Okoniq Journal
Property tips, taxes & HOA guides
Plain-language guides for homeowners, landlords, and HOA boards — written to help you stay organized and keep more of your money at tax time.
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Getting Started
New to managing property? Start here.
Taxes & Accounting
Deductions, basis, Schedule E, and staying audit-ready.
Renting & Tenants
Leases, rent, screening, and tenant relationships.
Maintenance & Repairs
Upkeep, vendors, and keeping a home in shape.
Mortgage & Money
Financing, refinancing, insurance, and cash flow.
Buying & Selling
Valuation, prepping to sell, and the closing process.
HOA & Community
Boards, reserves, meetings, and living in an HOA.
Latest articles
Solo 401(k) for Real Estate Investors
A Solo 401(k) can hold real estate — providing tax-advantaged returns and huge contribution limits — but the rules on prohibited transactions and self-dealing are strict.
Short-Term vs Long-Term Rentals — The Trade-offs
Short-term rentals gross 2-3x long-term rent but with far higher costs, regulatory risk, and daily operational burden. Long-term stays are simpler but lower yield.
Selling With an Existing Mortgage
Selling with a mortgage is standard — sale proceeds pay off the loan at closing before disbursing balance to you. Timing your sale with your mortgage payoff is straightforward with title company coordination.
When to Sell in a Slow Market
In slow markets, only two strategies work: aggressive pricing at or below comps, or waiting. Middle-ground pricing means months on market and eventual painful discount.
Selling a House That's in a Trust
Selling a house held in trust follows the trust's terms and requires the trustee (not the grantor) to sign closing documents. Different if it's a living trust vs. deceased grantor's trust.
Self-Manage vs Hire a Property Manager
A property manager typically charges 8-12% of rent plus lease-up fees. It's worth it if you own multiple units, live far from your rental, or dislike tenant contact — not if you have one nearby rental.
Security Deposit Rules Every Landlord Should Know
State law controls how much you can charge, where to hold the funds, and when you must return them. Miss the state timeline and you can lose the right to deduct anything.
Section 8 Tenants — Pros, Cons, and Rules
Section 8 vouchers guarantee a portion of your rent from HUD directly — reliable income but with inspection requirements and slower move-in. In many states, refusing vouchers is illegal.
Should You Require Renter's Insurance?
Renter's insurance costs tenants $10-$20/month and protects both parties — you should require it in every lease. Most states allow this, and the reduced liability is worth it.
Repair vs Price Reduction — Which Wins?
After inspection, buyers often request repairs OR equivalent price reduction. Cash concessions usually win — they're clean, don't delay closing, and let buyers choose their own contractors.
How Often to Inspect Your Rental
Every 6-12 months is standard for a rental inspection — enough to catch problems early without harassing tenants. Always give proper notice and document what you find.
Rental Pet Policies — Dos and Don'ts
A pet policy can add rent income and expand your tenant pool — but service animals and emotional support animals aren't pets under fair housing law, and treating them as pets triggers real liability.
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