Owning an investment property should be exciting, not exhausting. The right property manager can help you maximize income, protect your property, and keep guests coming back for more. But the wrong one? They can cost you bookings, damage your property’s reputation, and leave you chasing answers.
Before you hand over the keys, make sure you know what to look out for. Here are five red flags to avoid when choosing a property manager.
1. Lack of Transparency in Fees
If a management company can’t clearly explain their pricing structure—or you discover hidden charges later on—it’s a major red flag. You deserve to know exactly what you’re paying for and how it impacts your bottom line.
Pro Tip: Always ask for a full breakdown of management, cleaning, and platform fees before signing a contract.
2. Poor Communication
If you struggle to get responses during the sales process, imagine what it will be like when there’s a guest issue or urgent repair. Delayed responses mean unhappy guests, negative reviews, and lost revenue.
Pro Tip: Look for companies that offer 24/7 guest support and clear communication channels with owners.
3. No Proven Marketing Strategy
Listing your property is one thing—getting it seen is another. If a manager can’t show you how they market your property across multiple platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and Booking.com, that’s a sign they may not be maximizing your exposure.
Pro Tip: Ask for examples of their listings, photos, and guest reviews to see their track record.
4. Ignoring Maintenance and Upkeep
A good property manager doesn’t just hand over the keys; they protect your investment. If a company doesn’t have reliable vendors or a process for routine maintenance, small problems can quickly turn into expensive disasters.
Pro Tip: Ask about their vendor relationships and how quickly they respond to maintenance requests.
5. No Local Expertise
Every market has its own rules, regulations, and quirks. A property manager without local knowledge could miss key opportunities—or worse, land you in legal trouble.
Pro Tip: Choose a company that’s familiar with local ordinances, tax requirements, and the community your property is in.
Choosing the right property manager can make the difference between a thriving investment and a stressful side hustle. At Village Management Services (VMS), we pride ourselves on transparent pricing, responsive communication, expert marketing, proactive maintenance, and deep local knowledge.
Ready to see how stress-free property management can be?
📲 Contact VMS today and let’s turn your property into a 5-star investment.
