The OMC Guide to Choosing a Managing Agent, October 2023.

Selecting the ideal managing agent for your Owners’ Management Company (OMC) can be a daunting task. At Owen Reilly, we understand the importance of this decision, and we are here to guide you through the process. As an experienced agent, we will walk you through the key considerations when choosing a managing agent for your OMC.

Understanding the Role of a Managing Agent

Before we dive into the selection process, let’s clarify the role of a managing agent within an OMC. A managing agent takes on the crucial responsibilities of overseeing day-to-day operations, financial management, maintenance, and overall administration of the property. They serve as a vital bridge between property owners and the OMC, ensuring the smooth running of the property. Therefore, it’s imperative for OMCs to choose a competent and trustworthy managing agent.

Check for Proper Licensing

First and foremost, when engaging with potential managing agents, you need to confirm that they are properly licensed. In Ireland, any company offering property services must be licensed by the Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA). This requirement extends to property managers within those companies. Each licensed company will have a unique six-digit licence number. Furthermore, every staff member providing property services should have their corresponding licence number, comprised of the six-digit company number followed by their own unique six-digit personal number.

The type of licence required for managing agents is Category D, which applies to property management services. If you’re uncomfortable asking an agent for their licence number, you can consult the PSRA website to verify their credentials.

Define Your Service Level and Requirements

Whether you are switching agents or engaging one for the first time, it’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your desired service level and your development’s specific needs. Every OMC is unique, with distinct requirements based on factors like development size, property type, existing issues, and budget constraints.

Having a well-defined outline of the services you need, and the level of service expected is essential. This information will not only help you assess managing agents but also ensure that your expectations are effectively communicated, guaranteeing your OMC’s needs are met.

Begin Discussions with Multiple Agents

With a clear understanding of your service level requirements, you can start engaging with potential agents. It is advisable to approach multiple agents during your search. While recommendations or previous experiences can be a good starting point, it is essential to ensure that the service provided aligns with your OMC’s needs.

Your chosen agent will likely request specific information from you, such as service charge budgets, Annual General Meeting (AGM) minutes, and annual reports. Providing this information allows the agent to provide accurate cost estimates and gain insights into any existing issues.

Assess Communication and Experience

Strong communication is the cornerstone of a harmonious relationship between the managing agent, the OMC, and property owners.  You should assess the agents’ communication skills, responsiveness, and transparency during your interactions. Effective communication can prevent misunderstandings and conflicts in the future.

When evaluating potential managing agents, prioritise their experience and track record. Look for agents with a history of successfully managing properties similar to yours. Don’t hesitate to seek references and recommendations from other OMCs or property owners they have worked with previously.

Compare Proposals and Ask Questions

Review the proposals provided by different agents, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Ensure that the proposals address your specific needs and requirements. Clarify any doubts you may have before moving to the decision stage.

If your development faces unique challenges, consider engaging an agent with experience in dealing with similar issues in the past.

Evaluate Costs and Services

At this stage, you’ll have received proposals and possibly identified the agent you want to engage. Like any other service, ensure that you are getting value for your money. Verify that the service level you require is covered in the fee structure, and make sure it is clear who your day-to-day contacts will be.

Agree on a Start Date and Formalise the Engagement

Once you have selected your managing agent, you should agree on a provisional start date. The agent will issue a letter of engagement before or within seven days of commencing work. This letter serves as the contract between you and the managing agent, outlining all relevant details.

If you are changing agents, prepare for the transition process, which we will cover in our next informative piece on “How to Change Your Managing Agent.”

Summary

Selecting a managing agent for your OMC is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success and satisfaction of property owners within your development. By considering the factors outlined in this guide and conducting thorough due diligence, you can make an informed choice that ensures the smooth operation and enhancement of your property’s value. A competent and dedicated managing agent is an invaluable asset to your OMC and its long-term success.

We hope you found this article informative. If you have any questions or would like to discuss our services as your managing agent, please feel free to get in touch with us at propertymanagement@owenreilly.ie. We are here to assist you every step of the way and our goal is to make developments better places to live.

You can see more about our block management services here.