How to Choose a Property Manager

What should I ask a property manager before signing?

Ask how repairs are billed, how tenants are screened, how often you get statements and who answers emergencies. At AKS Realty Group there is no markup on repairs: you pay exactly what the vendor charges, and every applicant is reviewed against the same written standards: income, credit history, past rentals, eviction and criminal records.

Do property managers mark up repairs?

Some managers add a markup to vendor invoices, so ask for the invoice behind every repair charge. At AKS Realty Group, there is no markup on repairs.

Repairs are inevitable with a rental: an HVAC call in July, a plumbing leak, a worn-out appliance, paint between tenants. A markup on each one adds up over time and comes straight out of your cash flow. Before you sign with any property manager, ask directly whether they mark up repairs, and get the answer in writing.

We pass vendor invoices through at cost and share the vendor’s invoice with you, so you can see exactly what the work cost. See how our property management works.

How are tenants screened?

Careful screening is one of the best ways to protect your rental and your cash flow. Every applicant is reviewed against the same written standards: income, credit history, past rentals, eviction and criminal records. That gives you a clear, well-documented picture before anyone signs a lease for your property.

Here is what goes into it:

• Income: we confirm lawful, verifiable income.
• Credit history: we review the accounts on the applicant’s report.
• Past rentals: where possible, we contact current and previous landlords.
• Eviction and criminal records: we review these as part of the same written standards.

We follow federal and Alabama fair housing laws. See our rental qualifications.

How easy is it to reach your property manager with questions or concerns?

Before you sign, ask who you will actually talk to when you have a question, how you can reach them (phone, text, email or an online portal) and how quickly owners usually hear back. A manager who is easy to reach keeps small questions from turning into big frustrations.

Also ask what happens when urgent maintenance comes up after hours or on a weekend: who takes the call, who decides what gets fixed, and when you will be told. Get those answers before you hand over the keys.

At AKS Realty Group, we respond to owner questions within 12 to 24 hours. You can call us at 205-821-9683, send us a message, or reach us through your owner portal.

AKS Realty Group manages rentals across Hoover and Greater Birmingham. See our property management services.

Get a free rental analysis or call 205-821-9683.