Is Property Management Difficult? Here’s Why Outsourcing Makes Sense

Owning rental property sounds like a great way to generate passive income, right? You buy the property, rent it out, and watch the money roll in every month. But here’s the reality: managing a property is far from passive.

Once the paperwork is signed and the tenants move in, the real work begins. From late-night plumbing emergencies to legal paperwork, rent collection, and tenant issues, managing a property demands time, knowledge, and constant attention. For most landlords, especially those with full-time jobs, multiple properties, or limited experience, property management quickly turns into a second job, draining your time and energy.

So, is property management difficult? Absolutely. And if you’re doing it all on your own, it can be overwhelming.

That’s why more and more property owners are turning to professionals to handle the day-to-day details. With over 15 years of experience managing rental properties in Oklahoma City and neighboring metro areas, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges landlords face and how outsourcing to a qualified property management company can solve them.

In this article, I’ll break it all down for you: why managing property can be tough, what a professional property manager actually does, and how outsourcing can help you stay profitable, compliant, and stress-free.

Let’s dive in.

What Is Property Management, Really?

At its core, property management is the oversight and operation of residential, commercial, or industrial real estate. This includes everything from:

• Marketing the property
• Screening tenants
• Collecting rent
• Handling maintenance
• Navigating local rental laws
• Managing lease renewals and move-outs

If you’re managing your own property, you’re wearing all the hats: leasing agent, accountant, repairman, legal consultant, customer service rep and sometimes even mediator. Each role comes with its own responsibilities, and juggling them all can be exhausting, especially if you’re doing it part-time or have more than one unit. The complexity doesn’t just add up; it multiplies with every property you add to your portfolio.

The 6 Core Challenges of Self-Managing a Rental

Many first-time landlords, especially those managing rentals part-time or from a distance, quickly discover that property management is far more demanding than it first appears. What seems like a simple investment often turns into a complex operation filled with daily decisions, legal responsibilities, and unexpected interruptions.

Let’s break down the key challenges that make self-managing rental properties so difficult, especially when you’re doing it solo.

1. Tenant Screening Isn’t As Easy As It Looks

Finding someone to rent your property is easy. But finding a qualified tenant, someone who pays on time, respects the lease, and takes care of your home? That takes skill and experience.

A thorough screening process should include:

• Credit history checks
• Employment and income verification
• Criminal background checks
• Rental history verification
• Full compliance with the Fair Housing Act

Doing all of this correctly and legally isn’t as straightforward as it sounds. A single poor screening decision can lead to months of stress, missed rent, or even a costly eviction. In fact, the average eviction can cost landlords $3,500 or more once you factor in legal fees, court costs, lost rent, and property repairs.

Simply put: tenant screening isn’t just about filling a vacancy. It’s about protecting your investment.

2. Maintenance Is Constant, Unpredictable, and Time-Consuming

Thinking maintenance is just about fixing a leaky faucet? Think again. Rental property upkeep can involve anything from emergency plumbing repairs and HVAC failures during peak seasons to roof damage after storms, mold remediation, or full appliance replacements.

Tenants expect quick and professional responses, especially for urgent issues. And if you delay or ignore repairs, you could be violating local habitability laws, which may lead to legal trouble or tenant complaints.

Effective maintenance management requires:

• Being on call 24/7 for emergencies
• Vetting and coordinating with licensed contractors
• Scheduling and tracking repairs promptly
• Maintaining detailed records for tax and liability purposes
• Performing regular property inspections

And it’s not cheap. According to HomeAdvisor, homeowners typically spend 1%–4% of a property’s value annually on maintenance. That means a $250,000 property could cost you $2,500 to $10,000 per year just in upkeep, before you even factor in your time or emergency calls.

The bottom line? Maintenance isn’t just an inconvenience; it’s an ongoing commitment that demands time, money, and reliable systems.

3. Rent Collection Isn’t Always Smooth

Collecting rent on time is the backbone of your rental property’s cash flow. But in practice, it’s not always straightforward, especially when tenants pay late, offer partial payments, or stop communicating altogether.

Many self-managing landlords struggle with:

• Enforcing late fees without damaging the landlord-tenant relationship
• Knowing how to legally issue notices and follow due process
• Avoiding personal conflict when chasing payments
• Handling excuses, delays, or bounced checks

To stay compliant and protect your income, you need:

• A clearly written late rent policy in your lease
• Consistent communication procedures
• Knowledge of your state’s legal eviction process
• The ability to issue pay-or-quit notices and follow through if needed

For example, under Oklahoma law, landlords must provide a 5-day notice to pay or quit before initiating eviction proceedings. If you skip or misstep in this process, the court could dismiss your case, forcing you to start over and lose even more rent.

The reality is, rent collection isn’t just about getting paid; it’s about having systems, legal knowledge, and the resolve to enforce lease terms consistently and professionally.

4. Staying Compliant With Local Laws Is Complicated

Landlord-tenant laws aren’t just complex; they’re constantly changing. And they don’t just vary by state; they can differ from city to city. If you’re managing your own rental, you’re responsible for understanding and following every single legal requirement: local, state, and federal.

Here are just a few areas where compliance matters:

• Security deposit rules
• Entry notice requirements
• Lease agreement requirements
• Habitability and safety standards
• Anti-discrimination laws, including the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act
• Proper eviction procedures (especially following temporary moratoriums or emergency regulations)

Do you know how to draft a lease that complies with Oklahoma landlord-tenant law? Do you know when and how you’re legally allowed to enter a tenant’s unit, or how long you have to return a security deposit after move-out?

Even a seemingly small mistake like issuing an incorrect notice or mishandling a deposit can result in fines, lawsuits, or court-ordered tenant compensation.

Staying compliant requires time, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of legal frameworks. For many landlords, this is one of the most stressful and risky parts of managing a rental property.

5. Turnovers and Vacancies Require Strategy and Speed

Every day your rental unit sits empty, you’re losing money. However, rushing to fill a vacancy without a clear process can result in poor tenant selection and more problems down the line.

Filling a vacancy takes more than just posting a “For Rent” sign. Successful marketing and leasing require strategy, speed, and attention to detail. As a self-managing landlord, you’ll need to:

• Take high-quality, professional-looking photos
• Write compelling and legally compliant listings
• Post on popular platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Facebook Marketplace
• Respond to inquiries quickly and professionally
• Schedule and conduct showings, often during evenings or weekends
• Screen applicants promptly to avoid unnecessary downtime

Without a proven system, it’s easy to fall behind, especially if you’re balancing a day job or managing multiple properties. A vacant unit doesn’t just hurt your cash flow; it can create a ripple effect that impacts your overall ROI.

In today’s rental market, marketing a property is a full-time job in itself and one that requires both local knowledge and digital savvy.

6. The Emotional Toll of Self-Management Is Real

Managing a rental property isn’t just about logistics, law, and late fees; it takes a toll on your emotional bandwidth, too. From dealing with angry tenants and chasing late rent to handling emergency repairs at 2 a.m., the stress can be constant and overwhelming.

When a tenant damages your property, stops paying, or unexpectedly moves out, that stress multiplies. And if you’re also juggling a full-time job or family responsibilities, it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in demands.

Many first-time landlords experience burnout within their first year, especially if they try to handle everything themselves. The reality is, being “on call” 24/7, with your financial security tied to someone else’s behavior, is exhausting.

Let’s be honest: you didn’t invest in real estate to become a full-time problem solver. You likely did it for financial freedom, long-term wealth, and passive income. So why not protect your investment and your sanity by outsourcing the emotional labor to professionals who do this every day?

What Does a Property Management Company Actually Do?

Outsourcing property management isn’t just about handing off responsibility; it’s about partnering with licensed professionals who have the systems, experience, and local expertise to run your rental like a business.

While self-managing landlords often juggle roles on the fly, a professional property management company brings structure, compliance, and consistency to every aspect of your rental operation.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

1. Marketing and Leasing

• Take professional photos and create optimized listings
• Advertise on top rental platforms (Zillow, Apartments.com, Facebook Marketplace, etc.)
• Conduct showings and virtual tours
• Screen applicants (credit, income, criminal history, rental references)
• Draft legally compliant leases and explain terms to tenants

2. Tenant Communication and Support

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all tenant issues
• Enforce lease terms diplomatically and consistently
• Manage lease renewals, notices, and move-outs
• Help reduce turnover by maintaining good tenant relations

3. Maintenance and Repairs

• Coordinate routine and emergency repairs using vetted vendors
• Schedule regular inspections to catch issues early
• Handle all repair-related communication and logistics
• Keep detailed maintenance records for compliance and taxes

4. Rent Collection and Accounting

• Collect rent electronically or manually
• Enforce late fees and issue notices when necessary
• Provide monthly and annual financial statements
• Maintain secure records for tax filing and audits

5. Legal Compliance and Risk Management

• Stay up to date on local, state, and federal landlord-tenant laws
• Ensure leases and notices comply with legal standards
• Handle evictions professionally and lawfully
• Manage security deposits in accordance with regulations
• Minimize liability with clear documentation and processes

6. Owner Support and Transparency

• Offer 24/7 online owner portals to track performance, rent rolls, and expenses
• Maintain open lines of communication so you’re always in the loop
• Provide consultation and advice on how to grow your investment

Some companies even offer rent guarantees, eviction protection, or in-house maintenance teams, giving you extra peace of mind while maximizing your returns.

In short, property managers don’t just help; they transform how your rental business operates. They turn reactive chaos into proactive management.

Why Outsourcing Property Management Is a Smart Investment

Hiring a property management company isn’t just about convenience; it’s a strategic business decision that can save you time, reduce risk, and increase long-term profitability. Whether you’re a first-time landlord or managing a growing portfolio, outsourcing allows you to focus on your investments instead of drowning in day-to-day operations.

Here’s how professional property management delivers real value:

1. Save Time and Eliminate Stress

Most landlords didn’t get into real estate to answer midnight maintenance calls or chase late rent. Property managers take over the daily workload so you can:

• Focus on your career or family
• Find and analyze your next investment
• Enjoy peace of mind without being “on call” 24/7

If you own multiple units or live out of state, this time savings becomes even more critical. Delegating to experts removes the emotional and logistical burden of being a hands-on landlord.

2. Improve Tenant Retention and Reduce Turnover

Keeping good tenants in place is key to maintaining stable cash flow. Property managers excel at:

• Responding quickly to maintenance requests
• Enforcing lease terms fairly
• Creating a smooth tenant experience from move-in to move-out

According to a Buildium survey,  most tenants say responsive maintenance and communication are top reasons they renew their lease. Longer lease terms mean fewer vacancies, less wear and tear on your rental property, and fewer marketing costs for you.

3. Get Paid On Time, Every Time

Professional managers use automated rent collection systems that make it easy for tenants to pay on time. They also:

• Enforce late fees and lease terms consistently
• Issue legal notices promptly when payments are missed
• Offer direct deposit and transparent accounting for landlords

This ensures consistent cash flow, a major advantage for anyone relying on rental income to cover mortgages or build wealth.

4. Stay Legally Compliant and Protected

Laws around rental property management can be confusing and costly if you make a mistake. Property managers stay up to date on:

• Local ordinances and landlord-tenant laws
• Federal regulations like the Fair Housing Act and the ADA
• Security deposit handling, lease requirements, and eviction rules

In Oklahoma City, for instance, landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering a rental unit. Miss this detail, and you could face a legal claim, even if you had good intentions.

With a professional manager, you’re protected from lawsuits, fines, and compliance headaches.

5. Streamline Maintenance and Reduce Repair Costs

Most property management companies have relationships with trusted, licensed contractors, often at discounted rates. This means:

• Faster response times for tenants
• Cost savings for you on materials and labor
• Detailed records for tax deductions and property history

They also schedule preventive maintenance and property inspections, helping you avoid expensive emergency repairs down the road.

6. Maximize ROI with Smarter Operations

Good property managers don’t just maintain your asset; they help it perform better. That includes:

• Setting market-accurate rent with dynamic pricing tools
• Reducing vacancy time through professional marketing
• Keeping tenants longer through better service
• Preventing revenue loss from legal or procedural errors

When you combine improved occupancy, consistent rent collection, and lower risk, your net income increases, often more than enough to cover the management fee.

7. Gain Peace of Mind, Especially If You Live Out of State

If you don’t live near your rental property, outsourcing is essential. A property manager acts as your boots on the ground, handling inspections, emergencies, and tenant needs with speed and professionalism.

You stay in control without being overwhelmed. Most companies offer owner portals where you can track income, expenses, lease dates, and maintenance status anytime, from anywhere.

Is Outsourcing Property Management Expensive?

On the surface, hiring a property manager may seem like just another expense, but in reality, it’s often an investment that pays for itself many times over.

Typical Costs of Property Management

Most professional property management companies charge:

• 8%–12% of the monthly rent as a management fee
• One month’s rent as a leasing fee (when placing a new tenant)
• Renewal fees for lease extensions
• Small markups on maintenance or service coordination in some cases

So if your rental property generates $1,500 per month, and you’re paying a 10% management fee, that’s $150/month, or $1,800 per year.

Sounds like a lot? Let’s break down the potential savings and added value:

Expense	Potential Return/Savings
$150/month management fee	+ Reduced vacancy (1 extra month rented) = $1,200 saved/year
$0 lost rent	+ Avoiding one bad tenant or eviction = $3,000 – $5,000 saved
Efficient maintenance	+ Preferred vendor pricing = $500 – $1,000 saved/year
Legal compliance	+ Avoiding one legal mistake or lawsuit = $2,500+ saved

Estimated Annual Value: $5,000+ in savings vs. ~$1,800 in fees.

Who Should Consider Outsourcing Property Management?

Outsourcing isn’t just for overwhelmed or first-time landlords. It’s for anyone who values their time, wants to reduce stress, or aims to run their rental properties like a true business.

You’ll especially benefit from hiring a property manager if:

• You own more than one rental property
• You live far from your rental location
• You have a full-time job or other business to run
• You don’t want to be “on call” 24/7
• You’re not well-versed in landlord-tenant laws
• You’ve experienced problem tenants, legal issues, or costly vacancies
• You want to scale your portfolio without scaling your workload

Even experienced landlords eventually reach a point where they realize: their time is better spent finding the next deal, not fixing toilets or chasing rent.

Outsourcing lets you focus on the big picture, growing wealth, optimizing returns, and enjoying passive income, while professionals handle the daily grind.

How to Choose the Right Property Manager?

Hiring a property manager is a big decision, and not all companies deliver the same level of service. To protect your investment, make sure you choose a partner who is qualified, transparent, and aligned with your goals.

Here’s what to look for when selecting the right property management company:

1. Licensing & Credentials

In Oklahoma, property managers are legally required to hold a real estate license. Be sure they’re properly certified and operating under a licensed brokerage.

2. Local Experience

Look for a team with at least 5 years of experience in your specific market. They should know local rental rates, landlord-tenant laws, and neighborhood trends, especially in areas like Oklahoma City, Edmond, Moore, and other metro areas.

3. Technology & Systems

Modern property management relies on tools that streamline everything. Make sure they offer:

• Online rent collection
• Maintenance tracking systems
• 24/7 owner and tenant portals
• Automated financial reporting

These systems help reduce errors, delays, and frustration for both you and your tenants.

4. Transparency

You should never feel unsure about what you’re paying for. Look for:

• Clear fee structures
• Straightforward contracts
• Detailed monthly statements

Ask for a sample report to see how they track rent, expenses, and maintenance.

5. Strong Reputation

Reputation speaks volumes. Check:

• Google Reviews
• Better Business Bureau (BBB) ratings
• Local landlord forums or Facebook groups
• Referrals from real estate professionals or investors you trust

Pay close attention to how the company responds to both positive and negative feedback.

6. Responsive Communication

Your property manager should be easy to reach and quick to respond. Test this early by calling or emailing with a few questions. If they’re slow before you sign, they’ll likely be slower afterwards.

Pro Tip: Interview at least two or three companies before making a final decision. Ask detailed questions about their leasing process, eviction protocols, maintenance turnaround times, and how they handle tenant disputes.

Choosing the right property manager isn’t just about delegating tasks; it’s about finding a trusted partner who will protect your asset, treat your tenants well, and help grow your portfolio.

Final Thoughts: Work Smarter, Not Harder

So, is property management difficult? Absolutely. Between legal compliance, late-night repairs, and difficult tenants, it’s a job that demands time, patience, and expertise.

That’s why outsourcing property management isn’t a luxury; it’s a smart move. It saves time, reduces stress, improves tenant retention, and helps you build real wealth from your rental property without burning out.

As a property owner or investor, your time is valuable. Instead of being a landlord, be an investor. Real estate is a business. Treat it like one. Partner with a reputable property management company and let the experts handle the headaches while you enjoy the income.

Need Help Managing Your Oklahoma City Rental?

At OKC Home Realty Services, we specialize in helping landlords and investors get the most out of their rental properties. Whether you own one home or a growing portfolio, our local team handles everything, so you don’t have to.

Ready to outsource your rental headaches? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can make property management easier, more profitable, and stress-free.