Aardvark

you should always ask if there's extra fees.

you should check other peroperty owners they work with as well.

thanks!!

you can judge a lot by the quality of their offices and common areas. also check websites like yelp.

thanks!

Two good ways to check on the credibility of a property management company before renting/leasing from them;



· Call or e-mail the local or state better business bureau and request a reference for the property management company and if the bureau has received any complaints from existing tenants

· Ask for references from existing renters or lessees, there is no better reference and than their existing tenants and tenants of property management company’s should be treated as their customer.



Good luck,

thanks so much!!

My pleasure and wishing you much success and Happy Holidays

same to you :) really appreciate the help. i just requested some references from them -- great idea!

Generally speaking, the larger property management companies will have more policies in place.  "Mom and Pa" establishments can be more "slumlordy" but some key things to consider are:

1.Hours of operation of the office...is there an actual office with a manager or are you calling someone's cell phone if you have a question or emergency? 2. Speaking of emergency...is there on-site maintenance in case your apartment busts a pipe, catches fire, etc.  3. If you have an maintenance issue,(water, heater, broken door lock, etc.) will there be a response from staff within 24hrs? 4.  Parcel pick-up?  If you have something delivered to your apt. that can't be left outside, will the office hold it for you? 5.  Generally checkout the facilities...are the grounds and extras kept up?  Hope that helps...

Hello Christina, I really appreciate your advice. This is the first time I've looked for housing on my own and I'm feeling a bit lost -- this is great! Thanks so much.