Frequently Asked Questions
What services do you provide?
We provide full-service property management for residential and commercial properties. Our services include:
- Resident screening and leasing
- Rent collection and bill payment
- Repairs, maintenance, and tenant improvements
- Financial reporting and accounting
- Lease enforcement and compliance
- Assistance with acquisition, sale, or 1031 exchange
Our approach is hands-on and tailored—every property and owner has different goals, and we structure our services accordingly.
What do you charge?
Our management fees vary based on property type, unit mix, income, and scope of services. General ranges are:
- Residential: 8–10% of monthly rent
- Commercial: 5–8% of collected income
Leasing fees apply upon tenant turnover:
- Residential: $350 per placement
- Commercial: 6% of lease value
Unlike many firms, we do not mark up routine maintenance—a meaningful cost savings over time. Most management expenses are also tax-deductible (consult your tax advisor).
How do you screen residents?
We use a comprehensive, technology-driven screening process that includes:
- Credit and financial review
- Eviction and public records search
- Employment and income verification
- Rental history and landlord references
When appropriate, we may require additional security deposits or a qualified guarantor to mitigate risk.
How do you find qualified residents?
We focus on three key drivers: presentation, pricing, and promotion.
- Presentation: Clean, well-maintained, and professionally marketed properties
- Pricing: Data-driven rent analysis based on current market conditions
- Promotion: Broad exposure across Zillow, Trulia, our website, and 30+ listing platforms, plus targeted local marketing & social media
We adjust strategy as needed to minimize vacancy and secure strong tenants quickly.
How do you handle security deposits?
Security deposits are typically equal to one month’s rent but may vary based on application strength and owner approval (within legal limits).
- Held in a compliant trust account
-
Returned within:
- 21 days (residential)
- 14-30 days (commercial)
- Less any lawful deductions for damages or unpaid rent
Do you perform property inspections?
Yes. We conduct inspections at key points:
- Initial onboarding inspection with photos
- Documented move-in condition report with photos
- Periodic exterior inspections
- Interior smoke & carbon monoxide detector inspections (as permitted by law)
- Detailed pre-move out & after move out inspections with photos
This documentation protects both owner and resident and supports proper deposit reconciliation.
How do you handle maintenance?
We take a proactive approach to maintenance to reduce long-term costs and protect your asset.
- Established network of trusted, licensed vendors
- Competitive pricing with no markup on routine repairs
- Owner-preferred vendors welcome
- Oversight of larger projects with bid coordination (additional fee may apply)
How are after-hours emergencies handled?
Residents have access to a 24/7 emergency response system.
- Calls are screened for urgency
- Non-emergencies are logged for next business day
- Urgent issues are escalated immediately
- We coordinate vendors and, when possible, help tenants mitigate damage before dispatch
This balances responsiveness with cost control.
How do you determine rental pricing?
We use real-time market data, comparable listings, and internal analytics to set competitive rental rates based on:
- Location and property type
- Size, condition, and amenities
- Current supply and demand
Pricing correctly from the start reduces vacancy and maximizes annual returns.
Can tenants pay rent online?
Yes. Tenants have access to a secure online portal where they can:
- Pay rent electronically
- Set up payment plans with our 3rd party partner when needed to avoid late fees
- Set up automatic payments
- Submit maintenance requests
- Access account history
This improves on-time payments and simplifies management for both tenants and owners.
What financial reporting do you provide?
We use AppFolio property management software to deliver transparent, accurate reporting.
- Monthly financial statements
- Income and expense tracking
- Owner distributions via direct deposit
- Year-end reporting (including 1099s)
Distributions are typically processed after funds clear, no later than the 25th of each month.
Are property management fees tax-deductible?
In most cases, yes—management fees and operating expenses are deductible for income-producing properties. We recommend confirming specifics with your CPA or tax advisor.
How do you ensure legal compliance and reduce liability?
We strictly adhere to all Fair Housing laws and industry regulations.
- Standardized, compliant screening processes
- Ongoing legal education and policy updates
- Established relationship with Kimball, Tirey & St. John LLP for legal guidance and annual lease reviews
While no firm can eliminate risk entirely, our systems are designed to significantly reduce exposure.
What is backup withholding for out-of-state owners?
If you are a non-California resident, the California Franchise Tax Board (FTB) requires:
- 7% withholding on gross rents (after the first $1,500 annually)
We handle withholding and quarterly remittance on your behalf. You will receive a 1099 at year-end.
Can withholding be waived?
Yes. You may apply for a waiver using FTB Form 588.
- Approval must come directly from the FTB
- Withholding continues until approval is received
We’re happy to guide you through the process.
Why choose Parker Properties?
We prioritize quality over volume. Many firms grow by adding doors—often at the expense of service. We intentionally limit our portfolio to ensure:
- Faster response times
- Better tenant placement
- Stronger property oversight
- More personalized service
Our goal is simple: protect your investment, maximize returns, and eliminate the day-to-day burden of ownership.
With Parker Properties managing your real estate investments, you can sit back and enjoy normal life, take vacations, enjoy family functions and all that life brings you without your rental property headaches and hassles.
We hope to work with you soon!