Choosing the right property manager can make or break your real estate investment. A great manager protects your asset, drives income growth, and handles problems before you even hear about them. But a poor manager? They cost you money, time, and headaches — and sometimes much worse.

If you’re wondering whether it’s time for a change, here are five clear warning signs:

1. You’re Always Chasing Updates

If you have to repeatedly ask for updates on leasing, maintenance, or financials, that’s a red flag. A great property manager communicates proactively, keeping you informed without you needing to chase them.

2. Your Property’s Financial Performance is Declining

High vacancy, slow rent collections, growing expenses — if your building’s NOI is slipping without clear explanations or a turnaround plan, the management team may not be operating effectively. Good management should protect and improve your bottom line.

3. Maintenance Issues Are Constant or Unresolved

Deferred maintenance not only irritates tenants but also leads to costly repairs later. If you’re hearing about broken HVAC systems, safety issues, or neglected repairs — either from tenants or your own visits — it’s a sign the property isn’t being cared for properly.

4. Your Tenants Are Complaining (or Leaving)

Tenant satisfaction directly impacts occupancy and cash flow. If you’re hearing about slow responses, rude interactions, or a lack of professionalism, it won’t be long before tenants start leaving. Tenant turnover is expensive — and often avoidable with the right management.

5. They’re Not Acting Like a True Partner

You want a property manager who thinks like an owner — protecting your investment, suggesting improvements, and solving problems early. If your manager feels reactive, disinterested, or even dismissive of your goals, it’s a sign they’re not aligned with your long-term success.

Final Thought

Property management is a relationship based on trust, communication, and performance. If your current manager is falling short, you’re not stuck — and making a change could dramatically improve your property’s income, value, and future potential.

At Strauss Realty & Management, we manage every property like it’s our own.

If you’re ready for a higher standard of management, let’s talk.