Gary Goebel
Certified Property Manager

With more than four decades in retail and office real estate—spanning roles with Leo Eisenberg Retail Developers, Jones & Company at Corporate Woods, and long-term management of Westport properties, along with over $20 million in investment sales and more than 1,000 negotiated leases—I bring a landlord’s perspective shaped by experience on both sides of the leasing table.

Beginning in 2026, I’ll be writing a new recurring column offering practical, no-nonsense advice on real estate and leasing. Whether you’re looking to rent a home or a business space, my goal is to share insights that help tenants and landlords work together successfully.

This first column focuses on how to secure the house or commercial space you want. Finding a landlord who will work with you—and who will properly maintain the property—is almost an art in itself. Just as importantly, it helps to remember this: every landlord wants a tenant who will care for the property and pay the rent on time.

Here are some basic steps that can improve your chances of obtaining the space you desire:

1. Provide a written payment record showing a history of paying monthly bills on time. In most cases, a recent printed credit report will work.

2. Provide proof of financial stability, such as a printed bank statement showing a balance equal to four times the rent, or a recent pay stub. Documents must be current—anything older than 30 days is no good.

3. Make yourself easy to contact. Provide a phone number where you can be reached by call or text. Clear communication matters.

4. Provide a copy of a driver’s license or photo ID.

Without this information, landlords are left guessing about a prospective tenant’s reliability—and guessing is not good business. If you cannot provide the items listed above, consider securing two co-signers. Co-signers should be family members over the age of 21 who can provide the same credit or banking documentation.

Before signing a lease, tenants should also take the following steps:

1. Confirm the property is properly maintained and truly ready for occupancy..

2. Ensure the landlord conducts business professionally. If the property needs work before you take possession, get a written list of repairs signed by the landlord. Both parties should be cautious, open, and — most importantly — up front. Even in a tight rental market, assuming a property will be better maintained later than it is at showing time is ill-advised.

3. Consider purchasing renter’s insurance on an annual basis.

4. Document existing issues. Take photos of any areas that should have been repaired prior to move-in and provide copies to the landlord as soon as possible.

5. Consult an attorney if needed. A lease is a legal agreement, and it’s worth understanding your obligations before signing.

I look forward to sharing more real estate insights with NE News readers throughout the year.