Switching property managers should mean better service, better returns, and less stress. But not all agencies deliver — and if you’re not careful, you could be jumping from one problem to another.
At #1 Property Centre, we’ve taken over properties where the landlord thought they were upgrading, only to realise the new agency was just as bad (or worse). Before you sign anything, here are 5 red flags to watch out for when changing property managers.
1. They Promise the World, But Can’t Back It Up
If an agency is throwing around phrases like “we’ll get you top rent” or “zero vacancies guaranteed” without looking at your property or running the numbers — red flag.
Real property management is about results, not hype. A good agency should be able to show you real examples, local knowledge, and clear strategy — not just talk.
2. They Won’t Tell You Who You’re Actually Dealing With
If you ask who will be managing your property and get a vague answer like “our team” or “one of the girls in the office” — run.
You need to know exactly who is looking after your property. Their name, their experience, and how to contact them directly. If they can’t be upfront about that now, good luck trying to get a call back when something goes wrong later.
3. Their Fees Sound “Too Good to Be True”
Cheap fees usually mean cheap service. And in property management, you get what you pay for.
We’ve seen agencies undercharge just to win business — and then cut corners on inspections, lease renewals, and communication. What you save in fees, you lose in arrears, bad tenants, and missed rent increases.
A solid property manager won’t be the cheapest — they’ll be the one who actually makes you money.
4. They Don’t Ask the Right Questions About Your Property
If they’re not asking about the current rent, tenant status, lease terms, maintenance history, or compliance — they’re not doing their job.
A good agency will want to know your pain points upfront so they can fix them. If someone’s too focused on getting you to sign the management agreement and not asking how they can improve things, that’s a big red flag.
5. They Don’t Have a Clear Handover Process
Switching agencies shouldn’t be messy. If they can’t explain how the handover works — including notice periods, file transfers, and communication with the outgoing agency — that’s a problem.
The right manager will handle the entire transition for you, start to finish, without dropping the ball or making you chase updates.
Final Word: Don’t Trade One Problem for Another
Switching property managers can be the best thing you do for your investment — but only if you’re switching to someone who actually knows what they’re doing.
At #1 Property Centre, we don’t take shortcuts. We take over properly, get things back on track fast, and make sure you’re not left chasing rent, updates, or broken promises.
Thinking of making a move? Talk to us first — and make sure you’re switching for the right reasons.