Most property owners who would like to have their spaces for rent turn to property managers for help. Many of them would like to do the management themselves, but they simply could not afford the time and effort that it requires. The job of the property management may seem like an easy task, but it is not something that everyone can handle. In truth, everyone can own their properties, but not everyone has an eye for detail to manage it professionally.
And because property ownership and property management are a partnership that must be built on trust, it is highly important that a screening process is included. Remember, these steps should help you decide which property management company can help you through the process today and in the future:
Step 1: Phone Screening
Family and friends may have a few people in mind when you ask them for referrals. It is best to talk to these potential property managers over the phone. Such form of communication should help you decide whether they are the right fit or not. Because you could not see each other, the potential property manager should be able to communicate well with you. When asked about their experience, they should comfortably talk to you about it. After all, good communication is the key to reaching an understanding.
Step 2: Face-to-face Interview
This is the part when you get the opportunity to meet potential managers in person. Remember to limit interviews only to those who have met your requirements. Those who have fallen short of the credentials that you require should not move further to this step, to help you avoid charges of discrimination. Ask them about the previous and current properties that they manage. Doing so will allow you to see how much of the job do they know and how good they are at what they do.
Step 3: Reference Check
Former employers, as well as current property owners who have their properties managed by the candidate, should help you decide whether they are the right fit. Whatever information they can provide will prove helpful for you to learn more about the property advisor. Taking time to find out more about the character of the potential hire should make it easier for you to decide.
Step 4: Credit Check
This is the fourth and final step before you decide who to hire. Check their background, particularly their credit rating and current credit status. Since it is part of their job to be handling rent money on your behalf, you want to make sure that they don’t do anything that will taint the relationship you are building with them. Ask their permission before you look into their credit background.
It is important to choose your property manager appropriately. If you don’t, it will cause you more problems that you will ever be prepared for.