Managing Agents

[The Burtons]

We are keen to place our newly renovated house - 3 beds, 3 bathrooms plus pool on QDP - in safe management hands. Do you have any recommendations or experiences to share? Many thanks

[aussie]

I will send you a pm with name and details of who we use.

[bubbles]

the choice of manaing agents in cvo alone is huge. Most are good but there are, as with everything, a few bad ones too. I would suggest strongly that you ask to speak with clients on the books of any agency you consider.
Ensure that your manager can speak portuguese if you cannot yourself, it sounds obvious but not all do and its difficult to manage when you cant communicate!
check clearly who is responsible for what and make it clear what you want them to do. most make their money on taking a percentage of rentals and will try to organise rentals for you. if you want them to simply manage a maid service and welcome pack then perhaps ask a friend overhere to do it for you (for a much smaller fee).
good luck, QDP is a lovely place so im sure you will have no problem with letting.

[tbbr]

Why use a managing agent who takes a percentage of your bookings ?

There are plenty of owner rentals sites out there ( with a reasonable annual fee ), there are many trustworthy ex pat residents who will look after the apartment for you.

You can set it up with your local portuguese bank to pay your bills.

We do all of the above and save an estimated 15-20% of our rental income which would otherwise go to the agent.

We will be moving in a few months to CVO to take over management of our own property and will save even more.

Plus we will be available to help out with others during the busy season.

[widge]

Mike, have sent you a pm.

[blue]

Doesn't QDP have it's own management service?

[bubbles]

QDP does have its own management service but I dont think it leaves the owners with much left at the end of the year.

[The Burtons]

Thank you all for your varied responses. I have quite a few meetings to arrange over half-term!