From setting rent and evaluating applicants to issuing leases and onboarding new tenants, this section offers guidance on every phase of the leasing process. Explore best practices, legal requirements, and compliance tips to help you lease confidently and screen fairly—no matter the size of your property.
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
A beginners guide for Berkeley Rental Housing Providers Continue Reading
This article walks you through BPOA’s key forms used during the rental application process, what each one is for, when to use it, and how to stay compliant with California and federal law. Continue Reading
Think asking for a selfie with ID or a link to Instagram helps prevent fraud? Think again. Learn why sticking to BPOA’s standard rental application is not just smart, it’s legally safer. Continue Reading
