5 Questions Every Landlord Should Ask a Property Manager
Choosing the right property manager can make all the difference between a smooth, stress-free investment and one that keeps you awake at night. Before you hand over the keys, make sure you’re asking the right questions to get the full picture of how your property will be managed.
Here are five key questions every landlord should ask before signing on with a property manager:
1. What’s important to you when taking on a new landlord?
This question tells you a lot about the property manager’s priorities and values. Are they focused on building long-term relationships, delivering personalised service, or simply adding another property to their portfolio? The answer should align with the kind of partnership you’re looking for.
2. If I give you the property, will you be managing it personally or passing it to someone else?
It’s common for larger agencies to hand your property to a junior staff member after the initial sign-up. Knowing exactly who will be your main point of contact (and who will be responsible for day-to-day management) is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises later.
3. What is your procedure regarding maintenance at a property?
Maintenance can make or break the tenant–landlord relationship. Ask how they handle repairs, whether they have trusted tradespeople, and how quickly they respond to urgent issues. This will give you a sense of their efficiency and commitment to keeping tenants happy while protecting your investment.
4. How do you handle rent arrears and difficult tenants?
Even with the best screening, problems can arise. A good property manager will have a clear, structured approach to rent arrears and tenancy breaches, balancing firmness with fairness — and keeping you updated on every step they take.
5. How many properties are you currently managing?
A property manager’s workload can directly impact the quality of service you receive. If they’re juggling too many properties, yours might not get the attention it deserves. Look for a balance — enough experience to know what they’re doing, but not so many properties that your investment gets lost in the shuffle.
The takeaway:
A property manager is more than just someone who collects rent. They’re your partner in protecting and growing your investment. Asking the right questions upfront helps you find someone who’s the right fit — and ensures you start the landlord–property manager relationship on the right foot.
If you’d like to know how I work with my landlords to deliver personal, hands-on property management in Brisbane, get in touch with me here.