Rent Myth: Higher Rents Mean Better Tenants

Don't Miss Out on Quality Tenants by Raising Rents Too High

In the world of real estate, there exists a pervasive myth that charging higher rent automatically attracts higher quality tenants. The belief is that tenants willing to pay more are inherently more responsible, reliable, and respectful of the property. However, this assumption may not always hold true, and it's essential to debunk this myth to make informed decisions as a landlord. Let's explore why higher rent doesn't guarantee higher quality tenants and what factors are more accurate predictors of tenant reliability.


Affordability Does Not Correlate with Responsibility:

One of the primary flaws in the higher rent myth is the assumption that tenants with deeper pockets are inherently more responsible. However, financial capability doesn't necessarily equate to responsible behavior or a genuine commitment to property care. Responsible tenants can be found across a spectrum of income levels, and a tenant's ability to pay a higher rent doesn't provide a foolproof guarantee of their reliability.


Tenant Screening Matters More Than Rent Amount:

Instead of relying solely on the rent amount as a gauge for tenant quality, landlords should focus on thorough tenant screening processes. Background checks, rental history, credit reports, and references provide a more accurate picture of a tenant's reliability. A tenant with a stable job, positive rental history, and good references is likely to be a responsible tenant, regardless of the rent amount.


Value Perception vs. Rent Amount:

Quality tenants are often more concerned with the perceived value of the property rather than the rent amount alone. They look for well-maintained properties, good neighborhood amenities, and responsive landlords. Charging a fair rent for a well-maintained property is more likely to attract responsible tenants who appreciate the value they receive in return.


Financial Strain and Late Payments:

Setting rent too high can lead to financial strain for tenants, increasing the likelihood of late payments or, worse, defaulting on rent altogether. Responsible tenants may be driven away by exorbitant rent prices, leaving landlords with vacant properties or unreliable tenants who struggle to meet their financial commitments.


Communication and Responsiveness:

A tenant's communication skills and responsiveness to inquiries are better indicators of their reliability than their ability to pay a high rent. A tenant who promptly responds to communication, reports issues, and engages in open dialogue with the landlord is likely to be more responsible, regardless of their income level.


While the myth persists that higher rent attracts higher quality tenants, it's essential for landlords to recognize the limitations of this assumption. Tenant quality is better assessed through comprehensive screening processes, communication skills, and an understanding of the perceived value of the property. Charging a fair rent and fostering positive landlord-tenant relationships are key to attracting and retaining responsible tenants, ultimately contributing to a successful and harmonious rental experience.

Why Las Vegas HOA Fees May Be More Affordable Than You Think

September 15, 2025
What Do HOAs Do and Why They Matter Homeowners associations (HOAs) manage common areas, enforce neighborhood rules, and provide amenities like pools, clubhouses, and security. While they require monthly fees, benefits often include better-maintained neighborhoods, enhanced amenities, and stronger property values. In Las Vegas, HOA coverage is common and rising. According to Realtor.com® - by early 2025, 77.1% of listings had HOA fees , with a median of $118 , making Las Vegas one of the cities with the highest prevalence of HOA-managed homes—but still relatively affordable compared to places like Edwards, CO ($525) or North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, FL ($310). This places Las Vegas seventh nationally for the prevalence of HOA-controlled listings. While the city has a high rate of HOA-managed properties, the $118 median monthly fee is comparatively low. HOA fees vary based on: Location & Amenities Home Type: Condos typically cost more than single-family homes. Rising Costs: Inflation and underfunded reserves can lead to sudden increases. Bottom Line: Understanding HOA fees in Las Vegas helps homebuyers budget effectively and avoid surprises. Despite the high prevalence of HOA-managed properties, Las Vegas remains more affordable than many other metro areas!  Source: Realtor.com, Homeowners Associations 2024

Las Vegas Ranked #9 for Diverse Food Scenes in the U.S.

September 8, 2025
When people think of food diversity in America, their minds usually go straight to New York City. But according to a recent study highlighted by the esteemed culinary school, Escoffier, the Big Apple doesn’t take the top spot. Instead, San Francisco claimed first place — praised for its bustling variety of cuisines and holding the title for the highest density of restaurants per capita among major U.S. cities. What’s even more exciting for us locals? Las Vegas earned the #9 spot on the list of the most diverse food cities in the country. Why Vegas Stands Out Las Vegas may be known worldwide for its neon lights and entertainment, but the dining scene is what keeps both tourists and residents hungry for more. From celebrity chef–driven restaurants on the Strip to hidden neighborhood gems serving authentic global flavors, Vegas has transformed into a true culinary destination. While seven of the top 10 cities named in the study were coastal (a trend Escoffier notes is tied to cultural diversity and a robust restaurant scene), Las Vegas proves that you don’t have to sit on the coast to experience world-class variety. Our city thrives on international influence — with dining options that range from Korean barbecue and Italian trattorias to Thai street food, upscale steakhouses, and plant-based fine dining. A Foodie Destination on the Rise Being ranked in the top 10 isn’t just a nod to the Strip’s luxury restaurants, but also to the everyday spots that locals love. With new eateries opening regularly, the Vegas dining scene continues to evolve and surprise. So, whether you’re a longtime resident or just visiting, Las Vegas offers something for every craving — proving once again that this city is more than just an entertainment capital. It’s a place where cultures, flavors, and creativity come together to make the dining experience as dynamic as the city itself.

The Power of Gratitude in Building Strong Business Relationships

September 3, 2025
In business, one truth always stands out: no one succeeds alone. Whether you’re running a small business or managing a large organization, your success is built on the connections you make. And one of the simplest yet most impactful ways to strengthen those relationships is through gratitude. At McKenna Property Management, we’ve made gratitude a core part of our culture from the very beginning. Our owner and broker, Jenni McKenna, personally hand-delivers gifts to some of our VIP agents every single month . While it may sound like a small gesture, it makes a big difference. These thoughtful touches show our VIP Agents how much we value their trust in us, collaboration, and hard work. But it’s not just about the gifts. Gratitude comes in many forms—thank-you cards, handwritten notes, or even a quick phone call to say “we appreciate you.” What matters most is the consistency and authenticity behind the gesture. Over the years, these small acts of appreciation have helped us build trust, loyalty, and long-lasting relationships that go beyond a simple business transaction. By showing genuine appreciation, we’ve created strong bonds with clients and agents alike, and those connections have allowed McKenna Property Management to grow into what it is today. If you’re a business owner or professional, here’s our tip: make gratitude part of your business strategy. It doesn’t have to be extravagant—even the simplest “thank you” can strengthen relationships and open the door to new opportunities. At the end of the day, business isn’t just about numbers—it’s about people. And people remember how you make them feel. 💙