Key Takeaways
- Manhattan Beach rental properties have strong profit potential but strict legal requirements – While demand and rental prices are high, California’s tenant-protective laws and local regulations require landlords to be well-versed in compliance, from habitability standards to disclosure obligations.
- Quality and professionalism are essential to attract and retain tenants – Successful landlords go beyond basic maintenance, offering well-presented, high-quality homes and following a thorough, legally compliant tenant screening process to secure reliable renters.
- Professional property management can safeguard profitability and reduce risk – Hiring a local property management company helps navigate complex laws, handle day-to-day operations, and avoid costly mistakes, making it easier for landlords to enjoy passive income.
Owning a rental property in Manhattan Beach can help you generate long-term passive income. This is because demand for housing in this prime rental hotspot is skyrocketing. But, before you list the property, you need to know the realities of managing a property.
In this article, we at Jambi Property Management will cover what you need to know about renting out your home in Manhattan Beach. Whether you're a first-time landlord or looking to streamline your current process, we'll address everything from legal requirements and market trends to when it’s time to bring in professional help.
6 Tips For Renting Your House in Manhattan Beach
Renting out your property in Manhattan Beach isn’t as simple as listing it online and collecting rent. California’s legal framework can be daunting for landlords to navigate. What’s more, navigating a competitive rental market can also become time consuming.
As such, you’ll need a working knowledge of the California landlord-tenant laws, local market behavior, and tenant management to stay profitable, so here are six tips to help you rent out your home in Manhattan Beach successfully:
1. Understand Landlord-Tenant Responsibilities
California imposes several legal obligations on landlords, many of which are codified under the state’s Civil Code (Sections 1940 to 1954.06.) These obligations apply the moment a lease is signed or a tenant takes possession of the property.
For instance, landlords are required to provide habitable housing that meets basic health and safety standards. Working heat and hot water are not optional. Likewise, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors must be installed and functional. If there is any mold or pests are present, you’re also expected to resolve the issue promptly.
Tenants, on the other hand, are responsible for keeping the property reasonably clean, making repairs, report maintenance issues, comply with the lease, and avoiding activities that disturb neighbors.
2. Improve Property Quality
To stand out and justify a competitive rent, ensure your property is not just habitable, but truly desirable. This means going beyond basic repairs. Consider fresh paint, updated fixtures, professional cleaning, and excellent curb appeal.
Furthermore, make sure all HVAC systems are in top working order and address any potential issues proactively rather. A well-maintained, aesthetically-pleasing property will not only attract higher-quality tenants but also lead to fewer maintenance requests and longer tenancy periods.
3. Take Note of Required Disclosures and Documentation
Before you hand over the keys to a tenant, California law requires landlords to provide several disclosures.
These include information about lead-based paint, bed bug procedures, mold, asbestos, and utility allocation. Properties in flood zones or near military ordnance sites must also carry relevant notices. If the home was the site of a death within the past three years, that must also be disclosed.
4. Screen Tenants Thoroughly
Screening tenants isn’t limited to checking income and credit. You also need to understand how California’s anti-discrimination laws affect the screening process. Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), landlords cannot deny applicants based on protected characteristics.
You can ask for pay stubs, run background checks, and verify employment, but you must apply the same criteria to every applicant. It’s also unlawful to impose different rental terms or conditions based on who applies. To protect yourself legally, always keep documentation of your screening process and reasons for tenant selection.
5. Know Your Entry and Eviction Rights
California law strictly limits landlord access. Unless there’s an emergency, you must provide at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering the property.
Evictions are another area where compliance is critical. If your tenant is not paying rent or violating the lease, you must follow a formal process that begins with a notice, usually a 3-day notice to cure or quit.
6. Hire a Professional Property Management Company
Managing a rental in Manhattan Beach demands time and constant attention to changing rules. For most landlords, especially those with full-time jobs or multiple properties, hiring a local property management company can reduce risk and increase return.
A California-based property manager handles all the day-to-day operations, including:
- Marketing the property
- Setting competitive rent prices
- Screening tenants
- Managing maintenance and emergency repairs
- Drafting leases and issuing legal notices
- Staying current with changes to rent control, eviction law, and disclosure obligations
- Handling security deposits, inspections, and final move-out procedures
This level of professional oversight can prevent costly mistakes and save you from legal disputes.
Do You Need A License To Rent Out Your House In Manhattan Beach?
Although California doesn’t mandate a specific license to rent out your own home, a business license may be needed if you manage multiple properties or operate under an LLC. A license may also be required where you run your rentals like a business.
Also note that for short-term rentals, Manhattan Beach has specific prohibitions and permits, with an exception for properties within the Coastal Zone. Always check with the city for the latest requirements.
Bottom Line
Renting out a house in Manhattan Beach can be incredibly lucrative. That said, with California’s rental regulations, being a landlord requires a lot of time and effort. That’s why partnering with a professional property management company is often the smartest move.
If you need help managing your rentals in Manhattan Beach turn to our experts at Jambi Property Management. Contact us today to learn about our services!
