📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes in Home Warranty and Property Management

Since the original article on home warranties, there have been notable changes in property management practices and fees. This update highlights key updates that impact homeowners, landlords, and tenants as of 2026. The earlier article continues further down this page, providing foundational information on home warranties.

🏠 Property Management Fees in Southern California

As of April 21, 2026, property management fees in Southern California now range from 6% to 10% of monthly rents. This change varies based on location, property type, and services offered. This is a shift from previous rates and reflects changes in the local market conditions.

📊 Management Fees in Michigan

In Michigan, the maximum management fee allowed by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) for 2026 is $667 per unit per year for standard management. For premium services, the cap is $102 per unit per year. This is a new regulation that landlords should understand when budgeting for property management costs.

🛠️ Current Maintenance Markups

Property managers may now add a markup of 10% to 20% on contractor invoices for maintenance and repairs. This is an important factor for property owners to consider when evaluating overall management expenses. Understanding these markups can help in making informed financial decisions.

⏳ Eviction Processing Fees

Eviction processing fees can now range from $150 to $1,200, depending on the complexity of the case and location. This is a significant cost that landlords need to factor into their management plans, especially in regions with high eviction rates.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🏡 Property management fees in SoCal: 6% to 10% of rent.
  • 📈 Michigan management fees capped at $667 for standard services.
  • 🔧 Maintenance markups can be 10% to 20%.
  • ⚖️ Eviction fees now range from $150 to $1,200.
  • 📊 Understanding these changes is crucial for property owners and tenants.

💡 Practical Tips for Homeowners and Landlords

Review the details of your own situation with your attorney.

📝 Understand Your Management Agreement

Make sure to read and understand your management agreement. This document outlines the responsibilities and fees, which are essential for a smooth landlord-tenant relationship.

📋 Tenant Screening Process

Be thorough in the tenant screening process. This typically includes application forms, credit checks, and background screenings to ensure you choose the right tenants.

💵 Budget for Maintenance and Repairs

Set aside funds for maintenance and repairs. With markups on contractor invoices, being prepared financially can prevent unexpected costs down the line.

📅 Keep Track of Rent Collection Dates

Establish a clear rent collection schedule. Rent is usually due on the first of the month, with grace periods of 3 to 5 days. Late fees can accrue quickly.

⚖️ Know Your Eviction Process

Familiarize yourself with the eviction process in your state. Understanding the timelines and costs involved can save you time and money if the situation arises.

🏆 Top Property Management Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section highlights property management services relevant to homeowners and landlords. These services include management software and tenant screening tools, which help streamline rental operations. The ratings are based on Trustpilot data as of October 2026, with scores subject to change.

Remember that high ratings can reflect more reviews from unhappy customers.

🥇 1. RentSpree

RentSpree has been rated 4.5. It is known for its cloud-based rental management and tenant screening services, which are essential for landlords seeking efficient ways to manage properties. However, some users report occasional technical issues that can interrupt service.

🥈 2. Buildium

Buildium also holds a score of 4.5. This service is recognized for its property management software and cloud-based solutions. Users have noted that while it provides valuable tools, there can be a learning curve for new users, which may require some initial investment in time.

🥉 3. AppFolio

AppFolio has a lower rating of 2.1. It is known for property management software and online payment solutions. However, customers often mention challenges with customer service, which can impact user experience.

4️⃣ TenantBase

TenantBase has an impressive score of 4.9. It specializes in commercial real estate marketplace services and tenant representation. While it is well-reviewed, some users mention limited property options in certain areas, which may restrict choices for landlords.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Help

Many local housing authorities and organizations offer free or low-cost assistance for both tenants and landlords. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides resources on fair housing laws and tenant rights, which can be beneficial for both parties.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing a Property Management Service

  • 🏷️ Management fees and pricing structures.
  • 💬 Customer service quality and responsiveness.
  • ⚙️ Features offered, such as tenant screening and maintenance requests.
  • 📊 User reviews and overall satisfaction ratings.
  • 🔄 Flexibility in contract terms and conditions.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are typical property management fees?

Typical property management fees range from 8% to 12% of the monthly rent collected for single-family homes and small multifamily properties.

📝 How long does the tenant placement process take?

The tenant placement process typically takes 30 to 60 days, depending on the property appeal and market demand.

⚠️ Are property management fees tax-deductible?

Yes, property management fees are generally tax-deductible as ordinary business expenses for rental properties, which can help reduce overall tax liabilities.

📅 What are the eviction notice requirements?

Eviction notices must be served within specific timeframes dictated by state laws, often ranging from 3 to 30 days.

🛠️ How should maintenance issues be handled?

Urgent maintenance issues should be reported immediately, while non-urgent requests may have a response time of 1 to 3 business days.

📜 What is a management agreement?

A management agreement is a written contract between the property owner and the property manager that outlines duties, fees, and terms of service.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Property Management

Recent court rulings have addressed various issues in property management, including tenant rights and eviction processes. These rulings can impact how landlords and tenants interact and enforce agreements.

For more information, browse recent rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





What is a Home Warranty?


A Home warranty is a service contract for homes that covers replacement and repair costs of appliances in a home. The home warranty typically covers appliances and equipment such as dishwashers, refrigerators, plumbing systems, or electrical wiring that can fail due to normal use over an extended period of time. Typically the coverage provided in a home warranty can significantly vary across different warranty companies. However, home warranty contracts are rarely all inclusive regarding home repairs.

The basic coverage of a home warranty includes plumbing, heating, and electrical systems and as well as major appliances found in a home such as dishwashers, ovens, and refrigerators. Many home warranty companies may charge for additional coverage for other appliances like washers and dryers. A home buyer should carefully read the home warranty contract in order to understand the coverage, exclusions, and limitations. 

Home Warranty

Who Buys the Home Warranty?



Depending on the local customs, the either the seller or the buyer of the home may purchase the home warranty for the home. In many locations, it is typical for the seller to purchase the home warranty because it is beneficial for him/her to do so. Doing so means the buyer will not have to call the seller again if something happens. In other locations, real estate agents will purchase the home warranty for the home buyer as a gift after the closing of the home

What is the Cost of a Home Warranty?

A home warranty is typically inexpensive and will usually range between $250 and $400, depending on how extensive the coverage is. Home warranty companies occasionally run special sales by either discounting the policy or offering additional coverage without increasing the price. The policy for a home warranty paid in advance for a year, and then they can expire or be renewed.

How Does a Home Warranty Work?

Although specific details for a home warranty vary on a plan-to-plan basis, the basic features of most of them are typically the same. When an appliance or home system stops working, the home owner calls the home warranty company, who then calls a contracted provider to look at the issue. The provider will make an appointment with the home owner and then comes at the appointed time to examine and fix the problem. In the case that the issue cannot be resolved by the provider at that time, the company providing the home warranty will pay to install and replace the appliance or system.

What is Not Covered in the Home Warranty?

There are many appliances that are not covered under a home warranty such as outdoor items like sprinklers, broken faucets, pools and spas, permit fees, or a haul-away. It is important to carefully look at the terms of the home warranty to see exactly what is included and what might need to be supplemented.



What if the Home Warranty Will Not Cover Something?

There are times where a service provider will not accept a claim. If this happens or if you are not happy with the service that was provided, it is best to call your real estate agent and discuss the situation. If the real estate agent has a good working relationship with the home warranty company representative that is covering your home, he/she may be able to obtain some sort of remedy.