Property Management Blog

THE PITFALLS OF SELF-MANAGEMENT: WHEN TO HIRE A PROPERTY MANAGER

Dawn Ostovich - Friday, September 22, 2023

Rental properties can be a lucrative investment, but they do not come without challenges! Many property owners start by self-managing their properties to save money only to discover that property management can be a demanding and time-consuming endeavor. Let’s explore some of the most common pitfalls owners experience before they seek out support from a property manager. If you find that any of these resonate with you, it may be a good time to have a conversation with us to learn more how we can support you.

  1. Time and Commitment

Self-managing rental properties can be a full-time job. From advertising vacancies and conducting tenant screenings to handling maintenance requests and emergencies, the demands on your time can be overwhelming. Having someone dedicated to managing this for you, will allow you to focus on other priorities.

  1. Tenant Screening and Placement

Reliable tenants are essential for a successful rental property. With our extensive background, we can quickly identify red flags and vet tenants before entrusting them with your valuable financial assets. Property managers have experience in conducting thorough tenant screenings, including background checks, credit reports, and reference checks. They can help you avoid the headaches of dealing with problematic tenants.

  1. Legal Compliance

Landlord-tenant laws and regulations can be complex and vary by location. A property manager is well-versed in local and state laws, ensuring that your property is always in compliance. Failure to adhere to these regulations can result in legal issues and fines.

  1. Maintenance and Repairs

Properties require ongoing maintenance and occasional repairs. Property managers have a network of reliable contractors and can quickly address maintenance issues, preventing small problems from becoming expensive disasters.

  1. Emergency Response

Emergencies can happen at any time, from burst pipes to electrical issues. Property managers are available 24/7 to respond to emergencies, sparing you the stress of late-night phone calls during your time with family.

  1. Rent Collection and Financial Management

Collecting rent, handling security deposits, and managing financial records can be challenging. Property managers have systems in place to ensure consistent rent collection and provide you with detailed financial statements.

  1. Tenant Relations and Conflict Resolution

Dealing with tenant disputes and conflicts can be emotionally draining. Property managers act as a buffer between you and the tenants, handling issues professionally and impartially. They have experience in conflict resolution to ensure a peaceful living environment for your tenants.

  1. Property Marketing and Vacancy Reduction

Property managers have expertise in marketing your property effectively and have built a network of professional contacts to get your home in front of the right tenants. They can optimize rental listings, conduct market research, and reduce vacancy periods, ultimately increasing your rental income.

  1. Scale and Growth

If you're looking to expand your real estate portfolio, self-managing multiple properties can become overwhelming. Property managers can help you scale your business by efficiently managing multiple properties and ensuring consistent cash flow.

  1. Peace of Mind

Perhaps the most significant advantage of hiring a property manager is the peace of mind it offers. Knowing that a professional is taking care of your property and tenants allows you to enjoy the benefits of real estate investment without the daily stress and hassles.

If any of the above resonated with you, let us show you how we can help! While self-managing rental properties may seem like a cost-effective option initially, the pitfalls and challenges that come with it can quickly outweigh the savings. You deserve to make the wise investment that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. It allows you to enjoy the benefits of real estate ownership while leaving the day-to-day management to a professional dedicated to serving you and your tenant.