Tempe single family rents are up about $100 in the last 9 months for a 4/2/2g. There are 41 houses for rent with 2 or 3 car garages on the MLS for all of Tempe and it’s prime rental season. I just leased out a house in Dobson Ranch (Mesa bordering Tempe) where the rent went up $200 in two years (I did paint and flooring too). Goodyear is much slower, I may be able to raise the rent $50.

The speculators are leaving town and people are hesitant to buy. Employment is still strong, except in construction. Until the banks get realistic on their foreclosure pricing, there will not be a lot of deals for investors. All these factors should increase rents.

There is definitely an increase in renters now. I fielded many calls and continue to do so. I used to have it listed at $1450 until this weekend. I actually think the rate is on the low end, but I wanted to get it rented quickly.

I am a little surprised that you got $1,350 in Avondale, even in that subdivision. Rents are definitely on the upswing. I have a 1,600 square foot home in Goodyear that is going vacant at the end of the month. Comparable currently available homes show a rent increase is in order. The number of homes for lease in Goodyear has dropped.

I have a pool addendum that the tenants have to sign. Many people rent homes with pools. I haven’t rented to families with little kids on a home with a pool yet.

BTW, the home has been rented.

My question is this home appears to be brand new, and when you rent out a brand new home are you worry about the wear and tear that the home will take. When I look for properties, I always look for an older but still somewhat decent looking property so I don’t have to worry about scratches or dents the tenant will put on the home.