Owning an investment property is one of the most rewarding ways to build wealth, but it only works if your asset is managed with care and expertise. A great Property Manager should protect your property, maximise your returns, and provide you with peace of mind. If you’re not getting that, it may be time to reconsider.

Here are 5 clear signs it might be time to change your Property Manager:

1. Poor Communication

Are you always chasing updates?

If weeks go by without hearing from your Property Manager, or if your emails and calls are rarely returned, that’s a red flag. You deserve proactive communication, not silence. This lack of responsiveness can mask deeper operational problems and lead to missed opportunities or risk exposure. Good property management is proactive, not passive. Routine inspections, rent reviews, legislative updates, and tenant feedback should be communicated before you ask, not after.

2. High Vacancy Rates

An experienced Property Manager knows how to minimise vacancy and secure quality tenants quickly.

If your property is sitting empty for longer than the local average, it could be costing you thousands unnecessarily. Extended vacancy periods or low rental returns are clear signals your investment isn’t being optimised. A well-managed property in today’s market—especially in high-demand regions like Newcastle—should be leased efficiently and at competitive market value. If your rent hasn’t been reviewed in 12 months, or your property sat vacant for more than two weeks without a solid explanation, it’s time to ask serious questions.

3. Lack of Market and Industry Knowledge

The Newcastle rental market is constantly changing. Your Property Manager should be across market shifts, rental demand, and pricing trends. If they aren’t offering you advice on adjusting rent or positioning your property, you may be missing opportunities. With changes to Rental laws in NSW it is important that you have a team who are educated on these changes and keeping you informed of how the amendments to the tenancy laws could impact you. Planning for the future taking these changes into consideration are important to ensure you hold onto great tenants and your property is compliant.

4. Maintenance Issues Ignored

Delays in handling repairs or poor follow-up with trades can cause long-term damage to your property and frustration for tenants. A great manager keeps your property compliant, well maintained, and your tenants satisfied. Maintenance delays, compliance breaches, or problematic tenant experiences all point to a breakdown in operational control. Over time, this can impact not only cash flow, but asset condition and tenant retention.

5. Feeling Like Just a Number

Property Management is about relationships. If you feel like your investment isn’t a priority or that you’re treated as “just another property,” you’re not getting the service you deserve. Your Property Manager should be on your team, working toward your investment goals whether you are holding onto the family home, looking to grow your investment portfolio or a ‘Rentvestor’ buying where you can afford to live where you choose, you should both be working together ensuring decisions made are moving aligned with your goals.

Ready for a Fresh Approach?

At MOVABLE, we pride ourselves on clear communication, proactive leasing, and genuine care for both landlords and tenants. If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it may be time to make the move. If you make the move this September you may be eligible for our $500 giftcard promotion. Find out more here.

Catherine Russell | Business Development | 0488 775 544

Catherine has over 14 years experience in managing property investments.

Reach out to Catherine today for expert advice and support in managing your investment property.