Frequently Asked Questions

Straightforward answers to the questions Sydney landlords ask us most. If you don't find what you're after, get in touch directly we're happy to talk through your specific situation.

Why Choose Dylan?

What makes Dylan Henry different from other property managers?
The PM-first philosophy. We specialise exclusively in property management no sales division, no competing incentives. Dylan's income comes from managing your property well over the long term, which means his interests are perfectly aligned with yours. You also get direct access to Dylan personally not a call centre or junior staff member with a 24-hour response guarantee on all enquiries.
Could professional management actually increase my rental income?
In most cases, yes. We conduct annual market reviews and adjust rents at lease renewals based on current comparable data. Many landlords we take on have been underrented for 1-2 years without realising it. Sydney rents have risen over 6% year-on-year if your property hasn't been reviewed recently, there's a strong chance you're leaving money on the table. Beyond rent level, faster leasing and lower vacancy also directly improve your annual return.
What's the real cost of self-managing?
Most self-managing landlords spend 10-15 hours a month on their property. That's real time, and it doesn't account for the cost of mistakes a bad tenant placed without proper screening, a compliance issue under the NSW Residential Tenancies Act, or a maintenance problem that compounds because it wasn't caught early. Professional management removes all of that, and for most landlords the fee is more than offset by better rental outcomes.

Rental Income & Returns

How do you maximise my rental income?
We focus on three things: accurate market pricing (so you're not leaving money on the table or sitting vacant), quality tenant selection (so rent is collected consistently and the property is well looked after), and proactive rent reviews at every lease renewal. Sydney's combined asking rents are up over 6% year-on-year we make sure your property keeps pace with the market.
What's included in a free rental appraisal?
A comparable market analysis of recent leases for similar properties in your suburb, an assessment of your property's specific features and condition, a recommended rental price range with rationale, a yield calculation, and practical recommendations on anything that could lift the rent or improve tenant appeal. It's completely free and there's no obligation to engage us.
How often are rental prices reviewed?
We conduct a market review at every lease renewal typically every 12 months. Under NSW law, rent can only be increased once per 12-month period with 60 days' written notice. We base any adjustment on current comparable data and advise on the right approach to maximise income without creating unnecessary vacancy risk.

Tenant Quality & Screening

How do you screen tenants?
Every applicant goes through employment verification, financial stability assessment, tenancy history checks, and detailed reference calls. We don't rush placements the right tenant protects your income and your asset. Our average leasing time is around 40% faster than the Sydney average, and our tenant retention rates are consistently strong. Quality first, speed follows.
What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?
We act immediately contacting the tenant, understanding the situation, and pursuing a resolution. If a payment plan isn't viable, we follow the formal process under the NSW Residential Tenancies Act: breach notices, and if necessary, NCAT proceedings. You're kept informed at every step and we handle all legal coordination. We also advise landlords on appropriate landlord insurance to cover loss of rent scenarios.
How long does it take to find a tenant?
Our average leasing time is consistently around 40% faster than the Sydney market average. Most well-presented properties at the right price point are leased within 2 weeks. We achieve this through professional photography and marketing across Domain and realestate.com.au, thorough pre-advertising preparation, and our network of qualified applicants. We don't cut corners on screening to hit a faster number.

Maintenance & Inspections

How quickly are maintenance issues handled?
Genuine emergencies burst pipes, electrical faults, security issues are attended to within 24 hours. Routine maintenance is scheduled within 5 business days. We have established relationships with vetted tradies across all 7 Sydney regions. We coordinate everything: quotes, approvals, access, and follow-up. Tenants don't contact you they contact us.
How often are properties inspected?
Every 3 months as standard. Each inspection covers the property's condition, maintenance standards, and lease compliance. You receive a detailed report with photos after every visit. If concerns arise between inspections, we assess and act accordingly you're not waiting for the next scheduled date.
Does proactive maintenance actually save money?
Consistently, yes. Regular inspections catch small issues a leaking tap, a gutter that needs clearing before they become expensive problems. Beyond cost, well-maintained properties attract better tenants, hold their rental value, and generate fewer disputes. It's one of the clearest ways good management protects your asset over time.

Legal & Compliance

What are my legal obligations as a landlord in NSW?
The NSW Residential Tenancies Act 2010 covers your core obligations: providing a valid lease, lodging the bond correctly with NSW Fair Trading, maintaining the property in a reasonable state of repair, giving proper notice for inspections and rent increases, and following the correct process for lease terminations and evictions. Non-compliance can result in penalties and NCAT proceedings. We manage all of this as part of your service.
What tax deductions can I claim as a landlord?
Generally deductible expenses include property management fees, maintenance and repairs, council rates, water rates, landlord insurance, interest on your investment loan, advertising costs, and depreciation on eligible assets. We provide detailed monthly statements that categorise all expenses your accountant will have everything they need. We recommend speaking with a qualified accountant for advice specific to your situation.
Do I need landlord insurance?
Yes standard home and contents insurance doesn't cover rental properties adequately. Landlord insurance typically covers loss of rent if a tenant defaults or the property becomes uninhabitable, malicious damage by tenants, and public liability. The specifics vary by policy, so we recommend speaking with an insurance broker to find the right cover for your property.

Fees & Costs

How are your fees structured?
A management fee calculated as a percentage of rent collected, plus a one-time leasing fee when we place a new tenant. Fees vary based on your property type, location, and management requirements we provide tailored quotes rather than a single published rate. There are no hidden charges and no markup on maintenance costs. You'll receive a full fee schedule before we begin.
Are there hidden fees or surprise charges?
No. You'll receive a detailed fee schedule upfront, and every expense in your monthly statement is itemised and explained. The only charges you'll see are the agreed management fee, the leasing fee (once per tenancy placement), and the actual cost of maintenance work which we always get approval on before proceeding.
Do you charge during vacancy periods?
No. Management fees are only charged on rent collected. If your property is vacant, you're not paying us. That's a strong structural incentive for us to lease your property quickly and keep it tenanted.

Switching Agents

How do I switch from my current property manager?
We handle the transition. Once you decide to switch, we coordinate the paperwork, liaise with your outgoing manager, notify your tenant, and take over rent collection. Most transitions are complete within 7-10 business days with no disruption to your tenancy or rent payments. You review your current management agreement for notice periods most require 30 days' written notice.
What if I'm locked into a contract with my current manager?
Check your management agreement for notice periods and any early termination provisions. Most contracts require 30 days' notice. If there are exit fees, weigh these against the cost of staying for many landlords, the improvement in service and rental outcomes makes switching worthwhile. We're happy to talk through your specific situation.
Will my tenant be affected by switching managers?
No. Your tenant stays on the same lease with no disruption. The only change from their perspective is who they pay rent to and who they contact for maintenance. We handle all communication and make the transition as seamless as possible.

Getting Started

How do I get started with Dylan Henry?
Request a free rental appraisal. We'll assess your property, provide a market rental recommendation, explain how we work, and answer any questions. If you'd like to proceed, we handle everything from there whether that's a new tenancy, a transition from your current manager, or taking over an existing tenancy. No obligation on the appraisal.
What information do you need to get started?
Your property address and type, current lease details and tenant information if applicable, and your contact preferences. If you're switching, we'll also need your current management agreement so we can understand the notice requirements. We'll guide you through the rest.
Can I access my property information online?
Yes. We provide a secure online portal with access to your property's performance data, rental income and expenses, maintenance records, inspection reports, and financial statements. You can also contact your property manager directly through the portal. Everything is available 24/7.

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