1. Tenant Screening is a Legal Process 
Tenant screening is crucial, but it must be done carefully to avoid discrimination claims. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination based on race, color, national origin, religion, gender, familial status, or disability. Screening practices must be consistent and fair. Using an online system that performs background and credit checks can help maintain a compliant and non-discriminatory process.
2. You Can Deduct Property Management Fees 
Many rental property owners don’t realize they can deduct the fees they pay to property managers from their taxable income. These fees are considered a legitimate business expense. This can be a significant benefit at tax time, reducing the overall tax burden for rental property owners.
3. Security Deposit Rules Vary by State 
Security deposit regulations vary widely by state, including maximum deposit amounts and required return timelines. For example, in California, landlords must return the deposit within 21 days after a tenant vacates. Knowing the specific rules in your state is essential to avoid fines and legal issues.
4. Landlords Are Not Required to Have Renters Insurance, But Tenants Should
While you’re not required by law to carry renters insurance for your tenants, you can require tenants to have it as part of the lease. This protects both parties in case of damage or loss to personal belongings and may help protect you from certain liability issues.
5. Depreciation Can Benefit You
Rental property owners can depreciate the value of the property over time for tax purposes, which can lead to significant deductions. You can depreciate the value of your property (excluding land) over 27.5 years in residential real estate. This can help offset rental income, reducing taxable earnings and potentially increasing your cash flow.
6. The "Cash for Keys" Approach
If you’re facing an eviction, "cash for keys" is a strategy that can save you time and money. Rather than going through the costly and lengthy eviction process, you offer the tenant money in exchange for them vacating the property voluntarily. It’s a win-win: tenants get money to help them move, and you avoid the costs of court proceedings and damages from a contentious eviction.
7. You Can't Increase Rent at Will in Rent-Controlled Areas
If your rental property is in an area with rent control, like Santa Monica, you cannot just increase the rent whenever you want. There are strict guidelines about how much and how often you can increase rent. For example, the rent increase might be capped at a certain percentage, and tenants must be given proper notice before any hike.
8. You Can Be Held Liable for Tenant Injuries
Even if a tenant is responsible for their own injuries, property owners can still be held liable in certain situations. If a property has hazardous conditions that were not addressed in a reasonable time frame (like a broken step, leaking roof, or unsafe electrical system), you could be found liable for the tenant’s injury, even if they caused it.
9. You Can Charge for Late Fees—But Be Careful
Late fees are a legitimate way to encourage timely rent payments, but they must be reasonable and clearly outlined in the lease. Many states have laws that limit how much you can charge for late fees, and excessive fees could be deemed unenforceable in court.
10. Maintenance Is Your Responsibility—Even for Tenant Damage
In most cases, landlords are responsible for maintaining the property in a habitable condition, even if the tenant caused the damage. For example, if a tenant’s water damage needs repairing, the landlord is generally responsible for the fix, even though the tenant caused the issue. That said, if the damage is due to tenant negligence or misuse, you may be able to charge them for the repairs.
11. Rent Control Doesn’t Apply to Every Property
Rent control laws apply to buildings built before a certain year (usually 1979 in cities like Santa Monica), but not all properties are subject to them. Newer buildings or those that have undergone major renovations may be exempt from rent control. It’s important to know which properties are affected in your area, as rent control can drastically limit the rental income potential of your investment.
12. You Can Evict for "No-Fault" Reasons (In Some Cases)
In certain areas, you can evict tenants without a specific violation of the lease. These are called "no-fault" evictions, which typically occur in rent-controlled areas or when you need to occupy the property yourself. Be sure to check local laws to understand what qualifies for no-fault evictions in your area.
13. You Can Set Rules for Tenant Behavior
While you cannot discriminate against certain protected classes, you do have the right to establish rules regarding tenant behavior. For example, you can prohibit smoking, limit noise levels, or specify that pets are not allowed (except for service or emotional support animals under federal law). These rules must be reasonable, clearly written in the lease, and enforceable.
14. You’re Obligated to Provide "Fit and Habitable" Living Conditions
This means your rental property must meet certain health and safety standards. If a tenant feels the property is uninhabitable (e.g., no running water, unsafe electrical systems), they may be entitled to withhold rent or break the lease without penalty. It’s important to keep up with regular maintenance and repairs to avoid disputes.
15. Your Property Insurance May Not Cover Everything
​Many landlords mistakenly think their homeowner’s insurance covers everything related to rental property. In reality, you may need a separate landlord insurance policy that covers property damage, liability, and loss of rental income. Make sure you have the proper coverage to protect your investment.

​Who is the best property manager in Los Angeles?

I once worked with a client in Westwood who was struggling with a large property management company. They were frustrated by constant communication breakdowns and lack of attention to detail, their house was sitting on the market vacant for 6 months.

They decided to make the switch to Keybox, and within weeks, the house was rented to a great new renter who stayed for years due to Keybox's attention. That level of personalized care is something larger firms just can’t offer. As a licensed broker, we handle everything with full transparency and accountability, ensuring funds are managed properly and ethically, which made the owner feel secure and in control.
Keybox takes a proactive approach. For example, we follow up after every maintenance request to make sure repairs are completed to satisfaction and maintain a paperless paper trail for the record. This level of attention to detail is rare in a market flooded with high-volume management companies.

We treat each property like it's our own, ensuring that owners receive not only the best service but also the peace of mind that comes with knowing their investment is in expert hands.

Managing a multimillion-dollar property in LA—whether it's in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice, or Sherman Oaks—takes more than just a “set it and forget it” approach. You need someone who gets luxury living, knows how to communicate with highly educated and high-end customers, and has the experience to back it up.

1. Experience That Counts
Managing a high-end property isn’t just about handling rent and repairs. You need someone who knows how to juggle large transactions, tricky legalities, and tenants who expect top-tier service. A seasoned pro who’s worked with all types of properties is a must.

2. Attention to Detail
From the smallest repair to the biggest request, your property manager should handle everything with precision. Think of them as your home's personal assistant—always on top of things, whether it’s fixing a faucet or ensuring the landscaping’s flawless for an Instagram-worthy view.

3. Neighborhood & Legal Know-How
Each neighborhood in LA has its own set of rules—both on the street and in the legal books. A great property manager understands the local vibe, knows the best contractors, and stays up-to-date on rent control and other key regulations.

4. Building Relationships, Not Just Handling Transactions
High-end tenants expect more than just a beautiful home—they want a seamless experience. A great manager builds trust and maintains positive, long-term relationships. They’re problem solvers, peacekeepers, and always available when needed.
​
5. A Solid Reputation
Reputation speaks volumes. A top-tier manager will have glowing reviews from both tenants and owners, along with a track record of handling luxury properties with care.

Conclusion: The Right Manager is a Partner, Not Just a Service
​You’re looking for someone who can handle the details with care, build strong relationships, and keep your property in perfect shape. With the right property manager, you’ll have the peace of mind that your investment is in excellent hands.

Whether you’re facing a job relocation, dealing with financial challenges, or simply trying to make the most of your property, leasing your home instead of selling it can offer significant benefits. Here are some common situations where leasing makes more sense than selling, and why it could be the right move for you.

1. Relocating for Work or Personal Reasons?If you’re moving for a job or personal reasons, you may not want to sell your home just yet. Whether it’s a temporary move or you’re unsure if you’ll return, leasing your property gives you the flexibility to keep it while generating income. It’s an ideal solution if you’re moving out of state or even overseas.

2. Not the Right Time to Sell?If the real estate market isn’t favorable, selling your home might not bring the return you’re hoping for. Renting out your property allows you to hold onto it until the market improves. In the meantime, you can earn rental income while retaining ownership.

3. Creating Passive IncomeLeasing your home gives you the opportunity to generate passive income without selling. Whether it’s a second home, vacation property, or your primary residence, rental income can help cover mortgage payments or even provide extra cash flow, allowing you to make the most of your investment.

4. Tax Advantages and Capital Gains ProtectionLeasing your property can offer certain tax benefits. As a landlord, you may be able to deduct expenses such as maintenance and repairs. Plus, holding onto the property for a longer period may help you avoid capital gains taxes when it’s eventually sold, especially if you’ve lived in it as your primary residence.

5. Facing Life Changes (Divorce, Family Needs, etc.)If you’re going through a divorce or your family dynamics have changed, leasing might be the best option to hold onto your property. It can provide financial stability during uncertain times, allowing you to retain ownership while you figure out the next steps.

6. Not Ready to Let Go of a Sentimental PropertyIf your home has sentimental value or you have strong emotional ties to it, leasing instead of selling can help you hold onto it for the future. Leasing allows you to preserve the property for yourself, your family, or future generations, while still benefiting from the rental income.

7. Financial Hardship or Foreclosure PreventionIf you’re facing financial difficulties, leasing your home may help cover your mortgage payments and prevent foreclosure. Renting out your property gives you the time and space to regain your financial footing without the pressure to sell quickly at a loss.

8. Planning to Sell Later, But Need TimeIf you're planning to sell but aren’t quite ready to, leasing your home is a great way to keep your options open. You can wait until market conditions improve or until you feel more certain about selling, all while earning rental income in the meantime.

I get asked this question a lot: “How many properties do you manage?”

It’s a fair question, and I understand the intent. What people are really asking is:
Do you have enough experience to handle my property well—and will I still get your attention?
Here’s the truth: we don’t manage hundreds of units, and that’s by design.
We run a boutique firm, where we personally oversee a curated portfolio of properties. That allows us to stay hands-on, responsive, and proactive. You’re not passed off to a junior staffer or stuck in a ticket system. When something comes up, I’m the one who answers the call.
We’ve built Keybox on deep local knowledge, real relationships, and a calm, capable approach to what’s often a chaotic industry. The balance we strike is this: enough experience to know what I’m doing, and enough bandwidth to still care.
If that sounds like what you’re looking for, we might be a great fit.

Before I launched Keybox, I started my career as an on-site manager for a large property management firm, overseeing buildings with hundreds of units. I saw firsthand how these big operations function—layered with departments, supervisors, and systems built for scale. It was efficient. That experience was invaluable—it taught me structure, compliance, and what it takes to keep a complex operation running. But it also showed me what was missing: personal attention, consistency, and care for leasing and management of single family homes, condos, and smaller buildings.
Keybox is my response to that.
I created a boutique firm where fewer properties mean more focus. Where owners know exactly who they’re working with. And where the day-to-day is handled with the same attention I’d give to my own home or investment. My background in big-firm management gave me the tools; Keybox is where I get to do it my way—with intention, clarity, and care.

Owning rental property in Brentwood (90049), one of Los Angeles’ most desirable neighborhoods, is a fantastic investment—but only if it’s managed right. With our deep roots in this community, Keybox Properties provides expert property management services that make your life easier and your investment more profitable. Here's why a local, experienced property manager is key to success in this prime area.

1. Local Insight Means Smarter DecisionsBrentwood is a high-demand area with homes ranging from charming bungalows near Brentwood Village to sprawling estates near Mandeville Canyon. Understanding how these areas differ is crucial when it comes to pricing your rental. A few years ago, we helped a client with a property near the Getty Center. They initially struggled with rent pricing, as the area wasn’t seeing as much demand as neighborhoods closer to the coast. After we analyzed the local market and adjusted the rent price, the home rented within two weeks, at a price that reflected its unique location.

2. Tenant Screening to Avoid Costly MistakesWe recently helped a homeowner with a property on San Vicente Blvd who had rented to tenants without thoroughly checking their background. Unfortunately, the tenants fell behind on payments, and the property incurred some damage. After taking over the management, we implemented a more rigorous tenant screening process and found a long-term renter who paid on time and took great care of the home. The homeowner now has reliable tenants and a stress-free experience.

3. Maximizing Rent Through Market ExpertiseBrentwood (90049) is diverse, with everything from luxury homes near Brentwood Country Club to more affordable properties near the Brentwood School. One of our clients owns a beautiful property near Brentwood Park, but they weren’t sure how to price it. We conducted a detailed market analysis, comparing similar homes, and were able to set a rent price that not only attracted high-quality tenants but also helped maximize their return. In a few months, the property was fully rented, with a higher-than-expected rental yield.

4. Handling Maintenance with Local ConnectionsWhen you manage a rental property in Brentwood, you need local contractors you can trust. One of our clients who owns a property near Wilshire Blvd needed a quick plumbing repair. Thanks to our network of trusted vendors, we got the issue fixed the same day, saving our client time and money. Our local relationships mean that we can address issues promptly, often at discounted rates, keeping both tenants and owners happy.

5. No More Stress or Late PaymentsBrentwood’s high-demand areas make it essential to keep tenants happy. One of our clients who owns a home near Brentwood Village had been dealing with inconsistent rent payments. After taking over management, we implemented online rent payments and automated reminders, drastically reducing late payments. Now, the tenant consistently pays on time, and our client enjoys a steady cash flow, with no more late-night phone calls.

6. The Power of Local ReputationOur team at Keybox Properties has built strong ties with Brentwood’s community, which means we understand the unique demands of both tenants and property owners here. We’ve handled properties near the Brentwood Farmers Market and Brentwood Country Mart, where the rental pool consists of high-quality tenants looking for a neighborhood with character. Our local reputation ensures that tenants know we care about the community, and owners know we’re committed to providing the best service possible.

Conclusion:
Whether you own a condo near San Vicente Blvd, a family home near Brentwood Park, or a luxury estate near Mandeville Canyon, Keybox Properties is here to provide the expert, local property management service you need. Our deep knowledge of the Brentwood (90049) market ensures that your property is well-maintained, your tenants are happy, and your investment is always performing at its best.

1. Know Your Legal ResponsibilitiesUnderstanding landlord-tenant laws, fair housing regulations, and safety codes is essential. Familiarize yourself with local rent control laws, eviction processes, and required inspections to avoid legal headaches.
2. Prep Your Home for RentA clean, well-maintained home attracts better tenants. Fix any issues, give the exterior a boost, and ensure appliances are in top shape. Don't forget to take photos for move-in documentation!
3. Set a Competitive Rent PriceLook at similar homes in your neighborhood to set the right price. Factor in your costs, and consider seasonal fluctuations in demand. Online platforms like Zillow or Rent.com can help you benchmark prices.
4. Screen Tenants CarefullyScreen tenants to find reliable renters. Look at their rental history, credit score, and income. A solid background check can save you from potential problems down the road.
5. Create a Solid Lease AgreementYour lease should be clear and detailed. Outline rent terms, security deposits, maintenance responsibilities, and pet policies. Make sure it's legally sound—consider consulting an attorney. Our lease template is based on our experience, designed to protect you and foresee issues.
6. Manage Your Property EfficientlyWhether you hire a property manager or go DIY, stay on top of maintenance and communication. Conduct regular inspections, handle tenant concerns promptly, and ensure rent is paid on time.
7. Be Prepared for IssuesProblems happen. Late rent, damages, or tenant complaints can arise. Be proactive, document everything, and know your legal rights for eviction if necessary.

As real estate marketing evolves, so does the language used to describe properties. From changing societal norms to more accurate depictions of properties, terminology has shifted to better reflect the needs and values of today’s renters and buyers. Understanding and using this new lingo can help you connect with potential tenants or buyers while staying relevant in a competitive market.
Here’s a breakdown of some key new terms in real estate marketing, with examples, so you can stay ahead of the curve!

🏡 Primary Bedroom vs. Master Suite
​Old Term: Master Bedroom/Suite
New Term: Primary Bedroom
The real estate industry has shifted away from the term “master” for bedroom suites, opting for “primary bedroom” to avoid associations with historical inequities. The change reflects a more inclusive, modern understanding of the space where people sleep, especially in markets with increasing diversity and sensitivity to language.
Marketing Example:
Instead of saying, "This beautiful master suite offers a spacious walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom," try:
"Welcome to your serene primary bedroom featuring a spacious walk-in closet and a luxurious ensuite bathroom."

🏢 Rental Property Owner vs. Landlord
Old Term: Landlord
New Term: Rental Property Owner
The term “landlord” is increasingly viewed as outdated, and “rental property owner” is now the more neutral and professional term. It reflects the fact that many owners manage multiple properties, not just a single rental unit, and conveys a business-oriented approach to managing rental properties.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “Are you a landlord looking for property management services?” try:
"Are you a rental property owner seeking professional property management services to maximize your rental income?"

🚶‍♂️ Walking Distance vs. Proximity to Key Locations
Old Term: Walking Distance
New Term: Proximity to (Key Locations)
The term “walking distance” can be seen as subjective, as it depends on an individual’s mobility and pace. Instead, using more specific language like "proximity to" and clearly stating distances to key areas (e.g., downtown, public transport, schools) is more accurate and appealing to a broader audience.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “Located just walking distance from downtown,” try:
"Located less than 0.5 miles from vibrant downtown, with easy access to shops, restaurants, and public transportation."

🌆 Urban Living vs. City Living
Old Term: Urban Living
New Term: City Living
“Urban living” may carry specific connotations that are not relevant to all property buyers or renters. Instead, "city living" more accurately captures the experience of living in a dynamic, metropolitan area. This term appeals to those seeking an energetic and convenient lifestyle, whether in a downtown area or close to city amenities.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “Enjoy the benefits of urban living in this modern condo,” try:
"Experience the best of city living in this stylish, modern condo with quick access to all the amenities of downtown."

🌱 Eco-Friendly vs. Green Features
Old Term: Eco-Friendly
New Term: Green Features
The term “eco-friendly” is broad and often overused. “Green features” or “sustainable features” are more specific and highlight elements of a property that are environmentally conscious, such as energy-efficient appliances, solar panels, or water-saving fixtures. This lingo appeals to environmentally-conscious buyers and renters.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “This property is eco-friendly,” try:
"This home is equipped with green features, including solar panels, energy-efficient appliances, and a water-saving irrigation system."

🛋️ Open Concept vs. Open-Plan Layout
Old Term: Open Concept
New Term: Open-Plan Layout
The term "open concept" has fallen out of favor because it can feel dated or overly used. The more refined “open-plan layout” better communicates the idea of a free-flowing, connected space that’s ideal for modern living. It focuses on the layout rather than just the idea of openness, appealing to those seeking a more spacious, versatile living environment.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “Enjoy the spacious open concept living area,” try:
"Featuring a bright and airy open-plan layout, this home offers ample space for both living and dining areas."

🧳 Turnkey vs. Move-In Ready
Old Term: Turnkey
New Term: Move-In Ready
"Turnkey" can sometimes imply a property that is fully furnished or overly polished, which may confuse some buyers. "Move-in ready" is a more straightforward term that conveys the idea that the home is ready for immediate occupancy, without any additional work required.
Marketing Example:
Instead of "This turnkey property is ready for you," try:
"This move-in ready home features updated finishes and is perfect for immediate occupancy."

🌇 Luxury vs. High-End
Old Term: Luxury
New Term: High-End
“Luxury” has become overused and often doesn’t hold the same meaning it once did, leading to consumer skepticism. “High-end” or “premium” is now the preferred term to describe properties with superior materials, finishes, and features that set them apart from standard properties. It’s more specific and suggests quality without hyperbole.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “This luxury apartment offers stunning views,” try:
"This high-end apartment features premium finishes, state-of-the-art appliances, and breathtaking views."

🏡 Private Yard vs. Outdoor Space
Old Term: Private Yard
New Term: Outdoor Space
The term "private yard" can be restrictive as it implies a traditional yard area, but many properties now offer a variety of outdoor spaces, such as terraces, patios, or balconies. “Outdoor space” is more inclusive and reflects a broader range of outdoor features, appealing to a wider audience.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “This unit comes with a private yard,” try:
"Enjoy your own outdoor space, perfect for relaxation or entertaining guests."

🌞 Natural Light vs. Sun-Drenched
Old Term: Natural Light
New Term: Sun-Drenched
While “natural light” remains a popular term, “sun-drenched” has gained traction as a more dynamic description of a property that gets an abundance of sunlight. It conveys warmth and brightness, which can make a space feel inviting and energetic.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “This unit is filled with natural light,” try:
"Enjoy the sun-drenched living room with large windows that flood the space with light."

📍 Prime Location vs. Desirable Location
Old Term: Prime Location
New Term: Desirable Location
“Prime location” can feel overly sales-driven, while “desirable location” focuses more on what makes the area appealing to tenants or buyers. It speaks to factors like proximity to schools, parks, shopping, and dining, without the fluff.
Marketing Example:
Instead of “This property is in a prime location,” try:
"Located in a desirable location, this home offers easy access to schools, parks, and shopping."

🔑 Final Thoughts: The Evolving Language of Real EstateAs the real estate market evolves, so too does the language we use to describe properties. The shift in terminology reflects changes in societal values, consumer preferences, and the need for more precise, inclusive descriptions. By incorporating these new terms into your marketing materials, you’ll not only stay current but also resonate more with today’s savvy renters and buyers.

As a landlord, deciding whether to accept pets in your rental property is a critical decision that can impact your tenant pool, rental income, and property maintenance. While allowing pets can attract responsible tenants and increase demand for your rental, it also comes with potential risks, including property damage and noise complaints. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of accepting pets and how service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) factor into your decision.

🐾 Why Accepting Pets Can Be Beneficial1. Expanded Tenant Pool
Rejecting pets can limit your pool of potential tenants, as a large number of renters own pets. According to surveys, nearly 50% of renters in the U.S. have pets, and the demand for pet-friendly properties continues to rise. By allowing pets, you increase your chances of finding quality tenants who are more likely to stay long-term.
2. Increased Rental Income
Allowing pets can open up the opportunity to charge a pet deposit or monthly pet rent. Pet deposits help cover potential damages, while pet rent adds a consistent income stream. Many landlords charge an additional $25 to $75 per month for each pet, helping offset maintenance costs.
3. Legal Considerations for Service Animals and ESAs
It’s important to know that tenants with service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs) are legally entitled to bring their animals with them, regardless of your pet policy. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and state laws, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with service animals and ESAs. Service animals are not considered pets, and you cannot charge extra deposits or rent for them.

🐾 Potential Risks of Accepting Pets1. Property Damage
The most common concern when accepting pets is potential damage to the property. Pets, especially dogs, may scratch floors, chew furniture, or stain carpets. Damage can occur not just from the animals themselves, but from irresponsible pet ownership, such as leaving pets unsupervised or not cleaning up after them.
2. Noise and Disturbances
Pets, particularly dogs, can create noise disturbances if they bark excessively. In multi-unit properties, this can lead to noise complaints from neighbors, causing tension and dissatisfaction among tenants. It’s crucial to ensure tenants with pets understand the rules around noise levels and are responsible for their animals’ behavior.
3. Hygiene and Health Risks
Pets that are not well-cared-for may contribute to hygiene issues like pet odors, flea infestations, or allergens. While many pet owners are responsible, there is a risk that tenants may neglect proper cleaning or maintenance, leading to increased maintenance costs and a less desirable living environment.

🐾 How to Mitigate Risks and Set Clear ExpectationsIf you decide to allow pets, there are steps you can take to minimize risks and maintain the quality of your property:
1. Screen Tenants Thoroughly
Thorough tenant screening is key to finding responsible pet owners. Ask for references from previous landlords to understand how well they managed their pets in the past. Inquire about their pets’ behavior and how they care for them.
2. Set a Clear Pet Policy
Create a pet policy in your lease agreement that outlines the types of pets allowed, restrictions (e.g., size, breed), and expectations for pet behavior. Be clear about responsibilities for pet care, cleanliness, and noise levels. This policy should also include the pet deposit or pet rent amount.
3. Charge a Pet Deposit or Pet Rent
Charge a pet deposit to cover any potential damages caused by pets. You can also collect monthly pet rent to help offset the added maintenance costs. Be sure the deposit is separate from the regular security deposit and clearly outlined in the lease agreement.
4. Monitor Pet Care and Behavior
Once tenants move in, it’s important to regularly monitor the condition of the property and address any issues promptly. If there are complaints about pet behavior, such as excessive barking or damage, have a discussion with the tenant to find a solution.
5. Know the Laws for Service Animals and ESAs
Remember that you are legally required to allow service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) under federal and state law. Be aware of the documentation requirements for ESAs and ensure that these tenants understand the responsibility of having an animal in your rental.

🐾 The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It to Accept Pets?The decision to accept pets in your rental property depends on your priorities as a landlord. Allowing pets can increase demand, attract long-term tenants, and provide additional income, but it also carries risks of property damage, noise complaints, and hygiene issues.
If you decide to accept pets, set clear expectations with your tenants, screen them thoroughly, and maintain open communication to minimize potential problems. With a well-crafted pet policy and responsible tenants, allowing pets can be a win-win for both parties.
If you’re unsure about how to manage pets in your rental property, Keybox Properties is here to help. Our experienced team can guide you through the process of creating a pet-friendly policy that works for both you and your tenants, while ensuring your property remains in great condition.

I’m a 90049/90403/90405 Brentwood and Santa Monica native who now runs a small, specialized brokerage focused on managing single-family homes in the neighborhood I’ve always called home. This isn’t just about keys, leases, and late-night maintenance calls—it’s about caring for the kinds of homes I grew up around and helping owners feel at ease knowing someone local has their back.
Here’s something most people don’t realize: in California, you need a broker’s license to manage property legally. But most brokers are focused on closing deals—not handling repairs, lease renewals, or navigating Santa Monica’s complex rent control and tenant laws. That’s what makes this work both a niche and an art.
I’ve built my business to be the opposite of corporate and impersonal. I stay small on purpose, so I can give each property (and each tenant) real attention. I handle the contract stuff, the financials, and the day-to-day—but I also focus on kindness and good communication, which is surprisingly rare in this field. Especially in a city where landlord-tenant relationships can get tense fast, that kind of care goes a long way.
If you’re a homeowner who wants a local expert—not a call center—watching over your Santa Monica rental, I’d love to connect.