Property management fees will depend on the company you choose and the services you require for your investment home. While the structure and the amount may change, you can almost always count on paying a tenant placement fee and a management fee.

We’re taking a look at San Diego property management fees today, so you’ll know what to expect when you’re looking for help with your rental property.

San Diego Property Management Fee Structures

Some companies charge a placement fee before the lease period, and then a flat monthly rate to manage your home. Other companies will charge a percentage of the rent that’s collected every month. When you’re comparing prices and services, make sure you’re making real comparisons. When a company offers dramatically low prices, they might also charge a separate fee for each service they provide. So, by the time you’ve paid the administrative fee, leasing fee, marketing fee, and inspection fee, that low management fee isn’t so cost-effective.

San Diego Tenant Placement Fees

Placement or leasing fees are common, but you have to make sure you understand what you’re paying for. In exchange for the tenant placement fee, you can expect a property that’s ready for the rental market and a well-screened, qualified tenant. You’ll want to know what happens if the tenant that’s placed leaves your property. What if that tenant is evicted or breaks the lease? Will you have to play another placement fee to get a new tenant in place? Be sure to find out if there are any guarantees or protections in place.

San Diego Property Management Fees

All fees and services should be listed clearly and transparently in the property management agreement, so ask to see a sample before you agree to work with a company. Your management fee will either be one flat rate or a percentage of the rent that’s collected.

While the placement fees and management fees are common, there might also be additional costs that are not included in those charges. Discuss these things with your management company before you sign the agreement. For example, many property managers charge extra for maintenance coordination. For example, if your plumbing invoice is $100 from the plumber but $120 from the management company, it means you’re paying an upcharge for any repairs that need to be handled on your behalf. You’ll want to know if this is included in your management fee or if you pay extra when maintenance is needed.

Other random charges you might come across include lease renewal fees, inspection or walk-thru fees, and administrative fees. Some companies charge technology fees or service fees.

If you want to get the most value and best service for your San Diego rental property, be willing to communicate openly with the property management companies you’re considering.

We believe in transparency, and we think our fees are competitive in the San Diego rental market. We’d be happy to tell you about our rates. Contact us at Walters Home Management to learn more.