Are you managing your own rental property and wondering, “Is this still worth it?” Or maybe you're preparing to rent out your first unit and torn between handling it yourself or hiring a property manager?
This blog will help you weigh the true costs and benefits of both DIY and professional property management so you can make an informed decision that fits your time, gosals, and stress level.
Option 1: DIY Property Management – Control, But at What Cost?
Pros:
•You keep more of the rent income.
You don’t pay a management fee, which usually ranges from 8–12% of monthly rent.
•Full control.
You choose your tenants, approve all repairs, and personally handle all decisions.
Cons:
•Time-consuming.
From late-night maintenance calls to chasing late rent, expect to spend 15–20 hours/month per property.
•Steep learning curve.
Landlord-tenant laws in Louisiana are changing. You’re legally responsible for knowing the latest rules on evictions, leases, and habitability.
•You’re the repairman, accountant, and leasing agent.
Unless you outsource each role separately, you’ll need to juggle everything—from plumbing issues in Slidell to lease renewals in Covington.
Example:
A DIY landlord in Hammond managing 3 properties reported saving $500/month in fees but spent at least 12 hours/week handling repairs, tenant issues, and paperwork. After a legal issue with a security deposit, they ended up paying $1,200 in fines due to an honest mistake in state law compliance.
Option 2: Professional Property Management – Hands-Free Peace of Mind
Pros:
•Everything is done for you.
Property managers handle marketing, tenant screening, rent collection, inspections, maintenance, and evictions.
•Stay legally compliant.
Professionals stay current on Louisiana rental laws so you avoid costly mistakes.
•Time back in your life.
You can focus on your career, family, or growing your investment portfolio.
Cons:
•There’s a fee.
Typically 8–12% of monthly rent plus occasional leasing or maintenance charges.
Example:
A landlord in Metairie with 5 units hired Rent Easy Nola to manage their portfolio. Though they paid a management fee, they reduced tenant turnover by 30%, avoided two potential legal disputes, and increased their net rental income by 15% over 12 months through better pricing and faster tenant placements.
📊 Side-by-Side Comparison
FeatureDIY ManagementProfessional Management
Monthly Cost$0 in fees8–12% of monthly rent
Time Investment15–20 hours/month1–2 hours/month
Legal ExpertiseYou’re responsibleIncluded
Tenant ScreeningSelf-managedProfessional systems
MaintenanceDIY or hire contractorsManaged by pros
Stress LevelHighLow
Final Thought: What’s Right for You?
If you enjoy being hands-on, have the time to spare, and know the laws, DIY might work—especially with one or two properties. But if you're juggling multiple responsibilities, value your time, or simply want things done right, a professional property manager will likely save you money, time, and headaches in the long run.
At Rent Easy Nola, we help landlords across New Orleans, Covington, Mandeville, Hammond, Metairie, and beyond make the most of their rental properties—without the stress.
📞 Call +1 985-710-3356
📧 info@renteasynola.com
🌐 www.renteasynola.com
Ready to stop managing your rental—and start enjoying it? Let’s talk.