Property Management
Why is it Best to Use a Property Management Company?
By Mary Luster

Maybe your job or family obligations have called you to live in another city, but you’ve hung on to your lovely home in Orlando, Florida.  Or, maybe you have invested in our beautiful Orlando real estate for a Florida investment property rental or are looking towards retiring in Windermere, Isle Worth, Bay Hill, Ocoee, Gotha, Keene's Point, or Winter Garden someday down the road.  Are you trying to screen tenants, maintain your Orlando property, and collect fees yourself?

There are many reasons why it is in your best interest to engage a reputable Orlando property management company to service your Florida real estate instead of doing it yourself.  For starters, knowledgeable professionals may jumpstart your investment.  They are experienced in managing Florida homes for rent and are trained to help you to reap maximum profits in today’s market.

Additionally, professional property management companies have the advantage of experience and training.  They know how to advertise and market the property and are familiar with current rental rates for similar properties.  They are well aware of the most efficient cleaning and maintenance companies, how to screen applicants, and what to do to make the tenant most comfortable in your home.  They have an impersonal approach that can take the stress off of the owners.

On the contrary, second-home owners and investors who try to manage their own properties tend to find over time that it can be a headache that they did not anticipate, expensive, and unprofitable.

Another advantage of property management companies is that they are well networked and associate with other professionals who may have clients moving to the area.  They may be able to offer your property to another agent’s client if that company has no vacancies.  They also become experts in dealing with the specific types of clientele who may need your property.

A good property management company will also suggest small changes to the property to make it more desirable or useful.  Possibly your second home would be more attractive if it had a grill, kitchen amenities, colorful throw pillows or other little accents.  They can offer the guests extra beds (roll-a-ways or aero-beds) and similar accommodating features.  During and between rentals, they handle carpet cleaning and upkeep.

If you consider that the professional property manager is usually able to increase the profitability and provide the owner with peace of mind.  The fees are well worth each dollar.  Most charge about 35% to cover expenses and fees, passing the other 65% back to the owners to pay the mortgages and have some left over for their own vacations.

For more information about our property management services, contact Mary Luster at (407) 909-2604.