Switching to me
Switching to Redfern Realty
A lot of landlords stay with an agent they're not happy with because they assume switching is complicated. It isn't. Here's exactly what's involved.
Three steps
What switching looks like
Step 1: Check your agreement and sign with me
Look at the termination clause in your current management agreement, or I'll review it with you. Then you sign a new management agreement with me.
Step 2: I send the notice and collect the file
I send written notice to your current agent and request the handover file: lease, tenant details, bond information, inspection reports, maintenance history and keys.
Step 3: I take over from the agreed date
Your tenant is told in writing who to pay and who to call. Rent and bond details are transferred, and from then on you deal with me.
The part that surprises most landlords
Your tenant's lease doesn't change
Your tenant's lease is a Residential Tenancy Agreement between you and your tenant. Your relationship with your property manager is a completely separate document, the management agreement. Switching managers doesn't touch the lease at all.
That means you don't need to wait for the lease to end, and you don't need your tenant's permission. All that changes is who they pay rent to and who they call when something needs fixing.
Notice and cost
Most WA management agreements sit somewhere between 28 and 90 days' notice, and the notice must be in writing. For most landlords, switching costs nothing beyond the notice period. Exit fees usually only apply inside a fixed exclusive management term, or if the property is being advertised and the agent has already spent money on marketing.
This is general information only and doesn't replace legal advice. Always check your own management agreement for the exact terms.
Why landlords switch
It's rarely dramatic
It's slow communication, a rent review that never happened, a maintenance issue that dragged on for weeks, or never getting the same person on the phone twice. None of those are emergencies on their own, but they add up. If any of that sounds familiar, you don't have to just live with it.
Switching questions
Can I switch property managers in the middle of a lease?
Yes. Your tenant's lease and your management agreement are two separate documents. Switching managers doesn't touch the lease, so your tenant stays on exactly the same terms and you don't need their permission. All that changes is who they pay rent to and who they call when something needs fixing.
How much notice do I need to give my current agent?
It depends on the termination clause in your management agreement. Most WA agreements sit somewhere between 28 and 90 days, and the notice needs to be in writing. Once you've signed with me, I'll send the notice to your current agent for you and handle the handover from there. Read how switching works.
Does it cost anything to switch?
For most landlords, switching costs nothing beyond the notice period. Exit fees usually only apply if you're still inside a fixed exclusive management term, or if your property is being advertised and the agent has already spent money on marketing. If you're unsure, I'm happy to look over your agreement with you.
What happens to my bond and records when I switch?
Your previous agent hands over the file: the lease, tenant details, bond information, inspection reports, maintenance history and keys. Rent and bond details are transferred, your tenant is told in writing who to contact, and I take over from the agreed date.
ready to switch?
Tell me about your property. I'll take an honest look at your current set-up, and if you decide to switch, I'll handle the rest.
Or email me at pip@redfernrealty.com.au