Okoniq Journal
Property tips, taxes & HOA guides
Plain-language guides for homeowners, landlords, and HOA boards — written to help you stay organized and keep more of your money at tax time.
Browse by topic
Getting Started
New to managing property? Start here.
Taxes & Accounting
Deductions, basis, Schedule E, and staying audit-ready.
Renting & Tenants
Leases, rent, screening, and tenant relationships.
Maintenance & Repairs
Upkeep, vendors, and keeping a home in shape.
Mortgage & Money
Financing, refinancing, insurance, and cash flow.
Buying & Selling
Valuation, prepping to sell, and the closing process.
HOA & Community
Boards, reserves, meetings, and living in an HOA.
Latest articles
How Long Do Security Cameras Keep Footage? (30, 60, 90 Days)
Most home security cameras keep footage for 7-30 days on cloud plans and 30-90 days on local storage, depending on resolution and motion settings.
How Long Do Microwaves Actually Last? (Real Lifespan Data)
A microwave typically lasts 7-10 years, but daily use, moisture, and a $50 magnetron repair bill often decide whether it's worth fixing or replacing.
How Long After Move-Out to Return the Deposit? State Rules
Most states give landlords 14 to 30 days after move-out to return a tenant's deposit, though a few allow up to 45 days.
How Fast Should You Respond to a Repair Request? (Time Limits)
Most states expect emergency repairs like no heat or a burst pipe fixed within 24 hours, and routine ones within 3 to 14 days depending on your lease and local law.
How Dirty Filters Quietly Raise Your Energy Bill (Fix It Today)
A clogged HVAC filter can force your system to work 15% harder, adding real dollars to every monthly energy bill until you swap it out.
How Cold Should Your Fridge and Freezer Actually Be?
Your fridge should sit at 37°F and your freezer at 0°F — anything warmer for more than 2 hours puts food safety and your energy bill at risk.
How Burglars Pick Their Targets and How to Not Be One
Most burglars decide in under 60 seconds whether a house is worth the risk, based on visible cues you can control this weekend.
How Boards Set the Annual Reserve Contribution: 3 Methods
Most boards set the annual reserve contribution using a 20-30 year reserve study that prices out roof, paving, and system replacements decades ahead.
How an HOA Board Should Handle a Conflict of Interest
A board member with a financial stake in a vendor contract must disclose it in writing and step out of the vote, per most state nonprofit statutes.
Home Battery Backup vs Generator: Ready to Switch in 2025?
A 10-13 kWh home battery can run essentials for 8-12 hours, but most whole-house units still cost $10,000-$20,000 installed before incentives.
HEPA vs Carbon vs Ionizer Air Purifiers: What Actually Works?
HEPA filters trap 99.97% of particles at 0.3 microns, carbon filters absorb odors and gases, and most ionizers do neither job well.
Heat, Water & Safety: Habitability Basics Every Landlord Must Know
Most states require heat to reach at least 68°F and hot water at 120°F, and skipping either can void a lease or trigger rent withholding.
Get free property tips by email
New guides on taxes, rent, and maintenance — sent as we write them, not on a schedule. No schedule, no spam — unsubscribe anytime.
Prefer to dive in? Get started free →