> I still have no idea why so many people choose to work with them. A good one is worth every penny of that month of rent. Having to advertise, and then deal

> I still have no idea why so many people choose to work with them. A good one is worth every penny of that month of rent. Having to advertise, and then deal with the current tenant+prospective tenant tours and scheduling is very much worth it just on it's own. Add in screening/background checks/credit checks and such and it's substantial. A good listing agent will also be up to speed on local laws and assist on that front as well letting you know of any recent changes. For me, it saves a bunch of time, and doesn't disrupt my dayjob. I still do most of my own maintenance and such, but the marketing and finding new tenants really is the worst part (other than a horrible tenant!) of the landlording experience. If I ever retire I'd likely do it myself to save the cash. As usual in such middle-men "industries" with no barrier of entry it attracts a lot of grifters and least-effort individuals so it's kind of a pain to find someone reliable.