Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Austin Property Manager
A management agreement can run many pages, but a handful of direct questions asked upfront will tell an Austin owner most of what they need to know before signing.
What Is Included in the Monthly Fee?
Ask exactly what the base fee covers versus what's billed separately — some companies bundle inspections and basic communication into the monthly fee, while others charge a la carte for nearly everything beyond rent collection.
How Are Maintenance Requests Handled and Marked Up?
Many managers add a markup on top of contractor invoices, commonly a percentage of the repair cost. Ask what that markup is and whether you're required to use the manager's vendor list or can bring in your own contractors for larger jobs.
What Is the Leasing Fee and Renewal Fee?
Beyond the monthly management fee, most companies charge separately to place a new tenant and again when a lease renews. Get these numbers in writing so you can calculate the true annual cost, not just the monthly rate.
How Do You Screen Tenants?
Ask specifically what the screening process checks — income verification, rental history, credit, and eviction records. A manager who can't clearly describe their screening criteria is a warning sign.
What Happens If a Tenant Stops Paying Rent?
Ask how quickly the manager typically moves from a missed payment to formal notice, and whether eviction filing costs are included in the management fee or billed separately.
Can I See References from Current Owners?
A manager confident in their service should be able to connect you with current clients who own similar properties in the Austin area, giving you a realistic sense of responsiveness and communication style before you commit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ask exactly what the monthly fee includes versus what's billed separately, since leasing fees, renewal fees, and maintenance markups can significantly change the true annual cost beyond the headline rate.
Yes. A manager confident in their service should be able to connect prospective clients with current owners, which gives a realistic picture of responsiveness and communication beyond what's promised in a sales pitch.
