If you are thinking about hiring a property manager in Washington DC, you are probably wondering what it will cost. Fees in the DC area vary quite a bit, and the price depends on the type of property, the level of service, and the company you choose. Here is a clear guide to help you understand the typical costs and what you get for each service.
Average Monthly Management Fees
Most property managers in DC charge a percentage of the collected rent each month. The typical range is 7 percent to 12 percent.
In most situations:
- A single condo or studio runs around 8 to 10 percent
- A townhouse or small single family home is usually between 9 and 12 percent
- Owners with several units can sometimes negotiate a lower rate
Monthly management fees usually cover rent collection, communication with tenants, maintenance coordination, basic inspections, and handling day to day concerns so you do not have to.
Leasing Fees
When a manager finds you a new tenant, there is usually a leasing fee. In Washington DC, most companies charge one month of rent or a percentage of one month’s rent, usually between 50 and 100 percent.
This fee covers:
- Professional marketing
- Showings
- Screening and background checks
- Lease preparation
- Move in inspection
Since the leasing fee is tied to turnover, long term tenants help keep your overall costs lower.
Lease Renewal Fees
Many companies charge a smaller fee when renewing a lease with an existing tenant. The typical renewal fee ranges from 100 to 300 dollars. This covers updating the lease, confirming information, and preparing any rent adjustments.
Maintenance and Repair Costs
Maintenance costs vary by property, but the management company’s handling fee is usually easy to understand. In DC, some companies include repair coordination in the main fee. Others add a small markup, usually 10 to 12 percent, to cover scheduling, follow up, and communication with vendors.
Ask your manager about:
- Their emergency repair process
- Vendor relationships
- The approval limit for repairs without contacting you
A common limit is 300 to 500 dollars.
Other Possible Fees
Not every company charges these, but you might see:
- Account setup fee
- Inspection fees for detailed interior checks
- Eviction coordination fee
- HOA communication fee
- Administrative fees for special requests
Always request a full fee schedule before signing a contract.
Why Prices Differ
Washington DC has strong tenant protections and detailed local regulations. Companies that specialize in compliance, inspections, and legal requirements may charge a little more. Smaller companies might offer lower fees but fewer services or limited availability.
The most important thing is to compare what is included. The lowest price does not always provide the best value, especially if you want fast communication or full service support.
Final Thoughts
Most rental owners in the Washington DC area pay between 7 percent and 12 percent for ongoing management, plus leasing and renewal fees when needed. A good property manager protects your investment, keeps your property occupied, and takes care of daily tasks so you can focus on other things.
If you want help managing a rental property in Washington DC, Eva Realty offers clear pricing, personalized service, and support designed for local owners. Contact us today to learn how we can help you protect your property and maximize your rental income.