Choosing whether to self-manage or hire an agent is one of the first decisions landlords face.
Self-Managing
Pros
- Lower costs
- Direct control over tenants and property
Cons
- Time-consuming
- Higher risk of missing compliance obligations
Using an Agent
Pros
- Professional expertise and compliance support
- Hands-off management
Cons
- Fees reduce profit margins
- Less direct control
Which is Best?
The choice depends on your time, knowledge, and property portfolio size. Many landlords start self-managing and switch to agents as portfolios grow.
Conclusion
Both options work, but landlords must be realistic about their capacity.
Download our free landlord checklist to weigh the pros and cons effectively.