Some property investors like to save money and provide a DIY approach to the management of their investment rentals. This can work fine for the ones who have experience, and the time to do it - but what if there was actually plenty they were missing out on by not engaging the services of a professional property manager?

A new year is always a good time for a fresh start - and perhaps January is perfect timing to reassess whether you’re getting the best service possible from your property manager. Here’s a quick checklist to run through to make sure your property is in the best possible hands.

Not all property managers are created equal. In 2011 property owners who used Jericho Residential Property Management to look after their properties complained they weren’t receiving rent money, while tenants insisted they were paying. Landlords ended up losing money when the company went bust. So here are three tips to help make selecting a property manager easier.

Lots of us look at projects and think, 'I could do that.' DIY is apparently in our DNA, and as Kiwis we love getting stuck in and having a go ourselves, especially if we think we can get it done cheaper. An oft-quoted proverb is, 'If you thought hiring a professional was expensive, just wait until you hire an amateur.'

Owning property is possibly the biggest investment you will make, but the property ladder can be tricky to climb. It’s wonderful when all goes well, tenants take care of your mortgage and eventually the passive income begins to flow in like clockwork. Unfortunately, the opposite can be just as likely.

What does an ideal tenant look like to you? Is it someone who pays their rent on time, maintains the property and is respectful of their neighbours?

Property managers look after a wide portfolio of rental properties and have lots of experience helping investors get the best possible return, which includes finding a tenant who meets all of your requirements.  

Here are four ways a property manager could help you find the best possible tenant.