Summary: The difference between a good property manager and a poor one is enormous. Here is how to tell them apart before you hand over your investment.
Most owners do not manage their own rental, and nor should they have to. The trouble is, the gap between a great property manager and a poor one is huge, and it is not always obvious from a polished sales pitch. Choose well and your investment is in safe hands. Choose badly and you inherit someone else’s stress.
After years on every side of this industry, here is what we look for.
They communicate before you have to chase
Good managers tell you what is happening, with the property and the tenancy, before you think to ask. If you are chasing them for basic updates during the pitch, it will not improve once they have your business.
They are across the law, and act on it
Standards, safety checks, notices, bonds, the rules are constant and changing. A good manager keeps you compliant without drama. A weak one leaves you exposed and does not even know it.
They run proper inspections, and report honestly
Regular, documented inspections are how problems get caught early. Ask how often they inspect, what the report looks like, and whether they will show you a real one.
They handle arrears and disputes calmly and early
Ask how they deal with late rent and conflict. You want a clear, firm, documented process, handled with courtesy, not panic or neglect.
They are honest about fees, and worth them
The cheapest manager is rarely the best value. Look for fair, transparent fees and a service that protects your investment, not just collects the rent.
Where we come in
Because we do not manage property ourselves, we can help you assess and choose a manager with no skin in the game, only your interests. We know what good looks like from the inside, and we will help you find it, or fix the relationship you already have.
Want help choosing or reviewing your property manager?