Start with referrals from other property owners and search for local managers who handle the same type of property and rental arrangement. Compare their responsibilities, references, fees, reporting, and any required licensing before choosing someone. A good fit depends on the work you want handled, not just the lowest advertised price.
Search for the service you actually need
Describe the property, its location, whether it is occupied, and the tasks you want handled. A manager for a long-term lease, a short-stay co-host, and a home-watch provider may have different responsibilities. Use those details when asking other owners or local real estate professionals for referrals.
Create a small shortlist and ask whether each provider already works in your neighborhood. Look for experience that matches your situation rather than assuming that managing any rental is the same job.
Ask about people, responsibilities, and accountability
Find out who will communicate with you and who will be on site. Ask how after-hours issues, cleaning problems, repairs, and owner approvals are handled. Request references and a sample report with identifying information removed.
For work that requires a California real estate license, verify the professional and responsible broker through the Department of Real Estate. Confirm insurance and do not rely only on a logo, testimonial, or membership claim.1
Compare the complete agreement
Review the management fee alongside onboarding, leasing, cleaning coordination, inspections, repair markups, and cancellation terms. Ask what is excluded and who controls the listing, calendar, guest communications, and records. Keep access and ownership arrangements clear from the beginning.
Before signing, agree on service standards, how money and invoices are reported, spending authority, and how the arrangement ends. A useful conversation starts with your priorities and the property’s needs, not pressure to accept a service you do not need.
Reference notes
General information, not individualized legal or insurance advice. Confirm the requirements for your address and proposed arrangement.
- California Department of Real Estate, Consumer Resources and License Verification.
Reviewed September 28, 2026.