Choosing the right manager for your property investment.

Choosing the right manager for your property investment.

According to current statistics from realestate.com.au, there are over 8,500 real estate agents and franchises around Australia. But the question is - should you choose a franchise or an independent real estate agency to rent out your investment  property?

Both big name franchises and independent agencies can be worthwhile services depending on the specific situation.

In the case of franchises, it is often believed these companies have access to larger databases of tenants as the perception is that those agencies are linked and share their data. But in reality this is not the case. Franchise agencies are mostly independently owned and run by separate licensee in charge business owners. They are not like McDonald’s, in that you expect the same level of service and the same systems and processes.

On the other hand, hiring an independent real estate agent can often be a much cheaper alternative when compared to the price schemes of major franchises. On top of this fact, there’s a good chance you’ll receive more attention from your estate agent, as well as a more intimate experience and relationship based around consistent one-on-one interaction.

Independent real estate agents have gained a lot of momentum in the industry over the last ten years. Let’s take a look at the major differences of both when considering property management services.

 

Independent

Franchise

·        Business owner, licensed agent

·        Employee, certificate holders

·        Highly experience and skilled

·        Low skill, trainee to intermediate

·        Stability and longevity, core focus on property management

·        Staff transitioning to sales and focused on sales commission

·        Innovation and flexible approach

·        Constraint lead by head office

·        Use latest technology, transparent

·        Use antiquated systems, hide information

·        Boutique, limited portfolio

·        Large portfolios under management

·        Highly accountability to clients

·        Very low accountability to clients

·        Have lower overheads, are mobile agents, service focused

·        High running costs, shop fronts, low staff to portfolio ratios

·        Low, all inclusive fee card = savings for investors

·        Higher fees with hidden extras on top

 

As you can see there are a number of benefits in engaging with an independent property manager. If you would like to know more about working with an independent property manager, visit the Landlords section of our website, or you can contact John Gilmovich on 0418 600 806.