Questions to Ask a Property Management Company: The Ones That Actually Matter

What questions should you ask a property management company before hiring them?

Most owners ask about fees, vacancy rates, and how quickly they place tenants. Those are reasonable starting points. The more revealing questions are the ones most people don't think to ask until they're already locked into a bad management agreement.

Do you mark up maintenance invoices?

This one question can save you thousands over the life of a management relationship. Some companies pass vendor invoices through at cost. Others add 10–20% on top of every repair as a revenue stream. Neither approach is illegal — but you have a right to know which model you're dealing with before you sign. Ask directly. If the answer is vague, that tells you something.

What's your owner approval threshold for repairs?

A good property manager handles routine maintenance without pulling you in on every minor issue. But you should still control larger expenses. Ask what dollar amount triggers owner approval before a repair is authorized. A defined threshold — CrossView's is $300 — gives you cost visibility without micromanagement.

How many properties does each manager handle?

A property manager overseeing 150 properties solo is stretched thin. Ask how many properties are in the portfolio and how many people manage them. A team structure means your property doesn't fall through the cracks when someone is out of office or unavailable.

What happens if my tenant stops paying rent?

You want a specific answer here — not a general reassurance. Ask exactly what notice gets served, on what timeline, and what the eviction process looks like if the tenant doesn't comply. A manager who's done this correctly many times will walk you through it without hesitation.

Can I see a sample owner statement?

The monthly statement is your primary window into your property's financial performance. Before you sign, ask to see what it actually looks like. Vague summaries or statements that require a phone call to interpret are a warning sign.

CrossView Property Management welcomes these questions — and gives straight answers to all of them. If you're evaluating property managers in Jacksonville or Northeast Florida, reach out to CrossView or review our Owner FAQ to see how we operate.