Cash flow is oxygen to a multifamily property.
Slow rent collection can and does kill operations.
But your job isn’t to chase late rent.
It’s to create a system where residents pay on time—without reminders, without drama.
Set the expectation before move-in.
Late payments aren’t an inconvenience; they’re unacceptable.
Say it firmly and fairly.
But say it!
Frame auto-pay as the default, not an option.
If a prospect hesitates, dig deeper.
A resident unsure about auto-pay today becomes your collections headache tomorrow.
Eliminate friction.
Payment should be easier than ordering from Uber Eats or Amazon.
No paper checks.
No in-office drop-offs.
No “I forgot my login” excuses.
Accepting every digital payment is the price of efficiency.
Remind early, remind often.
Reminders shouldn’t start when rent is late.
They should start seven to ten days ahead of the due date.
A well-timed text outperforms a late fee.
Make your messaging personal but firm.
“Your rent is due in three days.
Need assistance?
Let us know before it’s late.”
Anticipate problems before they happen.
Make it uncomfortable.
Every day until they pay is my mantra.
Some form of communication/reminder – every day until they pay.
A personal conversation gets results faster than another ignored email.
Offer a way out—but at a cost.
If a resident is struggling, don’t drag out collections.
A “move-out early” option with a payment plan protects your revenue while avoiding eviction headaches.
Cash for keys isn’t giving in—it’s getting ahead.
Your bottom line isn’t just rent collected.
It’s rent collected on time.
Every day past due is money lost.
Set expectations, remove barriers, and enforce consequences.
Do it right, and you’ll never chase rent again.