PROPERTY MANAGEMENT FAQS
The staff at Ivy Property Group would like to thank you for considering us as your rental property manager. Below are some questions we would like to suggest that you ask any company you are considering to manage your property and to explain our process.
How much will it cost to manage my property?
We explain our management and leasing fees up front so you can understand the full cost of our services before signing an agreement. There are no hidden charges or maintenance markups. Repairs and maintenance are billed at the actual vendor cost, and you receive a copy of the vendor’s invoice.
VIEW OUR SCHEDULE OF CHARGES for fee details or REQUEST A MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL for your property.
When comparing property management companies, ask about the total cost, including leasing and renewal fees, maintenance markups and any additional service charges.
Do you mark up maintenance? Is maintenance a profit center for you?
No. Ivy Property Group does not add markups to vendor maintenance invoices or treat repairs as a profit center. You receive a copy of the actual vendor invoice, including the vendor’s contact information.
Most maintenance work is handled by independent vendors. Occasionally, with your approval, a property manager may purchase supplies or perform a service for your property and be reimbursed for those purchases or paid for that work.
When comparing property managers, ask whether they receive referral fees, commissions or rebates from maintenance vendors, and whether those amounts are disclosed to you. Understanding who receives your money is part of understanding the full cost of management.
Our focus is on maintaining your property, protecting your investment and keeping repair costs transparent.
What if I want out of my property management agreement?
Yes. After the initial year, you can terminate your agreement for any reason with 30 days’ notice (90 days' notice in the first year) and no termination fee—even if your tenant’s lease is still in place.
When comparing property managers, ask whether ending your management agreement triggers charges for the remaining term of an existing tenant’s lease.
We believe your continued business should be earned through our service and performance. Some of our client relationships span more than 25 years, reflecting the trust we’ve earned over time.
If I have a question, whom do I call, and how do I reach my property manager?
We have found that most investors like working with one professional they can depend on to take their call or return it promptly—someone who knows their property and can provide answers or follow through.
Ivy Property Group assigns one property manager to each property. Both you and your tenant will have your property manager’s direct cell phone number. We have found this makes communication easier and helps resolve issues faster than going through a general office number or call service unfamiliar with your property.
Two of the compliments we hear most often are: “I can’t believe I’m speaking with a live person” and “Thanks, you’re the first person to return my call.”
How do prospective tenants see my property?
Most showings are accompanied by an Ivy Property Group broker or a broker from another real estate company. Prospective tenants can ask questions about the property, and we can gather feedback to help you make informed decisions about its condition, presentation and rental price.
We do not charge prospective tenants a fee to view your property.
Your property is listed in the Canopy Multiple Listing Service (MLS), allowing other brokers to introduce it to their clients. Our showing service makes it easy for brokers to schedule appointments and arrange access.
When comparing property managers, ask whether showings are accompanied, how access is controlled, and whether prospective tenants must pay to view the property. These details affect both the care of your property and the experience of potential tenants.
How can my tenant pay rent?
Tenants can pay rent through their online tenant portal using a bank transfer (ACH) or credit card. Credit card processing fees are paid by the tenant.
We also offer payment options by mail, through our office drop box, and through a retail payment service at participating locations. These options help accommodate tenants who prefer or need another way to pay.
Through the portal, tenants can view their account balance, submit maintenance requests and track the progress of repairs. Clear payment options and easy access to account information help keep rent payments and communication on track.
What happens if my tenant doesn’t pay?
Rent is due on the first of the month, late notices are sent out the 2nd through 6th. For accounts still unpaid after the 6th, late fees are assessed according to the lease and applicable law.
Your property manager follows up with the tenant, monitors the outstanding balance and considers approved payment arrangements when appropriate with your input. Toward the end of the month, we make final collection calls and review unresolved accounts for possible eviction proceedings.
When eviction is necessary, we work with an attorney to handle the legal process. Current attorney fees are $150-$200 for basic cases, plus court costs.
We keep you informed about collection efforts and the next steps for your property. Our goal is to address unpaid rent consistently while protecting your investment.
Will you do a credit and background check on an applicant?
Yes. Our screening process includes credit, criminal background and eviction history checks. If information in an application doesn’t add up, we ask additional questions and investigate further before making a decision.
In 2025, we declined 44% of rental applicants. We take the review process seriously because placing a tenant is an important decision for your property. No screening process can eliminate every risk, but careful review helps identify potential concerns before a lease is signed.
What if a repair is needed at my property?
Tenants can submit maintenance requests through their online portal or contact their property manager. We review the request, arrange an appropriate vendor and track the work through completion and payment.
Emergency issues receive priority attention. For non-emergency repairs, we follow your instructions about approval and communication.
Your property manager keeps you informed, and you receive a copy of the actual vendor invoice with no maintenance markup. Our goal is to address problems promptly and keep your property well maintained.
Choosing the Right Property Manager
Price matters when choosing a property manager. Make sure you understand the full cost, the services included and how the company handles communication, maintenance and tenant relationships. Our team brings decades of property management experience. We focus on personal service for owners and tenants, transparent fees and practical use of technology to manage your property efficiently.
We’d be glad to discuss your property and answer your questions. Call us at 704-999-3366 or REQUEST A PROPERTY MANAGEMENT PROPOSAL to start the conversation.