By Aiden ArmstrongAs a landlord, you have a responsibility to your tenants, your building and yourself. However, it’s also important to realize that you may need help. Therefore, when searching for Marana property management options, you have to do a lot of research, feel comfortable with the firm, and not be afraid to haggle a little.
Initial Search
During the initial phase of searching for companies, you should focus on what they say on their website and whether or not you can find reviews. Pick out two or three options that you think would be okay to work with and go from there. You can always search for more options if those three don’t pan out or if you want to compare.
Initial Interview
Whether you do it over the phone or in person, you should find out if they’re licensed, request a reference list and determine what types of properties they manage currently. If they cannot or will not provide this information, thank them and go to the next one on your list.
If they do give the information, you can call their references and check into their licensure. If it meets your approval, you can contact them for a second interview, which should be done in person.
Second/Future Interviews
Once they’ve made it this far, you can feel pretty confident about them. However, you want to ask about their policies for maintenance, collecting/setting rent, inspections, marketing, tenant screening and more. You’ll also want to touch upon fees and charges for everything mentioned previously and talk about reporting options.
If you still feel comfortable with their experience and abilities, you can request a contract. Before signing a contract with a Marana property management company, ensure that you understand everything and feel comfortable with it. You can always haggle a little to get a lower price, or have certain fees waived. If they aren’t willing to work with you, you may want to consider someone else.
