Do They Walk The Talk?

Whilst some landlords may prefer to self-manage their investment property, there may come a time when every landlord considers employing the services of a Property Manager. From the very first time you call them, you are interviewing them! How prompt are they in returning your call? Are they knowledgeable about how the market is performing, rent prices, area, legislation, procedures, etc.

How do you know that they will perform as well as they claim to?  Ask for some additional information that requires them to action!  Request a copy of a lease agreement or management agreement, a copy of extra conditions that they may include in a lease, documentation on how they induct tenants.  You should be asking questions relevant to these things anyway, but receiving these things in a timely manner, whether by post or email speaks volumes. 

Where possible meet with them. Remember that you may be dealing with this person for a long time.  It is important that you feel comfortable with them and assured that they will not only work hard for you but deal with your tenant courteously and professionally.