Hiring a property manager is not only about fees. It is about handing someone the keys, the lease history, and the day-to-day relationship with residents. A short checklist up front saves weeks of back-and-forth later.
Documents to gather
- Current lease, addenda, and any notices already served
- Security deposit amount, where it is held, and accounting to date
- Vendor list (plumbing, HVAC, landscaping, locksmith) with account numbers if any
- HOA rules, rental restrictions, and contact info
- Insurance declarations (property and liability) and preferred claim contacts
- Keys, fobs, garage remotes, alarm codes, and mailbox keys
- Warranty info for appliances, roof, HVAC, and water heater
Condition and photos
Walk the property with a phone camera. Note deferred maintenance, safety items, and anything a new resident would reasonably expect to work on day one. California habitability expectations are not optional — roofs that leak, heat that fails, and unsafe stairs become urgent management issues.
Money and decision rules
- What monthly rent target is realistic for this unit and market? (Ask for process — not a guarantee.)
- What maintenance spend can the manager approve without a call?
- How do you want owner statements delivered?
- Is the home vacant, occupied, or mid-notice?
Fair housing and screening expectations
Professional management screens consistently under fair housing rules. Owners should expect written criteria applied the same way to every applicant — not informal “vibes” or protected-class shortcuts. Movved will not advertise or screen in a way that creates barriers based on race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, national origin, or other protected classes under federal or California law.
What “People First” means in practice
Clear communication with owners and residents. Portal-based rent and maintenance where possible (we use DoorLoop). Licensed oversight under CA DRE #01343492. No rent, occupancy, or timeline promises — proposals describe process and fees, not outcomes.
Ready to talk through your property? Share the address, unit count, and whether it is vacant or occupied. We’ll discuss whether Movved is a fit.
Talk about your California rental
Share the address and occupancy status. We’ll discuss process and fit — no rent promises.
Adapted for California property management from Ready to Go Newsletters educational content (getreadynewsletters.com / readytogonewsletters.com) — the same RTG source used on andresmorales.com. Rewritten in Movved’s voice for owners and renters; not a verbatim reprint and not sales-only marketing copy. Educational only — not legal advice. Your lease and California law control.
This article is general information for educational purposes, not legal, tax, or financial advice. Landlord-tenant rules vary and change. Consult a qualified California real estate attorney or housing counselor for your situation. Movved does not guarantee rents, occupancy, or outcomes. CA DRE #01343492.