Working with a Managing Agent: What You Need to Know

In the world of real estate, whether you’re a seasoned investor, developer or a first-time landlord, understanding the role of a managing agent is crucial – they are the unsung heroes who can make or break the success of your rental property. But what exactly does a managing agent do? And importantly, what if you’re dissatisfied with their services – can you change them? Let’s dive into the details.

Understanding the Role of a Managing Agent

A managing agent acts as the middle person between a property owner and their tenant. Tasked with a range of responsibilities to ensure the smooth operation of your property, here are a few of their key responsibilities

• Rent Collection: Ensuring rent is paid and processed in a timely manner.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Overseeing the upkeep of the property and addressing any necessary repairs.
• Tenant Relations: Serving as the primary point of contact for tenant concerns, fostering good landlord-tenant relationships.
• Financial Management: Handling the property’s budget, bill payments, and financial records.
• Legal Compliance: Making sure the property adheres to all relevant laws and standards.
• Marketing and Leasing: If required, they handle finding, screening, and managing tenants.
• Regular Reporting: Providing property owners with updates on financial and property conditions.
• Emergency Handling: Dealing with urgent issues that may arise related to the property.

Can You Change Your Managing Agent?

Yes, you can change your managing agent, and there are various reasons why you might want to:

• Poor Performance: If the agent is not meeting your expectations in terms of property management, financial reporting, or tenant satisfaction (or other KPI’s specific to your contract).
• Communication Issues: Effective communication is key. A lack of responsiveness or clarity can be a valid reason for a change.
• High Costs: If the managing agent’s fees are not competitive or transparent.
• Misalignment of Values: Sometimes, your business values or expectations might not align with those of your agent.

How to Change Your Managing Agent (in 5 steps)

1. Review Your Contract: Before making any moves, understand the terms of your agreement with your current managing agent. Look for any clauses related to termination of services and notice periods.
2. Find a New Agent: Research and select a new managing agent who better suits your needs. Consider their track record, services offered, and fees.
3. Notify Your Current Agent: Provide formal notice as required by your contract. It’s important to maintain professionalism throughout this process.
4. Transition Period: Work with both your current and new agent to ensure a smooth transition. This includes transferring documents, financial records, and any necessary information about tenants and the property/portfolio.
5. Communicate with Tenants: Inform your tenants about the change in management to ensure they know who to contact for future concerns or rent payments (this may be a task your new managing agent will undertake on your behalf).

A managing agent plays a pivotal role in the success of your property investment. Understanding their responsibilities and knowing that you have the option to change agents if needed gives you greater control and assurance in your property/portfolio business. Remember, the goal is to find a managing agent who not only takes care of the day-to-day management of your property/portfolio but also aligns with your investment goals and values.

To ensure that your property receives the quality management it deserves, talk to our team who can guide you through the process.

Talk to us, our team is committed to guiding developers, managing agents, landlords and operators through this transformative journey, ensuring optimised property management, and… enhanced profitability.