I recently ran across a site that is not sponsored by one property management company, but gives you valuable information to use to select a management company. Following is an article that helps you make that important choice.  Be sure to check out the site, "Manage My Property".  This article opens you to an entire series of articles to make sure you understand everything involved in selecting the proper company.

Hiring a Property Management Company

Posted by Jordan Muela on Nov 20, 2009 in Property Management Articles

A good property management firm can easily become one of your greatest assets, second only to the properties that they steward on your behalf. That said, this company will make critical decisions on your behalf making it extremely important that you do your homework during the hiring process.

This guide is designed to empower property owners with the knowledge and tools necessary to confidently evaluate all of the property management companies they interview, and select a manager that can competently meet their needs.

This guide is broken into three sections:

Basics of Property Management

1. 11 Questions for Determining if You Need a Property Management Firm

2. Property Management Services - A Complete List

3. What Are The Benefits of Using a Property Management Company?

What to Look for in a Property Management Company

1. Property Management Fees - Part I

2. Property Management Fees - Part II

3. Handling Tenant and Owner Funds

4. Setting and Collecting Rent

5. Property Maintenance and Repairs

6. Property Inspections

7. Tenant Marketing and Retention

8. Tenant Screening

9. Examining the Organization - Background, Qualifications, Portfolio

10. Examining the Organization - Size, Staff, Customer Service

What to Look for In a Property Management Contract

1. Responsibilities and Representations

2. Contract Termination

3.    Indemnification and Boiler Plate Items