Q: What systems do you have for managing properties? A: We run a comprehensive computerised management system which tracks landlords, properties, tenants, rents, property inspections etc. This is regularly updated by our provider to ensure that it remains an effective system. It also generates statements, diary notes and tracks maintenance. In conjunction with this internet banking is used to check rent payments and a direct credit system is used to pay landlords. This enables us to effectively manage your properties with accuracy and efficiency.
Q: Do you monitor maintenance and including proactive maintenance? A: Our maintenance programme is maintaining your investment. We believe that maintenance is as important to your home as insurance is. This is why we have built in this special aspect to our business. We provide four free minor maintenance visits per year - which means maintenance is undertaken promptly to ensure that the property is maintained and any planned maintenance is recorded.
Q: Planned Maintenance/ Maintenance fund A: Every year we recommend you should set aside at least ½% of the value of your property to spend on planned maintenance. Eg. If your property is worth $300,000 – you should plan to spend $1,500 on planned maintenance. If you are not required to spend the full amount in one year, it should be put aside in an account for the following year. A maintenance fund will enable you to undertake maintenance every year so your property remains a desirable rental property for tenants and a well maintained investment. This also means maintenance is undertaken when needed, rather than putting it off until you have the funds.
Q: Do you have any restriction on the type of properties you manage? A: Yes we do have restrictions on the types of properties that we manage. We pride ourselves on having properties that are well maintained. This is why we offer an in-house maintenance aspect to our customers. We believe that well maintained properties - attract and retain a better quality of tenant, reduces complaints and retains the value of your property.
Q: What process do you use for finding tenants and what checks are undertaken? A: When required to find tenants we may have someone suitable on our books otherwise we will place an advert on Trade me and on our website. along with newspapers. If the property is vacant we have a To Let sign that we can put on the property. Screening is undertaken over the phone before arranging to meet prospective tenants at the property. Interested prospective tenants are required to complete an application form and provide references etc. Once at the office, we undertake reference checks and a Baynet credit check.
Q: What is your fee structure, including base fee and additional charges? A:
Our fee structure is 8% + GST of rent received. For this fee you are provided with the complete HandsOn package which includes the maintenance program. Additional charges are:
$100 advertising costs when the property becomes available for rent - this covers flyers, our website, To Let signs as well as Baynet credit checks. Newspaper advertising and Trade Me listings if required are charged at cost.
A commission of 7.5% +GST on the costs of repairs undertaken by any tradesperson arranged or supervised by HandsOn
$15.00 (inc GST) mileage fee for site visits for inspections and maintenance.
Fees and charges are subject to review and change as required.
Q: What areas do you cover? A: We cover the wider Wellington region. As we are always expanding - contact us to discuss the location of your property. Through our growth and success, we have decided to offer our services to other property investors around the country through our franchises, with our first franchsee starting in June 2005.
