Should You Hire a Property Manager or Go It Alone?

If you're a property owner in Calgary, the decision to hire a property manager or manage your rental yourself is one of the most important choices you'll make. While managing on your own may seem like a way to cut costs, it can also lead to unexpected challenges and time-consuming responsibilities.
At Rob LeBlanc Real Estate, we work with both hands-on landlords and those who prefer to outsource everything. Here's a look at the pros and cons of each option, and how to decide what’s right for you.
The DIY Route: Managing Your Property Yourself
Managing your own rental may seem appealing, especially if you live close to your property or only have one unit. Here's what you can expect:
✅ Pros:
- Cost savings: You avoid monthly property management fees (typically 8–12% of monthly rent).
- Direct control: You make all the decisions, from tenant screening to repair vendors.
- Personal relationships: Some landlords enjoy building rapport with their tenants.
❌ Cons:
- Time-consuming: Tenant requests, maintenance calls, inspections, and rent collection can eat into your personal time.
- Legal risk: Are you familiar with Alberta’s tenancy laws? Mistakes can lead to disputes or penalties.
- Stress management: Handling evictions, late payments, or property damage can be emotionally draining.
Hiring a Property Manager: Hands-Off Peace of Mind
A professional property manager handles the day-to-day operations of your rental so you don’t have to. In Calgary’s dynamic rental market, this service can be invaluable.
✅ Pros:
- Expert tenant screening: Property managers use background checks, credit reports, and rental history to find qualified tenants.
- Legal compliance: They stay updated on the Residential Tenancies Act and ensure you’re protected.
- 24/7 maintenance coordination: No more midnight phone calls about leaky faucets.
- Rent collection and financial reporting: Enjoy consistent income and clear records.
- Lower vacancy rates: Professional marketing, photos, and showings attract quality renters faster.
❌ Cons:
- Management fees: Usually a percentage of the monthly rent or a flat rate.
- Less direct control: You’re trusting someone else with your investment, so choose wisely.
- Potential mismatch: Not all property managers are created equal—some do the bare minimum, while others go above and beyond.
So, What’s Right for You?
Ask yourself the following:
- Do I have the time and knowledge to manage a property effectively?
- Do I know how to handle legal issues or tenant disputes?
- Am I comfortable coordinating repairs and emergencies?
- Is my rental property an investment or part of my daily workload?
If you answered "no" to most of the above, it may be time to consider professional help.
Rob LeBlanc Real Estate: Helping You Succeed as a Landlord
Whether you're a first-time landlord or a seasoned investor, Rob LeBlanc Real Estate provides support, guidance, and access to trusted property management partners in Calgary. We help you make smart decisions about your rental property so you can focus on your financial goals.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're unsure about how to manage your property or are ready to hand over the reins, contact us today. We’ll help you determine if a property manager is the right fit—and recommend the best options for your unique needs.









