Property Management companies only grow to a certain extent before they begin to feel the stress of having too much to do, and not enough hands to accomplish the tasks. When that happens, they start to analyze what can be changed to lessen the load. Some of the tasks that can be hired out or discarded altogether. However, for many companies this is the moment when they decide to cease providing in-person viewings.
Showings are a large part of property management. They also require a great deal of effort. More and more companies turn to the easier route of simply checking out keys. But the quick and easy route is not always the best solution but often it is the only alternative.
One of the bonuses of the applicants checking out the keys are fairly apparent. It adds less stress to the property managers life. It is one less task for them to worry about.
The System
Empire Property Management has worked out a system that has an exception effect but often arises complaint from potential applicants. Due to Empire’s employees already having far too much to handle, self showings are not permitted until after the applicant has been previously approved for the home. This system provides a certain level of certainty for the Empire crew and added time for the property managers. Delaying the viewing rights until after the application process is completed ensures us of the applicants sincerity and determination to rent the home instead of waste time. Those that run the race in order to get the price do not quite a hundred yards before the finish line.
After the applicant is approved and wishes to continue with the process, the keys are available for pickup at Empire’s office, at which ID’s are checked and the showing is completed without the need for staff to be present.
Downside
There is a downside to delayed self showings. Often, potential applicants turn elsewhere because the idea of applying for a home that they have never views seems skeptical. The amount of applications decreases. Those that apply regardless however prove that they are serious about renting the home and are not wasting the staffs time. It is these applicants that have the real potential.
Happy Landlording!