RENT Magazine discusses the latest investing, legal, screening, and tech trends in the rental industry. Contributors include attorneys, tax experts, investors, and real estate influencers. Stay in the know and read RENT Magazine for FREE.
TENANT SCREENING AND AI: ALLIES IN FIGHTING FRAUD PAGE 05
SUMMER 2025
THE AI RENTAL REVOLUTION
TOP 3 MOVE-IN SCAMS TARGETING LANDLORDS PAGE 15
THE FUTURE OF FAIR HOUSING IN AN AUTOMATED WORLD PAGE 63
LANDLORDS ARE USING AI 19 SMART WAYS PAGE 54
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THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN APARTMENT OWNERS ASSOCIATION
AAOA.COM
TEAM VP Robbie Cronrod Editor in Chief Alexandra Alvarado Contributing Editors Allen Artcliff-Cronrod Nancy Abrams Jessica McKee Contributors Al Romero Allen Artcliff-cronrod Adrian Smude Andrew Zang, Esq.
CONTENTS
Ashley Kehr Bob Knakal Christian Walsh David Lazarra Dwight Kay David Bunch Destiny Roxas Frank Jachetta Grant Burwash Grant Roscoe Gita Faust Jason Malabute
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TENANT SCREENING AND AI: ALLIES IN FIGHTING FRAUD
SHOULD YOU KEEP, SELL, OR EXCHANGE YOUR RENTAL? HERE’S HOW TO DECIDE
MOST LANDLORDS MISS THIS, AND IT’S COSTING THOUSANDS
Joshua Christensen Kathelene Williams Kayla Mahoney Kaylee McMahon Kevin Amoroso Mike Orlando Mendel Minkowitcz Mike Klijanowicz Noam Grebel Nancy Abrams Omid Ghanandiof Pam Goodwin Richard D. Gann, J.D. Remi Wesley-Ogude Rick Albert Robyn Wonnell Shaun Bruno Shiral Torres Steve Pletz Taher Hassonjee Tim J. Vander Heiden J.D.
TOP 3 MOVE-IN SCAMS TARGETING LANDLORDS AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF LIVING IN THE AGE OF AI: MUST-READ BOOKS FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTORS
WILL AI REPLACE YOUR EVICTION LAWYER?
CELEBRITIES ON THE MOVE
SMARTER SHOWINGS: HOW AI IS CHANGING THE WAY YOU MARKET AND MANAGE RENTALS
Tara Samuels Taylor Avakian Terrie Schauer
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Welcome to RENT! It’s hard to get through a day without hearing more about artificial intelligence (AI) and how it is taking over the business world. But what exactly is it and how is it relevant to the multifamily industry? In this issue of RENT, we will explain what AI is and how it can be used to make the multifamily industry more efficient. We look at whether it can replace your eviction lawyer, combat application fraud and how it is changing the way you market and manage rentals. We have surveyed 19 real estate industry professionals to learn how they are using artificial intelligence and have added a rundown of books on AI for real estate investors. We also help you manage your money with advice on whether it’s time to sell your rental property and how to prepare for a 1031 exchange. On the tenant side, don’t miss how to protect yourself from the top three move-in scams, utilize dispute resolution and when to employ a rental collection agency. Learn about the danger of door thresholds and how they are impacted by the Fair Housing Act. On the lighter side, discover Athens, GA, in Rental Radar and don’t miss Celebrities on the Move. This issue’s buyers and sellers include well known actors, singers and Wonder Woman. We hope that the rest of the summer brings you good times and great tenants who always pay their rent on time. Happy reading!
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5 REASONS TO USE A RENTAL COLLECTION AGENCY HOW AI-POWERED INSPECTIONS ARE HELPING CALIFORNIA LANDLORDS COMPLY WITH BALCONY LAWS
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RENTAL RADAR: ATHENS GA
REIMAGINING PROPERTY MANAGEMENT: HOW AI INNOVATION IS RESHAPING THE INDUSTRY 19 SMART WAYS LANDLORDS ARE USING AI THE FUTURE OF FAIR HOUSING IN AN AUTOMATED WORLD
IS IT WORTH FIGHTING? A FRAMEWORK FOR SMARTER DISPUTE RESOLUTION
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WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE TENANT MOVES ON, BUT THE DEBT STAYS BEHIND THE OVERLOOKED DANGER OF DOOR THRESHOLDS: WHY SMALL STEPS MATTER IN MULTIFAMILY HOUSING WHY INVESTORS LOVE THE KAY PROPERTIES ONLINE MARKETPLACE FOR DST INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES 5 MARKETING MISTAKES MULTIFAMILY PROS ARE MAKING (AND HOW TO FIX THEM)
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Advanced Call Tracking & Cutting-Edge AI That Helps You Turn More Leads Into Leases Step into the future of lead attribution — where AI meets data-driven marketing. Answer calls 24/7 with AI, transcribe and summarize conversations, and uncover insights to optimize campaigns and fill vacancies faster.
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TENANT SCREENING AND AI: ALLIES IN FIGHTING FRAUD There has been an alarming increase in illegal identity theft and fraudulent rental applications. Scammers simply go online to create misleading social security numbers, doctored pay stubs and false credit reports in order to deceive landlords and property managers. According to the Pulse Survey on fraud
trusting landlords who fail to implement the right procedures for screening renters, writing contracts and collecting payments. Although scams come in different forms, some of the most common methods are submitting false employment records, faking credit reports, forging checks and pay stubs and hiding property damages to their former rentals. These scams cost landlords valuable time and risk to their incomes and businesses.
conducted by the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) and released last year, 93.3% of respondents reported that they had experienced fraud in the prior 12 months! How can this be? A surprising number of rental property owners ignore the modern screening techniques available to them and continue to “trust their gut” when considering a potential tenant. Tenant scammers take advantage of
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THE COST OF FRAUDULENT APPLICANTS
The vast majority of respondents (70.7%) to the Pulse Survey reported experiencing an increase in fraudulent applications and payments in the previous twelve months. Respondents to NMHC’s Pulse Survey were required to write off an average of nearly $4.2 million in bad debt over the prior 12 months. Responders reported that approximately one quarter (24.5%) of this bad debt, on average, could be attributed to nonpayment of rent due to fraudulent applications. Fraudulent applications can result in unpaid rent, legal fees associated with evictions, and potential damage to a property owner's reputation. Unfortunately, the NMHC survey found that nearly a quarter of eviction filings (23.8%) stemmed from falsified rental submissions. Thankfully, there are ways to combat these deceptions, particularly by utilizing AAOA tenant background screening combined with
artificial intelligence (AI). Landlords can access comprehensive applicant screening, including tenant credit checks, Social Security number verification, criminal background checks, rental history, employment verification and more with AAOA screening services. Briefly, AI is a technology that allows computers to perform tasks typically requiring human intelligence, such as learning, reasoning, and problem-solving. It's an impersonation of human cognitive functions, but built on algorithms, data analysis, and computational power. AI property management software can generate document submissions, rent reminders, rent collections and take care of the scheduling of maintenance requests. Landlords are increasingly turning to this technology to mitigate risk and ensure they are choosing reliable tenants. By using AI to perform these tasks, human delays and errors can be prevented.
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AI TO THE RESCUE
AI is transforming identity fraud detection by offering sophisticated tools to identify and prevent fraudulent activities in real time. AI-powered systems use machine learning algorithms to analyze data and identify patterns that suggest deceitful behavior. These algorithms can detect irregularities in transactions, account activity and user behavioral patterns that might indicate identity theft or synthetic identity fraud. AI tenant screening tools collect information about possible renters from many places and uses the data to find patterns that indicate if a renter might be a good fit or not. This research includes:
AI systems adapt their detection parameters to emerging fraud tactics by learning from new fraudulent activities. It is also used to detect fraud generated by sophisticated AI tools like deepfakes and synthetic identities. fabricated information. AI can detect inconsistencies and variances that are characteristic of synthetic identities by analyzing credit-building patterns and financial transactions. Synthetic identities are created using a combination of real and
EXAMPLES
AI DATA SOURCES
Credit
Reports and scores
Rental history
Past rentals and evictions
Employment
Career and income checks
Online activity
Social media posts
Public records
Court documents
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BENEFITS TO LANDLORDS AND PROPERTY MANAGERS
Understanding tenant scam tactics can help rental property owners identify red flags to protect themselves from tenants who might be trying to take advantage of them. By using credit reports and background screenings combined with leveraging the power of AI, landlords can significantly improve their ability to detect, prevent and mitigate identity fraud. AI property management software also can detect financial fraud and identity theft. Within seconds, AI algorithms can pinpoint a potential tenant’s true identity and financial standing. AI is here to stay, and landlords have the ability to benefit from new technological advances. These advanced fraud detection tools can quickly and accurately identify forged documents, making it harder for fraudsters
to bypass screening processes. Enhanced screening protocols, such as requiring more robust documentation or using AI-powered verification systems, have raised the barrier for fraudsters, leading to fewer successful attempts. Property managers will spend less time bogged down by the small details and more time working on the ground with tenants. They’ll be able to dedicate more of their energy to ensuring their tenants get the positive housing experience they deserve. AI fraud detection is a powerful new ally, but it works best when combined with the AAOA credit, criminal, and rental history data landlords have long relied on. Together, they create a stronger defense against tenant scams.
NANCY ABRAMS Assistant Editor American Apartment Owners Association (866) 579-2262 nancy@aaoa.com
Nancy Abrams has enjoyed a long career in real estate marketing throughout Southern California and Las Vegas. She formerly represented 19 Merrill Lynch Realty branch offices, property managers The Roberts Companies, new home developers, including master planned communities Peccole Ranch and The Valencia Company and shopping centers for Sandy Sigel of NewMark Merrill.
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Richard Gann and Jason McMurtry, Managing Partners of 1031 Capital Solutions, recently launched Exchange Illustrator. With this software, rental housing providers can evaluate their investments and decide whether to keep, sell or exchange their properties. Exchange Illustrator is also a valuable tool for real estate professionals seeking to add consultative value to their practice. Exchange Illustrator offers multiple modules for rental housing owners: SHOULD YOU KEEP, SELL, OR EXCHANGE YOUR RENTAL? HERE’S HOW TO DECIDE
Cash Flow Analysis
This module snaps a quick X-ray of the financial health of your current rental property. Factoring all revenues and expenses (including personal time, future capital expenditures, vacancies and turnover costs), one can determine key metrics like annualized Cash Flow and Yield on Equity . These bottom-line results are crucial to making an apples-to-apples comparison between an existing rental property and other potential investment options. Having made the decision to sell, the next question is whether to receive taxable sales proceeds or conduct a tax-deferred 1031 exchange. The Tax Estimator module estimates the tax consequences of selling an appreciated rental property, factoring such elements as prior capital expenditures, cumulative depreciation, offsetting losses/credits, and state taxes.
Tax Estimator
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Cash-Out Comparison
Some financial advisors will advocate for their clients to forego a 1031 exchange and invest their after-tax proceeds in Wall Street securities with the premise that a stock portfolio will “make up the taxes.” This module provides a simple tool to check the math—often debunking the proposed rationale for incurring unnecessary taxes.
NOI/Cap Rate Sensitivity Analysis
Lastly, for any proposed real estate investment, this module generates a grid with 35 scenarios to understand how future changes are property NOI and how applicable capitalization rates will impact a property’s future return on a seven-year hold.
THIS MODULE PROVIDES A SIMPLE TOOL TO CHECK THE MATH—OFTEN DEBUNKING THE PROPOSED RATIONALE FOR INCURRING UNNECESSARY TAXES.”
The best part of Exchange Illustrator is that it is free to use for both real estate professionals and rental property owners. Click here to get started.
RICHARD D. GANN, JD Managing Partner 1031 Capital Solutions (800) 445-5908 1031CapitalSolutions.com
Richard D. Gann has been a member of the State Bar of California since 1997. Managing Partner of 1031 Capital Solutions and co-author of the book, How to Retire from Being a Landlord.
Securities offered through Concorde Investment Services, LLC (CIS), member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Concorde Asset Management, LLC (CAM). 1031 Capital Solutions is independent of CIS and CAM. Exchange Illustrator software is owned and offered by AltsIllustrator, LLC, an outside business activity of Richard Gann and Jason McMurtry, and not affiliated with CIS and CAM.
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ADVERTORIAL
MOST LANDLORDS MISS THIS, AND IT’S COSTING THOUSANDS (It has nothing to do with raising rent or buying more units) We’ve reviewed thousands of small businesses and their real estate accounts. And across portfolios of every size, the same problems show up again and again:
1
2
3
Idle Cash
Manual Money Movement
Lack of Visibility
Still logging into seven different banks to look at your balances? Manually transferring funds between accounts? Still running to the post office to mail checks? Every manual step is friction, and friction is where delays, overdraft fees, and missed payments creep in. We’ve seen owners forget to pay contractors, miss tax deadlines, or double-pay a vendor simply because there wasn’t a clean system in place.
If you can’t tell in 10 seconds or less how much you earned net this month across your properties, you’re not running your business. You’re reacting to it. When you’re reacting, you can’t optimize, reinvest, or grow with confidence. Clarity isn’t a nice-to-have. It’s the foundation for every good decision you’ll make.
Most landlords let their operating cash sit in low- or no- interest accounts “just in case.” That’s dead money. Even $50K sitting for six months can mean hundreds in missed returns. And that adds up fast over multiple properties and/or years.
BETTER SYSTEMS BEAT MORE HUSTLE There’s a myth in the landlord world that you just need to grind harder: buy more units, chase better tenants, trim more expenses. But the best operators? They don’t just work harder. They work smarter.
• They build systems. • They put their cash to work as hard as they work. • They automate what can be automated. • They focus on visibility and control. • They free up mental bandwidth and use their time for strategy, not scrambling.
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REAL WORLD EXAMPLE
One landlord we spoke with manages a mix of single-family homes and a small multifamily development in the Midwest: 24 units total. For years, they ran everything manually: personal bank accounts, mailed checks to contractors, and tracked income in an Excel sheet that broke every tax season. After switching to Crescent, they set up automated payments for property taxes, landscaping, and mortgage transfers. Their idle cash, previously earning nothing, was moved into a high-yield business account, generating thousands in extra returns within the first quarter. But most importantly, they finally had a clear picture of all income and expenses across all properties in one place. That financial clarity gave them the confidence to move quickly on a competitive multifamily deal without second guessing liquidity or overextending.
THIS IS WHERE CRESCENT COMES IN Crescent is a business banking platform built for people who run things, especially landlords who want to operate lean, smart, and profitably. With Crescent, you can: Earn up to 3.55% APY* on all idle funds (without locking it away) Automate recurring payments to vendors, contractors, taxes, software subscriptions. You name it Issue corporate cards with real-time spend controls and clean categorization Invest reserve cash in safe, short-term assets like Treasury Bills View cash positions across all properties in one simple dashboard. It’s not just a better bank account. It’s the back office you wish you’d always had. No bloat. No friction. No “banking hours.” Just real financial clarity.
OWN THE BUSINESS BEHIND THE BUILDINGS
Your rental portfolio isn’t just a collection of properties. It’s a business. And like any great business, it needs infrastructure built to scale. Crescent gives you that foundation so you can stop patching things together and start making confident, compounding decisions. This isn’t just better banking. It’s better business. Build your foundation at GetCrescent.com
GRANT ROSCOE CEO and Founder Crescent
A modern business banking platform built for landlords and operators who want more control, clarity, and return on their cash. Crescent helps users earn more on idle funds, automate their financial back office, and manage rental income like a real business—all from one simple dashboard. Since launching Crescent out of high school, Grant has scaled the company into a high-growth fintech, raising millions in venture funding and building a lean, mission-driven team focused on transforming how small business owners manage money.
* APY = Annual Percentage Yield. Issued APY rate as of 5/2/2025 is up to 3.55% APY. APY and interest rates are subject to change. Crescent Financial Inc. is a financial technology company, not an FDIC-insured depository institution. Banking services are provided by OMB Bank and Grasshopper Bank, N.A., Members FDIC. Subject to the terms of the applicable ICS Deposit Placement Agreement, OMB Bank will place deposits at FDIC-insured institutions through IntraFi’s ICS service. A list identifying IntraFi network banks appears at https://www.intrafi.com/network-banks. Certain conditions must be satisfied for “pass-through” FDIC deposit insurance coverage to apply. To meet the conditions for pass-through FDIC deposit insurance, deposit accounts at FDIC-insured banks in IntraFi’s network that hold deposits placed using an IntraFi service are titled, and deposit account records are maintained, in accordance with FDIC regulations for pass-through coverage.
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TOP 3
MOVE-IN SCAMS TARGETING LANDLORDS AND HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
Renter fraud is an increasingly common challenge in property management. In NMHC’s recent Pulse Survey on Fraud, nearly 94% of landlords reported encountering fraudulent activity within the past year. More than 70% of respondents said they noticed an increase in fake rental applications and payments. This uptick is likely exacerbated by the economic stress being experienced broadly. Household debt in the U.S. has reached record highs, and serious credit card delinquencies have doubled since 2021. Meanwhile, 44% of consumers now believe unemployment will rise in the next year, the highest level since April 2020. As financial pressures increase, so does the temptation to game the rental system. For landlords, this environment brings a growing risk of unpaid rent, property damage, and unexpected vacancies. On the following pages, we break down the top three move-in scams and tools that can help you stay protected.
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SCAM #1
FAKE PAY STUBS, CREDIT REPORTS, AND OTHER FINANCIAL DOCUMENTS
THE SCAM
Some tenants apply for units they can’t afford by submitting fake pay stubs, doctored bank statements, or altered credit reports. With AI tools and online services, these forgeries can be highly convincing. A tenant may appear qualified on paper but ultimately stop paying rent once moved in, leaving landlords vulnerable to the risk of unpaid rent.
HOW THEGUARANTORS CAN HELP
Rent Coverage from TheGuarantors helps landlords minimize losses due to unpaid rent. When the landlord is unsure about a potentially risky tenant and can’t or won’t approve them on their own, Rent Coverage gives the tenant another chance to get approved for the home of their choice. The tenant pays for this policy, which also protects landlords against potential rent losses. While its product is not designed to replace landlords’ fraud detection tools, it adds an additional layer of protection when renter fraud slips through your screening. For example, consider a tenant applicant who worked with one of many fraud vendors to get approved for an apartment. TheGuarantors provides an additional safety net, ensuring recovery from losses due to unpaid rent, damages, utilities, vacancies, and more. If the resident doesn’t pay, the operator is able to recover the balance of what’s owed.
Benefit to Landlords Fake documents are increasingly difficult to detect, even for experienced landlords. By adding financial protection, Rent Coverage allows landlords to approve more types of renters with greater confidence and reduced exposure to rent loss.
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SCAM #2 HIDING PETS OR USING FAKE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT ANIMAL DOCUMENTATION
THE SCAM
Some renters hide pets to avoid paying pet rent or fees. Others present emotional support animal letters purchased from questionable online sources. These pets often remain undisclosed until they cause visible damage, and in states with capped security deposits, the cost of repairs may easily exceed the deposit amount.
HOW THEGUARANTORS CAN HELP
Deposit Coverage from TheGuarantors protects against losses due to property damage, including that caused by unauthorized pets. Tenants pay an up-front fee to TheGuarantors instead of a cash deposit to landlords, while landlords receive protection equivalent to or greater than what a traditional deposit would provide.
Benefit to Landlords With Deposit Coverage in place, landlords are less likely to be financially impacted by rental property damage, including damage from pets and assistance animals.
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SCAM #3 SQUATTERS AND SERIAL EVICTEES
THE SCAM
Some individuals move in with no intention of paying rent, often using invalid checks or delayed security deposit payments to gain initial access. Others may illegally occupy vacant properties and attempt to claim squatter’s rights, triggering a lengthy legal process before the landlord can regain possession of the unit.
HOW THEGUARANTORS CAN HELP
These tenants have the potential to impact your rental income the most. Rent and Deposit Coverage can offer landlords protection for up to the full lease term. If a renter stops paying during their lease, TheGuarantors’ Rent Coverage steps in to cover the landlord from missed rent and potential legal expenses. And instead of paying for a traditional security deposit, tenants can pay TheGuarantors directly to secure Deposit Coverage before they move in. This helps landlords avoid accepting a non-sufficient-funds (NSF) check for the security deposit while maintaining financial protection against damages.
Benefit to Landlords Evictions are expensive and time-consuming. Even a single incident can wipe out months of income and tie up a unit in court proceedings. When fraud does occur, TheGuarantors’ coverage can help minimize your losses.
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70% experienced the use of some form of identity theft
80% have seen applicants misrepresent information on applications
93.3% experienced fraud in the past twelve months
70.7% saw increased fraudulent activity over the past twelve months
84.3% reported falsification of income/employment documentation
INFO. FROM NATIONAL MULTIFAMILY HOUSING COUNCIL SURVEY
CONCLUSION Economic stress is fueling a rise in move-in scams, from fake documents to pet deception and lease abuse. Landlords are often left to shoulder the cost of rent losses, property repairs, and legal battles that follow. With tools like Rent and Deposit Coverage, landlords can protect their investments while maintaining flexibility. TheGuarantors gives tenants a second chance at the home they want to live in while offering landlords risk protection if things go wrong. Being prepared means having safeguards in place so when financial pressures rise, as they are now, you can continue to rent with confidence.
FRANK JACHETTA Director, SMB Platform TheGuarantors
Frank is a veteran in the real estate space with 17 years’ experience providing financial tools to landlords. He is currently expanding the reach of TheGuarantors’ industry-leading rent and deposit protection to independent landlords and real estate investors.
Legal Disclaimer : This information is for general purposes only and not legal advice. You should always consult a qualified attorney in your jurisdiction to ensure that your actions comply with all applicable laws and regulations in your area.
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LIVING IN THE AGE OF AI: MUST-READ BOOKS FOR REAL ESTATE INVESTORS
Read the ultimate guide for real estate professionals looking to harness the power of AI and revolutionize their business. This comprehensive eBook walks you through actionable strategies to simplify marketing, automate client communication, streamline workflows, and scale your operations. Packed with practical tools, expert tips, and real-world examples, it empowers agents to save time, generate more leads, and deliver exceptional client experiences—all while staying ahead in a competitive market. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, this guide will help you unlock the full potential of AI to transform your real estate business. Click here to order this book. The Ultimate AI Marketing Handbook for Real Estate Agents
By Kevin Amoroso
Selling Buildings
By Bob Knakal
Success in commercial real estate isn’t just about buying and selling—it’s about strategy, positioning, and execution. In Selling Buildings , legendary NYC broker Bob Knakal and premier industry broker coach Rod Santomassimo reveal the proven methods that have led to billions in transactions and countless career breakthroughs. Packed with real-world insights, this book provides brokers and investors with the tools to maximize property values, create competitive bidding environments, and close deals with precision. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting, Selling Buildings is your playbook for dominating the market, securing exclusive listings,
and achieving exceptional results. Click here to order this book.
“This is a MUST-READ for all new entrants to the CRE business, regardless of your intended role. Bob Knakal is a living legend who gives an unvarnished look at the rollercoaster of starting, operating and eventually selling a successful commercial real estate investment sales brokerage business.” - Bruce
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The Remote Real Estate Investor
By Steve Pletz
In The Remote Real Estate Investor, Steve Pletz, an experienced Realtor, Canadian-born investor, and globe-trotting dealmaker, reveals how smart investors are building serious wealth without ever swinging a hammer or chasing down contractors. This book takes you beyond social media buzzwords and teaches you how to actually run the numbers, evaluate new markets, and build a portfolio that performs, even when it’s miles (or countries) away. Whether you’re starting with $10K and a dream or looking to scale your portfolio across borders, this book is your roadmap.
Learn how to: ✓ Turn single-family homes into money-making multifamily units ✓ Invest in landlord-friendly markets with long-term rental strategies built for stability and scale ✓ Build a trustworthy out-of-state team—without the stress ✓ Use creative financing to grow faster than your bank account says you should ✓ Leverage AI and tech tools to do it all from your laptop
Click here to order this book.
AI Real Estate Handbook
By Mike Klijanowicz
Real estate is changing faster than ever, and agents who ignore artificial intelligence will soon find themselves replaced by it. In this powerful guide, Michael Klijanowicz shows you exactly how to use artificial intelligence to supercharge your business, deepen client trust, and stand out in a crowded market.
✓ Use AI to write killer listing descriptions in seconds ✓ Automate your social media, email, and lead follow-up ✓ Save hours on marketing and client communication ✓ Create systems that generate more referrals and repeat business ✓ Train AI to sound exactly like you, your voice, your vibe ✓ Host events, manage transactions, and analyze the market with AI Inside you’ll learn how to:
Click here to order this book.
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This book is your essential guide to launching a successful real estate investment journey. It breaks down the fundamentals in a simple, approachable way, helping you build clarity and confidence from day one. The Basics of Real Estate: How to Thrive in Your Real Estate Journey
By Remi Wesley-Ogude
Drawing from personal experience, the author shares practical tips and proven strategies for profitable investing, along with insights on building and working effectively with your team. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to avoid common pitfalls, this book equips you with the tools and knowledge to thrive in the world of real estate. Click here to order this book.
“This book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to start their real estate investment journey. The author does an exceptional job of sharing both her successes and her mistakes, making it an authentic and relatable guide. Packed with practical tips, it offers actionable advice on how to not only get started but also thrive in the world of real estate. A perfect blend of inspiration and strategy, this book is a must-read for beginners and experienced investors alike.” - TJ
Real Estate Guide: My Data My A.I. Strategy
By Andrew Zang, Esq.
In My Data, My AI Strategy, Andrew M. Zang delivers a practical and forward-thinking guide for real estate professionals, business leaders, and technology strategists navigating the AI-driven future. Drawing from real-world experience in the commercial real estate sector, Zang reveals how to harness data, implement effective AI strategies, and drive innovation in an evolving digital landscape. Whether you’re a broker, investor, or decision-maker, this book equips you with the tools to turn data into profit—and AI into a competitive advantage.
Andrew M. Zang, Esq. is a leading expert in data strategy and artificial intelligence for real estate companies. He advises firms across the country on how to effectively manage and leverage their data assets to gain a competitive advantage. Click here to order this book.
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Real Estate Rookie By Ashley Kehr
Your first investment property will no doubt be the hardest. Even choosing an investing strategy and coming up with a plan can seem impossible. Then you add finding the right market, conducting property analysis, and the many facets of funding, and you’ve got yourself a classic case of analysis paralysis! Ashley has helped thousands achieve real estate success through her Real Estate Rookie podcast and Real Estate Rookie Bootcamp. Ashley’s tried-and-true plan will help you fast-track your growth from real estate rookie to real estate rock star.
In this book, you’ll learn how to…
✓ Set goals and align them with your real estate investing journey ✓ Choose the opportunities that best match your skill set, cash flow, and lifestyle ✓ Create real estate partnerships that will benefit your success ✓ Leverage your current assets in order to grow and scale your real estate business ✓ Build a functional and efficient team to skyrocket your real estate success and earning potential ✓ Adequately grow and scale through automation and software implementation ✓ Stay motivated and inspired to achieve success
Click here to order this book.
“Throughout the book she tells her experiences, explains strategies and concepts, gives her opinions, gives you homework, recommends apps. You can refer to the bonus files she created. This is a book that I’ll refer back to often.” - Jecelyn
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Considering a 1031 Exchange?
Doing my first 1031 exchange was a daunting task. I needed professional guidance throughout the whole process. I consider myself lucky to have found Kay Properties who provided me with a variety of DST options on their online marketplace. - JAMES Z. – FREMONT, CA 1
Let’s build your 1031, DST and 721 portfolio — the smart way
Kay Properties’ www.kpi1031.com Marketplace delivers 20-40 live DST opportunities from 25+ DST and 721 exchange UPREIT sponsors . Start browsing multifamily, industrial, medical & more asset classes all with offering documents, business plans, due diligence materials, and risk factors of each 1031 Exchange, DST, and 721 exchange UPREIT investment.
Learn more about 1031 exchange, DST, and 721 exchange UPREIT investment.
Get Your FREE Delaware Statutory Trust 1031 Exchange and 721 UREIT INVESTOR KNOWLEDGE KIT
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kpi1031.com or Call
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1 This testimonial may not be representative of the experience of other clients. Past performance does not guarantee or indicate the likelihood of future results.This client was not com- pensated for their testimonials. *Diversification does not guarantee profits or protect against losses. All real estate investments provide no guarantees for cash flow, distributions or appreciation as well as could result in a full los of investment principal. Please read the entire Private Placement Memorandum (PPM) prior to making an investment.This material is not to be considered tax or legal advice. Please speak with your attorney and CPA before considering an investment. All offerings discussed, if any, are Regulation D, Rule 506c offerings. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Securities offered through FNEX Capital, member FINRA, SIPC.
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WILL AI REPLACE YOUR EVICTION LAWYER? Picture this: It’s 2 AM. You’re lying in bed calculating how many months of missed rent from Unit 3B would pay for one new roof. You’re this close to starting the eviction process, but the idea of drafting legally correct notices and possibly facing your tenant’s emotional support peacock in court has you Googling monasteries. Short answer: No, AI won’t replace your eviction lawyer. Smarter answer: You’ll just need them 80% less often, and that’s where these tools shine. AI THAT ACTUALLY SOLVES PROBLEMS (NOT JUST TALKS ABOUT IT)
Most AI promises sound like they were written by someone who’s never chased rent or dealt with a tenant claiming the apartment ghosts ate their rent money. But when it comes to evictions, AI finally does something useful. Ever serve a 3-day notice only to find out your state requires 5? AI doesn’t make those
mistakes. Today’s legal tech generates state- compliant notices instantly, automatically adjusting for the mind-numbing requirements that change every time you cross a county line. It’s like having a paralegal who never sleeps, never forgets, and never accidentally counts weekends.
TURNING PAPER CHAOS INTO DIGITAL ARMOR
Managing 20 units means drowning in paper: lease violations buried in email, text threads with tenants lost in your phone, warnings scribbled on whatever was handy when Mrs. Garcia called about the unauthorized dog in 4C. Modern AI tools create a bulletproof digital
paper trail. Every warning, notice, deadline, and communication is logged, time-stamped, and searchable. When a judge asks if you warned Mr. Johnson three times about his midnight drum sessions, you pull it up in seconds. No fumbling. No “I think it was in March?” Just facts.
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WHAT AI CAN’T DO (AND WHY THAT MATTERS)
AI is brilliant until you walk into court. Judges expect humans to explain why Mrs. Henderson’s emotional support bearded dragon doesn’t exempt her from paying rent for six months. Watch any DIY landlord stride into court with AI- generated forms and color-coded spreadsheets. The judge asks one question about partial rent acceptance, and suddenly they’re a deer in headlights. AI can’t interpret Judge Thompson’s raised eyebrow or whisper “object!” when opposing counsel gets creative with the truth.
WHERE EVICTIONS ACTUALLY GET SETTLED: THE HALLWAY
Here’s what they don’t tell you: most evictions never see a courtroom. They end in hallway negotiations where creativity beats case law. Can AI suggest offering two months’ waived rent for keys by Friday? Sure. Can it read the tenant’s face when they counter with “make it three weeks and throw in my security deposit”? Not a chance. This is where AI techngology earns its keep. While you negotiate, it generates legally binding settlement agreements in real time. No more handshake deals that mysteriously evaporate once the moving truck pulls away.
AVOIDING THE $50,000 FAIR HOUSING MISTAKE
Fair housing violations are where small landlords get destroyed. One wrong response to a disability accommodation request, and you’re facing fines that make six months of unpaid rent look like coffee money. Smart AI systems are your canary in the coal mine. Tenant mentions “emotional support animal”? System flags it. Request for a wheelchair ramp? Templates appear. Every interaction logged, every response vetted. It’s like having a fair housing attorney looking over your shoulder, minus the hourly rate.
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WHAT YOU CAN ACTUALLY SAVE
Legal fees: Cut lawyer time by 75% on routine evictions ($2,000+ per case) Vacancy costs: Spot problems 30–60 days earlier (that’s 1–2 months’ rent saved) Compliance penalties: Never eat a $10,000 fair housing fine again Your sanity: Priceless, but let’s say $500 in therapy bills
EARLY WARNING: YOUR DIGITAL CRYSTAL BALL
Humans are terrible at spotting patterns. AI is not. That reliable tenant who’s slowly sliding from the 1st to the 5th to the 15th of the month? As you grow your portfolio it gets more challenging to stay on top of negative trends. AI catches these red flags while you’re focused on finding a plumber for Unit 12. Good systems don’t just flag problems, they predict them. “Tenant in 4A has paid progressively later for three months. Historical data suggests 78% chance of default within 60 days.” Now you can intervene before it’s a crisis.
STRATEGIC DECISIONS: STILL NEED A HUMAN BRAIN Should you evict the Airbnb entrepreneur in 2B or wait for missed rent? Chase that judgment against someone whose bank account will be empty for the foreseeable future? These aren’t legal questions; they’re business decisions. AI gives you the data: collection rates (spoiler: 11% average), timeline projections, bankruptcy risk scores. But knowing whether to pull the trigger? That’s where experience—yours or your lawyer’s—matters.
WHEN TO CALL IN THE CAVALRY
Some situations scream for human lawyers: The Suspicious Timing: Tenant develops a disability exactly one day after receiving an eviction notice? Lawyer up. The Revenge Play: That tenant who called code enforcement last month suddenly can’t pay? You’re walking into a retaliation trap. The Collection Game: Getting a judgment is easy. Getting paid requires finding hidden assets, navigating bankruptcy, knowing when you’re throwing good money after bad. Algorithms can’t do that dance.
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THE WINNING FORMULA: CYBORG PROPERTY MANAGEMENT
Stop thinking either/or. Start thinking both/and.
Notices, documentation, compliance checks, pattern recognition. That’s 80% of eviction work right there. Save your lawyer for the messy 20%: negotiations, court appearances, and those moments when everything goes sideways. AI is your detail-obsessed assistant who never forgets a deadline. Your lawyer is your strategic advisor who knows exactly which judge hates which arguments.
Use AI for the grunt work:
Think of it this way:
THE BOTTOM LINE Will AI replace your eviction lawyer? Not unless it learns to sweet-talk Judge Martinez or spot a tenant’s bluff in settlement talks. But it will absolutely replace most of the expensive, time-consuming work that used to require a lawyer. For small property managers juggling a day job with 20 units, that’s the difference between profitable and painful.
The robots aren’t here to steal your lawyer’s job. They’re here to save you from losing an eviction because you served notice on a holiday and make sure you get it right the first time - no waiting, no guesswork, no $300/hour bill. Now if AI could just collect the judgment and clean out the fridge in Unit 5C, we’d all retire early.
TAHER HASSONJEE CEO DocDraft
Taher Hassonjee is the CEO of DocDraft, a software company built to empower individuals with exceptional legal support without the $500/hr bill.
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CELEBRITIES
ON THE MOVE
Bradley Cooper This spring, award-winning actor and producer Bradley Cooper acquired a 33-acre farmhouse in New Hope, PA, for $6.5 million. Built in 1704, the updated seven- bedroom, six-bathroom house spans over 6300 square feet. The home is highlighted by exposed stone, ceiling beams, a fitness area, walk-in fireplaces, French oak hardwood floors and a gallery-style hall. The property includes a pool, a pond, refurbished guest house, a stone bank barn and access to a 20- acre private lake.
Paris Hilton
This is the second appearance in RENT by Paris Hilton’s new home in exclusive Beverly Park. The 30,500 sq. ft. mansion appeared in the ’22 Q4 issue of RENT when it was being offered for sale by Mark Walberg. He eventually sold it for $55 million to investers and now those buyers have closed escrow with Ms. Hilton for $63.1 million. The gated mega-mansion features a total of 12 bedrooms, 20 baths, a two-story wood-paneled library, movie theater, smoking and tasting lounge, mirrored gym, grotto-style pool, skate park, five- hole golf course with driving range and a multi-use sports court on 6+ acres.
Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran made news in 2023 by renting a new triplex penthouse in Pierhouse for $36,000 a month, making it the priciest rental in Brooklyn at the time. Now, the Grammy-winning singer and his wife have purchased a 3,400-square-foot unit in that same Brooklyn Heights waterfront development for just less than $12 million. Their new home is outfitted with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, a terrace and dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline. Building amenities include two fitness centers, a garage with EV charging stations and 24-hour attended lobbies.
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CELEBRITIES
ON THE MOVE
David Duchovny Boasting both private beach access and a guest retreat created from a train caboose, David Duchovny’s custom-built Point Dume residence has sold for $10.98 million. The actor spent $7 million replacing the original house with a new 3580-square-foot home, which was completed in 2021. A covered terrace with built-in heaters is adjoined by a separate structure featuring a gym and lounge. Also located on the one- acre property is a train car Duchovny repurposed as a private guest retreat. It has a cozy wooden living and sleeping area, a dining nook and kitchen.
Lynda Carter
Best known as Wonder Woman, Lynda Carter has sold her condominium in the Four Seasons Residences at the Surf Club in Surfside, FL, for $19.5 million. Developed in 2017 and purchased by Carter in 2021, the 3844-square-foot condo consists of four bedrooms, five baths, one half bath and a balcony with an ocean view. The Four Seasons at the Surf Club offers two 12-story condo towers and a 77-room Four Seasons hotel. Amenities include a private Members Club, a spa, two restaurants, four pools, a gym and an oceanside park.
Adam Levine
Adam Levine and his wife, Behati Prinsloo, have listed their Montecito mansion for $65 million, making it the most expensive home for sale in the affluent Santa Barbara County town. They have owned the 3.4-acre estate since 2022. The main house has six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms and three half-bathrooms, while a guest house and a pool house add three more bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms. The property is packed with amenities that include a pool, gym, wellness area, a theater, a tennis court and a separate kitchen for catering. There are also vegetable gardens and a chicken coop.
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SMARTER SHOWINGS: HOW AI IS CHANGING THE WAY YOU MARKET AND MANAGE RENTALS
In today’s competitive rental market, properties don’t just need to be clean and functional, they need to stand out. Independent landlords, multifamily property owners, and real estate investors are discovering that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a buzzword, it’s a business tool. And it’s quietly transforming how rentals are presented and shown.
One of the most exciting breakthroughs is how AI can enhance listing photos through virtual staging. Vacant units, while clean and ready to rent, often fall flat in photos. Most prospective renters can’t visualize themselves living in an empty space. That’s where services like Virtual Staging AI come in. Using advanced AI, this platform allows landlords to “furnish” their listing photos in seconds. No need to hire a photographer or a designer, just upload your empty room shots, choose a style (modern, traditional, boho, etc.), and Virtual Staging AI creates realistic, fully furnished versions of each space. The difference is striking: listings with virtual staging tend to receive more views, generate more inquiries, and ultimately get shown more often. Getting eyes on your listing is critical, but turning that attention into a physical tour, and ultimately
into a signed lease, is where many landlords lose valuable time and patience. Even the most impressive virtual staging can only go so far; most tenants still want to step inside a property before committing. This is where tools like InstaShow+ become essential, bridging the gap between online interest and real-world conversion. InstaShow+ was built specifically for independent landlords and property managers who are tired of juggling phone calls, no-shows, and back-and-forth scheduling. Once a property is listed, InstaShow+ takes over the showing process by automating scheduling, confirming appointments, screening visitors, and even offering secure, self-guided tours if you choose. Visitors are verified before they even step foot on your property, and you stay in full control of who sees your units and when.
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InstaShow+ also adds another layer of value beyond automation, it captures and organizes showing data, so landlords and property managers can track the activity that can help them make better decisions for future listings. The bottom line: AI is no longer just a tech trend, it’s a practical toolset that gives small-scale landlords and large property owners alike a competitive edge. While national firms spend big on marketing teams and leasing staff, independent landlords now have access to affordable, intelligent tools that level the playing field. By leveraging AI to enhance the presentation and execution of your property showings, you’ll reduce vacancy time, attract higher-quality renters, and save yourself from the endless follow-up loop. Whether you own a single unit or a hundred, that’s a smarter way to lease.
By combining tools like Virtual Staging AI and InstaShow+, you can create a powerful, hands-off showing system:
Make your listing visually irresistible.
Attract more inquiries without lifting a finger. Let qualified renters schedule, verify, and tour on their own time. Together, these technologies solve two of the biggest headaches in property leasing: getting noticed and showing efficiently.
LIST
STAGE
SHOW
LEASE
AL ROMERO Co-founder InstaShow+
Bio: Al Romero, co-founder of InstaShow+, has over 20 years of experience in real estate and technology. He spearheaded the foundational architecture of InstaShow+ to remove the showing friction in his own property management and real estate business. His tenure at Google and his expertise in managing sales, leasing and property management as a real estate broker, give him a unique ability to drive innovation and efficiency in the industry.
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