Property Management Education

By Marc Cunningham - Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Overview of SB25-020: Enforcement of Landlord-Tenant Law

Key PointsEmpowers the Colorado Attorney General, counties, and municipalities to pursue civil or even criminal actions for persistent property neglect.Authorizes appointment of receivers to manage neglected properties, including collecting rent and making repairs.Applies only to multifamily properties.Effective January 1, 2026.Overview of SB25-020...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, August 18, 2025

Major Changes To Tenant Security Deposit Returns In Colorado: HB25-1249

Key PointsLandlords may only withhold tenant security deposits for specific predefined reasons.The definition of “normal wear and tear” broadens protections for tenants, including some damage and uncleanliness under reasonable use.Charges for carpet or paint are limited to substantial damage, and no charges are allowed for carpets 10 ye...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, July 28, 2025

Legal Update: HB25-1236. Landlords Must Accept Tenant Provided Background Reports

Key PointsLandlords must accept Portable Tenant Screening Reports (PTSRs) directly from tenant applicants.For subsidized applicants, PTSRs are NOT required to include credit history, credit scores, or adverse credit events.Landlords must accept PTSRs as provided but are not obligated to base rental decisions solely on these reports.Landlords may co...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, July 7, 2025

Legal Update: HB25-1240. Colorado Landlords Required To Accept Section 8

Key PointsAll Colorado landlords must now accept housing subsidies, with no exceptions for investor size or number of units owned.A 30-day notice is required before initiating eviction for nonpayment if the tenant receives rental assistance or the property has a federally backed mortgage.Landlords must cooperate in good faith with housing subsidy p...

By Marc Cunningham - Wednesday, May 21, 2025

How to Get Your Security Deposit Back in Colorado

Key Points:Colorado security deposit laws apply to all landlords—professional or DIY—without exception.Tenants must receive their deposit or a written explanation within 30–60 days of move-out, depending on the lease.Only specific, documented expenses (not wear and tear or upgrades) may be deducted from a security deposit.One of t...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, April 21, 2025

Interview Questions For a Property Management Company Before You Work With Them

Key Points:Metrics like lease renewal rates, termination terms, and online reviews can be indicative of the quality of service you should expectEstablish clear expectations regarding roles, responsibilities, and communicationDon’t rely solely on the property management agreement – ask more questions to discern how the company operatesTh...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, March 24, 2025

Should I Self Manage My Rental Property?

Key Points:Self-managing landlords must follow the same legal rules as third-party property managers.Rental laws require strict compliance with security deposits, lease terms, and maintenance timelines.Managing a rental property requires time, knowledge, and patience. Sometimes, real estate owners consider converting their primary homes into rental...

By Marc Cunningham - Friday, February 21, 2025

Should I Sell or Rent Out My House?

Key Points: The decision to rent or sell a property depends on market conditions, financial considerations, and personal long-term goals.Not all homes make good rentals; emotional detachment and financial preparedness are essential.If planning to selling within 12 months, renting temporarily is usually a bad idea. It is not uncommon for a homeown...

By Marc Cunningham - Monday, January 27, 2025

The Actual Costs Of Owning Rental Real Estate In Colorado

Key Points:Property holding costs including mortgage, property insurance, HOA dues, property taxes and repair costs are increasing significantly, impacting investment profitability.The property type and age have a major impact on average holding costsRising expenses are outpacing rent increases As 2025 begins, many real estate investors in Denver a...

By Marc Cunningham - Friday, January 10, 2025

How to Rent a Property in a Slow Denver Rental Market

Key Points:The Denver rental market is experiencing declining renter demand.There are proactive steps property owners can make to reduce vacancy time.There is no correlation between the monthly mortgage payment due on a property, compared to the rental rate it will generate.After many years of strong renter demand, the Denver rental market is facin...