Leasing & Screening

As the end of the year approaches, it is the perfect time for rental housing providers to look back at the trends and challenges that shaped the leasing landscape in 2025. To help owners and operators stay ahead of the curve, BPOA hosted a special webinar with Kathleen Castro, Client Success Manager Continue Reading

In 2008, landlords could ask about criminal history—and often did. Today, Berkeley’s Fair Chance Housing Ordinance makes that illegal. This Then & Now column compares what landlords could do then versus what’s allowed now. Continue Reading

Planning upgrades between tenants? You don’t have to wait until the last inspection to advertise. Learn how to market mid-renovation safely, highlight improvements, and stay compliant with Berkeley rental rules. Continue Reading

E-bikes and scooters are ubiquitous, and California law stipulates that tenants have the right to keep them. Do your leases cover this? Learn what SB 712 requires and why BPOA’s Micromobility Devices Addendum should be part of every lease package - from the start!. Continue Reading

Intellirent billing is based on your settings at the time you send an application invitation. Deleting your credit card information will not necessarily prevent charges. Learn how to avoid surprise fees by confirming “applicant pays” before sending. Continue Reading

Breed lists aren’t a defense. ESAs and Service Animals are accommodations, not pets. Make individualized decisions; insurance isn’t an automatic out. Deny only for a current direct threat, fundamental alteration, or true undue burden, and document your reasoning. Continue Reading

A failed Intellirent verification doesn’t mean a failed applicant or a bad tool. Sometimes the information just doesn’t come back at all. Learn why that happens and how to follow up with your due diligence. Continue Reading

New laws and Berkeley’s RSO set strict rules for deposits, pricing, and lease terms. Learn how to advertise consistently, stay within deposit caps, and avoid pitfalls when negotiating rent with prospective tenants. Continue Reading

Not all reasons for denying a tenant are legal. Learn which characteristics are always protected, which criteria you can safely use, and why written standards matter in Berkeley’s strict rental market. Continue Reading

Learn how to attract more qualified applicants—faster. This hands-on session walks you through Intellirent’s marketing tools to help your listings stand out across dozens of platforms. Whether you're new to online leasing or ready to level up your strategy, this is where to start. Continue Reading

Learn how new state laws impact security deposits and rental applications. This webinar covers key legal changes, compliance tips, and best practices to protect your business and plan your next tenancy with confidence. Presented by BPOA Executive Director, Krista Gulbransen Continue Reading

Even routine decisions, like accepting a late fee or choosing between applicants, can carry Fair Housing risk. Learn how to spot the ethical red flags that could undermine your credibility or land you in legal trouble. Continue Reading