jk-property-management

BUGS, SPIDERS & MICE—OH MY! A RENTER’S GUIDE TO FALL PESTS IN GREAT FALLS

Mon, 21 Sep 2026 23:22:32 GMT

BUGS, SPIDERS & MICE—OH MY! A RENTER’S GUIDE TO FALL PESTS IN GREAT FALLS

Jerrica Seilstad, LPM, RPM Candidate

September 2026

As summer turns to fall in Great Falls, we aren't the only ones noticing the cooler nights. Boxelder bugs begin gathering on sunny walls. Spiders seem to suddenly appear in basements, garages and bathrooms. And as temperatures continue to fall, mice and other small critters begin looking for warmer places to spend the winter. Finding a bug or spider inside your home can certainly be unpleasant, but it doesn't necessarily mean there is an infestation—or that something is wrong with the home.

In fact, Montana State University Extension notes that an increase in insects and spiders entering homes during the fall is normal. Most are nuisance visitors seeking shelter rather than pests reproducing inside the home.

The goal isn't necessarily to make a home completely pest-free. That's rarely realistic. Instead, good pest management focuses on preventing entry, removing food and shelter, monitoring activity, and recognizing when normal seasonal visitors have crossed the line into an actual pest problem.

MEET SOME OF OUR COMMON FALL VISITORS

BOXELDER BUGS

Boxelder bugs are approximately ½ inch long and are easy to recognize by their black bodies with distinctive reddish-orange markings. Late summer and fall are prime boxelder bug season. They frequently congregate in large numbers on warm, sunny south- and west-facing exterior walls before finding protected places to overwinter.

And when we say large numbers, we mean it.

I, myself, can personally attest to this one. My backyard is full of boxelder trees—the very trees these bugs are named for because they're an important host for boxelder bugs. In other words, my family lives in what might be considered prime boxelder bug real estate.

For about two weeks at the end of summer and beginning of fall, the annual boxelder convention descendsupon our house. There can be so many gathered around the front of the house that the my family essentially admits defeat, abandons the front door, and walks all the way around the house to use the back door instead. All the while, getting dive bombed along the way. It's less "walking around to the back door" and more "running a tiny, harmless insect gauntlet."

Is it annoying? Absolutely.

Does it mean the house is dirty, poorly maintained, or infested? Not at all. Sometimes your backyard is simply full of boxelder trees and the boxelder bugs have correctly identified your address as the place to be.

The good news? They're primarily a nuisance and there aren't nearly as many Boxelder trees inside Great Falls city limits so numbers of Boxelder bugs aren't quite as bad as my out-of-city-limits home. MSU Extension describes boxelder bugs as harmless to people, pets and structures. The bottom line? Hang in there! You are not alone in your frustrations with those darn little pests. Before you go stomping and squishing them, you should know that they can stain light-colored materials and produce an odor when crushed. Check out the MSU Extension factsheet to learn more...

So if you find several boxelder bugs hanging around a sunny window or door during September or October, don't panic. Keep an eye on the activity, remove the ones that wander inside, and remember:

Sometimes a bug is just a bug. And sometimes it's 10,000 bugs that have collectively decided your front door belongs to them for two weeks.

WOLF SPIDERS

Wolf spiders can be startling because some Montana species become quite large. They're generally brown, gray or dark colored and are fast-moving hunters. Unlike spiders that build webs to catch prey, wolf spiders actively hunt insects. They're common throughout Montana and may wander indoors, particularly as conditions outside change. MSU Extension considers wolf spiders harmless and beneficial predators.

One especially distinctive characteristic is the female's parenting behavior: she carries her egg sac with her and, after the babies hatch, may carry dozens of tiny spiderlings on her back. It can be quite a sight—but it is normal wolf-spider behavior. Check out the MSU Extension factsheet to learn more...

HOBO SPIDERS

Hobo spiders have developed a frightening reputation over the years, but some of that reputation isn't supported by current research. Hobo spiders have long been present in Montana, and MSU Extension specifically notes that it is normal for them—and other spiders—to enter buildings during late summer and early fall. They aren't considered naturally aggressive, and there is no conclusive evidence that hobo spider venom causes the severe necrotic wounds historically attributed to them.

They're also notoriously difficult for the average person to identify by appearance alone. If identifying a spider matters, an expert identification is much more reliable than comparing it with pictures found online. One important exception in Montana is the black widow , which MSU Extension identifies as Montana's spider of medical concern. Brown recluse spiders, despite frequently being blamed for bites, are not established in Montana. Check out the MSU Extension Factsheet to learn more...

A BUG IN THE HOUSE DOESN'T NECESSARILY MEAN A PEST PROBLEM

Even an exceptionally clean, well-maintained home isn't an airtight bubble. Doors open. Screens develop small gaps. Utility lines penetrate walls. Foundations have tiny openings. Groceries, packages, firewood and belongings come inside. Insects live in lawns and landscaping immediately outside our homes. That's why pest presence and pest infestation aren't necessarily the same thing.

Seeing an occasional spider, fly, boxelder bug, ant or other outdoor insect—particularly during seasonal transitions—is generally part of living in Montana.

We become more concerned when residents are seeing things such as:

large or increasing numbers over an extended period;
repeated activity concentrated in the same interior area;
evidence that pests may be reproducing inside;
unexplained property damage;
rodent droppings, nesting material, gnaw marks or food damage; or
repeated mouse sightings or noises inside walls.

When in doubt, document what you're seeing. A clear photograph and information about where, when and how frequently you're finding the pest can be much more useful than simply reporting "there are bugs."

START SIMPLE: PREVENTION IS OFTEN THE BEST PEST CONTROL

Before reaching for pesticides, there are several inexpensive steps that can make a substantial difference. Vacuuming is one of the easiest ways to remove spiders, webs and nuisance insects indoors. Boxelder bugs can also be vacuumed rather than crushed, which helps avoid staining. Keep floors, countertops and cabinets free of crumbs and food residue. Wipe spills promptly. Don't leave dirty dishes or open food sitting overnight. Store pantry foods, pet food and bird seed in secure containers. Take garbage out regularly and keep trash containers closed.

Reduce clutter, particularly cardboard boxes and seldom-disturbed piles in basements, garages and storage areas.

Check screens and keep exterior doors closed when they're not being used. Residents of single-family homes can also look for obvious gaps around doors, utility penetrations and other possible entry points. Outside, keep leaves, debris, excessive vegetation, stacked materials and firewood away from the foundation when possible. These provide excellent hiding places for insects, spiders and rodents.

WHAT ABOUT DIY PEST CONTROL?

For occasional nuisance pests, mechanical controls are often a good first choice: vacuuming, sweeping, removing webs, sealing appropriate entry points, and using commercially available insect or spider monitoring traps according to their instructions.

There are also many over-the-counter pest-control products available to consumers. However, more pesticide does not mean better pest control.

If you choose to use any pesticide product, always read and follow the complete product label, including where the product may be used, application instructions, required precautions, ventilation requirements, storage instructions, and restrictions involving children or pets. Never use a product in a location or manner that isn't permitted by its label.

For renters, there is another consideration: please don't perform structural alterations or attempt extensive chemical pest treatments without first contacting property management. If you believe you have an infestation rather than ordinary seasonal pest activity, let us know so the situation can be properly evaluated.

Don't Forget! You have a Resident Benefit Package that provides you with a pest control kit at no extra charge. All you have to do is claim it. Visit your RBP portal to claim .

NOT SURE WHAT YOU FOUND? ASK THE EXPERTS!

Here's one of Montana's best-kept homeowner—and renter—resources.

Montana State University Extension provides research-based information on insects, spiders, rodents, plants, home horticulture and many other issues. Here in Great Falls, residents can contact:

MSU Extension – Cascade County
3300 3rd Street NE, #9
Great Falls, MT 59404
406-454-6980

For more difficult identifications, MSU's Schutter Diagnostic Lab in Bozeman identifies insects and other arthropods and can provide management recommendations. Routine identification is generally free for Montana residents, subject to the lab's submission policies. You can even begin with photographs. The lab accepts digital submissions and will request a physical specimen when necessary. If you're asked to mail an insect specimen, follow the lab's current instructions carefully. The lab requests several specimens when possible and a sturdy, tightly closed container. Spiders, mites, small flies and larvae are submitted in rubbing alcohol, while hard-bodied insects generally don't require it. Complete the lab's Insect Identification Submission Form and include information about where and when the specimen was collected.

Samples can be mailed to:

Schutter Diagnostic Lab
Montana State University
119 Plant BioScience Bldg.
P.O. Box 173150
Bozeman, MT 59717-3150
406-994-5150
diagnostics@montana.edu

That's a much better way to answer "What in the world is THAT?" than relying on a social-media comment section!

AND THEN THERE ARE MICE...

As Montana temperatures drop, mice begin seeking food and protected places—and it doesn't take much of an opening to let one inside.

MSU Extension reports that mice can enter through openings as small as approximately ¼ inch. That means mouse prevention isn't simply a matter of keeping a clean house. Sanitation is important because it reduces available food and shelter, but exclusion—preventing mice from getting inside—is equally important.

FOR RENTERS IN SINGLE-FAMILY HOMES

Fall is a great time to take a walk around the property.

Look for obvious gaps around doors, garage doors, pipes, vents, utility penetrations and the foundation. Check that exterior doors close properly. Keep vegetation and debris away from the foundation where practical, and avoid stacking firewood, cardboard or other materials directly against the house. MSU Extension recommends creating an open area approximately two to three feet wide around exterior walls where possible because wood, cardboard, vegetation and debris provide rodents with hiding and nesting areas. Visit MSU Extension here to learn more...

Inside, keep food—including pet food and bird seed—in tightly closed containers. Clean up crumbs and spills promptly and avoid leaving pet food out overnight. If you discover an opening that appears to require a building repair, report it to JK Property Management via a maintenance request through your tenant portal rather than making structural repairs yourself.

FOR APARTMENT & MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTS

You may have less control over the exterior of your building, but what happens inside your apartment still matters.

Keep food securely stored, clean crumbs and spills promptly, dispose of garbage regularly, reduce clutter, and avoid leaving pet food accessible overnight. Most importantly, report evidence of rodents promptly.

In a multi-family property, pest activity can involve more than one unit or a shared building area. Early reporting gives property management an opportunity to evaluate the larger situation rather than treating an individual sighting in isolation.

IF YOU FIND EVIDENCE OF MICE

Droppings, gnaw marks, damaged food packaging, nesting material or repeated sightings deserve attention.

Residents should also use appropriate precautions when cleaning areas contaminated by rodents. Don't simply sweep or vacuum rodent droppings without first reviewing current public-health guidance for safe cleanup. MSU Extension specifically references the CDC/DPHHS approach to rodent problems as "seal up, trap up and clean up."

If you're a JKRPM resident and believe mice are entering through a maintenance-related opening or you're seeing continuing rodent activity, submit a maintenance request so we can evaluate the situation.

A LITTLE PERSPECTIVE GOES A LONG WAY

Sharing our homes with bugs isn't anyone's favorite part of Montana living.

But an occasional spider in the basement, a handful of boxelder bugs around a sunny window, or another outdoor insect wandering through the door doesn't necessarily indicate a dirty home, a poorly maintained property or an infestation.

A clean and well-maintained home can reduce pest activity, but it cannot guarantee that you'll never encounter a bug, spider or mouse.

Our best defense is a combination of good housekeeping, removing food and hiding places, preventing entry wherever practical, monitoring activity and addressing developing problems early. And when you're staring at an eight-legged visitor wondering exactly what you're looking at? Don't guess. Montana State University Extension has experts for that.

Renting for the First Time? Here’s What to Expect

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 18:33:06 GMT

A practical guide for first-time renters from application through move-out

Renting your first home is a big deal. You are choosing where you will build the next chapter of your life—and signing a legally binding contract that may be significantly less exciting than receiving the keys.

As both a mom and a property management professional, I have a soft spot for first-time renters. I want to slow down, explain the process, and help you avoid the mistakes that property managers see every day.

Here is the most important lesson:

| Read what you are given—from the very beginning |

I do not mean glance at the bold print and scroll to the signature box. Read the advertisement, application instructions, approval email, lease, addendums, and move-in instructions. Then keep them somewhere you can find them again.

The biggest mistake I see renters make—of all ages and experience levels—is acting surprised by a requirement or restriction that was provided in writing from the beginning.

We do not enjoy saying, “It’s in your lease.” We would much rather hear you ask about it before signing.

One other thing to remember: landlord-tenant laws vary from state to state, and no two housing providers operate exactly alike. A private landlord may have more freedom to make exceptions, while a professional property management company generally relies on established policies, documentation, and consistent enforcement. Neither approach means you should assume the rules will be the same as they were in your last rental. “But my last landlord allowed it” does not change the lease you are signing today.

It is also worth challenging the popular assumption that renting from a private landlord automatically means receiving more protection or fairer treatment. In Montana, an owner managing their own property is exempt from the professional licensing requirements imposed on a third-party property manager. Licensed property managers must complete approved education, pass an examination covering leasing principles and law, and answer to a professional regulatory board. A self-managing landlord does not have to clear those same gates.

That does not mean every private landlord is unqualified or that every property management company is perfect. It does mean that friendly flexibility is not the same thing as professional accountability. An informal promise that “we can work something out” offers little protection if expectations are not documented and consistently followed. Whoever manages the property, read the listing, policies, and lease; ask questions; and get important agreements in writing before you commit. Let's dive into it, shall we?

| Friendly flexibility is not the same thing as professional accountability |

1. Start with the Property Advertisement

Before paying an application fee, make sure the rental actually fits your needs.

Look at the rent, deposit, utilities, lease length, occupancy limits, animal policy, parking, storage, and any property-specific responsibilities. If the advertisement says no pets, do not apply while secretly hoping your Labrador’s excellent personality will change the answer. Trust me, everyone says "my dog is the best-mannered dog and has never had issues" or "my cat is litterbox trained and has never caused damage". Yes, everyone says this. Ev-er-y-one.

Budget for the full cost of living in the home—not just the rent. If something is unclear, ask before applying.

2. Complete the Application Carefully

Submit complete and accurate information, include everyone who will live in the home as required, and respond promptly when documentation is requested.

Do not skip instructions and then wonder why your application is delayed. Property managers are good at many things, but reading minds and tracking down mystery documents should not be part of the screening process.

If approved, follow the deadlines for deposits, utilities, insurance, and lease signing. Approval does not hold a property forever. In fact, an application approval doesn't hold a property at all- That's what security deposits are for.

One word of caution: if you wait to apply—or submit an application without all the required information and documents—expect the process to take longer. While you are still tracking down missing paperwork, another applicant may submit a complete application, be approved, and place a deposit on the home you had your eye on.

I could not begin to count the number of applicants who have lost out on their preferred rental because their application was delayed, only to become upset with us for “renting it out from under them.” The hard truth is that a rental cannot be held based on interest or an incomplete application. You are responsible for providing the requested information, and having an application under review does not reserve or entitle you to a particular property. Apply promptly, follow the instructions, and submit everything requested.

3. Your Lease Is a Contract—Not a Terms-and-Conditions Checkbox

Your lease explains what you are agreeing to do and what you agree not to do. It covers matters such as:

Rent, fees, and payment deadlines
Lease dates and notice requirements
Utilities and maintenance responsibilities
Guests and authorized occupants
Pets and other animals
Smoking, parking, noise, and common areas
Alterations and repairs
Cleaning, move-out, and key return

Read the addendums too. They are part of the lease, even if they appear after several pages and your signing hand is getting tired.

Ask questions before signing. If someone promises something that is not in the lease, ask for clarification in writing. A verbal conversation does not quietly rewrite a written contract.

A lease is legally binding, and violations can lead to charges, formal notices, or termination. That is not meant to frighten you—it means signing deserves your full attention.

| Signing deserves your full attention |

4. Your Move-In Inspection Is Your Best Friend

This is the part I spend extra time explaining at the beginning of every JK Property Management lease.

Seriously— PAY ATTENTION . If you read nothing else in this blog post, read this section. Your security deposit may someday thank you.

Property managers and landlords use different methods to document a home’s condition. Some use inspection software and extensive photographs. Others may still use handwritten forms and a clipboard that has probably survived three decades and at least one coffee spill.

However it is recorded, there should be a written statement documenting the property’s condition at the beginning of your tenancy. In Montana, a landlord who collects a security deposit is required to provide one.

If you are not given a starting-condition statement, proceed with extreme caution. Ask for one in writing. At an absolute minimum, conduct your own careful inspection immediately, take extensive photographs, and submit your documentation to the landlord or property manager in a way that creates a dated record. Videos are cool, but nothing beats a good, clear, crisp photo with detailed notes.

At JK Property Management, we use ZInspector to complete an extensive pre-move-in inspection with photographs and documentation of visible defects and existing damage. New residents can review our inspection and add their own comments and photographs. An average 2 bedroom, 1 bath unit averages about 1000 photos. Our rentals are not camera shy! There's photo of every nook, cranny, crack, and crevis for every move-in inspection we perform. Its tedious and can take a few hours to properly document but its that important to us. You have the same opportunity.

Please use that opportunity.

Inspect the home critically before moving in your belongings. Document the tiny scratch. Photograph the faint stain. Note the chipped corner that seems too small to matter. Open the cabinets. Look behind the doors. Test the appliances. This is not the time to worry that you are being “picky” or assume we noticed everything.

We are inviting you to be picky.

I once had a first-time renter tell me she did not want to point out flaws because it felt rude and she was worried she might hurt our feelings. I reminded her that this was going to be her home, the security deposit was her money, and we were under no illusion that a rental property was flawless.

Your documentation does not insult us or the property owner. It protects everyone by creating the clearest possible record of the home’s starting condition.

What is far more frustrating is learning—only after the keys have been returned—that a resident was unhappy with a condition they never documented or reported. A negative Google review at the end of the tenancy cannot replace a move-in inspection or maintenance request. A Google review is not a time machine. It cannot travel backward and create the documentation that was skipped.

Shockingly, more than half of our incoming residents never add a single comment or photograph to the inspection we provide—even after we specifically encourage them to do so.

Then move-out day arrives, and we hear:

“It was already like that.”
“It wasn’t clean when I moved in.”
“I left it better than I found it.”

Memory is not an inspection report, and “I remember it that way” is nowhere near as useful as a dated photograph.

Your future moving-out self will be grateful that your moving-in self took the extra time. Any good property manager will be grateful too.

So go ahead: write it all down. Be bold. Be picky. Channel your inner white-glove inspector and document that home as though you have been personally assigned to find every scratch, stain, chip, and imperfection.

White gloves are optional. Comments and photographs are not.

5. Roommates Cannot Quietly Join the Cast Mid-Lease

Life happens. Relationships become serious. Friendships become financially convenient. Rent feels a lot more manageable when divided by two. Sometimes a cousin, coworker, significant other, or friend suddenly “just needs somewhere to stay for a little while.”

We get it! The problem is not wanting to add someone to your household. The problem is quietly moving them in and hoping no one notices.

Cue the sitcom theme song.

It may have been perfectly normal for the cast of Friends to hop back and forth between apartments every few episodes, but real-life leases work differently. When an occasional guest star begins appearing in every episode, they may no longer qualify as a guest. They have joined the regular cast.

Your lease identifies who is authorized to live in the home. You may not add or substitute a roommate—or sublease the home or a spare bedroom—unless your lease permits it and the required approval has been obtained in writing. The new person may need to apply, meet the applicable rental criteria, and sign a lease or addendum before moving in.

Yes, this requires a little paperwork. It is still considerably less stressful than receiving a lease-violation notice after the U-Haul has been unloaded.

When an unauthorized occupant is discovered, we tend to hear the same explanations:

“They’re just staying on the couch for a month…or so.”

“That second vehicle is almost never here—except overnight and every day that ends in ‘Y.’”

“I use a different toothbrush for every tooth. Those all belong to me.”

“No, Cousin Eddie is not hooked up to the water and electricity. He was just passing through.”

We are not trying to ruin the season finale. Property managers need to know who is living in the property, who has been authorized to occupy it, and who is responsible for complying with the lease. Calling someone a “guest” does not necessarily make them one when they have a key, receive mail, keep belongings in the home, and sleep there most nights.

Ask before changing the cast—not after the toothbrushes, furniture, mail, extension cords, and moving boxes have already arrived.

6. About the “Pet Sitting” Explanation…

Pets must be permitted at the property and approved and documented as required by the lease. A resident may not simply bring home an animal, hope no one notices, and assume the property manager will retroactively approve it.

When an unauthorized pet is discovered, the explanation is very often:

“I’m just pet sitting.”

“Someone gave me this puppy. It was forced upon me against my will"

“Other tenants in the building have animals, so I didn’t think it would matter.”

“The property was advertised as pet-friendly, so I adopted this adorable rabbit and figured I would add it to my lease later.”

Property managers hear these explanations so frequently that, statistically speaking, we may be living through the largest pet-sitting boom in American history.

We did not fall off the turnip wagon last night, people. We know what food bowls, beds, toys, crates, litter boxes, and a well-established relationship with the “guest” animal usually mean.

We also need to clear up a common misunderstanding: “pet-friendly” does not mean “bring home any animal you would like and tell us afterward.” It means the property may consider pets subject to its policies, restrictions, application process, and required written approval. The fact that another resident has an approved animal does not automatically authorize yours.

If pets are prohibited—or if an animal has not been approved—do not act surprised when you are required to correct the lease violation. Ask first and obtain written approval before bringing a pet into the home.

Most property managers I know are animal lovers, and it genuinely stinks to tell someone that an animal cannot remain. I certainly do not enjoy it. I have cats, dogs, chickens, gerbils, and rabbits at my own home—one of the perks of living outside city limits! I understand how quickly we become attached to animals. I also understand the desire to have a furry, four-legged critter look at you with those big brown eyes, offering nothing but unconditional love and absolutely no judgment.

But not all property owners are the same. Not all properties are suitable for the same animals. Not all insurance requirements, city ordinances, or pet policies are the same either. As the property owner’s hired representative, we have an obligation to protect the property, enforce the owner’s lawful policies, and comply with applicable city, county, and state requirements.

We do not have the authority to make an exception simply because an animal is adorable—and believe me, they usually are. Those big brown eyes may be powerful, but they cannot rewrite your lease.

| Those big brown eyes may be powerful, but they cannot rewrite your lease. |

That is precisely why you should ask before adopting, rescuing, purchasing, accepting, borrowing, pet-sitting, or otherwise acquiring an animal. Do not put yourself, the animal, or your property manager in the miserable position of dealing with an avoidable violation after everyone is already attached.

And remember where the animal rules can be found: in the property advertisement, application information, lease, and addendums—the same written information we have been begging you to read since the beginning of this article.

An Important Note About Assistance Animals

Assistance animals are not pets and are handled separately under applicable fair-housing laws. If you need a reasonable accommodation involving an assistance animal, contact your property manager to get the information needed to have your assistance animal living with you.

7. Protecting Your Security Deposit Begins on Day One

Protecting your deposit is not a move-out activity. It begins before you unpack.

Give yourself the best opportunity by:

1. Completing the move-in inspection and adding your own comments and photos.

2. Paying rent and other amounts on time.

3. Keeping the home reasonably clean and cared for throughout the lease.

4. Reporting maintenance concerns before they create more damage.

5. Getting written approval before adding occupants, pets, or making alterations.

6. Giving proper written notice and following the move-out instructions.

No property manager can promise that every resident will receive the entire deposit back. The final amount depends on the condition of the property and whether the lease obligations were fulfilled.

If you believe something was wrong at move-in, document it at move-in . Refusing to clean at move-out because you now claim it was not clean two years earlier is not a time machine. It does not take us back and create the documentation that was skipped. That's like trying to brush your teeth and eat Oreo cookies at the same time- it doesn't work!

My Motherly Advice Before I Hand You the Keys

If I were sending one of my own children into their first rental, I would tell them:

| Read before you sign. Ask before you assume. Take photos before you unpack. Report problems while they are still small. Do not acquire surprise roommates or “temporary” pets. Keep important communication in writing. Leave the home as carefully as you received it. |

At JK Property Management, we take time at the beginning because we want you to succeed. Our advertisements, application instructions, leases, inspections, maintenance systems, and move-out procedures are designed to set clear expectations—not hide surprises.

Please take advantage of the information and opportunities you are given. A few careful minutes at the beginning can prevent confusion, frustration, lease violations, and security-deposit disputes later.

We are happy to answer questions. We would much rather explain something before you sign than hear, “Nobody told me,” about something that has been patiently waiting in your paperwork all along.

Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property? A Property Manager's Perspective

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 22:26:44 GMT

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Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property?

A Property Manager's Perspective

Jerrica Seilstad, LPM, RPM Candidate

June 2026

For many rental property owners, one question sparks more debate than almost any other: "Should I allow pets?" If you've ever had to replace carpet, repair scratched doors, or remove lingering pet odors, it's understandable why you might lean toward a strict "No Pets" policy.

At JK Property Management, however, we've found that a well-managed pet policy often produces better long-term results than a blanket prohibition.

Here's why.

The Reality: Most Renters Have Pets

Pets aren't a niche anymore—they're part of the family for millions of Americans. According to the 2025 Pets & Housing Data Report , nearly 8 out of 10 rental properties advertise themselves as pet-friendly, yet fewer than 10% are considered truly pet-inclusive because many still impose restrictive breed, weight, or fee policies. The same report found that 72% of renters report difficulty finding pet-friendly housing, despite the majority of housing providers allowing at least some pets. According to the American Pet Products Association , approximately 66% of U.S. households own at least one pet. While pet ownership rates among renters vary by market, this means that for every 100 prospective applicants, roughly 66 may own a pet. By prohibiting pets, a landlord could substantially reduce the pool of otherwise qualified applicants before considering credit, income, or rental history.

Let's put that into perspective...

Imagine there are 100 qualified applicants searching for a rental home. If approximately two-thirds to three-quarters of those applicants have pets or are searching specifically for pet-friendly housing, a strict no-pet policy could immediately eliminate a significant portion of your potential renter pool.

More applicants generally means:

Shorter vacancy periods
Better applicant selection
More competitive lease terms
Higher long-term occupancy

Restricting pets doesn't just eliminate animals

—it often eliminates some of your best-qualified renters.

If You Don't Allow Pets, They Don't Always Disappear...

One unfortunate reality in property management is that some renters will still bring pets into the home—even when they're prohibited. Others attempt to classify their pet as an Emotional Support Animal (ESA). It's important to understand the difference.

What Is an Emotional Support Animal?

An Emotional Support Animal is an animal that provides comfort or emotional support to an individual with a qualifying disability.

Unlike service animals:

ESAs are not required to receive specialized training.
They are not considered service animals under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Housing laws—not the ADA—have traditionally governed ESAs through reasonable accommodation provisions under the Fair Housing Act. Recent HUD guidance has narrowed how these requests are evaluated, but legitimate accommodation requests still exist and should be reviewed individually.

Unfortunately, the rapid growth of online "ESA certification" services has also created confusion. The 2025 Pets & Housing Report found that 41% of ESA designations were motivated at least in part by housing needs, and many respondents cited breed or weight restrictions as a reason for seeking ESA status. This does not mean every ESA request is illegitimate. Many individuals genuinely rely on assistance animals as part of managing a disability. However, it does illustrate that restrictive pet policies can encourage some renters to seek workarounds rather than openly discussing their pets.

A Better Strategy: Manage the Risk Instead of Avoiding It

Rather than hoping renters won't have pets, we believe it's more effective to create clear expectations. At JK Property Management, we help owners reduce risk by implementing:

Appropriately calculated security deposits
monthly pet rent
Clear lease language outlining pet responsibilities
Routine property inspections
Prompt maintenance reporting
Resident education about protecting the property

These practices allow us to identify concerns early—long before they become expensive repairs.

Periodic Inspections Protect Your Investment

One of the most effective ways to reduce pet-related damage has nothing to do with pets. It's inspections. Regularly scheduled property inspections allow us to monitor:

Flooring condition
Carpet wear
Interior doors and trim
Landscaping
Fence damage
Odors
Unauthorized animals
General housekeeping

Small problems are significantly less expensive to address than major repairs after move-out. Inspections protect both the owner's investment and the resident by creating opportunities to resolve issues while they're still manageable.

Pets Can Actually Improve Resident Retention

Moving with pets is difficult. Finding another quality rental that accepts animals can be even harder. Because of that, pet-owning residents often stay longer when they've found a home that welcomes their entire family—including the four-legged members. Longer tenancy means fewer turnovers, lower vacancy costs, reduced marketing expenses, and more consistent rental income. For many owners, those savings outweigh the manageable risks associated with allowing pets.

Our Philosophy

Every property is different, and not every home is a good fit for every animal. However, after years of managing rentals throughout Great Falls and the surrounding area, we've found that thoughtful pet policies generally outperform blanket pet prohibitions. By combining reasonable pet fees, regular inspections, clear lease expectations, and proactive resident communication, we help owners protect their investment while opening their property to a much larger pool of qualified applicants. At the end of the day, successful property management isn't about eliminating every possible risk. It's about understanding those risks—and managing them well. If you're wondering whether a pet-friendly policy makes sense for your rental property, we'd be happy to help you evaluate the options and build a strategy that protects your investment while maximizing its earning potential.

Why Renters Love Living in Great Falls, Montana — Especially Downtown

Fri, 22 May 2026 22:38:35 GMT

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Why Renters Love Living in Great Falls, Montana — Especially Downtown

Great Falls, Montana is more than just a place to live — it’s a community full of opportunity, character, and connection. Whether you’re a young professional, growing family, retiree, or someone simply looking for a better quality of life, Great Falls offers something unique that’s becoming harder to find in larger cities: affordability, convenience, and authentic community living. At the center of it all is the growing energy of Downtown Great Falls.

The Charm of Downtown Great Falls

Downtown Great Falls has seen a revitalization over the years, becoming a hub for local dining, coffee shops, entertainment, small businesses, and community events. Renters who live near downtown enjoy the convenience of being just minutes away from some of the city’s best experiences.

Imagine starting your morning with coffee from a local café, grabbing lunch at a downtown restaurant, attending a community event in the evening, or enjoying live music and nightlife without needing a long commute home. That’s the lifestyle downtown Great Falls offers.

Local Restaurants & Coffee Shops

One of the best parts about downtown living is the variety of locally owned businesses that make the area feel alive and welcoming. From cozy coffee shops to locally loved restaurants and breweries, there’s always somewhere new to explore or somewhere familiar to gather with friends and family.

The downtown dining scene continues to grow, offering everything from casual lunches to upscale dinner experiences.

Community Events & Entertainment

Downtown Great Falls stays active throughout the year with events that bring the community together. Farmers markets, live music, art walks, festivals, car shows, seasonal celebrations, and local fundraisers all contribute to the vibrant atmosphere that residents enjoy. Living nearby means renters can enjoy these experiences without the hassle of long drives or crowded parking lots.

Walkability & Convenience

More renters today are searching for convenience and lifestyle rather than simply square footage. Living near downtown Great Falls means easy access to:

Restaurants and cafés
Shopping and local boutiques
Gyms and wellness services
Entertainment venues
Parks and walking trails
Professional offices and businesses

For many residents, being able to live close to work, recreation, and entertainment creates a more enjoyable and connected daily routine.

Affordable Montana Living

Compared to many cities across the country, Great Falls still offers relatively affordable housing opportunities while maintaining the benefits of Montana living. Residents enjoy wide open spaces, beautiful scenery, and outdoor recreation without the overwhelming costs often associated with larger metropolitan areas. For renters, this means finding a home that balances affordability with quality of life.

Outdoor Recreation Right Outside Your Door

Another reason people love Great Falls is the access to outdoor adventure. Within minutes, residents can enjoy:

The Missouri River
River’s Edge Trail
Fishing and boating
Hiking and biking
Parks and playgrounds
Nearby mountain and recreation areas

Few cities offer the combination of urban convenience and outdoor accessibility quite like Great Falls.

A Strong Sense of Community

What truly makes Great Falls special is the people. The city continues to maintain a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere where local businesses, families, and neighbors support one another. For renters looking for more than just an apartment — for those looking for a place to truly feel at home — Great Falls continues to stand out as one of Montana’s hidden gems. Discover Downtown Living in Great Falls. Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, starting fresh, or simply looking for a better rental experience, downtown Great Falls offers a lifestyle centered around convenience, connection, and community. From local coffee shops and restaurants to outdoor recreation and community events, there’s always something happening in the heart of the city.

Great Falls isn’t just a great place to rent.
It’s a great place to invest in, and it's better than great to live!

We Live Here. We Work Here. We Love Here

Mon, 18 May 2026 18:29:51 GMT

Welcome to Beyond The Lease

Published 5/18/2026

Jerrica Seilstad, RMP Candidate

Whether you’re searching for your next rental home, investing in real estate, or simply trying to better understand the rental market, we’re glad you’re here.

At JK Property Management, property management is more than collecting rent or managing maintenance requests. We believe great property management is about relationships, communication, education, and creating long-term success for both residents and property owners.

That’s exactly why we created this blog.

Why We Started This Blog

The rental and real estate world can be confusing.

Tenants are often left wondering:

What are my rights and responsibilities?
How can I become a stronger rental applicant?
What should I expect during the leasing process?
How do I protect myself as a renter?

Property owners and investors face a different set of questions:

How do I maximize my return without sacrificing property quality?
What changes in the market should I watch?
How do I avoid costly management mistakes?
What makes a rental property truly successful long-term?

Unfortunately, reliable and practical information is not always easy to find. Our goal is to change that.

Through this blog, we want to provide straightforward, honest, and valuable education that helps both renters and owners make informed decisions.

Who We Are

JK Property Management is more than a property management company — we’re a locally owned, family-built business deeply rooted in the Great Falls community. What began in 2002 as a small, home-based operation has grown into one of Great Falls’ most trusted and established property management and real estate companies. But despite the growth, one thing has never changed:
our commitment to people first.

Great Falls has been home to our family for over five decades and six generations. This community is where we’ve raised families, built relationships, invested in neighborhoods, and helped residents and property owners navigate every stage of life — from first apartments to first investment properties and everything in between.

Because we live here too, this work is personal to us.

We understand that behind every lease is a real person:

a family looking for stability,
a renter starting a new chapter,
an owner protecting a major investment,
or an investor building a future.

That perspective shapes everything we do.

Grassroots Story Built Through Relationships

JK Property Management wasn’t built overnight. It was built through years of hard work, word-of-mouth referrals, long hours, difficult maintenance calls, honest conversations, and a commitment to doing business the right way — even when it’s not the easiest way.

Over the years, our team has grown into a group of licensed property managers, leasing specialists, maintenance professionals, accounting experts, and real estate professionals who genuinely care about the people we serve. Many of our residents stay with us for years. Many of our owners have trusted us with their investments for over a decade. And many of our referrals come from former residents, local contractors, and community members who know our reputation firsthand.

That trust means everything to us.

More Than Property Management

Today, JK Property Management works alongside EXIT Realty Great Falls to help clients with:

residential rentals,
commercial rentals,
property management,
investment consulting,
buying and selling real estate,
renovations and maintenance strategy,
and long-term investment growth.

But at the heart of it all, we still believe property management should feel human.

Technology matters.
Professional systems matter.
Experience matters.

But relationships matter most.

Why We Created “Beyond the Lease”

Over the years, we realized many renters and property owners were searching for reliable information — and not finding it.

There’s a lot of confusion surrounding:

rental expectations,
landlord-tenant relationships,
maintenance responsibilities,
investment decisions,
property protection,
Montana housing trends,
and the realities of rental living.

We wanted to create a place where people could find honest, practical, locally informed guidance from professionals who actually live and work in this market every day.

That’s what “Beyond the Lease” is all about.

Not just leases.
Not just properties.
Not just transactions.

But the people, homes, investments, and Montana communities behind them.

What You Can Expect From This Blog

Whether you’re a renter, homeowner, investor, or simply someone who loves Montana living, this blog is designed to be a trusted resource.

Here, we’ll share:

renter education,
property maintenance tips,
investment insights,
Montana rental market trends,
local housing updates,
landlord guidance,
community highlights,
and behind-the-scenes industry knowledge from our team.

Our goal is simple:
to help people make smarter, more confident decisions about housing, renting, and real estate.

Welcome to Beyond the Lease

We’re proud to call Great Falls home.
We’re proud to serve this community.
And we’re excited to share what we’ve learned along the way.

Thanks for being here.

jk-property-management

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MEET SOME OF OUR COMMON FALL VISITORS

That's a much better way to answer "What in the world is THAT?" than relying on a social-media comment section!

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﻿ A practical guide for first-time renters from application through move-out

Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property? A Property Manager's Perspective

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Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property?

A Property Manager's Perspective

Why Renters Love Living in Great Falls, Montana — Especially Downtown

This is a subtitle for your new post

Why Renters Love Living in Great Falls, Montana — Especially Downtown

The Charm of Downtown Great Falls

Local Restaurants & Coffee Shops

Community Events & Entertainment

Walkability & Convenience

Affordable Montana Living

Outdoor Recreation Right Outside Your Door

A Strong Sense of Community

Great Falls isn’t just a great place to rent. It’s a great place to invest in, and it's better than great to live!

We Live Here. We Work Here. We Love Here

Welcome to Beyond The Lease

Why We Started This Blog

Who We Are

Because we live here too, this work is personal to us.

Grassroots Story Built Through Relationships

That trust means everything to us.

More Than Property Management

Why We Created “Beyond the Lease”

What You Can Expect From This Blog

Welcome to Beyond the Lease

A practical guide for first-time renters from application through move-out

Great Falls isn’t just a great place to rent.
It’s a great place to invest in, and it's better than great to live!