How to Choose the Perfect Property Management Company
Now that we've entered the new year, this is the time people switch to a different property management provider. This is because their contract is up, and they want to change to something better. For others, this might be their first time using a property management service, and the new year is the perfect time to get started.
Choosing a property management company is easier said than done. Your home is incredibly valuable, and you want to make sure you leave it to a company you can completely trust.
That's why it's important to spend time researching and vetting prospective property management companies. To help you with this process, here's a checklist of items you should go through.
Find out if their business is legitimate.
This is an important step because there aren't any rules or standards to open up a property management business, so ANYONE can start one. You don't want to hand over your keys to someone that isn't qualified or has a sketchy past. There are companies out there that aren't even licensed, bonded, and insured!
A good source of validation is the National Home Watch Association. This is a great website to check out because they only list companies that have proper insurance and bonding. They also guarantee every member abides by their set of standards and code of ethics, ensuring they're a quality company.
- Look at their online reviews.
How they've treated past clients is a good indication of how they'll treat you. Keep in mind, there will always be a few bad apples in the bunch, but overall you should see a majority of positive reviews. Some common websites to checkout are Facebook and Houzz.
- Meet with the company representative.
Getting a one-on-one interaction really allows you to see if you trust and feel comfortable with them. During the meeting, be sure to ask them these questions:
-Who will be looking after my house and what's their background and knowledge in the property management industry?
-Do they go through any kind of formal training?
-What's included with the property management service?
-Is your schedule flexible in case of an emergency?
-What are the costs?
-What type of payments do you accept?
Additionally, you can also ask them specific questions about your home/property.
Going through this list with them will allow you to see their level of knowledge and experience. If they hesitate or seem unsure when answering your questions, that should send off major red flags! Taking the time to thoroughly research property management companies will help you pick the right one to look after your home.
For more than 22 years, Gamble Home Services has provided a complete Home and Property Management Service for Kiawah, Seabrook, and Lower Johns Islands. Expertise, experience, and compassion are the cornerstones of our superior client experience. From home watch, home maintenance and repair, and housekeeping, to rental property support, general contracting and our award-winning renovation and remodeling services, we deliver home management services that honor you and the home you cherish.
Looking for a property management company? Let's talk!
Call 843-768-9923 or