Why mixed of Positive and Negative Reviews is a Good Sign in a Property Management Company.
In today’s world, online reviews play a huge role in choosing the right services—whether it’s finding a new restaurant, hiring a plumber, or selecting a property management company. Naturally, as a property owner, you may be drawn to a management company with a perfect 5-star rating on Yelp or Google. But before you sign that contract, take a step back. Is a spotless record really a good thing?
The truth is, a property management company with a mix of positive and negative reviews is often a better choice than one with only glowing testimonials. Here’s why:
1. Authenticity Matters—And Perfect Ratings Are Rarely Real
Let’s be honest: No business is perfect. If a company has nothing but five-star reviews, there’s a good chance they are either filtering out negative feedback, paying for fake reviews, or prioritizing public perception over real results. A company with a variety of reviews, both good and bad, is more likely to be transparent and trustworthy.
2. Property Management Isn’t a Popularity Contest
A great property manager enforces lease agreements, holds tenants accountable, and makes difficult decisions—sometimes upsetting tenants in the process. Negative reviews from residents who were evicted for non-payment or held responsible for property damage don’t mean a management company is bad; it means they’re doing their job.
3. Balanced Reviews Show They Work for You, Not Just Yelp
Some companies bend over backward to keep reviews positive, even if it means waiving late fees, ignoring lease violations, or letting tenants slide on maintenance responsibilities. That’s not good property management—it’s damage control. A company with mixed reviews is likely enforcing the lease, protecting your investment, and making fair (but sometimes unpopular) decisions.
4. Owners and Tenants Have Different Perspectives
A company that’s highly rated by property owners but receives mixed reviews from tenants is often a great sign. Why? Because their priority is your property—not making life easier for difficult tenants. While great tenant relationships are important, a management company should never compromise your investment just to avoid a bad review.
5. Honest Reviews Show a Willingness to Improve
No company is perfect, but a good one learns from feedback. Look at how a property management company responds to criticism. Are they defensive, or do they address concerns professionally? A company that engages with negative reviews and provides solutions is one that values growth and accountability.
The Bottom Line
When choosing a property management company, don’t be fooled by a perfect Yelp score. A company with a mix of positive and negative reviews likely means they are doing their job—enforcing contracts, maintaining properties, and protecting your bottom line. Instead of looking for flawless ratings, focus on finding a team that prioritizes your investment over online popularity.
Thinking about hiring a property manager? Let’s talk about what truly matters—protecting and growing your rental investment.
