Property management companies are often an entity that most renters and owners don’t know much about, yet they have properties on almost every corner of the city, the suburbs, the burrows, etc. At least once in a person's lifetime, they will begin a relationship with a rental company, whether it be in college, grad school, settling into a new city for a new job, or choosing to rent out their home to renters in various stages of their life.

 So, how do you know if it's the right one?

 How do you know if the company you have chosen to handle your home or your tenancy is trustworthy? Below is a list of the three most important things you can look for in property management:

1. Communication 

One of the most effective ways to build any kind of relationship is through communication. For a property management company, being able to answer the phone, reply to emails, or respond to a work order is the foundation of the job. Availability, transparency, and responsiveness are the undertones of communication, and a rental company should be there for you every step of the way.

2. Attention to detail

The little things should matter to your leasing and maintenance staff. If in a conversation you notice vague answers, the home is still in disrepair, or the financials aren’t adding up, that company isn’t paying attention. The staff should be able to know the home inside and out, should understand the minute details of your ledger and payments, as well as work you through every step in the process in a knowledgeable manner. As they say, it’s all in the details!

3. Accountability

A major attribute of a property management company is the humble attitude they portray. Can they admit fault? When you bring up an issue, do they fight you or help you? Some companies assume that because they have been in business for a long time it means that they can do what they want, and that they are always right. However, this is simply not true. The measure of any great company is how accountable to their actions they are, and if they are willing to change with the times. For a rental company, this means working with each new generation of renters, new landlord laws, new owners, and assuming the responsibility.