Property Management - The Investor’s Helper

During economic downturns many people begin buying property because it can be found for less. Many of these purchases are second, third, or vacation homes. These homes are often ones that have been lost by an unfortunate consumer, then sold at a lower price and bought by investors who then remodel the home and either re-sell or use it as a rental property to bring in a little extra cash.

For the investor, a property management company is a huge investment because this company is there to help them manage the property, equipment, and all other assets that are owned by the client. These can be used to find suitable renters, help hire general contractors or landscapers for work around the property, and manage the overall life of the property by having the responsibility to keep up, utilize, and dispose of it. Property managers can be used for both business and commercial real estate.

A property management company has many important roles. One of these is to be the go between for the landlord and the tenant. This may involve the collection of rent, responding to calls for maintenance on the property, and allowing for the landlord to keep a distance from their tenants. Another possible role of the manager is to take care of all the accounting and finances of the real estate that is being managed. It may also act as a participant if the landlord is taken to court by any of the tenants, private contractors, and/or insurance agencies, though most of the time that is left to lawyers who are trained in property litigation.

Because property management is subject to the county and city laws, the property manager must always keep informed of any new laws and practices where the property is located.

There are four main types of property management organizations. One of these specializes in the management of commercial property. This includes office space, shopping space, medical, and manufacturing. A commercial property manager is important when acquiring commercial property because the commercial lease is different from a residential lease. Another type of property manager is the residential property manager, often used when the residential property is not within a close distance to the property owner. They can oversee the maintenance and needs of the tenant. A third type of is the vacation property manager. This is a special type of property management that helps you book more time at your vacation property, or helps you find other people to fill your property when you aren’t there. They will arrange for cleaning services as well as any repairs to the building or furnishings while you are renting it out. A fourth type is the community association management. These are in charge of collecting annual dues from the residents, making sure that all the residents are following the community rules and regulations, and that all the shared areas are being kept up, as well as occasionally performing budget reviews and conducting board meetings.

If you own property, hiring a property manager is definitely a good idea to help you maintain your property, whether it is commercial, residential, or a vacation property.