Much like real estate agents....property managers get calls or emails from would-be clients and we need to be prepared to do our homework.
The first place to start is the county or city tax assessor's web site...with the owner's name or property address, tax records are easy to research for acreage, # of bedrooms, when property was last sold as well as any improvements. It also gives the address as to where the tax bills are sent so this information is key.
Next stop is ZILLOW...I know the Z-word is taboo for many real estate agents; however, for property managers it saves us time and makes US look SMART. It may have photos of the property * exterior and possibly interior * as well as features...# of bedrooms and baths, school districts, neighborhood features as well as neighboring properties for sale. I love Z because with their information, I will look smart with my new would-be client.
Once I have this information * printed in a nice clear folder * I am ready to meet the property owner - preferably at the property. At this meeting, I ask questions I will need for management...utility providers, any service contracts, improvements not shown on tax records, available date and any recommendations of items to do to the property before I rent it.
By being prepared, I look like I really want to rent and manage their property and that I did my homework.
Wallace S. Gibson is a Certified Property Manager with over 50 years of property management experience and expertise. She maintains a specialized property management business in Central Virginia serving Albemarle, Greene, Fluvanna and Louisa counties
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