A property manager can have a huge impact on the success of an investment property and it is important to make sure that you have chosen one that will look after you.

Aviate Group has just published the following list of ten questions that you should be asking any prospective property manager:

1. Tell me about the local rental market now and where it’s heading in the near future?

2. What is the process for selecting and screening new tenants? Have they verified that the tenant has not been blacklisted via TRA (Trade Reference Australia)?

3. Do you/ or does your agency have a tenant database? If so, how many tenants are on it and how will you use the database to find the best tenants for my property?

4. How often do you carry out inspections? (Should be after the first three months and every six months thereafter).

5. How detailed are your inspection reports? (Many agents provide photographs these days in addition to a written report).

6. What is the process for dealing with repairs? Do you have good relationships with tradespeople and do they offer discounted rates?

7. How often will you review my rental returns? What is the process for lease renewals and rental reviews with existing tenants?

8. What is the process for vacating tenants and final inspections to ensure my property is in excellent order to re-let?

9. Do you have any testimonials from current landlords? Can I speak to any of them?

10. What are your management fees? Are there any other fees? Are you negotiable for multiple listings?