10 Smart Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Property Management Company
Not all property managers are created equal. So how do you find one who will truly protect your investment and make your life easier?
These 10 questions go beyond the basics. They’re designed to uncover how a property management company thinks, operates, and prioritizes your goals—so you can choose a partner who’s proactive, transparent, and aligned with your needs.
1. How many properties do you manage—and what types?
Scale tells you about capacity, but specialization tells you about fit. A company may handle 500 properties, but if most are vacation rentals and you own long-term residential units, that’s a red flag.
2. Who will be my main point of contact?
It’s frustrating when communication feels like a game of telephone. Ask whether you’ll have a dedicated manager or be routed through a general office line—and how quickly they respond.
3. How do you market and fill vacant properties?
Good property managers don’t just list—they launch. Listen for a clear marketing strategy: professional photos, optimized listings, multiple platforms, and fast response to inquiries.
4. How do you screen tenants?
Tenant placement is make-or-break. A strong answer includes background checks, credit reports, income verification, and rental history—executed consistently and within fair housing laws.
5. What’s included in your management fee—and what costs extra?
Don’t be lured by low fees. Get a full breakdown: Is maintenance markup included? Are inspections extra? The best firms are upfront and fully transparent.
6. How do you handle maintenance requests?
Look for balance: timely service for tenants, cost control for you. Ask if they use licensed vendors, how they handle after-hours calls, and whether you get notified before repairs are made.
7. What technology do you offer for owners and tenants?
Modern platforms simplify everything—rent collection, maintenance tracking, financial reports. If their tools feel outdated or clunky, that’s a sign of deeper inefficiencies.
8. How do you handle lease enforcement and legal issues?
Late rent, HOA violations, potential evictions—what’s their protocol? A solid answer includes documented procedures, legal compliance, and proactive communication with both tenants and owners.
9. Can you share references from current owners?
Always ask for at least two recent owner references. You’re looking for consistency in their experience, not just one glowing review.
10. What sets your company apart?
This question gives companies room to tell their story. Listen for more than buzzwords—look for evidence of care, process, and long-term commitment.
Final Takeaway
Choosing a property manager isn’t just a transactional decision—it’s a relationship that impacts your income, stress level, and long-term success. These questions help you separate polished pitches from proven partners.
Ready to Interview Property Managers in Northeast Florida?
At CrossView Property Management, we welcome smart, thoughtful questions—and we give straight answers. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, we’re here to protect your rental and support your goals.
Schedule a consultation today and let’s see if we’re the right fit for you.
904-855-7933 or rentals@crossviewpm.com