How to Choose the Right Property Manager

How to Choose the Right Property Manager

Choosing the right property manager can be a challenging task. While many property managers have some form of sales training, their ability to communicate well shouldn’t be mistaken for their ability to manage your investment. It's important to look past the presentation and ask the right questions before making a decision.

1. Will the Person I Meet Be the One Managing My Property?

In many agencies, the person conducting the appraisal is not the person who will manage your property. Always ask to meet the actual property manager who will be your point of contact. This is your opportunity to gauge their communication style, professionalism, and character—key factors in a successful long-term relationship.

2. How Many Properties Does the Property Manager Handle?

A common red flag is when a single property manager handles more than 100 properties without dedicated support. High workloads often result in delayed communication, missed maintenance, and overlooked issues. Test this early: call the office a few times to speak with the property manager. How many messages did you leave before receiving a call back? The response time can reveal how well they manage their workload.

3. What Does Staff Turnover Look Like?

High staff turnover can negatively impact the consistent management of your property. While some level of movement is expected in any business, frequent changes in property managers may suggest underlying issues within the agency, such as poor management, inadequate training, or low staff satisfaction. This can lead to communication breakdowns, missed details, and a lack of continuity in service. Consistent staffing helps build strong relationships and a deeper understanding of your property's unique needs.

4. Who Manages My Property When the PM Is Unavailable?

No one can be available 24/7, and your property manager is no exception. However, it’s important to know what happens when they’re away. Does the agency have a support structure in place? If a pipe bursts over the weekend, you need to know someone will respond promptly and professionally.

5. Can I Contact My Property Manager Directly?

The short answer is: yes, absolutely. While it’s unreasonable to expect after-hours availability every day, it’s fair to expect a call back the next business day. If your property manager doesn’t answer their mobile, leave a message with the office and follow up. A well-structured agency will always have someone available to assist if your regular manager is unavailable.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a property manager is about trust, responsiveness, and reliable service, not just fees. By asking the right questions and doing research, you can find a professional who will care for your investment property.

If you’re looking for an experienced local property manager, we’re here to help.

 

Here are our contact details:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 0401 431 484

 

https://www.usrealestate.net.au/agent-profile?agent_id=15846