Instructions: Pick the answer that best describes your situation. Add up your points at the end.
From our experience: Anne-Marie McCormack has been a Florida real estate broker since 1996. At McCormack Realty and Renters Choice Homes, we work with owners based in other US states, Canada and the UK. Many came to us after finding their vacation rentals were not covering their costs, and we helped them transition to long-term rentals.
\nScoring:
- A = 1 point
- B = 2 points
- C = 3 points
- D = 4 points
1. How often do you receive detailed financial reports about your property?
A) Monthly, without fail
B) Most months
C) Occasionally
D) I have to ask or dig for them
2. When there’s a repair or maintenance issue, what happens?
A) I get a full explanation and invoice
B) I’m notified, but not always in detail
C) I just see a charge on my statement
D) I have no idea what they’re charging for
3. How transparent is your manager about vendor pricing and repair costs?
A) Completely transparent – I see original vendor receipts
B) Somewhat transparent – I get rough breakdowns
C) I suspect markups
D) No transparency at all
4. Do you feel confident your manager is working in your best interest?
A) Absolutely
B) Usually
C) Not really
D) I feel like just another number
5. Are you being charged for extras like inspections, phone calls, or paperwork?
A) No – all that’s included
B) Sometimes, but it’s reasonable
C) More than I expected
D) Yes – it’s death by a thousand fees
6. How quickly are vacancies filled?
A) Within 2–4 weeks
B) Within 1–2 months
C) It varies a lot
D) My place has sat empty for too long
7. How responsive is your property manager to your emails or calls?
A) Very – I always hear back promptly
B) Usually within a day or two
C) I have to follow up
D) It feels like I’m being ignored
8. Have you ever felt surprised or blindsided by a charge on your statement?
A) Never
B) Once or twice
C) More than I’d like
D) All the time
9. Would you prefer to pick up the phone and speak to someone locally—someone who actually knows your property?
A) I already can
B) I’d like that option
C) That would be better than what I have now
D) Yes! I’m tired of call centers and robots
10. Overall, how valued do you feel as a client?
A) Like family
B) Like a valued customer
C) Like a paycheck
D) Like a number on a spreadsheet
Score Breakdown:
Total Points: out of 40
- 10–19 points: You’re in good hands.
Your property manager seems to be communicative, transparent, and fair. Keep the relationship strong, and review annually. - 20–29 points: Something’s off.
You may be experiencing some signs of overcharging, poor communication, or disengagement. It might be time for a second opinion—preferably from a family-run firm that picks up the phone. - 30–40 points: Moo-ve on. You’re being milked.
You’re likely overpaying and under-cared for. If your manager treats you like an ATM, it’s time to reconsider. A local expert can save you stress, money, and give your investment the attention it deserves.
READ MORE:
- Are You A Cash Cow In Your Property Managers Portfolio?
- What to Do When Your Property Manager Ignores You
- How to Find a Good Property Manager for Your Rental Property
- How To Find A Good Property Manager in Kissimmee, FL.
- How To Find Good Orlando Property Management
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cash Cow Quiz
Does a high score prove my property manager is overcharging me?
No. The quiz identifies concerns to investigate. Compare the actual charges with your agreement and request supporting records. A score cannot establish misconduct or tell you whether a particular invoice is justified.
What should I ask for when a maintenance charge is unclear?
Request the invoice, description of the work and an explanation of any management or coordination charge. Compare the response with the agreement. Keep the discussion specific to the charge rather than relying on a general impression that costs seem high.
Should I switch companies immediately after taking the quiz?
First review the concerns, the current agreement and your handover options. Ask for clear answers and assess the response. If you decide to change, organize the transfer of records, funds and tenant information carefully.
Does a high score prove my property manager is overcharging me?
No. The quiz identifies concerns to investigate. Compare the actual charges with your agreement and request supporting records. A score cannot establish misconduct or tell you whether a particular invoice is justified.
What should I ask for when a maintenance charge is unclear?
Request the invoice, description of the work and an explanation of any management or coordination charge. Compare the response with the agreement. Keep the discussion specific to the charge rather than relying on a general impression that costs seem high.
Should I switch companies immediately after taking the quiz?
First review the concerns, the current agreement and your handover options. Ask for clear answers and assess the response. If you decide to change, organize the transfer of records, funds and tenant information carefully.
You can also compare our management fees before deciding.
