10 Free & Easy Ways to Make Happier Tenants (And Save Yourself Thousands)

Keeping tenants happy isn’t just about making them smile—it’s about saving you time and money.

Happy tenants stick around longer, pay rent on time, and take better care of the property. Here’s how you can keep them smiling (without breaking the bank)! We’re talking $3000 – $7500 in savings or more! Check out this article for the breakdown.

1. Be Quick to Respond—Like, Really Quick

You don’t need a cape, but when tenants reach out, don’t leave them hanging. Quick responses show you care. Even if you don’t have a fix right away, letting them know you’re on it makes them feel heard and valued. A fast reply says, “I’ve got your back!”

2. Active Listening: Let Them Vent (It’s Free!)

Sometimes, tenants just need to vent. Let them! You don’t have to have all the answers, just listen and acknowledge their concerns. A little empathy goes a long way—and it shows you’re not just solving problems, you’re solving their problems.

3. Keep Up with Preventative Maintenance

Don’t wait for that roof to leak to fix it. Routine checkups can prevent major repairs that hit your wallet hard. Plus, staying ahead of maintenance shows your tenants you care about their comfort—and you’re not waiting for an emergency to act.

4. Create a Hassle-Free Maintenance System

Make it simple for tenants to submit maintenance requests. The easier it is for them to reach you, the happier they’ll be. A straightforward online system or a dedicated email gets things done faster, and they’ll appreciate the streamlined process.

5. Keep Them in the Loop

Transparency is everything. If something’s broken, let your tenants know when it’ll be fixed. If there’s a delay, keep them updated. Being upfront and communicative builds trust and shows you’re on top of things.

6. Follow Up—Because You Care

After you’ve fixed an issue, circle back to make sure all is well. It’s a simple step that shows you genuinely care about their comfort. And hey, if they’re singing your praises, now’s the time to ask for a Google review! (Almost 10% of new property owners at Level PMG come from our Google reviews!)

7. Surprise Them (In a Good Way)

Who doesn’t love a good surprise? A thoughtful gift, a thank-you note, or even homemade cupcakes shows your tenants they’re appreciated. These little gestures build goodwill and won’t cost you much. Trust me, a surprise gift is worth its weight in tenant loyalty.

8. Host Fun Community Events

Who doesn’t love free food? BBQs, coffee hours, or even happy hours in a common area can create a sense of community. Tenants who know their neighbors are way less likely to leave. (Okay, so it’s not technically free, but it’s still a fun way to build connections!)

9. Offer Referral Rewards

Want tenants to bring in their friends? Reward them! A small rent discount or gift card can go a long way. Not only will this keep your property full, but happy tenants mean fewer vacancies—and fewer vacancies mean more cash flow. (And no more crazy advertising costs!)

10. Show Appreciation

It’s the small things that matter most. A simple “Thank you for being a great tenant” note can go a long way. Acknowledge positive behavior, like paying on time or keeping the place in great shape. When tenants feel appreciated, they stick around longer—and that means more stability for your bottom line.

Keeping Them Happy, Keeps the Cash Flowing

Happy tenants mean more money in your pocket (plus fewer headaches and nicer people!) —whether it’s fewer vacancies, fewer repairs, or more referrals. By communicating well, staying on top of maintenance, and fostering a sense of community, you’ll have tenants who stick around, take care of your property, and help keep your business thriving.

It’s that simple. Start implementing these tips today and watch the savings roll in.

Need Help?

Keeping tenants happy takes some time and effort—but it’s worth it. Need help keeping your tenants smiling and your property running smoothly? Contact Level Property Management today, and let’s talk about how we can make your life easier—and more profitable!

Call 251.210.1664 and speak with an advisor!

Multi-Family Property Owners – Here’s One Simple Secret to Save (Literally) Thousands

If you’re an apartment owner or manage a few duplexes, you may have wondered at some point is there’s an easy way to save thousands on your multi-family property? The answer is YES!

Here’s the secret: Happy tenants. That’s it. When your tenants are happy, they stick around longer, pay rent on time, take better care of the property—and it all adds up to big savings for you. And the best part? It’s easier than you think. We’ll be sharing 10 easy (and free!) ways to keep your tenants smiling. You won’t believe how simple it can be to create a happier, more loyal tenant base!

Still skeptical? Here’s some real data to show why happy tenants are your golden ticket:

Tenant Retention: Happy tenants stay longer. In fact, according to the National Apartment Association, happy tenants tend to stay an average of 3 years, while unhappy tenants pack up after just 1.5 to 2 years. Less turnover? Yes, please!

Turnover Costs: Unhappy tenants will cost you big time. Rentec Direct found that tenant turnover can cost you anywhere from $2,000 to $5,000 per unhappy tenant. That’s money you could spend on… literally anything else.

Rent Payments: When tenants are happy, they pay on time! Buildium found that 85% of satisfied tenants pay rent on time, while only 50% of dissatisfied tenants do. Time to start thinking of them as your personal ATM.

Referrals & Reputation: Happy tenants aren’t just sticking around—they’re spreading the word. Zillow says 70% of happy tenants will recommend your property to others. That means more reliable tenants without the need for costly advertising. Cha-ching!

Maintenance Requests: Happy tenants don’t bug you about every little thing. According to TenantCloud, happy tenants request fewer maintenance services, saving you time and money. Unhappy tenants? Expect a lot of “My faucet is dripping” and “The light bulb blew out!” (eye roll).

Repairs: Unhappy tenants tend to leave you with more than just complaints—they also damage your property. PropertyNest says unhappy tenants cause damage that costs $1,000 to $2,500 per incident. Ouch! Happy tenants are less likely to cause issues, and that means fewer repair bills.

So, now that we know why keeping your tenants happy is so important, let’s talk about how you can make that happen.

Next up: Click here for 10 free & easy ways to keep your tenants smiling—and your bank account brimming.

The State of Rental Properties in Fairhope, AL (Mid 2025)

Stay, Sell, or Strategize? What Fairhope Rental Owners Need to Know Right Now.

If you’re a rental property owner in Fairhope—or anywhere along the Eastern Shore—you’ve probably noticed some changes lately. Maybe your property is sitting longer than it used to. Maybe tenant inquiries have slowed. Maybe you’re wondering if it’s time to sell while values are still strong.

We’re here to give you the real story behind Fairhope’s current rental market—and what smart property owners should be doing right now. Here’s what the data—and the trends—are telling us.

Fairhope Rental Market Snapshot (July 2025)

Fairhope Days on Market (DOM)
• Realtor.com reports rental listings in Fairhope now average 78 days on market.
• Baldwin Realtors MLS: 22 active listings, averaging 55 days on market.

By contrast, the national average DOM is between 36–52 days, meaning Fairhope is moving slower than most U.S. markets.

Fairhope Rental Prices
• Zillow: Avg rent $2,050
• Point2Homes: Avg rent $1,550 (homes & apartments)
• Apartments.com: Median rent $1,311 (apartments – down 5.9% YoY)
• MLS (Fairhope): Avg rent $2,226 (homes)

In short: Pricing is holding steady for homes, but smaller or older rentals are seeing downward pressure.

Fairhope Vacancy Rate
• Estimated at 11.6% (vs. national avg of 7.1%), signaling higher supply and tenant selectiveness.

Comparison: Nearby Markets

Let’s compare Fairhope with nearby rental markets:

These figures reflect currently active rental listings in the Baldwin Realtors MLS as of July 21, 2025.
They represent asking prices—not actual leased rates—and not all of these homes will rent at the prices listed. In fact, properties that are overpriced or not properly positioned for today’s market are sitting longer and may require price reductions or improvements to attract qualified tenants.

Property owners who price strategically, maintain well-presented listings, and work with an experienced management team (like Level Property Management Group) can still see strong returns and low vacancy loss.

Level Property Management Group’s current average is just 46 days on market, with an average rental price of $2,073. That’s 5 days faster and just a few cents per day lower than the Baldwin County average.

Important Market Note: The Daphne–Fairhope–Foley MSA saw the largest rent drop among small metros nationally: −3.4% YoY.

Should You Sell Your Rental Property Right Now?

It’s a question we’re hearing from a lot of owners right now—and the answer isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Consider Selling If…
• Your property has sat vacant for longer than 60 days AND
• You’ve had to reduce rent multiple times just to get showings.
• You want to cash out now before further price softening AND
• You’re considering reallocating equity—for example, selling in Fairhope and buying in Spanish Fort where demand is higher.

Baldwin County home sales trends also matter here:
Home sales have softened countywide in the past few months, with longer days on market and more price reductions. We are tipping into more of a buyer’s market —so if you plan to sell, sooner may be better than later.

You May Want to Hold If…
• Your property is still generating positive (or even break-even) cash flow AND
• You have a long-term investment strategy in place.
• You want to build wealth over time.
• Your rental serves as a future income stream (e.g., retirement, college fund).
• Your mortgage has a low interest rate, making holding less expensive.

Not Sure What to Do? Here’s How to Decide:

Before you rush into a sale take a moment to think strategically.

  1. Analyze Your Financials. Know your net cash flow, upcoming expenses, and future appreciation potential.
  2. Evaluate the Market Conditions. Fairhope is slower right now, but what have the last two years looked like? What’s expected over the next five years? Nearby Spanish Fort is hot – why? Consulting an advisor and taking a deeper dive into the data could shape your decision.
  3. Consider Your Long-Term Goals. Are you building wealth for retirement, do you count on this income today, or are you looking to simplify?
  4. Consult a Financial Advisor. Especially helpful if you’re considering tax implications, a 1031 exchange, or restructuring your investments.
  5. Don’t Rush It. A hasty sale could leave money on the table. Take the time to weigh your options.
  6. Explore Creative Options. For example, a lease-to-own agreement could attract better tenants and give you flexibility if you’re not quite ready to sell.
  7. Optimize. Now is a great time to optimize your property through smart upgrades to make sure your investment can compete with new construction and updated properties going forward.
  8. Work With a Team That Has You Covered—No Matter What You Decide.
    At Level Property Management Group, we don’t just manage homes—we partner with you to grow your investment. And because we work hand-in-hand with our sister company, Ashurst Niemeyer Real Estate, we can help you sell smart, buy smart, or simply maximize your rental ROI.

✅ Want to sell in Fairhope and buy a rental in Spanish Fort?
✅ Want to lease it one more year and test the market later?
✅ Want to offload your property and reinvest in something turnkey?

For Level PMG property owners, we make it easy. We know the market, we know you, your property, and your goals. Our sister company, Ashurst Niemeyer is a boutique real estate advisory firm with generations of knowledge in Baldwin County. When it comes time to list or buy, you’re not starting from scratch—you’re working with a team that already knows your property, your tenants, your market, and what makes your investments tick.

Final Takeaway

Fairhope’s rental market is cooling, but not crashing. Smart owners still have choices:
• Hold for long-term gains in a stable, landlord-friendly market.
• Adjust, improve, and lease more strategically.
• Sell now before conditions soften further.

Ready to Make a Confident Decision?

Let’s talk. Whether you’re selling, leasing, or somewhere in between, we’ll help you weigh the pros and cons—no pressure, just clarity.

Contact Level Property Management Group or Ashurst Niemeyer Real Estate today.
One conversation. One team. Everything you need—under one roof.

Want to see how your Fairhope rental property compares?

Schedule a free rental market analysis with our team at Level Property Management Group.
We’ll show you how to price competitively and lease confidently—while protecting your long-term ROI.

Call 251.517.5417 for immediate and confidential assistance.

July Events & Things to Do in Coastal Alabama

(Fairhope, Daphne, Mobile, Foley, Gulf Shores, Point Clear, Dauphin Island, Baldwin County & Mobile County)

July is heating up on the Gulf Coast—fireworks may be over, but the fun is just getting started! From fishing rodeos to outdoor concerts, colorful galas to beachside movies, Coastal Alabama is packed with sunshine, Southern charm, and unforgettable summer moments. Whether you’re cheering on the Blue Angels, catching a play under the stars, or just enjoying a cold drink with neighbors at a community bingo night, there’s something magical happening around every corner.

We already gave our sparklers the spotlight in a separate article featuring all the local Fourth of July fireworks—but now that the skies have gone quiet, it’s time to turn our attention to the rest of the month.

At Level Property Management Group, we believe being part of the community means more than just managing homes—it means celebrating what makes each one of our towns so special. From Dauphin Island to Daphne, and Fairhope to Foley, we’re proud to call Coastal Alabama home.

So grab your calendar (and maybe a popsicle), and let’s dive into everything July has to offer across Baldwin and Mobile Counties!

Weekly Local Markets

Saturdays:  Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermans Market
Location: 781 Farmers Market Lane, Foley, AL 36535
Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Dive into the local flavor at the Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market! This weekly event showcases local farms, fisheries, and small businesses offering fresh produce, seafood, and more. It’s the place to be for wholesome food and friendly faces—perfect for stocking up on delicious ingredients for your kitchen!

Sunday – July 13 & 27: Mobile Bay Maker’s Market
Location: 6925 Twin Beech Road, Fairhope, Alabama
Come out and support local makers, artisans, and farmers at this popular open market. *Please note it’s new location for the 2025 season – 6925 Twin Beech Road  or at the intersection of Section Street & Twin Beech Road.

Other Local Markets

Mobile County Farmers Markets

Baldwin County Farmers Markets

Special Events in July

July 8 – July 23: The Wizard of Oz
Location: Gulf Coast Rep & Arts & Education Alliance
Enjoy this classic story brought to life on stage for all ages to enjoy. Showtimes and ticket info available online.

July 9 – July 12: Blue Marlin Grand Championship of The Gulf
Location: Marlin Circle & Main Street | 4673 Wharf Parkway, Orange Beach, AL 36561
Known as “The Greatest Show in Sportfishing,” this high-energy tournament is a must-see event for the Gulf Coast

July 9 – July 12: Blue Angels Pensacola Beach Air Show
Location: Park East, Pensacola Beach
Witness one of the most thrilling air shows in the country, featuring the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angels over the Gulf Coast.

July 10: Burgers & Bingo – Summer 2025
Location: Bay Minette, Civic Center
Enjoy a casual evening of bingo and burgers with friends and family.

July 11 – July 13: MOB Music Fest
Location: Cathedral Square, Downtown Mobile
A vibrant celebration of local music and arts with free performances from regional talents into the weekend

July 12: Cruise to Gaillard Island
Location: Historic Blakeley State Park, Spanish Fort
Take a guided tour and learn about the man-made pelican rookery.

July 16: C Spire Presents: Nate Bargatze’s Big Dumb Eyes World Tour
Location: The Wharf Amphitheater, Orange Beach
Enjoy one of the funniest comedians on tour live on stage!

Begins July 17 | Monthly through Dec 18: Foley Third Thursdays
Location: Downtown Foley
Celebrate local businesses, artists, and musicians with family-friendly fun every third Thursday.

July 17: Alabama Cooperative Extension Monarch Butterfly Workshop
Location: The Pavilion at The Nest
Hands-on workshop about Monarch butterflies, their habitats, and how to support pollinators in your garden.

July 18 – July 20: 92nd Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo
Location: Dauphin Island
The world’s largest fishing tournament returns with fierce competition, festivities, and family fun.

July 19: Dauphin Street Vault
Location: Downtown Mobile
A unique pole-vaulting spectacle held on the streets of LoDa—open to spectators

July 19 – July 20: Back-to-School Carnival
Location: The Orange Beach Store
Celebrate the new school year with games, prizes, and summer fun before the bell rings.

July 25 – August 3: Mary Poppins Jr.
Location: South Baldwin Community Theatre
A magical musical performance the whole family will enjoy.

July 25: City of Mobile’s Summer Drive-In Movie
Location: USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park
Pack the car, bring the popcorn, and enjoy a summer drive-in movie with a view of the bay.

July 26: Africatown Heritage House Culture Fest
Location: Mobile, AL
Celebrate the rich heritage and legacy of Africatown with cultural exhibits, music, and food.

July 26 – July 27: Pirates Cove Autism FUNraiser
Location: Pirate’s Cove Marina & Restaurant
A fun-filled weekend with live music, auctions, and family activities supporting autism awareness.

July 26: Coloring the Eastern Shore Roaring 20s Gala
Location: Fairhope Civic Center
Dress in your best Gatsby glam and enjoy a night of jazz, dancing, and fundraising fun!

July 24: Eastern Shore Chamber Young Professionals Bingo Night
Location: Fairhope Brewing Company
Networking with a twist—enjoy drinks and bingo with local young professionals.

Ongoing Events in July

July 1 – July 24: Summer of Fun: Hands-On Habitat
Location: Tacky Jacks, Gulf Shores
Explore local wildlife and ecosystems with family-friendly hands-on activities.

July 3 – July 30: Angler Academy
Location: Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier (Meet outside the tackle shop at the picnic table)
Learn fishing basics with pros at this educational outdoor program for all ages.

July 5 – August 2: Time Traveler Historic Walking Tour
Location: Foley, AL
Step back in time with engaging guided walking tours through Foley’s charming historic district.

July at Saenger Theatre Mobile

July 31
Peabo Bryson

More Events Around the Eastern Shore

For a comprehensive list of events happening around Mobile and Baldwin County, visit the Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce events calendar.

As we wrap up our journey through the vibrant activities and events in Fairhope, Daphne, Mobile, Foley, and beyond, it’s clear that this region is not just about finding a house; it’s about discovering a community that feels like home. From lively performances to charming local festivals, there’s always something happening that brings people together. These experiences create lasting memories and connections that truly define what it means to belong.

Get in Touch!

So, if you’re ready to soak up the sunshine, good vibes, and unforgettable experiences that make our Gulf Coast communities shine, we’re here to help you feel right at home. Whether you’re a property owner looking for trusted management or a resident searching for the perfect place to land, Level Property Management Group is your go-to local expert.

Contact us today to find a rental that puts you right in the heart of all the fun—and let’s make the most of life on the coast, together.

Level Property Management Group

251.210.1664

LevelPMG.com