1. Shortlist managers who fit
Start with companies that handle your property type (house, condo, small multifamily, HOA) in your area. On our city pages you can filter by License Confirmed and rating, and see which neighborhoods each company serves.
2. Check the basics
- License: in California, managing rentals for others generally requires a real estate broker license. How to check one.
- Reviews: look for steady, recent reviews, not just a high score from a handful.
- Experience: years in business and homes like yours.
3. Ask every manager the same questions
- What is the monthly fee, and what does it include?
- Is there a leasing, renewal or set-up fee? Any markup on repairs?
- How do you screen tenants, and how long does it usually take to place one?
- How will I see what's happening: portal, statements, how fast you reply?
- Who handles emergencies at night and on weekends?
- How long is the contract and how do I end it?
- What is your DRE license number?
4. Red flags
- No license number or reluctance to share it
- Fees only given verbally
- Long contracts with large cancellation fees
- Pressure to sign today
- Unclear handling of deposits and rent money
5. Compare the total yearly cost
Put the quotes side by side and compare a full year, not just the monthly rate. See typical California fees.
Common questions
What should I look for in a property management company?
Experience with your property type and area, an active DRE license, good and recent reviews, clear fees in writing, a fair contract you can end with reasonable notice, and good communication (owner portal, monthly statements).
What questions should I ask a property manager before hiring?
Ask about every fee, maintenance markups, how they screen tenants, how fast they place tenants, how they report to you, who handles emergencies, how long the contract is and how to end it, and their license number.
What are red flags when hiring a property manager?
No license number, vague or verbal-only fees, long contracts with big cancellation fees, pressure to sign quickly, mostly poor or no recent reviews, and no clear answer on who holds the deposit and rent money.
How many property managers should I interview?
Two or three is usually enough to compare fees and approach. On our city pages you can tick up to 3 and send one request.
Is it better to use a large company or a small local manager?
Both can work. Large firms bring systems and staff; small local managers often give more personal attention. What matters is experience with your kind of property, a manageable number of homes per manager, and clear communication.
Sources
Written by The Property Management Directory team. Last checked October 2026.