Should I hire a Property Manager or Not?

Owning a rental property in Central Virginia can be a rewarding investment — but it also comes with real responsibilities. If you’re wondering whether to manage your rental on your own or hire a property manager, you're not alone. Many landlords ask this question when they’re just starting out — or even after a few difficult tenant experiences.

In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both options so you can make the best choice for your property, your peace of mind, and your bottom line.

Managing the Property Yourself: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• You Keep More of the Rent
  You don’t pay a management fee, so your monthly income is potentially higher.

• Total Control
  You handle everything — tenant selection, repairs, rent collection — your way.

• Hands-On Learning
  You’ll quickly learn the ins and outs of being a landlord.

Cons:

• Time-Consuming
  Expect to spend hours on tenant issues, showings, maintenance calls, and paperwork.

• Risk of Legal Mistakes
  Virginia rental laws are strict. One error in an eviction or lease can cost you big.

• Emotional Stress
  Late payments, emergency repairs at 2 a.m., and bad tenants can take a toll — especially if you're juggling other responsibilities.

Hiring a Property Manager: The Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Stress-Free Rental Income
  A property manager handles everything — marketing, screening, maintenance, rent, legal compliance, and more.

• Better Tenants, Less Vacancy
  Professionals have vetted screening processes and know how to market your property effectively.

• Legal Protection
  Good managers stay current with landlord-tenant laws and ensure you’re compliant from day one.

• Emergency Support
  You don’t have to field maintenance calls or handle last-minute issues — your manager does.

Cons:

• Management Fees
  Expect to pay 8–12% of the monthly rent, depending on services and property type.

• Less Direct Control
  While you still call the shots, you’re trusting someone else to handle the day-to-day.

So, What’s Right for You?

Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I have the time and knowledge to manage my rental effectively?

• Am I ready to handle legal responsibilities and maintenance issues on my own?

• Would I rather invest passively and let a professional handle the hassle?

If you value your time, want peace of mind, and aim to maximize your property’s potential with fewer headaches, hiring a property manager may be the smarter move.

Why Beacon Hill Property Management?

At Beacon Hill, we combine care, communication, and local expertise to make rental ownership easy and profitable. Whether you're a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, we tailor our services to fit your needs — so you can focus on what matters most.

Contact us today for a free consultation or rental analysis. Let us help you make your property work for you — not the other way around.