Hey Ted, do you have a minute?

 NOT NOW, SMUDGE! Can’t you see i’m busy?

  Woah, no need to be so snappy! You don’t look very busy.

 Well…okay. Five minutes.

  I’ve been thinking. You’ve been showing such an interest in agency affairs recently that you might be able to take me through some things that landlords can do to maintain a good relationship with their tenants.

 Hey, that sounds bori-

  Lesson one so far – build a rapport and maintain good communication…

 Okay okay i’ll play! Let’s see…landlords should probably not put unfair terms in the contract, to avoid complaints.

  Yes, that’s good!

 I once tried to make the dog next door sign a contract that meant only I could chase the cats around here…she didn’t like that.

  Exactly. Now, how about repairs in the property?

 Well, tenants are usually responsible, but it is up to the landlord to state clearly in the contract who is responsible. It could be the tenant, landlord, or even the agent!

  Very good! Tenants will also appreciate a landlord who is responsive and easy to reach. Now, one final thing – insurance.

 Landlords should have insurance in place, but tenants should also be expected to take out their own contents insurance to cover their personal items. I’d be devastated if I lost one of my chew toys to a flood! Good thing i’ve got contents insurance.

  …you’ve got contents insurance on a chew toy?

 Yes Smudge! Haven’t you been listening?! And how would you feel if your best chew toy was damaged by a fire, or stolen by a naughty neighbourhood cat?

  Well I…uh…you’re right! I’ll be right back.

 Silly Smudge. Bark!