A Guide to 2025 Regulations for Property Owners

Anthony A. Luna • January 7, 2025

A Roadmap for Property Owners and Investors

As a property owner or investor, navigating regulatory changes is part of the landscape—but it’s also an opportunity to maximize value, differentiate your portfolio, and elevate your assets. The 2025 property management regulations aren’t just requirements; they’re a roadmap for strengthening tenant relationships, protecting investments, and fostering long-term financial growth.


When I think back to my own experiences growing up in Section 8 housing, I remember property managers who stood out. They didn’t just follow the rules—they exceeded them, creating communities where families thrived. That mindset applies now more than ever, as the latest legislative updates challenge us to lead the way in professionalism, accountability, and care.


Key 2025 Legislative Updates You Need to Know

The 2025 regulations bring significant updates that demand attention. For property owners and investors, staying ahead of these changes is essential to maintaining profitability and safeguarding your assets.


1. AB 2801: Security Deposit Transparency

Landlords must now provide itemized statements for all security deposit deductions.

  • What It Means for Owners:
  • Fewer disputes with tenants over deposit returns.
  • Enhanced reputation for fairness, which can attract higher-quality tenants.
  • A chance to streamline processes using technology or third-party tools.

2. AB 2747: Rent Payment Reporting

For the first time, landlords can report tenant rent payments to credit bureaus.

  • What It Means for Owners:
  • A tool to encourage on-time payments, reducing delinquency rates.
  • A value-add for tenants, as this can help them build credit.
  • Improved tenant retention by offering financial benefits.

3. SB 611: Expanded Tenant Protections

This law introduces enhanced safeguards for vulnerable populations, such as low-income families and seniors.

  • What It Means for Owners:
  • Additional compliance steps may be required, but they protect your properties from potential disputes.
  • A chance to show a commitment to ethical, tenant-centric practices, improving your brand reputation.

Emerging Trends That Go Beyond Compliance

Regulatory changes often reflect broader industry trends. Savvy property owners and investors can leverage these shifts to unlock new opportunities and gain a competitive edge.


1. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

  • AB 2533 simplifies the approval process for ADUs, enabling faster development.
  • Why It Matters for Investors:
  • ADUs offer a cost-effective way to add units and increase rental income.
  • They address California’s housing shortage, positioning your properties as part of the solution.

2. Proactive Maintenance Requirements

  • Mandatory balcony inspections every five years reinforce the importance of safety.
  • Why It Matters for Owners:
  • Regular maintenance prevents costly repairs and liabilities.
  • Properties known for safety and reliability can command higher rents.

3. Accessibility and Inclusivity

  • New laws require accommodations like grab bars and wider doorways for tenants with special needs.
  • Why It Matters for Investors:
  • Inclusive properties attract a broader tenant base.
  • Demonstrating care for all tenants strengthens your reputation as a responsible owner.

How to Turn Compliance Into an Advantage

Adapting to these regulations can feel like a challenge, but proactive steps can transform them into opportunities for growth and differentiation.

1. Train and Empower Your Property Management Team

  • Ensure your property managers are well-versed in the latest laws.
  • A knowledgeable team reassures tenants and reduces the risk of legal issues.

2. Invest in Technology

  • Use property management platforms to track compliance, automate communications, and monitor tenant satisfaction.
  • These tools can streamline operations, saving time and reducing errors.

3. Leverage Professional Expertise

  • Partner with legal and compliance experts to refine lease agreements and operational strategies.
  • Ensuring alignment with the latest laws protects your investments and reduces liability.

4. Build Tenant Trust

  • Transparency in practices, such as detailed security deposit deductions, fosters positive tenant relationships.
  • Tenants who trust their landlords are more likely to renew leases and care for the property.

Why These Regulations Are a Game-Changer for Investors

The 2025 regulations highlight an industry-wide pivot toward tenant-focused practices and accountability. For property owners and investors, this represents an opportunity to:

  • Enhance tenant retention: Transparent, proactive management fosters loyalty.
  • Safeguard your assets: Compliance reduces risks, from legal disputes to costly repairs.
  • Command higher rents: Properties known for safety, inclusivity, and reliability attract tenants willing to pay a premium.

Rather than viewing these laws as obstacles, consider them tools for innovation and long-term value creation.

How Owners Can Shape the Industry

The property management industry is evolving, and owners play a critical role in setting new standards. By embracing these changes, you can:

  • Lead with integrity and purpose.
  • Foster communities where tenants want to stay.
  • Build a legacy of excellence in a competitive market.

Ask yourself:

  • Are your properties compliant and aligned with industry best practices?
  • How can you position your assets as leaders in safety, inclusivity, and transparency?

What’s Next for Property Owners and Investors?

The 2025 property management regulations are an invitation to rethink how we manage assets, care for tenants, and drive profitability. By adapting now, you can seize the opportunity to:

  • Strengthen tenant relationships.
  • Differentiate your portfolio in a crowded market.
  • Secure long-term returns by investing in proactive, ethical management.


At the heart of these changes is a simple truth: great property management isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about creating value for everyone involved.


Let’s work together to elevate the industry and maximize the potential of your investments.

Let's elevate the industry together—share this blog with fellow investors.

A close-up of a credit card fee form, symbolizing transparency

AB 2493 Transparent Application Fee Practices

By Anthony A. Luna • December 5, 2024
Learn how California's AB 2493 improves transparency in rental application fees. Discover what landlords need to do to comply and enhance trust with applicants.
A service member in uniform saluting, symbolizing the protections and fee limits

SB 611 Fee Limits and Protections for Service Members

By Anthony A. Luna • December 4, 2024
Discover how California's SB 611 protects service members by limiting rental fees and enhancing compliance with the Servicemembers Civil Relief Act (SCRA). Learn your rights and responsibilities.
A property manager reviewing a paper copy of a credit report

AB 2747 Offering Rent Payment Reporting to Tenants

By Anthony A. Luna • December 3, 2024
Learn how California's AB 2747 requires landlords to offer rent payment reporting to credit bureaus. Discover the benefits, compliance steps, and impact on property management.
Two tenants packing up boxes while preparing to move out of their rental unit.

AB 2801 New Security Deposit Rules

By Anthony A. Luna • December 2, 2024
Learn about California's AB 2801 and the new 2025 security deposit rules. Discover how these changes impact tenants and landlords, ensuring transparency and fairness in rental agreements.
Show More

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News & Updates

What Is Fair Rent for My Property?

By John David Sarmiento • April 11, 2025
Setting the right rent isn’t just about earning income — it’s about finding the balance between maximizing cash flow and keeping your property consistently occupied. So, what exactly is fair rent for your property? Whether you're renting out a single-family home, an apartment, or a unit in a multi-family building, finding a fair rental price starts with a thoughtful look at your property, your market, and what today’s renters are willing to pay. Start with Comparable Rentals The best way to find a fair rent is to research comparable rentals in your area. Look for listings similar in: Square footage Number of bedrooms and bathrooms Neighborhood Condition and amenities Platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or Rent.com are a great place to browse rental listings and compare active prices. If you’re seeing similar units listed at a higher rate than yours — and they're still on the market weeks later — that could be a sign they’re overpriced. Units that rent fast tell you what renters are actually willing to pay. Real Example: Pricing a 2-Bedroom in Long Beach Let’s say you own a 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment in Long Beach with around 900 square feet. You check listings and find similar properties renting for $2,300 to $2,500. Zillow shows a rent zestimate of $2,400 — a decent starting point, but not the full picture. After looking at how long listings have stayed active and talking to a local property manager , you find out that well-maintained units with in-unit laundry and parking are consistently getting rented at $2,350. You price your unit accordingly, giving yourself a competitive edge while still earning market value. Avoid Relying on Algorithms Alone Automated pricing tools like the rent zestimate are useful for a ballpark figure, but they often miss local demand shifts, recent upgrades, or what renters truly value in your neighborhood. Use them as one data point — not your final decision-maker. Other Factors That Influence Fair Rent Your final rent amount should reflect more than just comps. Consider: The property’s condition: Have you renovated or upgraded appliances recently? Extras included: Are you covering any utilities? Is there secure parking or outdoor space? Seasonality: Rental demand can vary throughout the year. Your goals: Are you focused on fast occupancy or maximizing revenue? Professional support: A trusted rental manager or property manager can offer current insights based on tenant activity, vacancy rates, and pricing trends.  How Property Managers Help You Set the Right Price If you're unsure what to charge, a local property manager can evaluate your unit, compare it to others in your area, and recommend a pricing strategy that balances demand and return. They also help adjust your price over time as rental rates shift, and they’ll guide you in attracting and retaining quality tenants who value both the price and the property. Final Thoughts So, what is fair rent for your property? It’s the price that matches what your unit offers, reflects the current market, and appeals to qualified renters. It’s not necessarily the highest number possible — it’s the one that helps you rent quickly, reduce turnover, and maintain steady income. With a little research, a realistic view of your property’s features, and guidance from local experts, you’ll be well-positioned to price your rental right — and keep it occupied with great tenants.

How to Increase Rent Without Losing Tenants

By John David Sarmiento • April 10, 2025
One of the most delicate parts of owning a rental property is figuring out how to increase the rent without driving away good tenants. While you want to stay competitive with market rates , it’s equally important to maintain stable occupancy and avoid costly turnovers. The good news? With the right strategy and timing, raising rent doesn’t have to come at the cost of your tenant relationships. 1. Know Your Local Market Rates Before you decide to raise the rent , research similar properties in your area to understand current rent prices . If you're significantly below market value, a reasonable increase is often accepted — especially by tenants who like where they live. Even if you're close to market rate, a small adjustment can still make sense if you’re offering added value like upgraded amenities, responsive maintenance, or flexible lease terms. 2. Time It Around Lease Renewals The best time to increase the rental rate is when a tenant is renewing the lease . This gives them the chance to consider the new rate and evaluate their options — all while avoiding the hassle and cost of moving. Be sure to send a formal rent increase notice with enough lead time, typically 30 to 60 days in advance, depending on local regulations. 3. Communicate the “Why” Clearly When increasing rent, communication is everything. Let your tenants know the reasons behind the increase: Rising property taxes or insurance Increases in maintenance or utility costs Alignment with market rates Planned improvements to the unit or building Even if they don’t love the change, most tenants are more receptive when they feel respected and informed. 4. Offer Options and Flexibility If you’re working with long-term tenants you’d like to keep, consider offering choices to soften the increase: Extend the lease at the current rate for a few more months Offer a discounted rate for early renewal Split the increase over two payments instead of one lump sum This approach shows that you're not just looking to raise the rent , but to build a fair and lasting relationship. 5. Lean on Your Property Manager (If You Have One) Experienced property managers can provide insight into local rent prices , craft professional communications, and help navigate lease renewals in a way that keeps tenants happy while protecting your bottom line. They can also deliver rent increase notices and handle pushback more objectively. If you manage your property on your own, consider consulting a manager or local expert before finalizing your approach. Final Thoughts Increasing the rental rate is a normal part of owning a rental property , but it should always be done with care and intention. When you base your decisions on market research, communicate transparently, and give tenants room to respond, you’re more likely to keep good renters in place — even at a higher price point.  Want help reviewing your current lease structure or market position before you raise the rent? We’re here to support you.

How to Find Tenants for My Rental Property

By John David Sarmiento • April 9, 2025
Finding the right tenant is one of the most important things you’ll do as a property owner. The right renter can mean steady income, fewer problems, and long-term stability — while the wrong one can lead to missed rent, damage, or legal headaches. So how do you actually find great tenants for your rental property? Here's a clear, step-by-step approach that works — whether you're a new landlord or a seasoned investor. 1. Write a Clear, Honest Rental Listing Start by crafting a listing that highlights what makes your property attractive, but also sets clear expectations. Good property descriptions should include: Rental price and lease length Number of bedrooms and bathrooms Location and amenities Any restrictions (pets, smoking, etc.) Post your listing on multiple rental listing sites — but don’t underestimate the power of rent signs in front of the property, especially if it's in a high-traffic area. 2. Market Where Your Ideal Tenants Are To reach more prospective tenants , take your marketing beyond listing sites. Post your property on social media , community groups, and even local forums. Word of mouth can also be powerful — let friends, colleagues, and neighbors know the unit is available. Make sure your contact information is easy to find and consistent across platforms. You want prospective renters to reach you quickly when interest is high. 3. Use a Standard Rental Application When potential tenants reach out, have a standard rental application ready to go. This not only helps you stay organized, but ensures you’re collecting all the info you’ll need for the next step — tenant screenings . A good application should request: Full name and contact details Employment and income information References and previous landlord contacts Authorization for a background check and credit score pull 4. Screen Tenants Thoroughly (and Legally) One of the most critical steps in finding good tenants is how you screen tenants . Don’t skip this part — it’s where most rental issues can be avoided. Effective tenant screenings usually include: Background check (criminal history, eviction records) Credit score and payment history Verification of employment and income Reference checks with their previous landlord Always follow housing laws when screening applicants. Be consistent, fair, and avoid any language or decisions that could be considered discriminatory under the Fair Housing Act. 5. Collect a Security Deposit and Finalize the Lease Once you’ve found a great tenant , collect a security deposit (within the limits set by your state), and have both parties sign a clear, legally binding lease agreement . Your lease should detail rent amounts, due dates, responsibilities, and procedures for repairs or disputes. If you're not sure how to draft one, consult with a landlord or property manager familiar with local rental laws. Final Thoughts Finding the right tenant takes more than just putting up a listing — it takes a clear strategy, legal awareness, and the ability to evaluate prospective tenants fairly and confidently. The effort you put in now saves time, money, and stress later.  If you're unsure or simply want to ensure a smooth process, working with a professional property management company can make tenant placement and lease compliance much easier.
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