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Differences Between Property Managers and Real Estate Agents

A real estate professional and two clients focus on a laptop.
A common misperception about property managers and real estate agents is that these two professions are essentially the same. However, a property manager’s role is vastly different from that of a real estate agent. While both professions are closely tied to the housing market, there are far more differences than similarities. Understanding these differences can help rental property owners know who to call when professional expertise is required.

Key Differences

By definition, a real estate agent is someone who lists and sells properties for their owners. Some real estate agents specialize in helping buyers find and purchase investment real estate, but their work remains focused on the sales transaction. The job of a real estate agent heavily depends on the current housing market, with business and income fluctuating as market conditions change. Occasionally, real estate agents may help find tenants for a rental property, but their involvement typically ends once the lease is signed.

In contrast, a property manager concentrates on helping property owners manage their rental properties. A property manager, working on behalf of a property owner, typically handles property maintenance and repair, tenant screenings, and collecting rent payments. Unlike real estate agents, a property manager has a contractual role and is compensated for ongoing management services. This role is more stable since property management tends to be less affected by downturns in the housing market. During market downturns, property managers often see more business as property owners turn to renting their properties instead of selling them at a loss.

What Property Managers Do (And Real Estate Agents Don’t)

Aside from the basic differences between a real estate agent and a property manager, there are numerous tasks that top-rated property managers handle that most real estate agents do not. For instance, while both real estate agents and property managers may advertise a rental property to find tenants, not all of them will go the extra step of carefully screening those tenants. After a tenant has been screened, a diligent property manager will establish strong communication with tenants and ensure they clearly understand the lease documents. Furthermore, a property manager will schedule and perform regular maintenance, address emergency repairs, and resolve tenant complaints.

Some of the more specialized services that certain property managers offer include analyzing the local market to set an accurate rental rate, providing suggestions on how to maximize a property’s earning potential, and even increasing the property’s resale value. Some property managers also assist rental property owners in finding and comparing additional rental properties, even those not currently on the market. This type of comprehensive support is typically offered by only the best property managers, who actively work to help you build an investment business.

The Value of a Great Property Manager

One of the nation’s top property management companies is Real Property Management. At Real Property Management, we offer a full range of services designed to meet the needs of rental property owners and investors. The value of our services is often seen in our ability to set an accurate rental rate, reduce costs through our network of home services vendors, and handle all aspects of managing your property. These are benefits you won’t easily find elsewhere.

For more information about Real Property Management Seaside’s services in Sarasota Springs and surrounding areas, contact us online or call 941-225-2533 today!

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