If you own rental property in Houston and you’re thinking about hiring a property manager, the first question is almost always the same: what’s it going to cost? Here’s what Houston property management actually costs in 2026, what’s included, and how to evaluate whether it’s worth it.
The Monthly Management Fee
The core cost of property management is the monthly management fee — charged as a percentage of the monthly rent collected. In the Houston market, this typically ranges from 8% to 12% of monthly rent.
On a $1,500/month rental unit, that’s $120 to $180 per month. On a 10-unit apartment complex generating $15,000/month in rent, it’s $1,200 to $1,800/month.
The Leasing Fee
When your property manager places a new tenant, most companies charge a one-time leasing fee. In Houston, this is typically 50% to 100% of one month’s rent. This covers advertising the property, showing it to prospective tenants, running background and credit checks, and executing the lease.
Other Fees to Watch For
- Lease renewal fee — Some companies charge $100–$300 when renewing an existing tenant’s lease.
- Maintenance markup — Some managers add a 10–20% markup on contractor invoices. Ask specifically whether you’re billed the actual vendor cost.
- Vacancy fee — Some companies charge a reduced management fee even when the property is vacant.
- Early termination fee — Read any management contract carefully for cancellation clauses.
- Setup fee — A one-time onboarding fee, typically $0–$300.
Total Cost Example
Here’s a realistic annual cost picture for a single-family home renting at $1,800/month in Houston:
- Monthly management fee (10%): $180/month × 12 = $2,160/year
- One leasing fee (100% of first month): $1,800
- Total first-year cost: ~$3,960
Is Professional Property Management Worth It?
For most Houston property owners, yes. Professional property management makes the most sense if you own property far from where you live, have a full-time job, own multiple units, or are an out-of-state investor. The cost of one bad tenant — eviction fees, property damage, lost rent — can easily run $5,000–$10,000+. A property manager who prevents one bad placement more than pays for themselves.
Get a Quote
Stagecoach Management believes in transparent pricing with no hidden fees. Contact us for a specific quote on your Houston property, or see our full pricing page for more details.