What Makes a Great Rental Property Foundation Property Management’s Must-Know Checklist
The best rental properties don’t happen by accident—they’re designed, maintained, and managed with intention. Whether you’re a property owner or a resident, a great rental makes all the difference. It’s the kind of home that feels safe, comfortable, and well cared for.
At Foundation Property Management, we know what it takes to keep both owners and residents happy. We’ve built a reputation in property management Memphis Tennessee by managing homes that residents are proud to call home—and that owners are proud to rent out.
So, what actually makes a great rental property? Let’s break it down.
Our approach to residential property management in Memphis is simple: treat every home like it matters—because it does. We manage properties in neighborhoods across Memphis, and we’ve seen what works and what doesn’t.
From the outside curb appeal to the plumbing under the kitchen sink, everything counts. That’s why we created this checklist: to help you (as an owner or a resident) understand what to look for—and what we prioritize.
Here’s our must-know checklist for rental property success.
At Foundation Property Management, we believe great homes build great communities. Here are the top features we look for—and maintain—across every rental we manage.
Before anyone signs a lease, the home should be fully ready to live in. That means everything works—and works safely.
Functioning smoke detectors
Secure windows and doors
No exposed wiring or leaks
Professional cleaning before move-in
Appliances are essential to daily life. A property without reliable appliances is one that causes stress—for both resident and owner.
Working refrigerator, stove, and oven
Washer and dryer (or laundry access)
Regular maintenance checks
Replacements when needed
First impressions matter. A clean yard, painted trim, and well-kept exterior give the home a cared-for feeling—and show that the property owner takes pride in it.
Lawn care or landscaping
Clean walkways and entryways
Secure and stylish exterior lighting
No chipped paint or broken fencing
Even the best-maintained homes will need repairs. What makes the difference is how quickly and professionally those issues get handled.
24/7 maintenance request system
Clear communication with residents
Fast vendor scheduling
Updates sent during service requests
The lease is the foundation of the rental relationship. We believe in setting clear expectations from day one—no surprises.
Easy-to-read lease terms
Clear rent amount and due dates
Policies for maintenance, guests, and pets
Transparent renewal process
Great rental properties attract great residents—the kind who stay longer, care more, and treat the home like it’s their own. And when homes are well maintained, residents are happier, owners see fewer costs, and everyone wins.
Ask yourself this:
Would you want to live in the home you’re renting out—or living in?
If the answer is no, something needs to change. That’s where a full-service property management company like FoundationPM comes in.
Memphis has a wide variety of rental neighborhoods—from historic Midtown to fast-growing suburbs. Each area comes with its own needs and expectations, and we tailor our property management services accordingly.
Here’s how we make sure our rentals stand out in Memphis:
We keep our properties compliant with local codes and safety standards
We build strong resident relationships based on respect
We regularly inspect properties and follow up on any issues
We value long-term leases with responsible residents
And we’re not just reactive—we’re proactive. We work to catch small issues before they become big ones. This saves money, keeps residents happy, and protects the value of the property.
This checklist isn’t just for owners—it’s for everyone involved.
For Owners: It protects your investment, improves cash flow, and reduces vacancy.
For Residents: It gives you peace of mind that your home is safe, clean, and cared for.
For Our Team: It helps us stay consistent and accountable in every property we manage.
At FoundationPM, we manage properties like people live in them—because they do. Our residents aren’t just tenants; they’re members of our community. That’s why we only take on properties we believe in.
Poorly managed properties create stress and expense. Here are just a few things that can happen without a strong property management plan:
Delayed repairs and frustrated residents
Unsafe living conditions or violations
Unhappy residents who leave early
Higher turnover and lost income
Damage that could’ve been prevented
No property is perfect—but with the right property management company, it can stay in excellent shape year after year.
At FoundationPM, we believe the best rental homes are clean, safe, and thoughtfully managed. They’re the homes people stay in—not just pass through. And when people stay, neighborhoods grow stronger, and investments become more stable.
If you’re a rental owner in Memphis and you want to work with a team that sees the bigger picture, we’re ready to help. Our full-service property management services take care of every detail, so your property stays in great shape—and your residents stay longer.
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