

Successful home rental business owners indicate they have made a lot of mistakes throughout their years in the industry. To help set you up for success, they offer the following tips:

  • Leave no stone unturned when writing your lease agreement. If it is not written down, tenants will find a way around your rules.
  • Self management vs. hiring a property management company – They each have their own benefits and drawbacks. Property managers charge a monthly rate, cutting into your profits. Without their assistance, however, you are responsible for handling every issue that comes up. This can prove challenging, particularly if you own rental properties in other parts of the country. If you are considering hiring a property manager, Biggerpockets shares the critical questions you should ask prior to making a decision.
  • Carefully consider your target demographic prior to investment. Ask yourself – Is this in a good neighborhood? What size homes are they looking to rent? What is their price point? Is a quiet street and/or a fenced in backyard important to them?
  • Keep in mind that problems are guaranteed to come up. Don’t get caught off guard. Plan and save accordingly.
  • Have a defined exit strategy. Do you want to maintain your investments until retirement or sell in ten years? Timelines can be adjusted, but it’s important to have a plan of action.
  • Conduct background checks on every potential tenant. When you find one that pays on time and maintains the property, do what you can to keep them, even if it means reducing your profits a small percentage.
  • Remember, this is a business. Stick to the terms of the agreement. If you give tenants a little leeway, they will make it a habit to take as much as they can from you.

How and when to build a team

As previously mentioned, building a team is a matter of personal preference. With the right skills, knowledge, and time, much of your business can be run without assistance. When physical issues, such as roof replacement, electrical work, or plumbing come up, you will want to consider hiring a professional to tackle the problem. Many property owners welcome the peace of mind that comes with having a management company maintain their rentals. Additionally, a financial advisor, attorney, and/or respected insurance agent could prove a valuable asset to your team.

Useful Links

Industry Opportunities

Further Reading