The rental market in St. Johns County, FL, is thriving. As of April 2025, the median rent for all property types was $2,400, approximately 31.94% higher than the national average. This upward trend indicates a strong demand for rental properties in the area.
But here's the thing: desire for property ownership alone isn't enough. If you want consistent rent payments, reliable tenants, and peace of mind, you need to set yourself up the right way from day one. That means getting your house ready to rent out by understanding the laws, protecting your investment, and handling the details like a pro, not just posting a "For Rent" sign and hoping for the best.
The good news? You don't have to figure it out on your own. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about preparing your house for rent—clearly, simply, and with the confidence of someone who has done it professionally.
Step 1: Know the Laws Before You List
The first thing you need to do before even thinking about tenants is understand the rules. Renting out your house means you’re stepping into the role of landlord, and that comes with responsibilities—legal ones.
Get familiar with:
- Local landlord-tenant laws in Florida
- Local zoning laws and building codes
- Federal regulations like the Fair Housing Act
- Tax deductions and state tax laws
Don’t skip this step. Talk to a real estate attorney or a local property management company in St. Johns County to help you become compliant and avoid future fines or lawsuits.
Step 2: Make Necessary Repairs and Upgrades
A rental business property is an asset. If something’s broken, old, or unsafe, fix it. You want the place to be move-in ready for tenants who will respect and care for it.
When getting your house ready to rent out, focus on:
- Major repairs (roof, plumbing, electrical)
- Cosmetic upgrades that improve curb appeal
- Safety items like smoke detectors and secure locks
It’s tempting to cut corners here, but a solid, well-maintained home attracts reliable tenants and helps you collect rent on time without stress.
Step 3: Price It Right for the Local Market
You can’t just pick a rent number out of thin air. Setting your rent price too high can deter potential tenants. Too low, and you’re leaving money on the table.
Do your homework. Look at rental listings for similar properties in St. Johns County. What are other landlords charging for properties of a comparable size, condition, and location? A local property manager or real estate agent can also help you lock in a smart, competitive monthly rent.
And don’t forget—your rental revenue is taxable income. You’ll want that number to make sense once you factor in maintenance costs, property taxes, landlord insurance, and mortgage interest.
Step 4: Protect Yourself with the Right Insurance
Homeowners' insurance won’t cut it anymore. You’ll need a landlord insurance policy to cover things like property damage, liability, and loss of rental income.
Also, when getting your house ready to rent, require your tenants to carry renters' insurance. It’s a small monthly cost for them, but it provides you with peace of mind in case of accidents or damage.
Step 5: Stage and Market Your Rental Property
People don’t just rent houses—they rent lifestyles. Clean, declutter, and stage your rental home to make it shine in photos and showings.
Here’s what helps:
- Deep clean every room, inside and out
- Use natural light to your advantage
- Take high-quality, well-lit photos
- Write a clear, engaging rental listing
If marketing’s not your thing, a property management company in St. Johns County can handle all of this for you, including promoting your listing on multiple platforms.
Step 6: Screen Potential Tenants Carefully
You’re not just looking for someone who can pay rent—you’re looking for someone who will pay rent, on time, and take care of your property.
When getting your house ready to rent out, a good tenant screening process includes:
- Reviewing credit scores and credit reports
- Verifying employment and income
- Checking landlord references
- Running a background check (where allowed)
This step is where great landlords separate themselves from those who end up in court. Be thorough and fair. To avoid issues with discrimination, always follow the Fair Housing Act.
Step 7: Prepare the Lease Agreement
A handshake deal won’t cut it. A detailed lease agreement is your safety net.
Your lease should clearly outline:
- Monthly rent amount and due date
- Late fees and payment methods
- Security deposit terms
- Maintenance responsibilities
- Rules about guests, pets, and smoking
- Renters insurance requirements
Use a lease that aligns with Florida's laws. Again, a property manager or local attorney can help you create a strong one. Have tenants sign the lease and keep a copy for your records.
Step 8: Do a Move-In Inspection (and Document Everything)
Before the tenant moves in, walk through the property together and document its condition. Take photos, note any pre-existing wear and tear, and have the tenant sign off on it.
This step can save you serious drama when getting your house ready to rent out and you’re not sure whether to return the security deposit or not.
Step 9: Set Up Rent Collection the Smart Way
The days of knocking on a door for rent payments are long gone. Make it easier when you:
- Collect rent online through a property management platform
- Use automated payment apps
- Opt for direct bank transfers
The payment terms should be included in the lease, and it should be clear when and how tenants are expected to pay rent. Consistent systems lead to consistent income.
Step 10: Decide How Hands-On You Want to Be
Here’s the big question: Will you manage the property yourself or hire a professional?
When getting your house ready to rent out, self-managing gives you control and saves on tenant management fees, but it also means handling midnight plumbing calls, chasing down late rent, and staying up to date with legal updates.
Hiring a property management company in St. Johns County means:
- Better tenant screening process
- Legal and lease compliance
- Hands-off rent collection and maintenance
- Local rental market expertise
For many rental property owners and real estate investors, the peace of mind is worth the cost.
Partner With Round Table to Turn Your Home Into a Passive Income Stream!
Getting your house ready to rent out takes more than listing it on a website and handing over the keys. When done right, owning rental property can generate income, offer tax benefits, and even lead to long-term wealth.
Follow this step-by-step guide to protect your property, your time, and your bottom line. And if it starts to feel like too much? That’s what we’re here for.
At Round Table Property Management, we help St. Johns County homeowners and real estate investors rent their properties with confidence. From screening tenants and rent collection to full-service property maintenance, our team makes renting out your property a smart and stress-free move.
Schedule your FREE consultation with us today to help you turn your home into a high-performing rental without the guesswork.
FAQs When Renting Out Properties
Should I rekey the locks before new tenants move in?
Yes, it's advisable to rekey or replace the locks before new tenants take occupancy. This ensures that previous tenants or individuals with old keys can no longer access the property, enhancing its security and providing peace of mind to your potential renters.
Do I need to provide tenants with renters' insurance?
While it’s not legally required for landlords to provide renters' insurance, it’s a good idea to encourage tenants to get their own policy. This insurance protects the tenant’s belongings in case of damage or theft, and it can also protect you from potential liability issues. You can include this requirement in the lease agreement for added peace of mind.
Should I allow pets in my rental property?
Deciding whether to allow pets is a personal choice, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. Allowing pets can increase the pool of prospective tenants and may even justify a higher rental price or a pet deposit. However, it can also increase the risk of property damage or require additional cleaning. If you decide to allow pets, be sure to outline your pet policies in the lease agreement clearly.
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