Summer isn’t just moving season for renters—it’s also a smart window of opportunity for landlords who are thinking about switching property managers. Whether you’re frustrated with poor communication, high vacancies, or you’re just ready for a fresh start, this time of year gives you more flexibility and fewer disruptions.

But is it really the best time to make a change?

Why So Many Landlords Reevaluate in the Summer

In most rental markets, including here in the Seattle area, summer is peak leasing season. Renters are more active, lease turnover increases, and properties tend to move faster. That naturally means more activity—and more visibility into how well your current property manager is performing.

It’s also when frustrations come to a head: delayed maintenance requests, unreturned emails, missed leasing opportunities. If you’ve been feeling unsure about your property management company, this season might highlight the gaps even more.

What Makes Summer an Ideal Time to Switch

Here are a few practical reasons why making the change in summer makes sense:

1. Stronger Renter Demand

Summer attracts more rental applicants, which means faster tenant placement if you’re transitioning. A new property manager has a better chance of filling your unit quickly if there’s a vacancy, or setting up new lease terms if renewal is due.

2. Clear Lease Cycles

Most leases turn over between May and August. That makes it easier to evaluate your current lease agreements and hand them off cleanly during the transition. A good manager will ensure that your tenants experience a smooth change, without confusion or disruption.

3. Flexible Scheduling for Maintenance

Warmer months make it easier to complete inspections and deferred maintenance. That’s especially helpful if you’re transitioning from a manager who hasn’t been keeping up with your property’s upkeep.

4. More Time to Prepare for Fall and Winter

Making the switch now gives your new property manager time to get fully up to speed before the slower rental season. By fall, you’ll already be in a better rhythm, with stronger processes and better support in place.

Signs It’s Time to Move On From Your Current Property Manager

Not sure if it’s time to switch? Here are some common red flags we see from clients who come to us from other firms:

  • You rarely get proactive updates
  • High vacancy rates or poorly priced rent
  • Maintenance issues drag on (or get ignored)
  • You feel like you’re chasing your property manager for answers
  • You’ve lost trust—or your tenants have

Summer is a chance to course-correct before another lease cycle begins.

What to Expect During a Mid-Year Switch

Worried that changing managers now will be disruptive? A good transition plan keeps everything running smoothly:

  • Review your contract: Most require 30-60 days notice. At SJA, we make this step easy with our No-Fee Cancellation Guarantee.
  • Communicate with tenants: Your new manager should handle this and set the tone for a positive relationship.
  • Handoff of documents, keys, and records: From lease agreements to vendor contacts, your new manager will request everything needed to hit the ground running.

Why Landlords Choose SJA in the Summer

We get it, making a change can feel stressful. But with the right support, it doesn’t have to be. At SJA Property Management, our summer onboarding process is designed to be quick, painless, and tenant-friendly. Our leasing team is already active, and we’re ready to plug into your property’s unique needs.

From better communication to smarter pricing and full-service support, we’re here to help you make the most of your rental property, without the headaches.

Thinking About a Fresh Start? You’re Not Alone.

Summer has a way of shining a light on what’s working, and what’s not. If you’ve been feeling uneasy about your current property management experience, trust that your instincts are worth listening to. This season isn’t just about tenant turnover, it’s a window of opportunity to set a better standard for how your rental is managed.

At SJA, we’ve helped countless Seattle-area landlords make the switch with less stress and more support. From proactive leasing to responsive communication and full-service care, we’re here to step in when you’re ready.

Let’s make this your smoothest transition yet. Schedule your free consultation today— and see why summer is the smart time to move forward.