Ask for Referrals

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When hunting for a property manager, talk to people you trust, like your friends and colleagues. You can also ask contractors, real estate buddies, realtors, and property owners.

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Think of it like gathering advice when trying to decide on something. The more people you talk to, the more ideas and knowledge you'll get. Plus, if someone you know and trust had a good experience with a particular property manager, you'd probably feel more comfortable working with them, too.

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But here's the thing: don't just take their word for it. Ask questions about what the property manager is good at and where they might fall short. And if someone stopped working with them, find out why. This way, you'll get a clear picture before making any decisions.

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Do Online Research 

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Continuing your search for the right property manager, the internet is your next best friend. Here's what you can do online:

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• Vet Your Options: Look into the property managers you're already considering. But don't stop there; you can discover new names, too.
• Check Their Websites: Visit the websites of these property management companies. Pay attention to their mission statements.
• Read Reviews: Look for reviews on websites like Facebook or Yelp. Reviews from other folks can provide valuable insights into their experiences.

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Additionally, accessing employee data can give you deeper insights into the professional backgrounds and expertise of property managers. By reviewing employee data, you can better assess the qualifications and reputation of the management team you’re considering.

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Ask the Right Questions

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When selecting a property rental manager, asking the right questions is crucial to ensure you make the best choice. While agents may present themselves impressively on paper or websites, digging deeper to uncover their true capabilities is essential.

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Here are some questions that will help you go beyond surface-level answers and truly understand what they can offer:

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Questions for Your Rental Manager:

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• How many rental properties are currently under your management?
• Can you provide references from your past clients?
• Could you break down your property management fees for me?
• What is your invoicing structure for property management fees?
• How many years of experience do you have in this industry?
• What is your tenant screening process like?
• May I see a sample of your monthly reports?
• Would you be willing to connect me with other clients who can offer honest reviews?
• What are the current vacancy rates for the properties you manage?
• What methods do you use for property marketing, and what are your associated fees?
• How do you handle maintenance issues?
• In your opinion, what could your property management company do better?
• What recommendations do you have for maximising my returns and minimising risk?
• Will you personally oversee the management of my property?
• Are you familiar with the local area?
• What is your commitment to best practices?
• How frequently do you conduct property inspections?

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Check Qualifications

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Verifying their qualifications is crucial before deciding on a property manager. Here's what you should look for:

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Check that the property manager holds the necessary licenses and certifications. Real estate agents, auctioneers, letting agents, or property managers must comply with fair trading requirements and possess a current real estate license or registration to perform their duties legally. 

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Pay attention to their qualifications as they reflect their experience. For instance, compare a licensed manager to someone with a registration certificate. Generally, it's advisable to steer clear of brand-new property management companies and overly large ones, where your property might get lost in the shuffle. Their qualifications will show their expertise and suitability for your specific needs.

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Comparing Local Agents

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When finding a property manager, directing your attention toward local and experienced professionals is a strategic move. Here's why it's an important asset:

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• Tenant Attraction Expertise: Local property managers excel at attracting tenants specific to the area. They can easily market your property effectively and fill vacancies promptly.
• Optimised Rent Pricing: Their familiarity with the local market dynamics enables them to set competitive rental prices. 
• Rental Income Growth: Local property managers are well-versed in identifying local opportunities for increasing rental yields.
• Valuable Local Resources: They have a network of local experts and tradespeople who offer competitive rates and swift solutions, benefitting you and your property.

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Match Services and Lease Terms

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Property managers vary in terms of the services and lease terms they offer. Finding a property manager who aligns with your specific requirements is essential. Here's how to ensure you're on the same page:

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A reliable property manager will be upfront about their services and those they don't. If you're searching for a property management company, ensuring they can handle all your needs is crucial to how they handle tenant search, rent collection, and maintenance issues. Knowing they can handle any situation that arises is essential. Additionally, they should recommend someone else if they cannot handle a particular task.

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Assess Their Approach

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While information and research are essential, nothing beats witnessing your property manager in action. Here's how to evaluate their approach:

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Attend an open home hosted by the property manager. When choosing a real estate agent, consider their communication skills, property showcasing, expertise, and effectiveness of promotional materials.

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After selecting your property manager, you must enter into a property management contract. It must be fair, comprehensive, easy to understand, and equitable for all parties involved. It's advisable to have a legal professional review the contract to negotiate terms and ensure you're comfortable with the commitment.

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Houst Can Manager Your Investment Property

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Say goodbye to the hassles of searching for a property manager because Houst is here to simplify your life. As a rental management company, Houst handles all your property management needs, ensuring your property thrives. With Houst, you can boost your Airbnb revenue, earn those coveted 5-star ratings, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your property is in expert hands. Say hello to a stress-free holiday let management with Houst by your side.