Deciding how to run your rental property is one of the first big decisions you’ll make as a landlord – and could be one that you come back to as things change or your portfolio builds.
Do you take the reins yourself, or hand the day-to-day work to a professional letting agent?
While self-management can look appealing, especially when you’re keeping an eye on costs, professional property management often delivers value that isn’t always obvious until you experience it.
We’ll break down the key differences, weigh up the pros and cons of each, and help you decide which approach suits your time, goals and lifestyle.
What’s the Difference?
Self-management means you handle everything yourself: advertising the property, finding and referencing tenants, collecting rent, managing repairs, staying on top of legislation, and dealing with issues as they arise.
Property management, on the other hand, involves appointing a professional letting agent to take care of the day-to-day running of your property for a monthly fee (typically up to 15% of the rent). This can range from tenant communication to full legal compliance and maintenance coordination.
The Case for Self-Management
Pros of Managing Your Own Property
Lower upfront costs
The biggest appeal of self-management is saving on management fees. For landlords with tight margins, this can feel like a sensible way to maximise income.
Complete control
You deal directly with your tenants and make every day-to-day decision.
Hands-on insight
As you’re managing all viewings, tenant queries, maintenance and issues, you’ll have a very clear picture of the property’s condition and performance.
Cons of Self-Management
Time-intensive
From viewings and paperwork to chasing late rent and organising repairs, self-management can quickly feel like a second job – particularly during tenant changeovers.
Legal risk
UK landlord legislation is complex and constantly evolving. Errors around deposit protection, safety certificates, Right to Rent checks, or eviction procedures can be costly.
24/7 responsibility
Boiler breakdowns don’t wait for business hours. As a self-managing landlord, you’re always on call.
Emotional strain
Dealing with difficult conversations, rent arrears, or disputes is stressful – especially when it’s your own investment on the line.
The Case for Professional Property Management
Pros of Using a Letting Agent
Expertise and compliance
A professional property manager stays on top of legislation so you don’t have to. From Gas Safety to EPCs and licensing requirements, compliance is handled correctly and on time.
Time and stress savings
Your agent becomes the first point of contact for tenants, contractors, and emergencies – freeing you to focus on work, family, or growing your portfolio.
Thorough tenant selection
Experienced agents use robust referencing processes and extensive tenant databases, reducing the risk of costly tenant issues.
Maintenance handled properly
Established relationships with trusted contractors mean issues are dealt with quickly, cost-effectively, and to a professional standard.
Consistency and distance
If you don’t live near your property – or simply want a more hands-off investment – professional management provides peace of mind.
A Quick Note for Newcastle Landlords
If you’re letting property in Newcastle upon Tyne, local knowledge matters. A managing agent with boots on the ground understands local rental demand, pricing, and tenant expectations – something that’s difficult to replicate remotely.
A Smarter Way to Try Property Management
For landlords who are unsure, some managing agents now offer low-risk ways to test professional management.
At Mansons, for example, landlords can benefit from free property management for the first six months*, alongside a 12-month rent guarantee and full legal protection – making it easier to experience the benefits without immediate cost pressure.
Your Newcastle Property ManagerWhich Option Is Right for You?
You may lean towards self-management if:
- You have plenty of time and enjoy hands-on involvement
- Your property is close by
- You’re confident with legal requirements
- You’re prepared to handle emergencies personally
Property management is often the better choice if:
- You’re a new landlord
- You have limited time or live away from the property
- You want reduced risk and less stress
- You’re planning to grow your portfolio
- You value predictable income and professional oversight
Many established landlords also reassess their approach over time. What worked for one property may not scale well to three or four.
Why Choosing a Local Managing Agent Matters
If you decide to use property management, choosing a local agent can make a real difference. Local property managers understand area-specific rental demand, licensing requirements, and pricing nuances that national or remote agents often miss.
In a city like Newcastle, that local insight – covering everything from student lets and HMOs to neighbourhood-level demand – can help reduce voids, ensure compliance, and keep your rental income on track.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Value, Not Just Cost
Professional property management isn’t just about convenience – it’s about protecting your asset, your income, and your time.
For Newcastle landlords looking for a fully managed, compliant, and stress-free solution, our property management service offers:
- Everything from tenant sourcing and maintenance to legal compliance and tax reporting
- A 12-month rent guarantee
- An average void period of just seven days
Build a sustainable, profitable investment with our fully managed property service here.
