Choosing your property manager
- Experience matters — but so does how they manage, not just how long they’ve been around.
- Ask about their process for arrears — how quickly do they act?
- What qualifications and training do they have?
- Request their info pack (fees, services, recent results).
- How do they screen tenants? This is everything.
- What’s their inspection schedule — and how detailed are reports?
- How and when will you be updated? (communication is key)
- How is rent collected and how fast is it paid out to you?
- What are their working hours — and who’s available after hours?
- Are they proactive… or reactive? There’s a big difference.
Preparing your property for rent
- Presentation attracts quality tenants — simple as that.
- Everything must be working: heating, appliances, plumbing, electrics.
- Fix everything before it hits the market — no loose ends.
- Deep clean throughout (carpets, oven, bathrooms, windows).
- Gardens neat, lawns mowed — set the standard from day one.
- Make sure the home is safe and compliant (locks, railings, alarms).
- Provide all keys and ensure everything operates smoothly.
- Double-check your insurance covers tenancy.
- Be upfront with your agent about any quirks or issues.
Rent, reporting & routines
- Know how rent is paid — and how quickly you receive it.
- Never let rent fall behind — strict arrears control is crucial.
- Entry condition reports + photos are non-negotiable.
- Expect regular statements and clear financial tracking.
- Inspections should be consistent, thorough, and documented.
- Easy payment options (direct debit, online) = better tenant compliance.
Common mistakes
- Choosing a property manager based on fees, not performance.
- Letting rent fall into arrears without action.
- Listing a property that’s not rent-ready.
- Ignoring small maintenance issues (they don’t stay small).
- Letting tenants dictate terms — you choose the tenant.
- Poor communication or delayed responses to issues.
- Holding emotional attachment to what is now a business asset.
- Forgetting: property investment = returns and responsibility.