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
The True Cost of a Rental Turnover, Itemized (2024 Numbers)
A typical rental turnover runs $1,000 to $4,000 once you count cleaning, paint, repairs, and lost rent during the vacancy window.
The Treasurer's Monthly Close: A 7-Step Routine That Works
A disciplined HOA treasurer closes the books in the same 7 steps every month, reconciling bank accounts within 5 business days of statement close.
The Three-Strike Violation Process, Explained (2024 Guide)
Most cities give property owners three formal notices before a maintenance violation turns into a fine, lien, or court date.
The Subletting Clause: What to Spell Out Before Anyone Signs
A vague subletting clause is how landlords end up with a stranger in their unit and no lease to enforce against them.
The Smart Home Mistakes That Create Security Holes (2024)
Default passwords and shared guest networks turn smart doorbells and locks into open doors — here's how to close the four biggest gaps.
The Right Way to Unplug Appliances Before Vacation
Unplugging the wrong appliances before vacation can cost you food, warranties, or a flooded floor, so know which 8 to pull and which to leave alone.
The Right Way to Store Food After a Power Outage (2024)
A full freezer stays safe for 48 hours without power, but a half-full one only lasts 24 — know the line before you toss or keep food.
The Right Way to Store Batteries So They Don't Start Fires
Loose 9-volt and lithium-ion batteries cause thousands of US house fires yearly, and the fix is as simple as taping terminals and separating chemistries.
The Right-of-Entry Clause: What Notice Rules to Include (2024)
Most states require 24 to 48 hours written notice before a landlord enters an occupied rental, and your lease should spell out exactly how that notice gets delivered.
The Repair Response Timeline That Keeps Tenants Happy (2026)
24 hours for emergencies, 3-7 days for routine fixes — the repair timeline that keeps tenants renewing and courts on your side.
The Rental Application: What to Require Up Front (2024)
A solid rental application collects income proof, credit history, and references before you ever hand over a key, cutting eviction risk significantly.
The Refrigerator Setting That Wastes the Most Energy
Setting your fridge dial to the coldest number can waste 20-30% more energy without keeping food any safer, and most owners never check.
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