How do I pick a property management company?

[Douglas T.]

I think I incorrectely posted this in the renters section of the site, so I'm trying here.  I'm leaving Chicago for Ft Lauderdale and renting out my Chicago condo. My goal is to pay a fair price for good service and not be taken advantage of. I regularly deal with two mgmt companies that I own properties with. One sucks and I wouldn't use them even though they manage the building the unit is in. The other is great... wonderful, timely communication and great customer service. I intend to pursue that one, but thought I should probably talk to at least 3 companies. I'm not even sure what to ask these companies. I'm really scared I'll miss something important. Any time I try to find reviews of other companies, they're all bad. I'd appreciate any information or direction to get this thing handled correctly.  I'm not ready to manage a property myself, so please don't advise me to do so.

[Rebecca G.]

Here in toledo there is only one good property management company, the rest are absolutely terrible. Things that i like about the property management company I deal with

Everything is online! I can see the status of rehab/repair/payment/payout immediately anytime I want to.

I can speak to the property manager everyday. She replies quickly to any questions I have

They offer a tenant turn discount, if the tenant moves out and the property is not rented, they do not charge me while they are finding a tenant

I see receipts immediately for any repairs that need done

They remind me if I have any bills due, Taxes water etc So I never forget

Sometimes it is important not only to know what licenses/certifications the company has, how long they have been in business, what kind of reviews they have, but also to know that they truly care about the investment and not just collecting their 10%