The Most Important Question: How Do We Get Your Property Rented?

As Joe Cavaleri puts it:
“You can buy any investment property, but the only way you’ll ever realize its true profit potential is through proper property management.”

At Direct Express, we understand that effective marketing is key. In fact, over 90% of tenants begin their rental search online before ever reaching out to a landlord or property manager.

To maximize exposure and attract qualified tenants, we advertise your property across leading rental platforms, including:

Our Property Management Services Include:

Professional Photography
We provide and cover the cost of one set of professional photos when the unit or property becomes vacant and ready to be listed for rent. Quality visuals help attract the right tenants quickly.

Property Showings
Once a tenant has been screened and approved, our leasing team will schedule and coordinate showings. If the prospective tenant is working with a realtor, we are happy to coordinate directly with their agent.

Utility Transfers
We manage the transfer of utilities (water, gas, and electric) for both move-ins and move-outs, ensuring a seamless transition for all parties involved.

For Rent Signage
We will place a “For Rent” sign on the property when appropriate to help generate local interest.

At Direct Express Rentals, we understand that selecting the right tenant is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a property owner. Our thorough screening process is designed to protect your investment and ensure a smooth and reliable rental experience.

Our Tenant Qualification Process

Application Review
All prospective tenants are required to complete a detailed online rental application. Our team carefully reviews each submission for accuracy and completeness, verifying key information such as employment, income, rental history, and credit standing.

Employment & Income Verification
We confirm current employment and income through pay stubs, W-2s, employer verification letters, or tax returns. This ensures the applicant meets our minimum income standards and can meet rental obligations.

Rental History Evaluation
A prospective tenant’s rental history provides valuable insights into their past behavior as a tenant. We contact previous landlords to verify the applicant’s rental history, including payment behavior, lease compliance, and any prior issues or concerns.

Credit Screening
With the applicant’s permission, we run a comprehensive credit check to assess financial responsibility. We look for red flags such as delinquencies, collections, or excessive debt.

Criminal Background Check
To help maintain a safe and secure rental environment, we conduct background checks to screen for prior convictions related to violence, property damage, drug offenses, or other disqualifying offenses.

Tenant Interview
A personal interview—either in person or virtual—gives us the opportunity to further assess the tenant’s suitability. We discuss their rental goals, lifestyle, employment situation, and any special considerations.

Final Recommendation
After completing the full screening process, we provide you with a detailed summary and our recommendation. While we use a data-driven and thorough approach, the final decision to approve or decline an applicant always rests with you, the property owner.

A Smarter, Cost-Effective Approach to Protecting Your Property

At Direct Express Rentals, LLC, we recognize that prompt and reliable maintenance is essential not only for protecting your property’s value but also for maintaining tenant satisfaction and retention. Our proactive and tech-enabled approach ensures repairs are handled efficiently, professionally, and with cost in mind.

Maintenance Request Process

Tenants can easily submit maintenance requests through multiple channels: our online portal, email, text, or phone. We provide clear instructions during lease signing to ensure issues are reported quickly and correctly, minimizing delays in response.

AI-Powered Maintenance Coordination

We utilize AI-based technology to streamline the maintenance process—from request intake to dispatch and resolution. This system automatically prioritizes urgent issues, coordinates scheduling, and keeps tenants informed throughout the process.
This not only improves response times but also enhances tenant satisfaction and ensures your property remains in top condition year-round.

In-House Maintenance Team

To reduce costs and improve service control, we employ two full-time maintenance professionals. When possible, we keep repairs in-house to help avoid the higher rates and delays often associated with outside vendors.

Standard Rates for In-House Repairs:

$88 Service Fee – Flat Rate for Dispatch & Coverage  – This fixed service fee covers the essential overhead costs associated with dispatching our in-house maintenance team. It includes fuel, vehicle wear and tear, liability insurance, and the use of tools and equipment required to complete the job safely and efficiently. By standardizing this charge, we’re able to offer consistent, timely service while keeping hourly labor rates competitive.

$48 per Hour – Our in-house maintenance professionals are billed beginning at the time they depart our office and continue until the work is fully completed at your property. This ensures accurate time tracking for travel, preparation, and on-site service, allowing us to provide efficient, timely, and fairly compensated maintenance support.

9.8% Maintenance Management Fee –  This fee is calculated based on the total invoice, including labor and materials, and reflects the behind-the-scenes work required to manage repairs on your behalf—saving you time while protecting your property’s value. It covers the administrative oversight and coordination required to ensure maintenance and repairs are completed efficiently, cost-effectively, and to professional standards. It includes:

Scheduling and dispatching of in-house staff or licensed vendors
Vendor sourcing and coordination, including obtaining competitive quotes when needed
Quality control and follow-up to ensure work is completed properly
Invoice processing, documentation, and communication with owners
Use of AI-based technology for maintenance tracking, reporting, and faster response times.

This approach offers a cost-effective, high-quality alternative to third-party services—saving you money while maintaining your property.

Subcontracted Repairs

When specialized repairs are needed, we rely on our vetted network of licensed subcontractors.

12% Repair Management Fee – Applies to all subcontractor invoices
We are also happy to coordinate with your preferred vendors, while still providing oversight and management of the process.

Repair Approval Threshold

Repairs under $500 are approved to be scheduled without delay, in accordance with the terms of the management agreement. Any repair exceeding this amount will require prior approval from the property owner before work is initiated.

By using Direct Express Maintenance Professionals, you will find that it is often more cost-effective to have our in-house team handle repairs versus hiring outside subcontractors. Our team is trained, insured, and committed to maintaining your property efficiently and at a competitive rate.

If you prefer to use your own contractors or repair crew, we are happy to coordinate with them. However, please note that the 12% Repair Management Fee will still apply to cover administrative time, oversight, and scheduling.

Vendor Coordination

We assign each repair to the most qualified service provider—whether handled by our in-house maintenance team or a licensed subcontractor—based on the nature, complexity, and urgency of the issue. Our trusted network of professionals in HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and general contracting ensures all work is performed to high standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Quality Assurance

Upon completion of any repair, we conduct a thorough review to ensure the work meets our high quality standards and fully resolves the issue. Follow-up inspections are performed to confirm tenant satisfaction and to safeguard the long-term condition and value of the property.

Owner Communication

We prioritize clear and consistent communication with property owners throughout the maintenance process. You will be kept informed at every stage—from the initial service request to resolution. We provide timely updates on the status of repairs, notify you promptly of any significant findings, and communicate any unexpected changes in scope or cost. For any repair that exceeds the pre-approved threshold outlined in your management agreement, we will always obtain your written approval before proceeding, ensuring full transparency and control over repair-related expenses.

Cost Management Strategy

We aim for cost-effective property care by choosing the most efficient repair method without sacrificing quality. Our in-house team and AI-enabled systems help reduce unnecessary labor, travel time, and vendor markups.

As Joe Cavaleri says: “Do it once, do it right.”

Preventive Maintenance

We take a proactive approach to reduce long-term repair needs. Through scheduled inspections and preventive maintenance routines, we help extend the life of key systems and reduce costly emergency calls.

Why Choose Direct Express Rentals for Maintenance?

Our innovative use of AI technology, paired with experienced in-house technicians and a trusted network of contractors, allows us to deliver fast, reliable, and cost-efficient maintenance. This not only protects your property but also keeps tenants satisfied—reducing turnover and maximizing long-term value.

As a property owner, your goal is to maximize return on investment while minimizing the time and stress associated with day-to-day operations. At Direct Express Rentals, LLC, we offer comprehensive management solutions designed to protect your investment, enhance tenant satisfaction, and maintain consistent occupancy—currently at an impressive 93% across our managed portfolio.

A clear understanding of our property management fee structure ensures full transparency as you make informed decisions about your rental property.

What Are Property Management Fees?

Property management fees cover the essential services provided to manage and maintain your rental property, including tenant placement, communication, rent collection, maintenance coordination, lease renewals, legal compliance, marketing, and more.

Our Fee Structure

Monthly Management Fee – 9.8% of Collected Rent
We charge a competitive 9.8% monthly management fee based on collected rent. This covers day-to-day management, tenant communication, rent collection, coordination of maintenance requests, and overall oversight of your property.

Leasing Fee – 25% of First Month’s Rent
When a new tenant is placed, we charge a leasing fee equal to 25% of the first month’s rent. This includes professional marketing, tenant screening, property showings, lease preparation, and move-in coordination, inspections and reports..

Lease Renewal Fee – $125 per Lease
This fee covers the full lease renewal process, including negotiation with the existing tenant, a property inspection, updated marketing photos, a market rent analysis to ensure competitive pricing, and the preparation and execution of the renewed lease agreement.

Technology Fee – $9 per Unit
This monthly fee supports our AI-powered systems that automate showing coordination, tenant communication, and maintenance workflows. These tools help reduce response times, increase tenant satisfaction, and prevent lead loss by ensuring no inquiry goes unanswered.

Annual Accounting Fee – $100
Charged with January rent each year, this fee covers year-end tax reporting, including issuance and mailing of 1099s.

Realtor Leasing Fee – $125 (If Applicable)
If the tenant is represented by an outside real estate agent, the owner is responsible for this fee. Most tenants apply directly with us, so this fee is rarely incurred.

Vacancy Fee – $0
We do not charge any fee during periods of vacancy.

Revenue-Sharing Fees (Split 50/50 with Owner)

These fees are billed to tenants when applicable and are split evenly between the owner and Direct Express Rentals, LLC:

Late Fee – $188
  Split: $94 to Owner / $94 to Management
  Charged if rent is not paid by the 6th of the month.

Payment Arrangement Fee – $295
  Split: $147.50 to Owner / $147.50 to Management
  Offered on a case-by-case basis when tenants qualify for temporary arrangements.

Early Lease Termination Fee
  Per the lease agreement, if a tenant breaks the lease, they forfeit their security deposit and pay a fee equal to two months’ rent.
  Split: 50% to Owner / 50% to Management

Why Property Management Fees Are Worth the Investment

While fees represent a cost of doing business, our full-service management approach delivers measurable value:

Time Savings: We handle all day-to-day operations so you can focus on other priorities.

Expertise: Our experienced team and tech-enabled systems reduce vacancies, ensure compliance, and maintain asset value.

Tenant Satisfaction: Streamlined communication and efficient service increase retention and reduce turnover costs.

Peace of Mind: You can rest easy knowing your investment is professionally managed by a team committed to results.

How We Maximize Your Rental Income

Lease Renewals & Rent Adjustments:
We proactively manage renewals 30 to 60 days before lease expiration, analyzing current market trends and providing tailored recommendations. Together, we decide on fair rent adjustments that maximize income while maintaining tenant satisfaction.
Legal Notice Compliance:
When necessary, we efficiently handle all required legal notices—such as 3-Day Notices for unpaid rent or 7-Day Notices to Cure lease violations—protecting your interests while following strict regulatory guidelines.
Professional Eviction Oversight:
If eviction becomes necessary, we coordinate with Vaughn Law or your preferred attorney to manage the legal process swiftly and professionally. Our maintenance team ensures the property is immediately secured post-eviction.

With 93% average occupancy across our portfolio, our results speak for themselves. We combine technology, proven systems, and hands-on service to give you the peace of mind and profitability you expect from your property management partner.

Timely, Transparent, and Reliable

At Direct Express Rentals, LLC, we know that reliable cash flow is crucial for property owners. That’s why we prioritize accurate, timely, and transparent owner payouts as a core part of our full-service management.

Here’s how the process works:

Rent Collection

We collect rent from tenants on your behalf and deposit all incoming funds into a dedicated Rent-Only Account for added transparency and control. Rent payments are tracked through Buildium, our advanced property management software, giving you 24/7 access to financial performance from anywhere in the world.

Expense Reconciliation

Before processing your payout, we deduct any applicable property expenses—such as maintenance costs, utility bills, and management fees—ensuring all obligations are met before distributing net income.

Owner Disbursement

Once expenses are reconciled, the net rental income is transferred directly to your preferred checking account via ACH or wire transfer, typically between the 5th and 11th of each month, depending on when tenant rent clears.

Detailed Financial Reporting

Each month, you’ll receive a comprehensive financial statement via your online Buildium portal. This includes an itemized breakdown of rent collected, expenses paid, and your final payout amount—so you’re always in control and never in the dark.

Security Deposits

To ensure compliance and clarity, Direct Express Rentals does not hold tenant security deposits. Instead, the security deposit check is made out to the owner at lease signing and mailed directly to you for safekeeping.