The Spring 2010 Landlord Training sessions have been scheduled. This program is proudly sponsored by the City of Portland, Bureau of Development Services and Portland Police Bureau, in association with Crime Prevention and other City Offices. These classes offer a valuable outreach opportunity to income property owners making them aware of the City’s expectations, owners responsibilities, and tenants responsibilities, combined with best business practices to create safe communities and residences. This year’s Spring program is being jointly funded and sponsored by Portland Police Bureau, Metro Multifamily Housing Council and the Rental Housing Association of Greater Portland.

The classes are offered free of charge. At the end of each session attendees are provided a certificate that can be used for 8 hours credit for real estate continuing education. Attendance also is required for the Enhanced Safety Properties program through the Portland Police Bureau and the Office of Neighborhood Involvement Crime Prevention.

This program has received overwhelming positive responses from attendees. Landlords who have taken the course state they feel more confident in their ability to screen applicants, recognize signs of illegal activity, work with City offices, and take action or deal with problem tenant behaviors when they arise.

Over 550 cities and counties across the nation have adopted this program, and it has been nationally recognized through the Department of Justice for its unique benefits.

Topics covered in the 8-hour training session include: property management to prevent crime or loss of investment, best practices in applicant screening, signs of dishonest applicants, rental agreements, crisis resolution/eviction, and partnering with police/crime prevention specialists/housing inspectors.

Advanced registration for this free class is recommended and is available on our website at http://www.portlandonline.com/bds/index.cfm?c=31887. BDS will also notify rental property owners, neighborhood associations and related businesses via U.S. mail.

We hope to see you all there! Sincerely, Crystle Cowen Neighborhood Inspections