Property Management vs Self-Management: Which Is Right for You?

Should you manage your rental property yourself or hire a property management company? Discover the pros and cons of each option to make the best choice for your investment.

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Introduction

Owning a rental property can be profitable, but managing it effectively takes time, expertise, and effort. Landlords often face a choice: self-manage or use a professional property management company.

At Landlo, we help landlords make informed decisions, providing professional support for those who want peace of mind, legal compliance, and maximised rental income. This guide outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each approach.

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1. What is Self-Management?

Self-management means the landlord handles all aspects of the property themselves:

• Advertising and finding tenants
• Conducting viewings and reference checks
• Collecting rent and handling disputes
• Organising maintenance and repairs

Pros:

• Full control over decisions
• Cost savings on management fees
• Direct relationship with tenants

Cons:

• Time-consuming and stressful
• Risk of non-compliance with legal requirements
• Can be challenging to manage disputes and repairs efficiently

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2. What is Property Management?

Property management involves hiring a professional company, like Landlo, to manage the day-to-day operations of your rental property.

Typical services include:

• Marketing and tenant placement
• Rent collection and financial reporting
• Legal compliance and documentation
• Maintenance coordination and inspections

Pros:

• Saves time and reduces stress
• Access to professional expertise and legal knowledge
• Often reduces void periods through efficient tenant management

Cons:

• Management fees (usually a percentage of rent)
• Less direct control over day-to-day decisions

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3. Factors to Consider When Choosing

When deciding between self-management and professional management, consider:

• Time availability: Can you commit hours each week to managing the property?
• Knowledge: Are you confident in legal requirements, tenant law, and maintenance management?
• Portfolio size: Larger portfolios often benefit more from professional management.
• Risk tolerance: Professional management can reduce risks related to compliance, arrears, and tenant disputes.

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4. Why Many Landlords Choose Professional Management

Even experienced landlords often choose property management for peace of mind:

• Professional marketing attracts reliable tenants faster
• Expert referencing reduces risk of rent arrears or property damage
• Legal compliance is managed proactively, reducing the chance of fines
• Maintenance and inspections are handled efficiently, keeping tenants satisfied

At Landlo, we provide tailored property management packages, helping landlords protect their investments while keeping their rental income consistent.

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Conclusion

Whether to self-manage or hire a property management company depends on your goals, time, and experience. While self-management can save money, professional property management delivers peace of mind, legal compliance, and often higher tenant retention.

📩 Contact Landlo today to explore our property management services and see how we can make your life as a landlord easier and more profitable.