There are many strategies and methods you can use to find an outstanding property manager. You owe it to yourself and your company to find a quality property manager. Here’s how.

Network

One thing you can try that bears fruit almost instantly is to check around with real estate agents you may know. They are often great sources of information regarding property managers and they are also expert networkers.

Ask your peers, as well. Your fellow realestate investors will not be shy when it comes to recommending outstanding quality. Find out who they worked with. Ask probing questions. For example, you may want to ask if they are currently satisfied with their property manager and follow up with a “Why?” or “Why not?”

Get References

References are critical in this business! The best property managers and real estate agents are master networkers. Your local real estate experts will most definitely know somebody (who knows somebody) that can assist you in your search.

Ask for references and follow up with the references. It is not good enough to get letters of recommendation. You have to call the references and have a real conversation with them to ask those questions that only you may have.

Go for a Pro

Look for licensed property managers, too. Far too often, we hear of property owners who lament their decision to hire a “family friend.” Make it as clear as possible at the outset that you will only work with professionals that take their jobs seriously. A licensed professional property manager has proven he has what it takes to go the extra mile.

Conduct an Inspection

Check out the property manager’s current sites. Does the property look professional and well maintained? Are the tenants happy? Ask to talk with some of the tenants.

Make sure that your prospective property manager is not working too much or is spread too thin. She may not be able to give your property or your tenants the attention they deserve. Ask pointed questions. Make sure that your prospective manager knows what he or she is getting into.

Also look at how long your prospective property manager has been managing his properties. If he has been at several sites for more than a few years, you can rest assured that his property owners love him.

Eviction Rates

Find out the eviction rate at the various properties your prospective property manager manages. A high rate could be a sign that your property manager is not willing to compromise. Pass on him. Life and real estate are all about compromise and give and take. Your property manager must understand this and practice it.

Personality

Lastly, make sure you like your property manager. He may be a complete professional with excellent and verifiable references, but if you and he have personality conflicts or he is simply not a likeable person, then pass on him and find somebody yo can and want to work with.

As you can see, finding a top-notch property manager does take some effort. However, choosing the right one will make your life easier in the long run.