Propertyscouts
Base fee: 7.5%–8.5% + GST
Tenant-sourcing fee: One week’s rent + GST
Inspections: $0–$59
Propertyscouts is a national franchise network with 24 branches.
The company began franchising in Auckland in 2015 and has expanded steadily since then.
But because each branch is independently owned and operated, the experience can vary depending on which office you use.
I’ve had positive experiences with the Auckland Metro branch.
One of Propertyscouts’ main drawcards is its rental guarantee. If a tenant stops paying rent, the guarantee can cover up to four weeks of missed payments.
However, it appears to be more limited than some of the others on this list. It isn’t clear whether it covers vacancy when Propertyscouts is unable to find a tenant.
The fee structure can also vary between branches. Some charge separately for inspections or finding a new tenant, while others may offer a more inclusive package.
That flexibility can be a benefit, but it also means landlords need to look closely at exactly what is included in their local branch’s quote.
Propertyscouts may suit investors who want a recognisable national brand, while still having some flexibility over their management package.
