Rental Tips for Landlords
Rental Tip for Landlords
10 Things Every Landlord Should Know Before Hiring a Property Manager
Define Your Expectations
Before you hire anyone, ask yourself:
- Do you want full-service management or just tenant placement?
- Do you want monthly updates or hands-off investing?
Pro Tip: The right manager should be able to tailor their service to your level of involvement.
Understand the Fee Structure
Look for transparency. Know what’s included in the monthly fee and what costs extra. Avoid companies with hidden fees or vague pricing.
Pro Tip: Ask if they take a percentage of rent or use a flat fee model.
Ask About Their Tenant Screening Process
Quality tenants make or break your returns. A good screening process should include:
- Background checks
- Credit history
- Employment and reference verification
Know How Maintenance Is Handled
Maintenance issues can erode your returns if not handled promptly. Ask:
- Do they have vetted tradespeople on call?
- Will they get quotes before doing repairs?
- Can you set a maintenance approval limit?
Pro Tip: A good manager protects your time and your bottom line.
Check Communication Standards
- How often will they update you?
- Do you have a dedicated property manager?
- Can you call or email directly?
Pro Tip: Good communication builds trust and avoids surprises.
Make Sure They Understand Local Laws
They should be familiar with the Residential Tenancies Act and Christchurch-specific regulations. This protects you from fines and legal issues.
Ask for Real Testimonials or References
Look for reviews, case studies, or references from other property owners. Real stories give you insight into how they actually perform.
Review the Owner Portal
You should have 24/7 access to:
- Financial reports
- Maintenance updates
- Lease documents
Pro Tip: A modern portal is a sign of a well-run company.
Understand the Lease Enforcement Process
How do they handle late rent or rule-breaking tenants? Make sure they have a clear, legal, and firm process for dealing with issues.
Look for Local Experience
A Christchurch-based company knows:
- Local rental trends
- Reliable contractors
- How to attract the right tenants
Pro Tip: Local knowledge boosts performance and peace of mind.
