Leasing only helps you find a tenant and arrange move-in. Full management also handles agreed work after move-in, such as rent records, tenant questions and repairs.
Compare the tasks and fees in writing. Check what you still handle once the home is rented.
What leasing-only services include
Leasing only may include getting the home ready, setting rent, photos, ads, questions, showings, application checks, the lease and move-in records. It usually ends when the tenant moves in and the agreed records are handed to you.
Confirm the precise endpoint. Some services end at a signed lease, others at key handover or first rent receipt. Ask who holds deposits, signs documents, resolves pre-move questions and corrects an early issue discovered during move-in.
What full management adds
Ongoing management commonly covers tenant questions and updates, rent collection and records, owner statements, arranging repairs, documented property checks and support through renewals or move-out. It may also include the next leasing cycle, although some companies charge placement separately.
Agree on repair spending limits, emergency decisions, reports, funds held for expenses and when the manager must contact you. Legal representation and major projects may be separate services.
Choose based on the work after move-in
Leasing only can suit you if you are ready to handle rent, repairs, notices, records and tenant questions after move-in. It also works if you already have reliable local contractors and mainly need help finding a tenant.
Full management can suit you if you live far away, have limited time or want one contact for the rental. The manager handles agreed tasks and keeps you updated about tenants, repairs and costs.
Check what you take over after move-in
The owner should receive the signed lease and attachments, application and consent records handled appropriately, payment and deposit records, condition documentation, keys issued, tenant contact information and a summary of open commitments. Agree on secure transfer and retention before marketing begins.
Introduce the owner as the ongoing contact and provide clear rent, maintenance and emergency instructions. A tenant should not have to discover after move-in that the leasing contact no longer manages the home. Record any outstanding work and who will finish it.
Compare costs and contract flexibility
Leasing is usually a one-time fee. Full management has regular fees and may also charge for leasing, renewals, repairs or admin work. Compare the same year and the same tasks for both options.
Read term, renewal, cancellation and file-transfer provisions. If you may switch from self-management to full management later, ask whether the provider will take over the placed tenancy, what onboarding is required and how the fee structure changes.
Agree on who handles each task
List each task and who handles it: you, the manager or another professional. Include after-hours calls, unpaid rent, repair approvals, entry notices, insurance claims, bookkeeping, legal help and move-outs. Give each task a clear contact.
Check your task list against the agreement. Choose the service that leaves you with work you have the time and ability to handle.
- Marketing and showings
- Screening and lease preparation
- Rent collection and records and owner statements
- Tenant requests and arranging repairs
- Entry notices and property checks
- Renewal, formal notices and legal referral
- Move-out and the next turnover
