Why should I switch to Firsthand Property Management?

If you are tired of being treated as just another number, or you feel that your property is not getting the attention it deserves, then you should definitely have a chat to us to find out how we are different from our competitors. We provide a personalised service that is tailored to each of our owner’s specific concerns and priorities, and our focus is always on taking away all the hassles associated with landlording, and giving you total peace-of-mind care.

Our detail-oriented service standards are perfect for owners that don’t have the time or energy to spend worrying about their investment; they just want to have good tenants that pay rent on time and take good care of their property.

Switching to our management service is easy, we take care of the associated paperwork and can even liaise with your current management company to make the transition as easy as possible.

What happens if I want to renovate my property?

We take care of the tenancy during the renovation so all you need to do is let us know when different contractors need to come through.

If you need us to be on-site or coordinate different contractors we can project manage the entire renovation at a rate of $55 + GST per hour.

If you want to arrange minor improvements, such as new curtains, we are happy to source suitable items (at no charge) in accordance with your budget.

Should I be worried about all the changes in tenancy legislation?

We are of the opinion that recent and upcoming changes to tenancy law generally work to maintain a positive tenancy and keep your property in a good, saleable condition so don’t worry that it is all too difficult. That’s what we are here for!

There’s no need to be afraid of compliance with the Healthy Homes Standards - as your property managers we arrange for your property to be assessed and if any improvements are necessary, we can provide quotes from our trusted contractors, or you can arrange your own. We believe that these standards actually work in your favour as they mean your property is presented in a good condition, which means a better rental income, and also makes it quicker and easier for you to get your property to market if you decide to sell.

What will you do if my tenant becomes in arrears?

Due to our rigorous screening process we actually have zero arrears! During the tenant application process we carry out comprehensive credit and reference checking, tenant checks with Tenancy Services, and up-to-date landlord feedback and reviews.

We monitor all rental payments daily so if a rent payment does not appear in our Trust account on the day it is expected we act immediately to resolve this issue as soon as possible. Our expectations regarding on-time rent payments are clearly discussed with your new tenant before they move in; we underline the fact that this is a legal obligation of theirs under the Residential Tenancies Act 1986.

What kind of insurance do I need?

All of our owners have some form of Landlord insurance. It is in your interests to ensure you have adequate Landlord insurance to ensure you are covered for any damage that may occur during a tenancy. You may also wish to cover events such as vacancy periods due to remedial work, deliberate damage by others, public liability etc.

How will you market my property to prospective tenants?

We’ll showcase your property in the following ways:

• use quality photography to capture the quality features both inside and outside of the property

• write attractive and creative copy, highlighting the features of your property and neighbourhood

• create an online listing for your property for Trademe Property, our website plus social media

• we can also forward your property listing information to your friends and family as a way of connecting to a new tenant via trusted and already established networks

How will you find me tenants?

Our process with new tenants begins with you. We will make arrangements to view the property with you, to agree on its current condition and advise on any maintenance required pre-tenancy.

We will agree on a plan to advertise the property including arranging open homes and listing your property on Trademe, and our social media.

We will work with you to create a preferred tenant profile. Once a new tenant has been agreed upon, we will make sure all tenancy forms are completed correctly, arrange handover dates for key collection and to carry out the move-in inspection with the tenant.

What if I have existing tenants?

When taking over a property with an existing tenancy we will undertake an initial property inspection to compare and agree on the property condition at the start of our management contract.

We’ll then arrange to meet with your existing tenants to begin a relationship with them, provide updated contact information and address any existing concerns for you and your tenants.

If you’re not satisfied with the level of service you’re receiving from your current property manager, switching to Firsthand is simple. We supply the forms for you to sign and we take care of the rest.

What happens if I want to sell my property?

This can be a very delicate situation and it is extremely important that it’s handled professionally and efficiently. It is our job to ensure that the interests of both you and your tenants are protected.

Tenants must be notified in writing that the property is going to be listed for sale. Once the property is sold, if the term of the existing tenancy is periodic and the sale is subject to vacant possession, we issue the tenant with 42 days notice to vacate once the sale becomes unconditional.

If the term of the tenancy is a fixed term then the property must be sold subject to existing tenancies unless the expiry date of the fixed term coincides with or falls before settlement date.

If you have a question that is not answered above please contact us.