Do you have a schedule for routine inspections of your rental property? And are you feeling good about your schedule’s frequency? I hope you do. These inspections are one of the best ways to protect your investment property. 

Understanding the importance of these inspections isn’t just good practice—it’s essential for the longevity and profitability of your rental property. When you inspect regularly, you reduce the number of maintenance emergencies during the year that you must respond to. Tenant satisfaction is also higher, leading to better retention and less vacancy and turnover.  And lastly, keeping track of maintenance needs at the property creates more value and asset appreciation over time.

Why Are Routine Inspections Crucial? 

The short answer is simple—protection. By keeping a close eye on your property, you’ll catch small problems before they escalate into expensive nightmares. Let’s take a look at some data that proves what you probably know instictively: regular inspections prevents costly repairs, ensures tenant satisfaction, and improves the overall return on your investment (ROI). 

Here’s why landlords and property managers should make inspections a top priority, especially in a market as competitive and expensive as the D.C. metro area:

• Preventive Maintenance helps to reduce repair costs 
• Tenant Retention because they see you maintaining a safe and comfortable rental 
• Compliance with Regulations will severely reduce liability and can avoid fines or lawsuits 
• Preserving Asset Value will help create long-term growth in the value of your property
• Data-Driven Proof That Routine Inspections are Critical

I’ve been managing rental properties for many years, and I feel I understand on a professional and a personal level the value of good inspections. Investors who dive into the data and the details will see why I take these inspections seriously.

Fewer Emergency Repairs 

The cost of emergency repairs can quickly erode your rental income. According to a recent study by the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM), landlords who conducted routine inspections spent 40% less on emergency repairs compared to those who didn’t. Don’t wait for the hot summer or the cold winter to arrive before you check out your HVAC system. Routine inspections will reduce the number of urgent tenant calls due to equipment breakdowns. 

Higher Tenant Satisfaction 

Inspections don’t just reveal damages—they create trust with your tenants. Surveys by Appfolio show that 82% of satisfied tenants were more likely to praise their landlords or property managers for timely maintenance request action. 77% of satisfied tenants appreciate the communication around how the repairs are progressing. Tenants will renew their lease if they feel their property is well-maintained. Consistent inspections communicate that you’re serious about providing a safe and comfortable home, reducing vacancy rates and saving the property owner big money by avoiding charges to find new tenants, not to mention other turnover costs.

Protecting Your Investment with Inspections 

Not all inspections are the same. Staggering different types of inspections throughout the lease term ensures comprehensive oversight. The age and condition of your property will dictate how often you need to inspect. Your tenant relationship will also tell you whether it is important to physically visit a rental more frequently or just once a year during the lease term. Here are the inspection types I always encourage:

Move-In/Move-Out Inspections  

These inspections allow you to document the property’s condition at the start and end of a lease using a detailed checklist and photos. This sets clear expectations and minimizes disputes over security deposits.

Routine Inspections  

Conduct regular checks (e.g., every six months) to review the overall condition of your property and ensure tenants are complying with the lease. Provide plenty of notice and make sure you include the necessity of these inspections in your lease agreement.  And be sure to document through photos and written communications any damage, wear and tear above normal or other issues that need to be corrected.

Drive-By Inspections  

Sometimes, a quick external review can tell you a lot about your property’s condition—things like landscaping, visible damage, or unauthorized vehicles. If you happen to be in the neighborhood, why not drive by the property just to be sure everything looks the way it should?

Emergency Inspections  

If there’s a reported issue, such as plumbing leaks or electrical problems, an emergency inspection may be necessary to assess the damage and carry out repairs promptly. When a tenant reports a major appliance is no longer working or a door won’t lock properly, you’ll need to see personally what’s going on.

Routine Inspections Protect Investors

A small leak under the sink might seem insignificant now, but over time, it could result in mold growth, water damage, and hefty repair bills. Rental property owners who perform quarterly or semi-annual inspections identify these minor issues early—saving themselves, on average, hundreds of dollars per event, according to Angie’s List averages.

Routine inspections offer a chance to communicate directly with tenants, discussing how the property is functioning for them. Tenants who feel heard are more likely to report minor issues—a win for both parties. You want your tenants reporting problems right away so that there’s less deferred work to worry about. 

Inspections also ensure you’re compliant with local laws regarding habitability and safety standards. Skipping this step can lead to fines or disagreements that lower tenant satisfaction. 

Professional Property Management Makes a Difference 

I like my property managers to prioritize comprehensive, detail-rich inspections when managing a property. I believe our detailed approach and the industry leading methods we employ for conducting inspections at our client’s properties is a step above what an owner could do on their own.  

A lot of landlords and self-managing owners have an idea of what they should be monitoring. Many casual landlords and property owners do not think to conduct regular inspections or know what to look for. In fact, a lot of other property management companies don’t, either. The difference is the experience managing many residential dwellings here in D.C. and the knowledge that comes from doing this work every day for over a decade.

In today’s article, I’ve covered only routine and regular evaluations of the property condition both inside and outside, how the tenants are taking care of the rental, and whether they are abiding by the provisions of their rental agreement. An important note to remember: don’t confuse these surveys by the property manager with a home inspection, which can only be conducted by a licensed home inspection professional.

Scott Bloom is owner and senior property manager of Columbia Property Management. For more information and resources, go to ColumbiaPM.com.

In 2025, tile is emerging as a pivotal element in interior design. No longer just traditional ceramic or porcelain, today’s tiles offer a unique blend of functionality and artistry, making them a favorite among homeowners and designers alike. This year, several tile trends are making significant waves, each bringing a distinct character to modern homes.

1. Textured Tiles. Texture plays a crucial role in adding depth and tactile beauty to spaces. In 2025, there’s a noticeable shift toward tiles that celebrate imperfection and handcrafted beauty. These tiles often feature organic finishes, subtle color variations, and unique patterns that make each piece distinct. 

2. Warm Minimalist Colors. While minimalism is still popular, 2025 brings a warmer palette to this aesthetic. Neutral tones like beige, taupe, soft terracotta, and Pantone’s mocha mousse are replacing the cooler grays and whites of previous years. These colors impart a sense of coziness and serenity, making spaces feel more inviting while maintaining the clean lines and simplicity of minimalism.

3. Tile Drenching. Tile drenching involves extending the same tile from the floor up the walls, creating a seamless, cohesive look. This technique is particularly effective in smaller spaces like bathrooms or as backsplashes in kitchens with open shelving instead of upper cabinets, where it can make the area appear larger and more unified. 

4. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Tiles. Environmental consciousness is increasingly influencing consumer choices, leading to a rise in sustainable tile options. Manufacturers are now offering tiles made from recycled materials using low-impact production processes and eco-friendly substances, such as glass and plastic. These tiles not only decrease environmental footprints but also align with reducing waste and conserving resources. 

5. Large-Format Tiles. Large-format tiles (think 24” x 48”) are gaining traction due to their ability to create a seamless and expansive look. Fewer grout lines result in a cleaner appearance and easier maintenance, making spaces feel more open and less cluttered. These tiles are particularly favored in showers, where simplicity and continuity are desired, and yesterday’s plastic surrounds are rejected. Available in various materials and finishes, large-format tiles offer versatility, a sleek look, and faster installation. 

6. Cement Tiles. Cement tiles are celebrated for their bold patterns, vibrant colors, and artisanal charm. Although they require sealing, they are known for their durability and handcrafted look. Unlike ceramic tiles, cement tiles are not fired; instead, they are cured at room temperature, which makes them more environmentally friendly. Their unique patterns can make a statement in any room, serving as a focal point that brings a touch of vintage elegance or contemporary flair, depending on the chosen motif.

7. Terracotta Tiles. Terracotta tiles are making a stylish comeback, bringing warmth, a rustic look, and a touch of Mediterranean elegance to modern interiors. Made from clay and fired at low temperatures, these tiles boast an earthy, organic appeal that supports the ongoing trend of incorporating natural elements in the home. When properly sealed, they are resistant to stains and moisture, and their ability to age gracefully and develop a patina over time adds character and depth, giving spaces a cozy feel.

8. Peel and Stick Tiles. Peel and stick tiles are gaining popularity as a versatile and budget-friendly option for quick home makeovers. Perfect for renters and DIY enthusiasts, these tiles offer a hassle-free installation process that requires no grout, mortar, or professional help. You simply peel off the adhesive backing and stick them onto a clean, smooth surface—rendering them ideal for backsplashes, accent walls, and even flooring. They are low-maintenance, easy to clean, and a practical choice for kitchens and bathrooms. 

9. Tile Stickers. Tile stickers are a fun and cost-effective trend, offering an easy way to update your tiles without the need for a complete renovation. Meant to be applied directly over existing tiles, these often removable, adhesive decals are perfect for renters or homeowners looking for a temporary method of personalization. Heat-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean, tile stickers are available in a wide variety of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing for endless customization. 

10. Smart Tiles. As smart home technology advances, Smart Tiles are now incorporating technological features seamlessly. Innovations include pressure-sensitive LED lighting, temperature control of heated floors, and interaction with home automation systems. Look for future advancements that will allow for both convenience and comfort, enabling homeowners to integrate modern technology without compromising on style. 

So, whether you’re renovating a single room, designing an entire home, or decorating with your landlord in mind, these 2025 trends offer many options to create spaces that resonate with your personal style and reflect a harmonious blend of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.

Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in D.C., Maryland, and Virginia with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at 202-246-8602, email her at DCHomeQuest.com, or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs. 

Spring is right around the corner. During this season, spring represents a time for renewal, a fresh start, new beginnings, along with a sense of energy and optimism for the future.  One of the best ways to get this feeling going is also inside and around the home. Now that the temps are a bit warmer, and the sun sets a little later, give yourself the gift of a spring refresh.  Here are some tips to re-energize, declutter, “move the energy” in the room, and create a serene and inviting home environment. If that alone isn’t reason enough, some people in the area may be deciding to put their homes on the market this year too.

Enhance Curb Appeal: There is never a second chance to make a first impression!  Does the yard need tidying up? Does the front door need a fresh new coat of paint? Want to make it pop? Plant some shrubs or put some new flowers in the windowsills? Clean those windows.  Tidy up the entryway, buy a new credenza for catching mail, keys, gloves, hats, etc. Mop the floors, get all that road salt off the tiles.

Deep Clean the Kitchen and Bathrooms: These rooms are key selling points. Clean the oven, refrigerator, and stove in the kitchen. In bathrooms, clean grout lines, remove soap scum, and make sure faucets and showerheads are free from water stains.

Neutralize the Space: This is more for those who want to sell their home. It becomes easier for a potential buyer to “see themselves” in a property the less they see YOU in the property. Put some photos away, declutter, take down anything that is very specific to you for any showings or open houses. I used to tell my clients, “Make it look like a Hampton Inn!” (clean, organized, presentable, not exactly shouting political affiliations and humor that may or may not play well to all audiences.) Just think, “NEUTRAL!”

Fix Minor Repairs: Take care of any small repairs such as leaky faucets, broken door handles, or cracked tiles. These little fixes show that the home has been well-maintained. They also help build that “can do” muscle! If you don’t know a handyman/person you can always find how to videos on YouTube.

Reorganize Rooms: Consider rearranging furniture to create an open, welcoming flow. If needed, remove oversized pieces to make rooms feel larger. This can also help the “vibe” in any home. I used show homes to clients that were smaller, but smartly furnished, and they could really feel the difference. An extra 150 square feet in an empty hallway isn’t doing anyone much good, but if you put some nice artwork up, and tone down the size of bulky furniture in the main living areas, it can begin to look like a crisp $100 bill.

Stage the Home: If you’re selling, consider staging the home, either with your own furniture or with rented pieces. Well-placed furniture and decor can highlight your home’s best features.

Freshen Up with Scents: Let’s be honest. Open those windows and air that bit*h out! Find your favorite candle company and invest in a few nice smells. I always wanted a nice candle burning during an open house. It helped the vibe! 

Whether you are staying put or planning on making moves, a spring re-fresh, clean up, maintenance moment, or general tidy up/tidy down is going to make YOU feel, in the words of Whitney Houston, “like a million-dollar bill! (OH OH OH OH!).” 

Editor’s note: Playing anything by our beloved Whitney Houston is guaranteed to get any person, place, or home out of whatever current funk state it is in! If your house isn’t singing, “You Give Good Love to Me” … now you know what to do!

Joseph Hudson is a referral agent with Metro Referrals.  He can be reached at (703) 587-0597 or joemike76@gmail.com.