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Differences Between Property Managers and Real Estate Agents

Charlotte Property Manager Meeting with ClientsAn ordinary misconception about Charlotte property managers and real estate agents is that these occupations are more or less the same. But in reality, a property manager’s duty is not similar to that of a real estate agent. While both professions are closely linked to the housing market, there are far more differences than similarities. Learning these differences can aid rental property owners to know who to call when professional expertise is needed.

Key Differences

A real estate agent, by definition, is a person who lists and sells properties for their owners. While certain real estate agents specialize in assisting buyers to find and purchase investment real estate, the agent’s role is still centered on the sales transaction. The duty of a real estate agent is dependent on the current housing market. As market conditions shift, it is typical for real estate agents to find their business (and income) going up and down. In some instances, real estate agents may aid find tenants for a rental property. Still, their involvement with the tenant and the property owner usually ends when the lease is signed.

On the other hand, a property manager deals with helping property owners manage their rental properties. Every property manager can offer a lot of services. Still, the bulk of their duty would be working on behalf of a property owner to oversee property maintenance and repair, tenant screenings, collecting rent payments, etc. Unlike a real estate agent, a property manager is a contractual role wherein they get money for their ongoing management services. Property management is also not likely going to be greatly affected by a fall in the housing market. In fact, property managers may experience an increase in their workload during market downturns. This is because a number of property owners would rather go into renting instead of selling at a loss.

What Property Managers Do (And Real Estate Agents Don’t)

Besides the primary differences between a real estate agent and a property manager, there are a lot more tasks top-rated property managers do that real estate agent, and even other property managers, usually don’t. While a real estate agent and the bulk of property managers will advertise a rental property to get new tenants, not all of them will precisely screen those tenants for possible red flags. After a tenant has been screened, a good property manager will begin building rapport with the tenant by having open communication and explaining the lease documents in a clear manner. In addition, a good property manager will schedule and perform regular maintenance on a property and manage emergency repairs and tenant complaints.

Helping property owners analyze the local market, setting an accurate rental rate, and offering suggestions on how to maximize a property’s earning potential, as well as your property’s resale value, are some of the less common but important services that some property managers give. They could also help you find and compare additional rental properties. They can even get you properties that are not yet on the market. These are not the typical services among all property managers. Usually, only the top in the business will closely work with rental property owners to guide you not just to manage property but build an investment business.

The Value of a Great Property Manager

Real Property Management is the state’s top property management company. This is because we can provide a full range of services that rental property owners and investors need to reach their financial goals and dreams. Our experts will help you to set an accurate rental rate and keep costs down by using our preferred home services vendors. This is why a lot of our clients see the value of our services far exceeds the cost. And these are quality services that you can’t find just anywhere else.

To learn more about Real Property Management Experts’ services, contact us online today!

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