Who Can You Trust With Your Rental Property Management?
Just like your other investments, rental property investments perform better with professional management. When it’s time to decide who to trust with your rental property management that's worth hundreds of thousands of dollars, it only makes sense to take a careful look to avoid unscrupulous property managers. Will your property manager be as anxious to get your property rented as they are to take your management fee? Will they answer the phone? Is your deposit trust account in good hands? Are they looking out for your legal protection? Here is what you need to look for:
Transparency. Whether you want to be hands-off or know every detail throughout the leasing cycle, demand that all information be available to you around the clock. You should be able to know 24/7 what is happening with your properties—marketing activity, applicants, tenant changes, rent status, maintenance needs and overall property condition. Real Property Management provides on-demand online reporting on all activity and financial reports, as well as responsive support through your property manager, accounting and maintenance representatives.
Clear Terms. Your property manager should clearly explain the terms of your agreement, what is included in the management of your property and what you can expect at each stage of the leasing cycle. A professional property manager will be happy to take the time to answer all questions to your satisfaction. Real Property Management explains everything up front and helps you know what to expect throughout the process.
No Hidden Costs. A leasing fee and a monthly management fee are standard in the industry, and all costs should be clear up front. Remember, do-it-yourself and discount property management services can cost you in the long run in longer vacancy times and costly mistakes. When fees are waived or reduced, too often the level of service for your investment is reduced as well, which can hurt your returns. At Real Property Management, we are committed to clear pricing, no hidden fees and the highest level of service.
High Standards. Property management is an unregulated industry, so it is especially important to ask about your property manager’s training, experience and certifications. At Real Property Management, we are held to a higher, national standard of performance. You shouldn’t settle for anything less.
References. You have a right to ask for references—who else uses the property manager? Don’t cut corners when entrusting your investment property to a management team. Real Property Management is trusted by thousands of individuals, investors and institutions across the country, including Freddie Mac, Fannie Mae, Chase Bank and several more of the nation’s largest banks and mortgage services.
While it’s true that some property managers may give the industry a bad name, remember that real, professional property management always means high ethical standards, experience and quality service as provided by ALH|Podland Realty & Rental Homes Property Management.
Marina Shlomov, a managing partner at ALH|Podland Realty & Rental Homes Property Management is the author of many articles on Landlording, Property Management, and Real Estate Investing. A residential builder in the state of Georgia since 1999, Marina is an investor herself. Her property management company is intended “For Investors” and “By Investors” for a simple reason – she knows what investors’ goals are and she works hard to reach their goals. In her spare time, Marina likes to spend time with her family, friends, garden, read and travel. Check her out at www.alhpodland.com. You can find Marina’s articles and comments at @rentalhomesatl on Twitter, on Facebook, Google+, Blogger. and YouTube, Bigger Pockets and REI CLub and LinkedIn.
