1. Sets rent rates
A property manager assesses rental rates by researching the neighborhood. Besides investigating the rates of nearby similar rentals, the manager should do the following:
- Determine whether your property need repairs
- Find out if you allow pets
- Find out if you allow smoking
Those factors can affect rental pricing. The manager will also recommend any needed changes or upgrades. This ensures your property rents for a fair market price.
2. Markets the property
Marketing a rental property to obtain the best tenants in the fastest time possible is a key part of what a property manager does. The manager finds the best online outlets for advertising and does more than just placing ads. The property manager makes your property sound appealing to potential tenants and knows how to advertise your property’s assets.
The best property managers know how to market a property online, which includes taking great pictures, and posting to to a variety of listings sites, including Zillow and Craigslist.
3. Finds good tenants
Property managers help deal with one of the biggest potential headaches a property owner may face: finding good, reliable tenants. The manager handles all calls and applications, performs screenings and background checks, and takes prospective tenants on a walk through of the property.
They also follow up with all applicants, letting them know whether they are approved or denied.
4. Collects rent and manage finances
Collecting rent and depositing it into your account is a property manager’s task. Handling late payments, partial payments, and other financial issues that may arise with tenants is also part of the job, as is communicating with your tenant over such issues.
Taking care of some of the expenses that are part of running a rental business, such as paying maintenance or utility bills (when applicable), is also part of the job.
An excellent property manager will setup an online rent payment system with your tenants, and have the money directly deposited into your bank account. When a property manger insist on being in the middle of the transaction without being fully transparent with their accounting, it’s possible that they might be stealing from you.
5. Handles maintenance issues
Your property manager is in charge of maintenance, such as keeping the outside of the property clean and tidy and overseeing in-house maintenance and landscaping crews. The manager oversees snow or leaf removal, pool cleaning, fitness center upkeep, and similar tasks. Typically, the manager hires a third party to handle such tasks for a large property.
The manager is the tenant’s contact person for maintenance and repair requests. They’ll even deal with other tenant concerns such as complaints about noisy neighbors. In these regards, a property manager is a huge asset, especially if you live out of town.
The property manager can also make recommendations on remodeling and upgrades that can benefit the business.
6. Manages move-outs and evictions
When a tenant moves out, the property manager handles the walk through. They assess potential issues and deduct repairs beyond normal wear and tear from the security deposit. The manager also cleans, repairs, and refreshes the rental unit for the next tenant.
Property managers handle evictions and ensure that you follow all laws and regulations to avoid legal issues. The manager sets an eviction policy and makes this clear in every tenant’s rental agreement.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
