As a highly reputable property management company, ASM Properties is always looking for proactive landlords who are seriously interested in providing tenants with a great place to live, while also making a nice profit for themselves.
The first indicator that you are the type of landlord that a property management company would be proud to represent is by simply contacting the company to begin with and showing your interest. The second indicator that you are concerned with your properties is by asking probing questions to every potential property manager you meet with before you officially hire him.
So, how can you prove to potential property managers that you should be taken seriously? Jon Selinger, owner of ASM Properties, gives you insight into the kinds of questions you should be asking:
- What kind of properties do you manage? Some property managers work mainly with single family homes, some oversee entire apartment complexes and others manage commercial properties for businesses.
- Do you specialize in any particular areas? For example, some companies may boast that they manage multiple homes successfully, or that they are specifically helpful for landlords who live out of state.
- How long have you been in business?
- What kinds of licenses do your employees have?
- Are your managers required to receive any further certifications or accreditation upon employment with you?
- What are your fees?
- What do I receive from the cost of your services?
- Do you have a phone number that tenants can call 24/7?
- What maintenance services, if any, are you affiliated with?
- What is the average number of years that a client remains with your company? You will want a property manager who has been able to build lasting relationships.
- What other property managing companies do you consider your competition?
- What areas do you provide service for? It is better to go with a company who covers a smaller, specialized area.
- How do you manage visiting multiple properties within a single day?
- What are your methods for inspection?
- How do you track your clients? If they are not using software programs and are still using a pen and pad, ask them how effective that method has proven to be.
- Do you have any clients who I could contact as a reference?
Besides impressing property managers with your concern about their experience and how they manage their company, you will also weed out companies who don’t have the same values as you or who don’t seem dedicated to securing your business.
