What do you dislike about property managers?

Question

What are the top things that you dislike about your property manager? What are they doing wrong that you wished they weren’t?

Tim Bratz · Answer

The problem I have with property managers are the same problems I have with all third-party entities-- not adapting to the way we do things and, therefore, missing the mark. It typically comes down to a lack of clear communication between my team and them. Set some clear goals and hold them to it.

Jordan Myer · Answer

Before signing with a PM or any third party you should be making sure their systems and processes align with "the way you do things". Expecting another company to change their systems and processes to accommodate you is a recipe for disaster.

Carini Rochester · Answer

I've read so many posts on this forum of landlords complaining about their PM that I'm very surprised there haven't been more replies! I self manage, but think about looking for a property manager often. But, the thought of losing control of the property, trusting someone who may screw it up scares me. Complaints I've read on BiggerPockest forums have included: vacancies not getting filled, repairs completed at high prices (not getting competitive bids, large mark-up), poor tenant selection, delinquent accounts not being pursued, PM has too much power (utilities in PM's name, contract with PM makes it almost impossible to fire, rent payments will continue to go to PM even if you try to fire him/her, PM doesn't give LL records to justify billing.) I've read all these on BiggerPockets. I've also read a lot of great content from BP members who are property managers who appear to be doing the job correctly. Also, we see many posts from owners who spend their days on the beach because their PM's are doing such a wonderful job. How can I find a PM who will let me spend my days on the beach?

Michael Smythe · Answer

Lack of properly setting expectations from Day 1, then failing to deliver on those expectations, typically due to a lack of proper communication.

What do you dislike about property managers?

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