How to Hire the Right Property Manager in Florida (And What to Watch Out For)
What should I look for when hiring a property manager in Florida?
To hire the right property manager in Florida, look for experience in your local market, transparency in pricing, strong communication, legal compliance knowledge, and a proactive approach to maintenance and tenant relations.
Why Choosing the Right Property Manager Matters
Managing a rental property in Florida comes with its own unique set of challenges—from fluctuating weather and rising insurance costs to navigating complex landlord-tenant laws. Hiring a professional property manager can save you time, reduce stress, and protect your investment. But not all management companies are created equal.
At CrossView Property Management, we’ve helped hundreds of property owners across Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and surrounding areas protect and grow their rental income with clarity, integrity, and results.
Before you sign that management agreement, here’s what you need to know.
Red Flags to Avoid When Hiring a Property Manager
Let’s start with what not to accept:
Vague or hidden pricing
A reputable property manager should be upfront about all fees—including management fees, leasing fees, renewal fees, and any maintenance upcharges.No local presence
Florida’s rental laws and climate are hyper-local. Make sure your manager knows the neighborhoods and has boots on the ground in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, or wherever your property is located.No license or unclear qualifications
In Florida, property managers must hold a real estate broker’s license if they’re leasing or negotiating rentals. Don’t just assume—they should be able to prove it.Poor communication
If they’re slow to respond during the sales process, expect even worse service after signing.
What to Look for in a Florida Property Manager
Here’s what separates the professionals from the pretenders:
1. Local Market Expertise
Your property manager should know not just state laws, but local ordinances, rent trends, and what attracts quality tenants in your area. CrossView Property Management serves Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and Northeast Florida—so we know how to price, market, and maintain properties in this region.
2. Proven Tenant Screening Process
Look for companies that run thorough background checks, credit reports, rental history verifications, and income qualifications. Ask what their eviction rate is—it’s a strong indicator of screening quality.
3. Clear Fee Structure
Your agreement should outline all costs. Expect to pay a monthly management fee (usually 8%–10%) and a leasing fee for new tenants. Make sure maintenance upcharges are disclosed, if any.
4. Tech-Enabled but People-Focused
Modern systems for rent collection, owner portals, and maintenance tracking are essential—but so is having a responsive, real person you can call when questions come up.
5. Transparent Maintenance Protocol
Florida’s climate requires regular upkeep—especially for HVAC, roofing, and pest control. Ask about their process for handling repairs, vendor selection, and approval thresholds.
Questions to Ask a Property Management Company
Whether you’re comparing companies or interviewing just one, these questions can help:
How long have you managed properties in this area?
Are you a licensed broker in Florida?
What is your average time to fill a vacancy?
How do you screen tenants?
What fees should I expect, and what do they cover?
How do you handle late payments or evictions?
Can I view financials and reports online?
What happens if I decide to cancel my agreement?
Pro tip: Listen closely to how the company answers—not just what they say. A confident, professional manager will be transparent, organized, and proactive from day one.
Why Property Owners in Jacksonville & St. Augustine Choose CrossView
At CrossView Property Management, we know what it’s like to own investment property in Florida—we’ve been in your shoes. That’s why we take a personal, full-service approach to caring for your home and maximizing your income.
Here’s what sets us apart:
Locally owned and operated with deep roots in the Jacksonville and St. Augustine markets
Faith-driven business values you can trust
Licensed and experienced team—we don’t cut corners
Responsive communication with a dedicated property manager
Upfront, honest pricing—no surprises
Whether you’re a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, our goal is to give you peace of mind and help your property thrive.
Final Takeaway
Hiring a property manager in Florida isn’t just about offloading tasks—it’s about building a partnership with someone who will protect your investment like it’s their own. Ask the right questions, look for local expertise, and never settle for less than professional, ethical service.
When you choose CrossView Property Management, you’re choosing clarity, consistency, and care—every step of the way.
Ready to Simplify Your Rental Property?
Call CrossView Property Management today to learn more about our full-service solutions in Jacksonville, St. Augustine, and the surrounding areas. We’d be honored to serve you.