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How to Choose the Best Property Manager in Your Area

  • TurnKey Rental Management
  • Sep 8
  • 3 min read

Choosing the right property manager can transform the experience of owning real estate—from a time-consuming burden into a truly stress-free investment. Whether you're managing a single rental or scaling a portfolio, the right professional ensures your property is well-maintained, compliant, and profitable. Let’s dive into a step-by-step process to find the perfect fit in your area.

1. Do Your Research — Start Local

  • Conduct a simple Google search to shortlist local property management companies.

  • Review their websites for services offered, client testimonials, staff information, and transparent fee schedules.

2. Look for Local Experience & Insight

  • Choose a manager with deep knowledge of your local market. They’ll understand tenant demographics, rental trends, and regulatory nuances.

  • Ask: "Where are the properties you currently manage?" and "How long have you worked locally?"

3. Verify Credentials, Licensing & Reputation

  • Confirm they hold any required local or regional licenses (e.g., real estate broker license, REBBA in Ontario).

  • Check reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google, Better Business Bureau—and, when possible, get referrals from trusted peers.

4. Evaluate Their Marketing & Advertising

  • Review their current property listings: Are photos clear and compelling? Are listings well-written? Are virtual tours available?

  • This reflects how they’ll market your property and attract good tenants.

5. Assess Communication & Use of Technology

  • A top-tier manager responds promptly and clearly via phone, email, or text.

  • They should also offer organized, tech-enabled systems—online portals for owners and tenants, digital rent collection, clear record-keeping.

6. Ask About Tenant Screening & Vacancy Management

  • A well-defined process for screening applicants—from marketing to lease signing—is a must.

  • Ask how they've historically filled vacancies and maintained low turnover.

7. Review the Contract and Fees Thoroughly

  • Every fee (monthly management, leasing, maintenance, evictions, etc.) must be clearly outlined—no surprises.

  • Ensure the contract includes termination terms and clearly assigns tasks between you and the manager.

8. Interview Multiple Candidates

  • Gauge professionalism and chemistry through interviews. Ask how they handle late rents, emergencies, lease violations, and vacancies.

  • Compare their answers, responsiveness, and overall demeanor.

9. Look for Track Record & References

  • Ask for references from both landlords and tenants. Promptness, tenant satisfaction, and clarity in financials are key indicators.

  • Inquire about average vacancy timelines and eviction rates.


Final Summary

Selecting the best property manager means combining research, neighborhood knowledge, clear communication, solid references, and a transparent agreement. By following this process, you ensure your property is in capable, reliable hands—and your investment remains both profitable and peaceful.

FAQs

Q: What is the most common payment for a property manager? Property management fees typically range between 8% and 12% of gross rent collected, but additional costs like leasing, maintenance oversight, or eviction services may apply. Always review the fee schedule carefully.

Q: How to choose the best property manager? Research locally, verify credentials and reputation, assess their marketing and communication systems, evaluate tenant screening methods, interview multiple candidates, compare references, and ensure the contract is transparent and flexible.

Q: Who is the top property management company? Globally, industry leaders include CBRE Group, JLL, and Greystar Real Estate Partners for their vast expertise and scale—though they tend to specialize in large commercial or institutional portfolios.

  • CBRE offers full-spectrum management across sectors and global coverage.

  • JLL combines asset management, leasing, and property tech across 80+ countries.

  • Greystar is the largest apartment manager in the U.S., overseeing nearly 800,000 units.

If you're in Canada, top household names include:

  • FirstService (residential services)

  • CAPREIT, QuadReal, Realstar, Boardwalk REIT, and Homestead Land Holdings, each known for strong regional presence and property-specific expertise.

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