Should I Manage My Rental Property or Hire a Property Manager

Should I Manage My Rental Property or Hire a Property Manager?

Owning a rental property can be a highly rewarding investment but managing it isn’t always as simple as collecting rent checks. Many property owners in the Atlanta area eventually ask themselves the same question:

“Should I self-manage my rental, or hire a professional property management company?”

Every property owner’s situation is unique. To help you make a well- informed decision, let’s explore the differences between self-managing your rental and working with a professional property manager.

1. The DIY Approach: Managing It Yourself

Managing your own rental can be attractive if you're organized, live close, and have time for daily tasks. You'll avoid management fees and maintain direct tenant contact, but self-management involves responsibilities that many new landlords overlook:

• Marketing and advertising the rental
• Screening tenants (background, credit, income)
• Drafting Georgia compliant leases
• Handling repairs and maintenance, even off-hours
• Collecting rent and applying late fees
• Managing evictions and legal proceedings
• Staying up to date with Georgia housing regulations

Although managing these tasks independently is feasible, it can rapidly become as demanding as a second full-time position, particularly for those with multiple properties or who reside out of state.

2. Hiring a Professional Property Management Company

PMI Centennial efficiently handles operational responsibilities, allowing you to concentrate on expanding your investment portfolio and achieving passive income.

Benefits of Hiring a Property Manager

Expert Tenant Screening
Advanced screening tools help us find reliable tenants who pay promptly and respect your property.

Legal Compliance We keep current with Georgia landlord-tenant laws to ensure your leases and notices meet legal standards.

Professional Marketing We advertise your property on major platforms (Zillow, Rentals.com, Apartments.com, etc.) to reduce vacancies.

Maintenance Coordination We partner with trusted vendors to manage repairs efficiently and affordably, keeping you updated throughout the process.

Rent Collection & Financial Reporting Funds are collected electronically and deposited into your account, with clear monthly statements provided on our owner portal.

3. The Cost vs. Value Equation

Many property owners are reluctant to hire a property manager because of the perceived cost (typically 8–10% of monthly rent).

 However, a good property manager can save you money by:

• Reducing tenant vacancy time
• Avoiding pricey legal mistakes
• Preventing late payments or evictions
• Keeping your property in good condition (protecting long-term value)

In other words, partnering with a property management company isn’t an expense. It’s an investment in your peace of mind and profitability.

4. When It Makes Sense to Hire a Property Manager

You should consider hiring a property manager if:

• You live outside the Atlanta metro area
• You own multiple properties or plan to scale
• You don’t have time for 24/7 tenant or maintenance issues
• You want consistent cash flow without the stress of daily operations
  
  

Final Thoughts

If you enjoy hands-on involvement self-managing might be right for you. But if you prefer passive income, professional oversight, and peace of mind, partnering with a property manager is the apparent choice.

Serving Johns Creek, Alpharetta, Decatur, and the greater Atlanta area, PMI Centennial combines national resources with local expertise.

Our comprehensive property management company keeps your rental running smoothly, keeping you informed, secure, and profitable.