In this episode of Fix My Business, Scott Todd tackles a fear that keeps many business owners stuck in the "messy middle": the fear of raising prices. Responding to a question from Robert, a landlord with 12 units who is terrified to increase rent for long-term tenants, Scott reveals why "playing nice" with your pricing is actually a recipe for business failure and a disservice to the very customers you’re trying to protect.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The Margin Hell Trap: Why stagnant pricing leads to unhealthy margins that prevent you from reinvesting in your business.
2. The "Injustice" of Low Prices: How failing to raise rates leads to deferred maintenance and a lower quality of service (or living) for your clients.
3. The Market Shock Factor: Why small, incremental increases are actually kinder to customers than waiting years and hitting them with a massive "catch-up" hike.
4. Universal Application: Why this isn't just for real estate—it applies to car detailing, lawn care, land investing, and professional services.

Key Timestamps:

1. [00:00] – The Question: "I'm terrified to raise rents because I don't want my tenants to leave."
2. [01:15] – Why every customer/tenant is replaceable and the danger of "Margin Hell."
3. [02:30] – The hidden cost of "below market" rates: Deferred maintenance and crumbling assets.
4. [03:45] – The Research: 4,800 listings that prove landlords are leaving money on the table.
5. [04:30] – Why the next owner of your business will raise rates instantly (and why you should do it first).
6. [05:50] – Final Advice: Don't be "super nice"—be a professional business owner.

Mentioned in this Episode:

1. Book: Fix This Next for Real Estate Investors by Scott Todd.
2. Submit Your Question: ScottTodd.net/ask

"You’re not doing them any justice by protecting them. Keep moving your feet." — Scott Todd