How not to get ripped off for repairs

[Chris Donathan]

Hello BP community,

I'm worried I'm paying way too much for maintenance repairs. I currently own two single family rentals in Arkansas. For maintenance repairs I am using our property management. They charge $75 an hour. Here's a breakdown on a recent job from the management:

"Changed out 1 receptacle in bedroom, was able to get other receptacles back working with troubleshooting. Swapped door knob around. Swapped another set of knobs. New porch light installed, New weatherstripping on front door. New weatherstripping on back door. Majority of the time was spent troubleshooting the receptacles and front porch light. Our service call fee is $75 for the first hour and then $75 for each additional hour."

The total amount was $418 for this job. All they did was install a front porch light, fix some receptacles, and swap some door knobs. This seems unreasonable. How do y'all set up repairs if you're out of state? 

Thanks in advance! 

Chris Donathan