- Author: Fraser Coombes (Managing Director)
- Published Date: 11th August, 2026
A landlord asked me an interesting question recently:
“Fraser, why does it seem like there are so many property management companies suddenly popping up online and all over social media?“
It’s a great question.
The barriers to starting a property management business are relatively low compared to many industries, and over recent years we’ve seen more businesses entering the market than ever before. While increased competition is healthy, it also means landlords need to do a little more homework before deciding who should be entrusted with one of their most valuable assets.
The reality is not all property management companies are created equal.
So how can a landlord tell the difference between property management companies? Here are five checks worth making.
5 Checks Before Choosing A Property Manager
1. Check Their Google Reviews and Online Reputation
Before making any decision, spend five minutes researching the company online.
Do they have genuine Google reviews from real landlords and tenants? Are there hundreds of reviews or only a handful? More importantly, what are people consistently saying about their communication, professionalism and service?
Online reviews provide valuable insight into the experiences of people just like you and are one of the most transparent ways to assess a company’s reputation.
At Ray White Hamilton Property Management, we’re proud to be Waikato’s most reviewed property management company, with nearly 900 Google reviews from landlords and tenants who have trusted us with their investment property.
As Managing Director, I’ve personally read and replied to every single Google review our company has ever received. I believe every client who takes the time to provide feedback deserves to be acknowledged. Those reviews not only recognise our team’s hard work but also help us continually improve the service we provide to landlords and tenants across the Waikato.
2. How Long Has the Company Been in Business?
Experience matters.
Every property manager will eventually encounter challenging tenancy situations, rent arrears, Tribunal applications, insurance claims and ever-changing legislation.
A business that has successfully navigated different market conditions over many years has usually developed proven systems and processes that benefit its clients.
Don’t be afraid to ask how long the company has been in business and what experience its leadership team brings to the table.
3. Has the Owner of the Business Managed Property and Invested in Property?
This is a question many landlords never think to ask.
Managing a property management company is very different from actually managing rental properties.
I believe there is enormous value in working with a business led by someone who has personally managed residential investment properties, understands the Residential Tenancies Act, has worked directly with landlords and tenants, and has experience as a property investor themselves.
When you’ve experienced both sides of the relationship, you gain a much deeper understanding of what property investors expect and how to protect their interests.
4. Ask About Their Trust Account
Your rental income is one of your most valuable assets.
Ask how your rent money is held and managed.
Does the company operate audited trust accounts?
What financial controls and auditing processes are in place to protect your funds?
Professional property management companies should have transparent systems and robust financial controls to ensure landlord funds are managed safely, accurately and in accordance with industry best practice.
It’s an important question that every landlord should ask.
5. Visit Their Office
Finally, take the time to visit their premises.
Can you walk into a professional commercial office?
Is there a receptionist to welcome you?
Can you meet the property managers who may be looking after your investment?
A well-established office reflects a business that has invested in people, systems and long-term client relationships.
While a modern office alone doesn’t guarantee exceptional service, it can provide confidence that you’re dealing with an established organisation with the infrastructure and support to look after your investment.
Choosing the Right Property Manager
Property management fees should never be the only factor when selecting someone to manage what is often your largest financial asset.
Instead, look for a company with:
- A proven reputation backed by genuine customer reviews.
- A long-standing track record.
- Experienced leadership.
- Strong financial controls and audited trust accounts.
- Professional people, systems and support.
Taking a little extra time to research your options today can save you significant stress, cost and frustration in the years ahead.
We’ve introduced free online tools to give landlords greater transparency around their rental property and how it is performing.
Check What Your Property Could Rent For
If you’re unsure whether your current rent reflects the Waikato rental market, you can use our free instant rental appraisal to get an indication of the potential rental value of your property.
Check Your Rentals Risk Exposure
This online rental risk assessment is designed to help landlords identify potential gaps, risks, or blind spots across key areas of property management.
If you’re considering changing property managers or would simply like an obligation-free chat about your investment property, I’d be delighted to assist.
After all, choosing a property management company isn’t just about who holds the keys—it’s about who you’ll trust to protect one of your most valuable assets.
Fraser Coombes AREINZ
Managing Director
Ray White Hamilton Property Management