Introduction
What should you expect from a property management company? If you’ve ever handed over the keys to your rental, you’ve likely asked this question. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or an experienced investor, understanding how a property management company works helps you set realistic expectations—and make the most of your investment.
At Kettle and Oak, we believe good property management goes far beyond collecting rent. It’s about building a system of trust, communication, and results. Let’s walk through what services you should expect, and what that means for your peace of mind.
Tenant Placement and Relationship Building
Finding a tenant isn’t just about filling a vacancy. It’s about finding the right fit—someone reliable, respectful, and financially responsible.
Here’s what that should look like:
- Marketing the unit across platforms like Zillow and Facebook
- Scheduling property showings
- Conducting background and credit checks
- Preparing legally sound lease agreements
- Coordinating move-ins and move-outs
Plus, tenant care continues after move-in. At Kettle and Oak’s Tenant Support, we’re available by phone, text, email, or in-person visits—whichever suits the tenant best.
Maintenance and Emergency Response
Things break. When they do, your property manager should be ready to fix them—fast. Proactive maintenance helps protect your investment and your tenants’ comfort.
You should expect:
- Scheduled preventative maintenance
- Licensed, insured contractors
- Photo documentation before and after work
- 24/7 emergency support
At Kettle and Oak, our maintenance team works Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM, and is backed by a 24/7 emergency response team.
Rent Collection and Financial Transparency
Rent collection should be efficient, respectful, and fully trackable. A professional manager ensures consistent cash flow with clear reporting.
You’ll get:
- Online rent collection
- Enforced late fee policies
- Monthly and year-end financial statements
- Easy-to-read income and expense reports
With our Owner Portal, you’ll always know how your property is performing—no spreadsheets or guesswork required.
Legal Compliance and Lease Enforcement
Property laws change. A good property manager keeps up. From security deposits to eviction notices, compliance protects both you and your tenants.
Expect your manager to:
- Stay current on landlord-tenant law
- Send appropriate legal notices
- Manage evictions professionally if necessary
- Represent you during disputes
At Kettle and Oak, we handle every lease with attention to legality and fairness.
Marketing and Vacancy Reduction
Time is money, especially when a unit sits empty. A property management company should act quickly to fill vacancies using modern marketing tools.
Effective marketing includes:
- Eye-catching property photography
- SEO-optimized listings on major rental sites
- Social media promotions
- Local signage and neighborhood targeting
You can explore our current Available Listings to see how we market properties with precision.
Owner Communication and Support
You should never feel disconnected from your property. Your manager should keep you informed, not overwhelmed.
This means:
- Regular updates and reports
- Clear breakdowns of income and expenses
- Transparent fees—no surprise charges
- Responsive communication for questions or concerns
Curious about our approach? Check out How We Work for a behind-the-scenes look at our process.
Bonus: What You Shouldn’t Expect
Not every task falls on your shoulders. You shouldn’t be:
- Chasing tenants for rent
- Coordinating late-night plumbing emergencies
- Wondering if your property is in compliance
- Guessing how much money your unit made last month
You hired a manager so you don’t have to worry about these things. And with the right partner, you won’t.
Now that you know what to expect from a property management company, the process should feel a little less overwhelming—and a lot more manageable. From tenant care to legal expertise, your property manager is your partner in success.
Want to simplify your rental life?
- Schedule your free consultation now
- Or email us directly at: hello@kettleandoak.com
- Serving Chicago and remote owners worldwide.
