Skip to Content

Differences Between Property Managers and Real Estate Agents

A real estate professional and two clients focus on a laptop.
A common misunderstanding about property managers and real estate agents is that these roles are alike, but a property manager’s role is actually very distinct from a real estate agent’s. While both professions are closely tied to the housing market, there are far more differences than similarities. Understanding these differences can help rental property owners know who to call when professional expertise is required.

Key Differences

A real estate agent is someone who lists and sells properties on behalf of owners, and although some may focus on helping buyers find and purchase investment real estate, their role is fundamentally centered on sales transactions. As market conditions change, a real estate agent’s work may fluctuate along with the housing market. Sometimes real estate agents will help secure tenants, but their involvement with a rental property typically ends once the lease is signed.

Conversely, a property manager offers rental property owners continuous support with property maintenance and repair, rent collection, and tenant screening. The property manager’s role is a contractual role that involves ongoing management services rather than one-time transactions, making them less affected by market downturns. Many property owners find property management beneficial when selling isn’t ideal, as it provides an alternative to selling at a loss.

What Property Managers Do (And Real Estate Agents Don’t)

Beyond the basics, top-rated property managers offer services like tenant screening, explaining lease terms, and maintaining tenant communication. While both real estate agents and property managers may list a rental property, only property managers tend to manage tenant relations long-term, resolve complaints, and handle urgent repairs.

Many property managers also assist rental property owners with tasks like local market analysis, setting rental rates, and increasing a property’s resale value. Some can even help locate and compare potential investment properties, a service that is often exclusive to experienced property managers.

The Value of a Great Property Manager

One of the nation’s top property management companies is Real Property Management. This is because we offer a full range of services that rental property owners and investors need to reach their financial goals and dreams. Most of our clients find that the value of our services far exceeds the cost because our experts will help you set an accurate rental rate and keep costs down by using our preferred home services vendors. These are not things that you will be able to find just anywhere.

To learn more about Real Property Management Engage’s services in Plano and surrounding areas, contact us online or call 214-257-0101 today!

We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.

The Neighborly Done Right Promise

The Neighborly Done Right Promise ® delivered by Real Property Management, a proud Neighborly company

When it comes to finding the right property manager for your investment property, you want to know that they stand behind their work and get the job done right – the first time. At Real Property Management we have the expertise, technology, and systems to manage your property the right way. We work hard to optimize your return on investment while preserving your asset and giving you peace of mind. Our highly trained and skilled team works hard so you can be sure your property's management will be Done Right.

Canada excluded. Services performed by independently owned and operated franchises.

See Full Details