Quick Answer

A professional property manager in Sydney's Hills District handles tenant sourcing and screening, lease preparation, rent collection, routine inspections, maintenance coordination and landlord compliance. Management fees typically range from 5–8% of weekly rent plus GST, plus letting fees. Individual agency fees and services vary — always compare and review agreements carefully.

What a property manager does

Core responsibilities include: advertising and conducting inspections; tenant screening and selection; preparing and managing leases under NSW Residential Tenancies legislation; collecting rent and managing arrears; routine inspections (typically 3–6 months); coordinating maintenance; managing end of tenancy, bond claims and tribunal proceedings where necessary.

Property management fees

Typical structures in the Hills District: management fee (5–8% of weekly rent + GST); letting/leasing fee (1–2 weeks rent + GST when a new tenant is placed); lease renewal fee (0.5–1 week rent + GST); advertising costs; routine inspection fees. Always read the Property Management Agreement carefully and understand all fees before signing. Figures are indicative only.

Tenant selection

A poorly selected tenant can cause significant problems. A professional manager will: conduct thorough reference and rental history checks; check national tenancy databases; verify identity and income; assess suitability. NSW Residential Tenancies legislation sets rules about tenant selection — a professional manager ensures compliance.

Landlord obligations in NSW

NSW landlords have significant legal obligations under the Residential Tenancies Act 2010 including: providing the property in reasonable repair; maintaining it throughout the tenancy; complying with smoke alarm legislation; meeting minimum rental standards; following correct procedures for rent increases, access and inspections. A property manager handles these obligations. For specific legal requirements, consult NSW Fair Trading or a solicitor.

Landlord insurance

Landlord insurance is strongly recommended and distinct from standard home insurance. It can cover loss of rent, tenant damage beyond the bond, liability claims and other landlord-specific risks. Consult an insurance broker for advice on appropriate cover. This is general information only — not insurance advice.

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Frequently asked questions

Look for: local knowledge of the Hills District rental market; transparent and itemised fee structure; clear communication processes; experience handling NSW residential tenancy compliance; good reviews from other landlords. Always interview multiple agents and compare management agreements before signing.
Reviewed by Chris Brown, ACL 384704 · 11 February 2026
Yes, self-management is legal in NSW but requires knowledge of residential tenancy legislation, time for tenant management, and willingness to handle maintenance and emergencies. Many investors find professional management cost-effective given the complexity involved. Individual preferences vary.
Reviewed by Chris Brown, ACL 384704 · 11 February 2026
NSW law allows a maximum of four routine inspections per 12 months with minimum 7 days written notice to the tenant. Move-in and move-out inspections are separate. Confirm your manager's inspection schedule in the management agreement.
Reviewed by Chris Brown, ACL 384704 · 11 February 2026
About this article

Written and reviewed by Chris Brown, CEO & Founder of New Vision Financial Services. Authorised Credit Representative of Finsure Finance and Insurance Pty Ltd (ACL 384704). Published 11 February 2026. General information only — not financial, legal or taxation advice. Individual circumstances vary. Seek independent advice before making financial decisions.