The Tenant Types: Understanding and Managing Different Personalities

Over the past 18 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work with countless landlords, property managers, and tenants. I’ve learned a lot along the way—so much, in fact, that I’ve often thought about writing a book filled with the fascinating stories and characters I’ve encountered. It’s truly eye-opening to see how differently people live and treat their homes, whether they’re in low socio-economic areas or more affluent rental properties.

You might think that tenants in lower socio-economic suburbs would be less likely to take care of a property, keeping it clean and tidy. But much to my surprise, this isn’t always the case. On the flip side, I’ve walked into high-end properties rented by doctors, lawyers, and other professionals, only to find that they’re often too busy to make the bed, do the dishes, or even vacuum. It’s taught me that there’s no consistency in tenant types based on the area or the property’s value.

What I’ve found, though, is that regardless of the property’s location, there are distinct tenant types that exist everywhere. Understanding these tenant personalities can help you manage your tenancies more effectively. Let’s break them down:

1. The Responsible Tenant

• Personality Traits: Organised, punctual, communicative, and respectful.
• Behaviour: Pays rent on time, reports maintenance issues promptly, keeps the property clean and well-maintained, and adheres to lease terms without issue.
• Management Tips: This type of tenant typically requires minimal oversight. Regular, clear communication and timely responses to any concerns will help maintain a positive relationship. 

2. The High-Maintenance Tenant

• Personality Traits: Demanding, detail-oriented, and sometimes a bit picky.
• Behaviour: Frequently contacts the PM with requests or complaints, often expects immediate action on minor issues, and may have high expectations for property standards.
• Management Tips: Set clear boundaries and expectations from the start. While it’s important to address legitimate concerns, be firm about what is reasonable. Regular check-ins can help pre-empt some complaints.   

3. The Quiet Tenant

• Personality Traits: Introverted, independent, and self-sufficient.
• Behaviour: Rarely interacts with the PM, tends to keep to themselves, and might not report minor issues or damages promptly.
• Management Tips: Encourage open communication and make it clear that they should report any issues, no matter how small. Periodic check-ins can help ensure everything is going smoothly. 

4. The Social Tenant

• Personality Traits: Friendly, outgoing, and enjoys building relationships with neighbours and the PM.
• Behaviour: May host gatherings, enjoys community engagement, and often communicates openly with the PM. They may blur the lines between personal and professional relationships.
• Management Tips: While it’s great to have a positive relationship, it’s important to maintain professionalism. This type of tenant may occasionally need gentle reminders about being considerate of neighbours, especially when it comes to noise levels and gatherings.  

5. The Problematic Tenant

• Personality Traits: Unreliable, often irresponsible, and sometimes confrontational.
• Behaviour: Frequently late with rent, may cause damage to the property, and often disregards lease terms. They might also be difficult to communicate with or may avoid communication altogether.
• Management Tips: Address issues immediately and document everything. Clear, consistent enforcement of lease terms is critical. Consider early intervention strategies or working with a property manager experienced in handling difficult tenants.

6. The New Tenant

• Personality Traits: Inexperienced, possibly anxious, and eager to do things right.
• Behaviour: May ask a lot of questions and seek guidance on how to manage their responsibilities as a tenant. They may be overly cautious about doing anything wrong. 

• Management Tips: Management Tips: Provide clear instructions and resources to help them understand their responsibilities. Be patient and supportive, helping them transition into their new role with confidence. Think of it as ‘grooming’ them to become a "responsible tenant" moving forward and forever, setting the foundation for a positive long-term tenancy experience.  

7. The Temporary Tenant

• Personality Traits: Short-term focused, possibly detached, and pragmatic.
• Behaviour: Likely renting for a specific period due to a job, schooling, or other temporary circumstances. They may not be as invested in long-term care of the property.
• Management Tips: Ensure the lease terms are clear, especially regarding move-out procedures and any potential short-term arrangements. Regular inspections can help maintain property standards. 

8. The Investor Tenant

• Personality Traits: Pragmatic, financially savvy, and goal-oriented.
• Behaviour: Often views renting as a stepping stone to property ownership. They may be very conscious of the financial aspects of renting and are likely to treat the property well.
• Management Tips: Engage with them on a financial level, providing insights into how their rental situation can benefit them in the long term. They appreciate efficiency and straightforwardness.

By understanding these tenant types, you can tailor your management style to better suit each tenant’s personality, leading to a more harmonious and efficient tenancy. While no tenant will fit perfectly into one category, these descriptions can help you identify the dominant traits and manage the property accordingly.

Are your inspections meeting the highest standards? Join our Inspections Mastery Course to gain the skills, confidence, and knowledge you need to deliver top-tier inspections every time. Enrol now and set yourself apart in the property management industry! (insert link to course – Residential & Commercial)

Corina Kyejack

Happy Landlording!!