Q: Can I manage a rental property I own if I reside outside of Hawaii?

My understanding is that you could try to manage your property in

Hawaii

by yourself, from another state. I’m not aware of any Hawaii laws that require property owners to reside in Hawaii to manage rental properties that they own. To be sure I’d double check with the

Hawaii Real Estate Branch

.

However, whether self-managing from another state is a wise decision is a different question. It is very difficult to manage property if you aren’t local, or even in a different time zone.

From screening tenants, to maintaining the property, to monthly drive-by inspections, to handling emergency repair calls at 3 a.m., to evicting tenants, managing rental property is generally easier if you live within a short driving distance.

Want to Find a Local Property Manager?

There are many reputable

property managers in Hawaii

and I’d definitely consider hiring a professional property manager rather than being an absentee landlord. Before hiring a property manager check references, check in with the Better Business Bureau, and confirm that any required

real estate licensing is in place

with the

Hawaii

Real Estate Branch.

As always, the information provided here is just that–it is for informational purposes only and under no circumstances whatsoever should it be considered legal advice. If you have any particular questions or issues, please consult an attorney.

Author Bio
Author of the Landlord Chronicles blog, Tracey March provides stories and “lessons learned” from her experience as a self-managed rental property owner. She helps owners decide if partnering with a property management company is beneficial.