The True Cost of DIY Landlording: Are You Really Saving Money?
Many property owners consider self-managing their rentals to "save" on management fees. But are you truly coming out ahead? Let's break down the often-overlooked costs of DIY landlording.
First, your time is money. Every phone call, maintenance dispatch, or showing appointment takes hours from your personal life or other ventures. What's the value of your weekend? Then there's the cost of vacancy. A professional management company, like Merryweather, can often fill a unit in less than 20 days. Can you? Every week a unit sits empty is a week of lost income that quickly overshadows a management fee.
Consider legal risks. Are you fully compliant with fair housing laws, eviction procedures, and changing landlord-tenant regulations? Mistakes can lead to costly fines or lawsuits. Finally, tenant screening. A weak screening process can lead to problem tenants, property damage, and expensive evictions. Merryweather’s rigorous process mitigates these risks, protecting your investment.
When you factor in your time, lost rent, legal exposure, and potential tenant issues, professional property management often pays for itself, providing peace of mind and optimizing your ROI.
Ready to reclaim your time and maximize your returns? Contact Merryweather Real Estate for a free management quote today!





