Philadelphia Property Management Company | BMG Philadelphia
Full-Service Property Management in Philadelphia
Looking for the best property management company in Philadelphia? At Bay Property Management Group, we specialize in residential and multi-family property management, delivering unmatched expertise in asset protection and revenue maximization for property owners like you. Whether you’re a landlord managing a few properties or a seasoned professional investing in Philadelphia real estate, our team is here to provide the professional support you need to succeed. No matter what your situation, it’s important to know just what to look for in professional property management services.
What to Look for in a Property Management Company
The entire process of looking for a company that matches your wants and needs can be difficult. The first thing that you want to pay attention to is experience. A good manager should understand rental trends in the area, including pricing, demand, and neighborhood differences. They should be comfortable advising you on things like fair rental value, marketing strategies, and how to keep your property competitive.
You’ll also want to look closely at how they handle day-to-day operations. Screening processes, rental inspections, lease management, rent collection, and maintenance coordination are all part of the job when you hire a property management company in Philadelphia. A strong property manager should have clear systems in place for handling applications, documenting leases, and responding to repair requests. Communication is a big part of it all.
You should also consider the company’s approach to protecting your investment. That includes keeping the property occupied, minimizing turnover costs, and helping you make smart decisions about upgrades or repairs. A well-run Philadelphia property management company should be transparent about their own fees and reporting, realistic about income being generated, and work with you to optimize the entire process.
At Bay Property Management Group, these are exactly the principles we’ve built our business around. We offer:
- 16 years professional property management experience
- Over 8000 units under management across 5 markets
- Less than 1% eviction rate
- An average of 23 days on market for our listings
That combination of experience and performance is what many owners are looking for when choosing a Philadelphia property management company that they can partner with for the long-term.
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Why Choose Our Property Management Company?
How Much Do Property Managers Charge?
Bay Property Management Group Philadelphia will assist you with all of your property management needs from A to Z.
Property Management Fees:
- Property Management Fee of 5-8%
- Leasing Fee of 1st Month’s Rent
- Lease Renewal Fee of 10% of One Month’s Rent
- Rental License Supervisory Fee of $199 Per Property
What Do Our Philadelphia Property Managers Offer?
Tenants and owners benefit from our 24/7 emergency maintenance services. This service ensures that no issue goes unaddressed. Whether it is 3 a.m. or 3 p.m., our on-call service is always available. Our after-hours maintenance coordinator is ready to help, any time of day or night. Your dedicated property manager will work to determine repair responsibilities to ensure prompt and efficient property maintenance.
We offer the lowest monthly management fees in the area, ranging from 5%-8%. We also provide full transparency with monthly financial reporting and real-time owner portals to check your account at any time. Our increased efficiency allows us to offer the best possible ROI for our owners.
We have an eviction rate of less than 1%. And we’re proud of that. We are so confident in our ability to place qualified tenants in your rental property, we back it up with a 6-month tenant placement guarantee. If your tenant is evicted for non-payment within 6 months of placement, we will re-lease your property for free.
Our Philadelphia property management company is locally owned and operated by Patrick Freeze and Dana Anderson, with a combined property management experience of over 25 years. They offer a deep love for Philadelphia and bring their local expertise to work for you. They work to protect your investment as we understand the local Philadelphia property management laws.
Vacancy is an expense that rental property owners cannot afford! That’s why our dedicated leasing team uses leading marketing techniques to professionally list and syndicate your property for maximum visibility in the Philadelphia rental market. On average, our aggressive approach to finding qualified tenants takes less than 30 days on the market.
For us, the mark of a job well done is our ability to retain tenants and owners alike. We’re grateful to our entire community of clients, many of whom stick with us for years and help us meet average tenant retention rate of 80% across all markets. We work with tenants and handle tenant concerns while maintaining your best interests in mind.
Our Philadelphia team consists of seasoned industry professionals who excel in every aspect of property management. From designing rental cycles tailored to your needs and ensuring top-notch property maintenance to thorough tenant screening, leasing, and strategic marketing, we handle it all. Our mission is to simplify every tenant-related process, making property ownership effortless for you. With a focus on exceptional customer service, our property managers are always available—whether by phone, email, or text—to provide the support and solutions you need, whenever you need them and ensure positive landlord-tenant relationships.
Property Types
Single-family property management
Maximize the ROI on your single-family rentals with local expertise. BMG Philadelphia helps market your property, screen qualified tenants, coordinate maintenance, and handle the day-to-day responsibilities so you can spend less time managing your investment and more time growing it.
Multi-family property management
Grow your multifamily investment with professional property management tailored to apartment buildings, duplexes, townhomes, and other multi-unit properties. We help owners maximize occupancy through strategic marketing, thorough tenant screening, maintenance coordination, and so much more. Our proactive management supports your long-term investment goals.
The Best Property Management Company in Philadelphia
We’re Located In the Fishtown neighborhood, just down from the Penn Treaty Park and the Rivers Casino.
Areas We Serve near Philadelphia
- Bucks County
- Center City
- Chester County
- Chinatown
- Delaware County
- Fairmount
- Fishtown
- Frankford
- Germantown
- Harrowgate
- Kensington
- Midtown Village
- Montgomery County
- Northern Liberties
- Rittenhouse Square
- Roxborough-Manayunk
- South Philadelphia
- Temple University
- University City
- West Philadelphia
- Queen Village
Philadelphia Property Management Laws and Requirements
Owning a rental property in Philadelphia comes with a few additional rules compared to many other cities. Pennsylvania has statewide landlord-tenant laws, but Philadelphia adds its own local requirements that landlords have to follow before renting out a property. These rules mostly focus on safety, licensing, and tenant protections.
Philadelphia’s system is designed to confirm that rental homes meet basic housing standards and that landlords are registered with the city. In most cases, owners must obtain a rental license and keep the property in compliance with local safety codes. The city also requires landlords to share certain information with tenants and participate in programs that support dispute resolution before eviction filings. Here is a breakdown of some of the basics.
- Rental license requirement – Landlords must obtain a Philadelphia rental license before renting out a property.
- Certificate of Rental Suitability – This document confirms the property meets basic safety and habitability standards and must be provided to tenants.
- Lead paint disclosure – Homes built before 1978 may require lead safety certification and disclosure to tenants.
- Landlord registration – Property owners must register with the city and keep contact information current.
- Eviction diversion program – In many situations, landlords must participate in Philadelphia’s eviction diversion program. Get to know the eviction laws and process in Pennsylvania before it is too late.
Should I Hire a Property Management Company or Self-manage My Philadelphia Rental?
Self-managing a Philadelphia rental means taking on a market with distinctive city-level compliance requirements that don’t exist anywhere else in the region. Every tenant move-in requires a Certificate of Rental Suitability from L&I, and Philadelphia has some of the strictest lead certification requirements in the country following recent law expansion. Unpaid water bills become liens on the property, the city’s residential tax abatement affects investor economics, and the Renters Access Act adds fair-housing protections beyond state and federal law. Add university corridor rental cycles from Penn, Drexel, Temple, and Jefferson — and the workload adds up quickly.
Bay Property Management Group gives Philadelphia rental owners one local team to manage the property, support compliance across those Philly-specific frameworks, and handle the day-to-day responsibilities of being a landlord. Here is how full-service Philadelphia property management compares with managing the rental yourself.
| Bay Property Management Group | Self-Management | |
|---|---|---|
| Your Local Philadelphia Team | You are assigned a dedicated Philadelphia property manager and a dedicated leasing agent working out of our Center City office, backed by an in-house accounting team and Pennsylvania-licensed leadership. Once a tenant is placed, your property manager becomes the single point of contact for you and your tenant. | One person handles leasing calls, bookkeeping, vendor scheduling, and tenant communication — often at the same time, and often after hours. |
| Certificate of Rental Suitability (CRS) — Required at Every Move-In | Philadelphia requires a Certificate of Rental Suitability, issued by the Department of Licenses and Inspections, before every new tenant moves in. The CRS confirms the property has no open violations and includes the L&I-required Partners for Good Housing handout. We pull the CRS, provide it to the tenant, and maintain the documentation trail required for legal rent collection and eviction. | You pull the CRS from L&I before every move-in, provide it and the required handout to the tenant, and maintain the documentation. Renting without a valid CRS means you cannot legally collect rent or file eviction actions — a common trap that voids landlord remedies in Municipal Court. |
| Rental License, Water Liens & Recurring L&I Compliance | Philadelphia requires an active Rental License for every rental unit, and unpaid Philadelphia Water Department bills become liens on the property that can compound into serious title issues. We maintain the Rental License renewal calendar, monitor water-bill status during tenant transitions, and coordinate with L&I on any property violations before they escalate to court. | You track your Rental License renewal, monitor water-bill status (particularly during tenant transitions where a departing tenant may leave unpaid balances), and manage any L&I violations that arise — where a water-bill lien can survive a sale and follow the property to a future owner. |
| Philadelphia Lead Certification Requirements | Philadelphia’s Lead Paint Disclosure and Certification Law was expanded to require lead-safe or lead-free certification for all pre-1978 rental properties, not just those where children reside. We coordinate the certified lead inspector, maintain the certification records, and re-certify on the schedule the city requires. | You determine whether your property falls under the expanded lead certification framework (most pre-1978 rentals in Philly do), hire a city-certified inspector, complete any required remediation, and maintain the certification records. Non-compliance can prevent leasing and expose owners to serious city penalties. |
| Philadelphia Municipal Court Eviction Process | Philadelphia requires a written notice appropriate to the situation before eviction — commonly a 10-day notice for nonpayment, or a longer notice period for other breaches. Just-cause requirements also apply in many circumstances. We serve the notice, file the eviction in Philadelphia Municipal Court, appear at the hearing, and coordinate the alias writ of possession with the Landlord & Tenant Officer. | You prepare and serve the correct notice under the applicable timeline, file in Municipal Court, appear in person at the hearing, and coordinate the alias writ execution — while the property earns no income. |
| University Corridor Rental Cycles | Properties near Penn, Drexel, Temple, Jefferson, and USciences operate on an academic-calendar rental cycle, with peak leasing activity in the spring for August-September move-ins. Student rentals require different screening standards (guarantor documentation is common), higher turnover management, and marketing timed to the academic calendar rather than the general Philadelphia rental market. | You align listing timing with each university’s academic calendar, collect and verify guarantor documentation for student applicants, and manage the higher turnover volume that comes with student tenancies across multiple institutions. |
| Rowhome Stock & Snow Removal Ordinance | Philadelphia’s rowhome housing stock brings its own maintenance profile — shared party walls, flat roofs, and basements vulnerable during heavy rain events. Philadelphia also requires sidewalk snow removal within six hours of a storm’s end, with fines for non-compliance. We schedule seasonal roof and gutter service, coordinate with adjoining property owners on shared walls, and confirm snow-removal responsibility is clear in every lease. | You handle the rowhome-specific maintenance calendar, negotiate shared-wall repair costs with neighbors, coordinate roof service across a housing type unfamiliar to owners from single-family markets, and either handle snow removal yourself within the city’s six-hour window or coordinate a vendor to do so — where the fines add up quickly across a snowy winter. |
| Residential Tax Abatement Implications | Philadelphia’s residential tax abatement program affects investor economics on newer construction and substantially renovated properties, particularly in Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Point Breeze, and other high-development neighborhoods. We help owners understand how the abatement affects rent-setting economics, forward tax planning, and property positioning during the abatement period and afterward. | You track your property’s tax abatement status, plan for the tax-bill increase when the abatement expires or steps down, and factor abatement remainder into rent-setting and any future sale analysis — an economic layer that most markets don’t require. |
| Fair Housing Commission & Renters Access Act | Philadelphia has its own Fair Housing Commission with enforcement authority beyond federal and state fair housing law, and the Renters Access Act adds specific protections around source-of-income and criminal-history screening. We structure applicant screening to comply with these city-level frameworks and maintain the documentation the Commission requires if a complaint arises. | You must design screening criteria that comply with the Philadelphia Fair Housing Commission’s specific interpretation of source-of-income and criminal-history rules — an area where policies routine in other Pennsylvania markets can trigger city-level complaints in Philadelphia. |
| What It Costs | A management fee ranging from 5% to 8% of collected rent, a $99 startup fee, a leasing fee equal to the first month’s rent, and a lease renewal fee of 25% of one month’s rent. All fees are stated upfront in the management agreement — no surprise assessments and no marked-up maintenance charges. | No management fee. The real costs live off the fee schedule and get bigger in a city-level compliance environment: L&I fines from a missed CRS or violation, penalties from a lead certification lapse, water-lien exposure that survives a sale, snow-removal fines, and vacancy from an eviction that stalled because the paperwork wasn’t perfect at the Municipal Court hearing. |
Bay Property Management Group provides the following Baltimore property management services
Full leasing services, including tenant screening
Bay Property Management Group in Baltimore aggressively markets each property, using all major search engines, online classifieds, and off-site marketing. Available rental properties are also placed on the MLS, Zillow, HotPads, and other online sites. We also use other tenant placement companies to help get the most exposure possible for each rental property. Prospective tenants are screened for prior evictions, judgments, liens, bankruptcies, criminal history, sex offender registry, terrorist activity, and credit worthiness. We also require applicants to verify their income. In addition, our Baltimore property management company will follow all federal and state regulations to ensure you are in full compliance.
Eviction services / Court filings
We follow a proven and standard practice when it comes to late rent. After a five-day grace period, we begin the paperwork on legal proceedings regardless of the situation or excuse. We’re well-versed in landlord-tenant laws. We take professional and appropriate steps during any eviction process so that it can go as smooth as possible. Yes, we handle the entire eviction process. We also file judgments in the event a tenant breaks their lease. There is no cost to the owner when BMG files suit, and all recouped proceeds go directly to you.
move in / move out reports
Each property is photographed before and after tenants take possession to document any damage that has been incurred. A detailed checklist is also used, and each room is inspected closely to document damage or irregularities.
Rental property maintenance
We can handle maintenance problems of every kind, relying on a reliable list of local contractors to ensure quality work, quick turnaround, and competitive pricing. Maintenance staff is available day and night in order to protect your property and take care of your tenants.
Rent Collection
We take a professional, diligent approach to collecting rents on time each and every month. Our expectations and procedures are made crystal clear to tenants prior to the signing of a lease. In addition, rent payments are quickly disbursed to you through electronic direct deposit or a standard check.
Lead Paint cOMPLIANCE
As required by state and federal laws, any property built before 1978 must have a lead certification administered before the property can be rented. We will not manage any property that lacks proper lead certification, but we can help you through this process and provide a list of qualified lead inspectors.
Rental pROPERTY Registration
New laws require all rental properties to be registered with the appropriate jurisdiction. In Baltimore City, this requires an inspection by a licensed inspector as well as a form submission with the city. We can assist you with this process and recommend inspectors.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING
Every month we send you a statement showing your rental income and expenses for each specific property. We also provide you with a 1099 at the end of the year, as required by law, as well as provide a portal for accessing data at any time.
What Does a Property Manager Do?
A property manager oversees the day-to-day operations of a rental property. That includes marketing vacant units, setting competitive rental rates, screening applicants, preparing leases, collecting rent, and helping keep the property in compliance with applicable housing laws and regulations. Property managers also monitor the property’s overall performance by helping reduce vacancies, scheduling inspections, keeping financial records organized, and addressing issues as they come up.
Beyond the daily responsibilities, what a property manager does also includes being an overall advisor. They help owners make informed decisions about their rental properties. They monitor local market conditions, recommend rental rate adjustments, coordinate repairs through trusted vendors, and guide owners through all types of situations. A property manager helps simplify rental ownership while allowing investors to focus on growing their portfolios.
The State of the Philly Rental Market
The Philadelphia rental market in 2026 is showing positive signs, ones that investors should note. Rents have leveled out in many parts of the city, with new apartment developments being added on a regular basis. Median rent in the region sits around the $1,750 range depending on the source and property type. Overall, Philadelphia is seeing a steady market with no major dramatic swings.
Another factor shaping the Philadelphia rental market is vacancy and tenant mobility. Vacancy rates around the Philadelphia area are regularly around 6-8 percent, which is typically considered a balanced rental market where neither landlords nor tenants have a strong advantage. Properties are still leasing, but landlords often need competitive pricing and strong marketing to keep units filled.
At the same time, Philadelphia continues to attract renters who are priced out of larger coastal cities. Compared with markets like New York or Washington, D.C., Philadelphia remains relatively affordable while still offering a lot of things that people want, such as solid job growth and walkable neighborhoods. This dynamic keeps demand steady across many neighborhoods. Here are a few highlights.
Of course, Philadelphia isn’t a single rental market. Neighborhoods throughout the city can perform very differently depending on the local housing supply, nearby employers, transportation access, etc. Areas such as Center City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties, and University City often see strong rental demand, while other neighborhoods may offer different price points or investment opportunities. Because of that, it’s worth researching comparable rents, vacancy trends, and recent leasing activity in the specific neighborhood you’re considering. Here is an overview of the diversity of neighborhoods that you can find in the Philadelphia area.
Center City
High demand from an array of different types of renters keeps rents strong in this area. There are a lot of modern apartments and walkable living to be found. This makes Center City property a nice fit for many.
Fishtown
This is one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods, with strong renter demand tied to nightlife, new development, and proximity to downtown. As one of the premier Fishtown property management companies, we know a thing or two about how popular that area can be.
Rittenhouse Square
Rittenhouse Square is known for its upscale apartments, walkability, restaurants, and easy access to Center City employers. Demand remains consistently strong. The average apartment rents are around $1,800 per month, making it one of the city’s higher-priced markets for both renters and investors.
Northern Liberties
This is a growing area with luxury apartments and amenities that attract all types of renters and professionals. Our Northern Liberties property management services support a steady stream of tenants moving into that neighborhood.
Temple University
There is consistent rental demand in this area due to nearby universities and hospitals, making it a stable investment area for those looking for rental property in the Temple University region.
South Philadelphia
There is consistent rental demand in this area due to nearby universities and hospitals, making it a stable investment area for those looking for rental property in the Temple University region.
Roxborough-Manayunk
There is consistent rental demand in this area due to nearby universities and hospitals, making it a stable investment area for those looking for rental property in the Temple University region.
Point Breeze
Point Breeze is one of South Philadelphia’s most actively developing neighborhoods, positioned just south of Washington Avenue and a short commute to Center City by bike or SEPTA. Substantial new construction and rehab activity over the past decade — much of it qualifying for Philadelphia’s residential tax abatement program — has brought young professionals and first-time renters into the area, drawn to the growing food and coffee scene along Point Breeze Avenue and price points below Graduate Hospital and Rittenhouse Square. Strong rental demand, ongoing appreciation, and a steady development pipeline make it one of Philadelphia’s more active rental investment markets.
Brewerytown
Brewerytown sits along the eastern edge of Fairmount Park, just north of Fairmount and a short trip from Center City by SEPTA or bike. Once anchored by the 19th-century brewing industry that gave the neighborhood its name, Brewerytown has become one of North Philadelphia’s most active rehab and new-construction markets — driven by proximity to the park, Girard Avenue’s growing dining corridor, and tax-abatement-eligible development. Rental demand comes from young professionals, medical students at nearby Drexel and Temple health-system campuses, and renters priced out of Fairmount and Francisville, making it one of the stronger emerging investment markets in the city.
Are You Ready to Get Started with a Philadelphia property manager?
If you’re ready to take your real estate investments to the next level, call Bay Property Management Group today. Let’s discuss how we can streamline your property management and help you earn more from your Philadelphia rental properties.
Experience the difference with Bay Property Management Group, your trusted partner for Philadelphia property management services.
Choosing a Property Management Company in Philadelphia
If you’re planning to invest in rental properties, partnering with the best Philadelphia property management company near you, like Bay Property Management Group, is a smart move. Hiring a professional team will not only save you the time and hassle of managing rental properties but also free up your energy to focus on other priorities, including pursuing additional investment opportunities. It can feel overwhelming, especially with so many service providers to choose from. To help you make the right decision, consider the following key factors when selecting a property management company in Philadelphia.
Experienced Property Managers
When it comes to managing your Philadelphia rental property, you want to work with the best… not the amateurs. Studies show that property management adds value, especially for older buildings or when there are many units to manage. They have the ability to effectively market your property, attract qualified tenants, and minimize vacancy periods. It takes experience to know how to do that, especially when unique markets that can have their own quirks. By partnering with an experienced team, you’ll ensure your property is in the best hands and positioned for maximum success.
Top Notch Customer Service
Hiring a company should not mean that your investment isn’t sound. Property management should allow you to scale and make even more money with all the fees and costs accounted for. And everything should be done in a transparent fashion so that every dollar is accounted for. At Bay Property Management Group Philadelphia, we pride ourselves on offering clear and transparent pricing, typically ranging from just 5-8%. This competitive rate is well below the 10% or more charged by most other companies in the area, allowing you to keep more of your rental income and improve your overall ROI. In addition to offering the best fees in Philadelphia, we partner with trusted local vendors to provide high-quality services at the most competitive pricing available. From maintenance and repairs to property upgrades, these partnerships allow us to pass on cost savings directly to you, further maximizing the profitability of your investment. When you choose Bay Property Management Group, you’re partnering with a team that’s committed to delivering the best property management services in Philadelphia while keeping costs low and improving your returns. Contact us today to learn how we can help you achieve your investment goals!
Transparent and Competitive Property Management Fees
Hiring a company should not mean that your investment isn’t sound. Property management should allow you to scale and make even more money with all the fees and costs accounted for. And everything should be done in a transparent fashion so that every dollar is accounted for.
At Bay Property Management Group Baltimore, we pride ourselves on offering clear and transparent property management fees, typically ranging from just 5-8%. This competitive rate is well below the 10% or more charged by most other companies in the area, allowing you to keep more of your rental income and improve your overall ROI.
In addition to offering the best fees in Baltimore, we partner with trusted local vendors to provide high-quality services at the most competitive pricing available. From maintenance and repairs to property upgrades, these partnerships allow us to pass on cost savings directly to you, further maximizing the profitability of your investment.
Moving to Philadelphia?
If you are planning a move to Philadelphia, there are plenty of nice things in store. Philly is one of the largest and most populous cities in the United States. It boasts a vibrant economy that is not only strong but constantly developing. Some great economic sectors there include financial services, healthcare, manufacturing, petroleum, education, and biotechnology, among others. Furthermore, it has numerous tourist attractions and affordable housing. Bay Property Management Group Philadelphia offers rental property management throughout the Philadelphia area including Center City, Kensington and Fishtown, as well as South Philly and Roxborough-Manayunk.
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Philadelphia Property Management Leadership Team
Dana Anderson
Dana Anderson is the President of Bay Property Management Group, providing leadership and strategic direction across the organization. With a focus on operational excellence and customer service, Dana is dedicated to helping property owners maximize their investments while delivering exceptional experiences for residents.
Kandice Salazar
Justin Nattrass
Robert Schwartz
Robert Schwartz serves as Director of Property Management at Bay Property Management Group, overseeing property management operations and ensuring exceptional service for property owners and residents. With extensive industry experience and a commitment to operational excellence, Robert helps drive strong property performance while supporting the company’s high standards of service.
Kevin Shishko
Customer Testimonials
Please take a moment to read reviews of our many satisfied clients.
Our Philadelphia Property Management Onboarding Process
Step 1: Initial Contact
Reach out by phone or through our website, and a member of our business development team will follow up within 24 hours — often the same day. That conversation covers your property management goals, your property’s location, condition, and amenities, and helps us determine a competitive rental rate. We will also review any compliance requirements, such as a Philadelphia rental license, lead-paint certification, or a Certificate of Rental Suitability.
Step 2: Signing and Setup
Once the management agreement is signed, we collect your keys, enter your property into our system, and assign you a dedicated property manager who will reach out directly to get the next steps underway.
Step 3: Getting Your Property Rent-Ready
For vacant properties, our leasing team conducts a rent-readiness assessment, gathers professional photos, and writes a marketing description. Your property is then listed across our syndicated rental platforms and assigned to a dedicated leasing agent, who will provide you with links to your live listings and weekly updates on showing activity, market feedback, and pricing recommendations to get your unit leased quickly and profitably.
Step 4: Ongoing Management
Once a tenant is placed, your dedicated property manager becomes the single point of contact for both you and your tenant. You’ll receive monthly owner statements from our accounting team and have 24/7 access to your real-time owner portal, where you can monitor rent collection, maintenance activity, and financial reporting at any time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Property Management in Philadelphia
What areas does Bay Property Management Group serve in Philadelphia?
Bay Property Management Group (BMG) provides full-service residential property management throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding counties in Pennsylvania, including Center City, Fishtown, Northern Liberties, Manayunk, University City, Queen Village, Society Hill, Old City, Germantown, East Falls, and more. BMG focuses on residential rental properties—single-family homes, townhomes, condos, and multi-family buildings—and does not buy, sell, or broker real estate.
What does a property management company do?
A property management company handles the day-to-day operation of a rental property for the owner. Bay Property Management Group markets vacancies as well as units coming vacant, screens tenants, prepares leases, collects rent, coordinates maintenance, runs inspections, manages tenant communication, and keeps the property compliant with Pennsylvania landlord-tenant law—so owners earn rental income without managing the property themselves.
How much does property management cost with BMG in Philadelphia?
Bay Property Management Group’s monthly management fee in Philadelphia typically runs 5%–8% of monthly rent, depending on the number of units and the total gross rent—among the lowest in the market. BMG uses a transparent, flat fee structure instead of adding surprise charges, so owners can predict their costs.
What fees does Bay Property Management Group charge?
Bay Property Management Group keeps pricing simple with a transparent fee structure and no hidden charges. In Philadelphia this generally includes a one-time startup fee for an initial inspection of the property (owners may opt out), a monthly management fee, a tenant-placement fee, a rental license supervisory fee (owners may opt out and handle the license themselves), and a lease-renewal fee. Full details are on BMG’s Fees & Rates page.
Is there a startup or onboarding fee?
Does BMG require a long-term management contract?
Bay Property Management Group’s management agreement is a yearly contract. That said, BMG is open to being flexible with month-to-month agreements where appropriate—the team would rather earn an owner’s business through performance than hold them to a term that doesn’t fit their situation. Contact the Philadelphia office to discuss what works for your property.
What types of properties does BMG manage?
Bay Property Management Group manages residential rental properties in Philadelphia and the surrounding Pennsylvania counties, including single-family homes, townhomes, condominiums, duplexes, triplexes, quadplexes, and multi-family apartment buildings. BMG also manages HOA and condo associations, and considers commercial units on a case-by-case basis.
Does BMG manage HOAs or commercial properties?
Yes. Bay Property Management Group manages homeowners associations (HOAs) and condo associations, and considers commercial units on a case-by-case basis. BMG’s core focus remains residential rental property management.
How do I get started or switch from my current property manager?
Getting started with Bay Property Management Group is simple: request a free rental analysis and the Philadelphia team reviews your property’s rent potential and prepares an onboarding plan. If you already have a tenant, BMG handles the transition—reviewing the lease, transferring the security deposit, and introducing itself to the tenant for a seamless handoff, at no additional cost.
What makes Bay Property Management Group different from other Philadelphia property managers?
Every Bay Property Management Group owner gets a dedicated property manager and a dedicated leasing agent. The leasing agents are paid on commission, so they are directly incentivized to lease a property fast rather than let it sit.
BMG also runs the functions most property managers outsource or skip entirely—an in-house HR department, a dedicated recruiting team, in-house marketing, and in-house IT. That infrastructure means BMG hires and keeps better people, fills vacancies faster, and controls its own technology instead of waiting on a vendor. Combined with a residential-first focus and transparent flat-fee pricing, it’s what separates BMG from most companies in the Philadelphia market.
How does BMG market my rental, and how long does it take to fill a vacancy?
Bay Property Management Group’s average vacancy is 23 days. BMG markets rentals with professional photos, syndicated online listings, dynamic rent pricing, and targeted local outreach to attract qualified tenants quickly. Actual time-to-lease varies with the Philadelphia market, season, price, and property condition, but the strategy is built to minimize vacancy without underpricing.
How does BMG screen tenants?
When and how do I get paid my rental income?
Bay Property Management Group collects rent and disburses owner proceeds by direct deposit each month. Funds are typically sent around the 6th of the month for smaller portfolios, and on the 1st of the following month for larger portfolios. Owners can view statements and payment details anytime in their 24/7 online owner portal.
Do I get an owner portal, and what can I see?
Yes. Bay Property Management Group gives every owner 24/7 access to a secure online portal that updates in real time, so owners have complete transparency into exactly how their funds are being used. The portal shows rent payments, monthly financial statements, maintenance requests and invoices, inspection reports, and important documents—anytime, from any device.
How does BMG handle maintenance and repairs?
Bay Property Management Group keeps in-house maintenance technicians on staff for smaller jobs, which means faster response and better cost control, and uses trusted third-party vendors for larger jobs that call for a specialist. Tenants have 24/7 emergency support, routine repairs are handled promptly, and owners are notified through the portal.
How are repairs approved, and is there a maintenance reserve?
Owners set their own maintenance limits and reserve fund at their discretion, based on how involved they want to be in the process. Bay Property Management Group approves routine repairs up to the limit the owner sets and submits anything above that threshold for owner approval—except emergency repairs needed to protect health, safety, or the property. Owners who want to be hands-off can set a higher limit; owners who want to review everything can set a lower one.
Does BMG handle rent collection and late payments?
Yes. Bay Property Management Group manages the full rent-collection cycle—online payment options, late-payment reminders, and lease enforcement. Late fees are applied under Pennsylvania law; in Philadelphia, a late fee of a reasonable amount set in the lease applies after the grace period stated in the lease.
What happens if a tenant stops paying rent?
If a tenant stops paying, Bay Property Management Group follows the proper legal process for Philadelphia, handling every filing, notice, and court appearance from the first notice through re-renting the property.
In Philadelphia, the process begins with the required written notice to quit—typically ten days for nonpayment of rent. Philadelphia also requires landlords to go through the city’s Eviction Diversion Program and attempt to resolve the issue before an eviction can lawfully proceed. In many cases the program resolves the matter by paying the rent in arrears—and future rent payments—directly to BMG.
If the matter is unresolved, BMG files a complaint in Municipal Court. Both sides may present their case at a hearing, and if judgment for possession is entered for the owner, an Order of Possession is requested. Only the court can authorize a lockout. BMG manages the filings and required notices and works to get the property ready to re-rent as quickly as possible.
Does BMG work with Section 8 or housing choice vouchers?
Yes. Bay Property Management Group works with the Housing Choice Voucher (Section 8) program in Philadelphia and helps owners navigate inspections, paperwork, and compliance. In many jurisdictions, source-of-income protections make refusing voucher holders unlawful, and BMG helps owners stay compliant.
How does BMG set the rent price for my property?
Bay Property Management Group conducts a documented pre-move-in inspection and a documented move-out inspection, plus periodic interior and exterior inspections during the tenancy at the owner’s request. Inspection reports with photos are shared in the owner portal so owners always know the property’s condition.
What are my responsibilities as an owner versus BMG's?
Bay Property Management Group handles day-to-day operations—marketing, screening, leasing, rent collection, maintenance, inspections, and compliance. The owner maintains property insurance, funds approved repairs and the maintenance reserve, covers the mortgage and taxes, and makes major capital decisions.
Do I need landlord insurance?
Can BMG help get my property rent-ready?
Yes. As part of onboarding, Bay Property Management Group completes a rent-ready assessment identifying repairs, cleaning, or improvements needed to attract quality tenants and maximize rent, then coordinates the work through its in-house maintenance team and vendor network so the property is market-ready before listing.
How does BMG handle the security deposit?
Bay Property Management Group collects and holds the security deposit under Pennsylvania law. In Philadelphia the maximum deposit is two months’ rent in the first year—last month’s rent qualifies as part of that deposit—and one month’s rent thereafter. It must be returned within 30 days of move-out with any itemized deductions. Deposits over $100 held into the third year or beyond must sit in an interest-bearing account, with interest paid to the tenant annually. BMG documents condition at move-in and move-out to support fair deposit handling.
What rental license or registration is required in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia landlords must hold a Rental License from Licenses & Inspections and give tenants a Certificate of Rental Suitability. Bay Property Management Group helps owners obtain and maintain the required license or registration and stay current with inspections so the property can be legally rented.
How do I apply to rent a home managed by BMG?
To rent a home managed by Bay Property Management Group, submit an online application through the BMG Philadelphia listing. Each adult (18+) who will live in the home completes a separate application, pays the application fee, and provides ID and proof of income.
What are the qualification requirements to rent?
How much is the application fee?
The application fee for a Bay Property Management Group rental in Philadelphia is set by BMG per adult applicant. This non-refundable fee covers processing the application, including credit and background screening.
How much is the security deposit?
For BMG rentals in Philadelphia, the security deposit is typically one month’s rent plus last month’s rent in the first year, with one month’s rent credited back to the tenant in month 13, in line with Pennsylvania law. The exact amount is stated in your lease and may vary with screening results. The deposit is refundable, minus lawful deductions for unpaid rent or damage beyond normal wear and tear.
When will I get my security deposit back after I move out?
In Philadelphia, Bay Property Management Group returns the security deposit—minus any lawful, itemized deductions—within 30 days after you move out and provide a written forwarding address. Providing that forwarding address in writing is what starts the return clock.
How do I pay rent?
Tenants pay rent online through their secure Bay Property Management Group tenant portal, which supports electronic payments and autopay. Tenants can also pay by check, or by electronic cash payment at participating stores using their rent slip. Rent is due on the date stated in your lease.
Is there a grace period, and how much are late fees?
In Philadelphia, rent is considered late after the grace period stated in the lease, and the late fee is a reasonable amount set in the lease, consistent with Pennsylvania law. The exact grace period and late fee are stated in your lease.
How do I request maintenance, and what about emergencies?
What repairs is the landlord responsible for?
On the owner’s behalf, Bay Property Management Group keeps the home safe and habitable—including major systems like heating, plumbing, and electrical, and structural repairs. Tenants handle minor upkeep (light bulbs, smoke-detector batteries) and any damage they or their guests cause.
Can I have pets, and is there a pet deposit?
Pet policies vary by property. Where pets are allowed, Bay Property Management Group may require a pet deposit or pet rent, disclosed in the lease. Under the federal Fair Housing Act, assistance animals (service animals and emotional support animals) are not pets and are not subject to pet fees or deposits.
How do I renew my lease?
Bay Property Management Group typically contacts tenants before the lease ends—often around 90 days out—to offer renewal terms, including any rent adjustment. Tenants who wish to renew sign the updated lease through their portal.
Can I break my lease early?
Breaking a lease early may carry consequences—an early-termination fee or responsibility for rent until the unit is re-rented. Bay Property Management Group reviews each situation individually. Certain protections (for example, survivors of domestic violence, or active-duty military under the SCRA) may allow early termination under Pennsylvania law.
How much notice do I give before moving out?
How much notice does the landlord give before entering my home?
Who is responsible for utilities and lawn care?
Responsibility for utilities and lawn care is defined in your lease. In many Bay Property Management Group rentals, tenants pay electricity, gas, water, and trash, and single-family tenants often handle lawn care—but this varies by property, so review your specific lease.
Can my rent be increased, and how much notice is required?
Philadelphia has no rent control. For rent increases in Philadelphia, Bay Property Management Group provides 30–60 days’ written notice, as stated in the lease, and increases take effect only at renewal or as otherwise permitted by Pennsylvania law and your lease.
What is the eviction process in Philadelphia?
Eviction in Philadelphia follows a strict legal process, and only a court order can remove a tenant—self-help evictions such as lockouts or utility shutoffs are illegal. Bay Property Management Group manages every step lawfully on the owner’s behalf.
In Philadelphia, the process begins with the required written notice to quit—typically ten days for nonpayment of rent. Philadelphia also requires landlords to go through the city’s Eviction Diversion Program and attempt to resolve the issue before an eviction can lawfully proceed. In many cases the program resolves the matter by paying the rent in arrears—and future rent payments—directly to BMG.
If the matter is unresolved, BMG files a complaint in Municipal Court. Both sides may present their case at a hearing, and if judgment for possession is entered for the owner, an Order of Possession is requested. Only the court can authorize a lockout. BMG manages the filings and required notices and works to get the property ready to re-rent as quickly as possible.
What are the security deposit limits in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, the maximum security deposit a landlord may charge is two months’ rent in the first year (last month’s rent qualifies as part of the deposit) and one month’s rent thereafter. Deposits over $100 held into the third year or beyond must sit in an interest-bearing account, with interest paid to the tenant annually. The deposit must be returned within 30 days of move-out with an itemized list of any deductions. Bay Property Management Group follows these Pennsylvania requirements on every managed property.
Are there rent control or rent stabilization laws in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia has no rent control. Bay Property Management Group stays current with local and Pennsylvania rent regulations to keep every managed property compliant.
What lead paint disclosure requirements apply in Philadelphia?
Philadelphia requires lead-safe certification for many pre-1978 rentals, plus a lead warning statement in the lease. Federal law also requires lead-based paint disclosure for homes built before 1978. Bay Property Management Group ensures required disclosures and registrations are completed for every managed property.
What are the smoke detector and safety requirements?
Pennsylvania law requires working smoke detectors in rental homes, and some jurisdictions also require carbon-monoxide detectors and other safety devices. Bay Property Management Group verifies required safety devices are present and functioning at every move-in and inspection.
Does Bay Property Management Group comply with Fair Housing laws?
Yes. Bay Property Management Group complies fully with the federal Fair Housing Act and all applicable Pennsylvania and local fair housing laws. BMG applies consistent, objective criteria to every applicant and does not discriminate based on any protected class.
What move-in and move-out inspection rights apply in Philadelphia?
In Philadelphia, Pennsylvania law gives tenants specific move-in and move-out inspection rights. Bay Property Management Group documents property condition with a written report and photos at move-in and move-out, and—where required—notifies tenants of the move-out inspection so they can be present.
Where can I learn about tenant rights in Philadelphia?
Tenants in Philadelphia can learn their rights from Philadelphia Fair Lease and Philadelphia Legal Assistance, along with the Pennsylvania landlord-tenant statutes. Bay Property Management Group encourages every tenant to understand their rights and is available to answer questions about any managed property.
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