I have managed 2 of my properties on my own and found tenants through word of mouth, friends and neighbours. Would have saved me thousands in fees and even more in maintenance and repairs. I have always given tenants the option of calling a trade person for repair straight away or let them wait for me when i'm free. Most the time it's a very simple fix and doesn't require a $250 call out! Other times when i'm busy we have used a local maintenance man that charges $30/hour. Much cheaper than a plumber for simple repairs like heating ducts and cracked roof tiles.
Everyone told me not to do this however my mate the realestate agent said he has no more power than me to evict someone. All he can do is look at the tenants history on a register to make sure they haven't been black listed.
