Many landlords consider self-managing their rental properties to save money, but what they don’t realize is how much time, stress, and money they actually lose in the process. From tenant issues to legal troubles, the statistics surrounding self-management paint a clear picture: going it alone can cost you more than hiring a professional property management company.

Let’s dive into some eye-opening statistics that might make you rethink the DIY approach.

1. The Time Drain: Landlords Spend 80+ Hours a Year on Management Tasks

According to the American Apartment Owners Association (AAOA), the average self-managing landlord spends 80-100 hours per year dealing with tenant-related issues, maintenance coordination, and administrative tasks. That’s equivalent to two full workweeks spent just on property management.

👉 Imagine how much more you could accomplish with that time if a professional handled everything for you!

2. The Eviction Nightmare: 36% of Landlords Experience an Eviction

Tenant issues are one of the biggest headaches for self-managing landlords. A study by the U.S. Census Bureau found that 36% of landlords will experience at least one eviction during their time as a rental owner.

👉 The cost of eviction? Between $3,500 and $10,000, including lost rent, court fees, and property damage. Property managers have screening processes to help avoid bad tenants in the first place.

3. Late Rent is More Common Than You Think: 1 in 4 Tenants Pay Late

According to a TransUnion study, 25% of tenants fail to pay rent on time at some point during their lease. When self-managing landlords don’t have efficient rent collection systems in place, this can lead to cash flow problems and financial stress.

👉 Professional property managers use automated rent collection and enforce lease terms, so you don’t have to chase down payments.

4. 50% of Landlords Don’t Screen Tenants Properly

A report by SmartMove found that half of self-managing landlords don’t run full background checks on their tenants, relying only on gut instinct or minimal screening.

👉 Without proper screening, you’re more likely to end up with tenants who don’t pay rent, damage your property, or even have a history of eviction. Property managers have access to thorough background checks, credit reports, and rental history verification.

5. DIY Maintenance Can Cost You 30% More

Many landlords try to handle maintenance issues themselves, but studies show that self-managing landlords spend up to 30% more on repairs due to lack of vendor relationships and higher contractor rates.

👉 Property management companies have established vendor networks and negotiate lower rates, saving landlords money while ensuring timely, quality repairs.

6. Rental Properties Sit Vacant Longer Without Professional Help

Vacancies are one of the biggest expenses for landlords. The National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) reports that self-managed rentals sit vacant for an average of 45-60 days between tenants, while professionally managed properties are re-leased in as little as 21 days.

👉 Every month your property sits vacant, you’re losing money! Property managers market rentals aggressively to minimize downtime.

7. The Legal Risks: 61% of Landlords Don’t Fully Understand Rental Laws

Landlord-tenant laws are complex, and they vary by state and city. A survey by Avail found that 61% of self-managing landlords aren’t fully aware of fair housing laws, security deposit regulations, or eviction procedures.

👉 One mistake could lead to costly legal trouble, fair housing complaints, or even lawsuits. Property managers ensure compliance, protecting landlords from liability.

So, Is Self-Managing Worth It?

When you consider the time lost, the financial risks, and the potential headaches, self-managing a rental property often costs far more than hiring a property management company.

Hiring a professional property manager means:
✅ Less stress & time spent managing tenants
✅ Higher quality tenants through proper screening
✅ Fewer vacancies and lost rental income
✅ Professional maintenance at lower costs
✅ Legal compliance & risk mitigation

If you’re ready to stop dealing with the hassles of property management and start enjoying the benefits of owning rental property without the stress, Vision Real Estate Property Management is here to help.

📞 Contact us today to see how we can maximize your rental income while saving you time and hassle!