Finding a Great Property Manager - All reviews in my area don't look good
Hi,
I am preparing for my first investment property for a rental :) Due to the high cost of where I live, I will have to buy about 1.5 to 2 hours from my home. The google plus and Yelp reviews are disappointing. I know you have to take the reviews with a grain of salt, but it makes me nervous since I know that a bad property manager can really do a lot of damage. I looked on NARPM.org and there are NONE in that area. There is one property manager that is about 30 miles away. I don't know of any investors to get referrals from.
Any advice for minimizing the risk in choosing one?
I'm assuming a contract is signed. Is it possible to get out early if you are unhappy?
Any thoughts on taking on the PM aspect from a distance? I work full time. I am in real estate for my job so the leasing aspect doesn't scare me, I have access to the forms and people who can help with that. Just wondering how to handle showings and maintenance since I work 8-5 M-F.
Thanks for any help!