How do I choose the right Property Manager?

Highlands Property | October  2026

The right property manager should help you care for your investment, understand your options and keep you informed. When comparing agencies, look at how they work day to day as well as what they charge. Clear answers and a service that fits your needs are a good place to start.

Where should I start

 Think about what you need from the service. You may want more support with maintenance, clearer updates or help finding tenants. Write down your priorities before speaking with agencies so you can compare their answers.

Check that the agency and the people doing regulated work hold the appropriate NSW licences or certificates. You can also read recent reviews, looking for specific examples of communication and problem solving rather than relying on the overall rating.

How important is local knowledge

Ask the manager to explain the rental market around your property. They should be able to discuss comparable homes, competing listings and the reasons behind their rental estimate.

In the Southern Highlands, compare advice that relates to your town, village and property type. Ask what they would highlight in the advertising and what preparation they recommend. Be cautious about choosing an agency simply because it suggests the highest rent.

How will I know whether communication is a good fit 

Ask who your main contact will be, how you will receive updates and what happens when that person is away. Discuss how urgent issues are handled and how you can raise a concern.

Notice how the agency communicates during your first conversations. Do they answer your questions clearly, follow up as agreed and take time to understand your plans? Those interactions can help you decide whether the working relationship feels right.

What should I ask about their day to day service

Ask how the team handles tenant applications, late rent, inspections and repairs. Request an example of an inspection report with personal details removed. This can help you see how clearly the agency records issues and explains recommended action.

Talk through a practical situation, such as a tenant reporting a leak. Ask how the team assesses urgency, contacts you, arranges work and follows up. You are looking for a clear process, not a promise that problems will never happen.

Does the team have enough support for my property

Ask how responsibilities are shared and who provides cover during leave or staff changes. Find out how the team keeps records so someone else can pick up an issue without starting again.

You can ask about experience and workload, but there is no single ideal number of properties per manager. Consider the support staff, systems and tasks involved alongside the size of the portfolio.

How should I compare fees

Request a written breakdown of the management fee and any separate charges. Ask what is included, whether quoted amounts include GST and when each fee applies. Compare the total service, not just the headline percentage.

Before signing, read the management agreement. Check the services, repair spending authority, payment arrangements and terms for ending the agreement. Ask for unclear points to be explained so you understand what you are agreeing to.

What if I already have a property manager

First check the notice requirements and any fees in your current agreement. Ask the proposed new agency how it would coordinate the handover, transfer records and keys, and keep tenants informed. A planned change should make the next steps clear for you and your tenants.

How can Highlands Property help

At Highlands Property, our portfolio management team can talk through your priorities, explain our services and help you understand your property’s rental position. Whether you are renting out a home for the first time or reviewing your current arrangements, speak with our local team about the support you need.