Landlords can avoid costly mistakes by heeding these words of wisdom:

1. Know thy tenant. Screen all prospective tenants with a rental application, credit/criminal report and proper identification.

2. A verbal agreement isn't worth the paper it's written on. Always use written leases.

3. A picture is worth a thousand words. Use move-in/move-out checklists supported by before-and-after photographs and videotapes of the apartment.

4. No money = no keys. Do not give the apartment keys to the tenant until the first month's rent and security deposit are paid and the lease has been signed.

5. Get the lead out. Warn tenants of the dangers of lead paint by providing them with the "Protect Your Family From Lead In Your Home" pamphlet (see "Landlord/Tenant Websites") and lead disclosure form (see "Free Online Forms and Checklists") by abating any existing lead paint.

6. Don't delay until tomorrow what you can do today. Don't wait too long to evict a tenant who is delinquent in paying rent.

7. You get what you pay for. Never have tenants do repair work or painting in exchange for the payment of rent.

8. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. Do not ignore discrimination laws and building code violations.