There’s lots of advice out there about rental properties, and it seems like everyone is an expert real estate investor these days. However,one piece of advice that sticks with every experienced rental property investor is to always find a good property manager. An experienced property manager can save you time and money and allow you to focus on what you do best: making new investments. On the other hand, a bad property manager can be ruinous. Think of your property manager as more than a casual associate, think of them as your partner. So what are some common traits should you look for when choosing a property manager?

• A good property manager is always willing to learn.

No one has all the answers, and the best property managers don’t pretend to. Any property manager who thinks they know everything is either greatly exaggerating their abilities, or is looking to make a quick buck. People are always learning new things, even those at the top of their field. Those who refuse to accept this either become complacent or will quickly find themselves rolling down a very steep hill. Simply put: avoid the know-it-all property managers.

• A good property manager knows how to network.

No one gets to the top by sitting still and hoping opportunities will fall in their lap. If you want a great property management company, who has all the right contacts, then make sure you visit all of the industry trade shows, conferences and networking events in your area.

• A good property manager has people skills.

Although real estate investing is concerned with properties, a good property manager will never forget that people are the ones who buy the properties. Deals can be made or broken based on their interpersonal skills, so make sure you look for a property manager with good people skills.

• A good property manager keeps their business and personal lives separate.

Business and pleasure are segregated for a reason. Make a point never to do business with friends or family members because a bad business relationship can easily sour an excellent friendship. What if your nephew is a bad property manager? You can quickly run into trouble if you find yourself placed in the awkward position of conflicting interests with a friend or relative.

• Good property managers are passionate about what they do.

When you meet a good property manager they should exude passion and excitement for real estate investing. Being a rental property manager isn’t for everyone, but sometimes people stick with a professional because they are too scared to move on. Avoid uninterested property managers at all costs.

Following the above pearls of wisdom won’t make you the best real estate investor , but it can certainly put you on the path to success.