Choosing the ideal property management partner is essential for Des Moines rental investors to maximize returns and minimize headaches. This company will handle everything from advertising vacancies to maintaining your properties to enforcing lease terms. That's why thoroughly vetting candidates in the interview process is critical. You want to ensure a firm has the systems, experience, and approach to meet your specific rental portfolio's needs.


In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the 10 most essential questions to ask when interviewing residential and commercial property management companies in Des Moines.

  1. How long have you been conducting property management in Des Moines?
    Look for longevity, stability, and deep neighborhood expertise. Companies with 5+ years specifically in the area tend to be the most reliable
  2. What types of Des Moines rental properties do you have experience with?
    Ensure they can handle your specific rental types like residential homes, apartments, commercial spaces, vacation rentals, etc. Niche experience is valuable.
  3. What is the full range of property management services you provide?
    Do they handle everything in-house, from marketing vacancies to maintenance and accounting management? Full-service providers are ideal.
  4. How do you leverage technology like automation and online portals in your property management processes?
    Embracing automated rental management systems demonstrates forward-thinking. Look for paperless processes.
  5. How and how often will you communicate status updates to me as the property owner?
    Confirm you'll stay in the loop through timely communications like real-time online portals, emails, texts, and calls.
  6. Please describe your tenant screening process and criteria?
    Thorough tenant vetting through credit checks, background screens, and reference checks is crucial for securing responsible renters. Ask about their scoring criteria.
  7. How do you handle after-hours emergencies and maintenance issues at properties?
    Look for guaranteed 24/7 live support for critical issues along with strong vetted contractor networks able to mobilize quickly when needed.
  8. What specific steps will you take to market my rental vacancies and attract quality Des Moines tenants?
    Optimized multichannel marketing reaching local renters on platforms like Zillow, Facebook, and print publications differentiates companies.
  9. What truly sets you apart from competing Des Moines area property management firms?
    Learn what unique strengths like specialized expertise, high-touch service, advanced technology, or long-tenured teams truly differentiate them.
  10. Can you share 2-3 references from current Des Moines investor clients I may contact?
    Speaking directly to existing clients gives invaluable insights into responsiveness, integrity, and results.

Asking the right questions when interviewing property management firms for your Des Moines rental portfolio is crucial for finding the best fit. Contact our team today to learn more about our customized approach to delivering seamless support rental investors can count on.