QUESTIONS YOU SHOULD BE ASKING BEFORE HIRING YOUR NEXT PROPERTY MANAGER

Finding a property manager that is best suited for your needs and wants, who will work in your best interest is a challenging process in the current market. There are many factors to consider when judging good from the bad. For example, what services should you expect and what systems are in place to ensure your property is under the best care.

This can be an especially difficult process if you’re a first-time landlord or if you have had a bad experience with property managers in the past. We have identified 6 key points to consider before hiring a property manager to ensure your property will be under the best care.

HOW WILL YOU ADVERTISE MY PROPERTY?

There are 3 common options and each is very effective in finding good tenants. Some real estate agencies have a tenant enquiry database, which collects data from people who have been interested in renting a property. It is easy and effective in contacting people directly. Another option is internet marketing. Which includes listing online via sites like Domain and Realestate.com.au. There are marketing techniques used to best attract the attention of prospective tenants for every search. The internet is used by almost every individual to search for a rental, to have any agency that will advertise your property best online will achieve the best results. There is also the option of traditional marketing such as the For Lease sign at the property and stock booklets etc. These methods create results and exposure to your property.

HOW WILL YOU BE SHOWING PEOPLE THROUGH THE PROPERTY?

The best possible answer is a group showing. This is where we invite all interested parties to view the property at once. This way is super effective and easier to organise for all parties involved. It creates a competitive environment for the tenants which allows for a quicker result. A key element involved in this process is communication between all parties involved to ensure everyone is aware of the viewing

HOW DO YOU PROCESS THE RENTAL APPLICATIONS?

The agency will happily talk you through the process as it is involved and comprehensive to ensure you have good tenant options. This involves standard checks of ID and proof of income. Obtaining past rental references from landlords or agencies. Completing background checks on tenant blacklist database. Confirming employment details with current employers. Also, checking personal references to confirm they are a clean and tidy person.

We also do a check on social media sites like Facebook which will reveal what kind of person they are and to avoid any possible issues. It is the most important part of the process the one taken the most serious for the landlord to be comfortable with the tenant you’re offering the property to

DO I GET ACCESS TO THE APPLICATIONS?

We have owners that are happy to discuss the prospective tenant over the phone but if the landlord prefers to look over in person, the property manager will happily send through a copy to review. As a rental agency, we want landlords to feel confident in our gathering of solid information and comfortable that we are well-informed of each application.

WHO CHOOSES THE TENANT?

The property is owned by the landlord and therefore, they are responsible for electing the new tenant. The property managers are there for advice based on experiences with tenants and suggest recommendations but the final decision comes down to the owner. You are not obliged to choose an application just for the sake of any pressure to fill the empty house, you have to feel confident in your decision of the tenant and you can always take careful consideration in your decision. We want you to have the best tenant possible.

CAN I ATTEND PROPERTY INSPECTIONS?

The correct answer should be yes. Agencies are allowed to invite the owners along to inspections of the property and it is recommended that you attempt to attend at least once a year. Good property management will send a copy of the written inspection report with photos as well. Although these photos are a helpful indicator as to the case taken by the tenant the inspection will give you the full impression of the property’s condition. A property manager that is willing to allow you accompany during the inspection, is the best way to get an up to date picture of the property and an idea as to what maintenance might be needed.