How do you find and join local landlord associations?

1 Search online

The easiest way to find local landlord associations is to search online using keywords such as "landlord association", "rental housing association", or "property management association" and your city or state name. You may also add terms like "networking", "education", or "legislation" to narrow down your results. You should be able to find websites, social media pages, or online directories of various groups that operate in your region. Check their mission, vision, values, membership criteria, benefits, fees, and events to see if they match your interests and expectations.

2 Ask for referrals

Another way to find local landlord associations is to ask for referrals from people you know and trust in the rental housing industry. This could be your colleagues, mentors, peers, vendors, contractors, or tenants. They may have personal experience or connections with some groups and can give you honest feedback and recommendations. You can also ask them to introduce you or invite you to attend a meeting or event as a guest. This will give you a chance to meet the members, learn more about the group, and decide if you want to join.

3 Attend events

One of the best ways to find and join local landlord associations is to attend their events. These could be workshops, seminars, webinars, conferences, trade shows, socials, or fundraisers. You can find out about these events by visiting the group's website, social media pages, newsletters, or flyers. You can also look for events hosted by other related organizations, such as real estate associations, housing authorities, or chambers of commerce. Attending events will help you learn new skills, gain insights, discover opportunities, and build relationships with other landlords and property managers in your area.

4 Compare options

Before you join a local landlord association, it is important to compare your options and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each group. Think about the size, diversity, and reputation of the group, as well as the type, frequency, and quality of the events and services they offer. Additionally, consider the cost, duration, and renewal process of the membership, as well as the level of involvement, commitment, and support they expect from members. Furthermore, evaluate the values, goals, and culture of the group, as well as the benefits, discounts, and resources they provide to members. Finally, consider their advocacy, representation, and influence on the industry and policy makers.

5 Apply online or in person

Once you have chosen a local landlord association that meets your needs and goals, you can apply for membership online or in person. You may need to fill out an application form, provide some personal and professional information, pay a membership fee, and agree to abide by the group's rules and code of ethics. You may also need to provide references, proof of identity, or proof of rental property ownership or management. Depending on the group, you may get approved instantly or have to wait for a review or a vote by the board or the existing members.

6 Get involved

After joining a local landlord association, it is important to get involved and make the most of your membership. Attend and participate in the events and activities they organize, volunteer or serve on a committee or board, share your knowledge, experience and feedback with the group, seek advice, guidance and support from the group. Take advantage of the benefits, discounts and resources they offer, advocate for the group's interests and causes, refer new members or sponsors to the group, and network and build rapport with other members.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?