Tenancy Management: Three Phases to Get Right

Tenancy management is more than just collecting rent

It’s about having a clear, consistent process that guides every step of the landlord-tenant relationship. In this blog, and the video below, we’ll break down tenancy management into three simple yet essential phases: the opening, the middle game, and the endgame.

Whether you’re a hands-on landlord or work with a property manager, understanding these phases will help you minimise risk, enhance communication, and safeguard your investment.

From choosing the right tenant to maintaining strong relationships and handling exits professionally — this is tenancy management made simple.

Check out the video below for short, sharp tips that make tenancy management easier.

TRANSCRIPT

Every chess game has three phases: the opening, the middle game, and the endgame.
Managing rentals works the same way — and if you get any phase wrong, you’re likely to lose.

OPENING

Tenant selection is where some landlords and property managers lose before they’ve begun.

They rush the process, skip reference checks, or choose the first person who can pay the upfront costs.

In chess, a bad opening generally means you’re on the back foot the whole game. In property management, a bad tenant can mean stress and expense for the rest of the tenancy.

The smart opening involves thorough screening and background checking, clear expectations, and a detailed in-going inspection with a ton of photos. This sets the tone from day one.

MIDDLE GAME

This is the day-to-day of tenancy management: regular inspections, proactive maintenance, clear communication, and firm boundaries.

Many landlords either become too friendly or too distant. Think of it like chess — control the board without overextending yourself. Stay professional and responsive.

Fix real issues fast, but don’t let small requests turn into constant demands. Balance is key.

ENDGAME

Whether tenants leave happy or you face challenges, this phase is crucial. A smart exit strategy includes a thorough inspection, fair bond handling, and maintaining professional relationships, even with difficult tenants.

Clean exits minimise the risk of disputes, legal complications, or bad reviews.

In chess, these three phases are critical: a poor opening leads to a defensive game, neglecting the middle game compounds issues, and a botched endgame can harm your success.

Rental management, much like chess, requires strategic planning with real stakes involved.

Hope that helps. We’ll catch you next time.

Do you have a rental property in our area and need help? Let’s chat.  

Making life easier for landlords is what we do.