How Much Do Property Managers in Ontario Charge? A 2026 Cost Breakdown Guide

Want to learn more about how much property managers in Ontario charge in 2026? You’re in the right place.

Did you know that research shows 61% of landlords in Ontario are either unaware or misinformed about property management costs? That’s a massive percentage, and it leads to poor decisions, unexpected expenses, and sometimes, major legal headaches. We want to change that.

Managing a rental property in Ontario isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. Between navigating landlord-tenant laws, finding and keeping good tenants, and handling ongoing maintenance, it can quickly turn into a full-time job. That’s where property managers come in. But one question we hear from landlords across Southern Ontario all the time is: How much do property managers in Ontario charge? And honestly, it’s a fair question, especially when profit margins matter. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the real costs, what those fees actually cover, and how to avoid being overcharged or underserved.

Whether you own a condo in Burlington or a duplex in Hamilton, this article is built to help Ontario landlords like you make smart, informed decisions when hiring a property manager.

Understanding Property Management in Ontario

Property management isn’t just about collecting rent or fixing toilets. In Ontario, it’s a full-fledged service involving:

• Tenant sourcing and screening

• Rent collection

• Lease enforcement

• Maintenance and repair coordination

• Legal compliance with the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA)

Landlords in cities like Hamilton, Burlington, St. Catharines, or Brantford often realize managing their rental properties is more complex than expected. That’s where professional management steps in.

Average Cost of Property Management in Ontario

So, how much do property managers in Ontario charge?

Let’s break it down by service type:

Example: If your rental unit in Burlington brings in $2,000/month, expect to pay around $200–$240/month in ongoing property management fees alone, with other charges billed as needed.

These numbers come from current market rates and are accurate as of early 2024, sourced in part from public Ontario property management data.

Monthly Management Fees: What’s Actually Included?

This is where a lot of confusion happens. When we say “8–12% of rent,” what do you actually get for that money?

Typically, this includes:

• Rent collection & deposit

• Handling tenant communications

• Routine inspections

• Emergency maintenance coordination

• Monthly income & expense reporting

• Enforcing lease terms

At Golfi Property Management, we ensure landlords in Welland, Oakville, or Stoney Creek receive transparent reports and communication. You’ll always know where your money’s going.

Tenant Placement Fees: One-Time, But Critical

Let’s face it — the wrong tenant can cost you thousands. That’s why the tenant placement fee, though a one-time charge, is one of the most crucial.

You’re paying for:

• Advertising the property on key platforms

• Pre-screening applicants

• In-depth background, credit, and reference checks

• Lease signing & onboarding

The average Ontario rate? 50% to 100% of one month’s rent. Yes, that’s a wide range — but experience, location, and demand play a big role.

Are There Any Hidden Fees?

This is the section many won’t tell you about, but we will. Some property management companies might tack on:

• Administrative fees (for filing paperwork)

• Inspection charges (outside of routine ones)

• Maintenance mark-ups (adding % to contractor invoices)

That’s why it’s critical to ask for a full fee schedule upfront. At Golfi, transparency is part of our service. We give you the full picture before you sign anything.

Important Legal Considerations for Ontario Landlords

Ontario is governed by the Residential Tenancies Act (RTA) — and violating it, even accidentally, can lead to heavy fines or legal action.

A good property manager helps ensure:

• Proper notice is given before entry

• Rent increases follow legal guidelines

• Evictions are done through the LTB (Landlord and Tenant Board)

• Lease agreements are RTA-compliant

We’ve seen landlords in Niagara-on-the-Lake or Paris, Ontario, land in trouble for using outdated lease templates or giving incorrect notices. Don’t let that be you.

What Impacts Property Management Fees in Ontario?

Not all properties are created equal. Here’s what can affect how much you pay:

• Location: Downtown Hamilton will cost more than rural Mount Pleasant

• Type of property: Condos vs. single-family homes vs. multiplexes

• Condition of the unit: Older units may require more ongoing management

• Tenant quality: More stable tenants = less day-to-day work

• Services required: Full-service vs. a la carte

Pro Tip: Always ask if there’s room for customized pricing based on your specific needs.

Practical Tips for Choosing the Right Property Manager

Hiring a property manager is like hiring a business partner. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Interview at Least Three Firms

Don’t just look at cost. Ask about:

• Response time

• Conflict resolution process

• Local knowledge of Ontario laws

2. Ask for a Fee Schedule in Writing

Get everything on paper. If it’s not in writing, it’s not official.

3. Read Online Reviews — Carefully

Focus on patterns, not one-off complaints. Look for feedback from other Ontario landlords.

4. Check for Licensing and Insurance

While Ontario doesn’t mandate property management licensing, good firms will carry:

• Errors & Omissions Insurance

• General Liability Insurance

• WSIB coverage for staff

Common Mistakes Landlords Make When Hiring a Property Manager

Avoid these costly slip-ups:

• Only choosing the cheapest provider — You get what you pay for.

• Not asking about conflict resolution — What happens when issues arise?

• Forgetting to budget for renewals & turnover — These are standard but often overlooked.

• Hiring someone without local knowledge — Ontario’s rental laws are complex and region-specific.

Myths vs. Facts About Property Management in Ontario

• How much do property managers charge in Ontario?

  • 8% to 12% of the monthly rent for ongoing management

  • 50%–100% of one month’s rent for tenant placement

  • One-time fees like setup: $250–$500

• What services are typically included?

  • Rent collection, maintenance, tenant communication, inspections, reports

• Where do costs vary most?

  • Property type, condition, tenant quality, and city (e.g., Hamilton vs. Milton)

Regions We Serve at Golfi Property Management

We proudly manage properties throughout Southern Ontario, including:

• Hamilton: Ancaster, Dundas, Stoney Creek

• Halton: Burlington, Oakville, Milton

• Niagara: Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, Fort Erie

• Brantford: Paris, Cainsville, Mount Pleasant

Whether you’re renting out a condo in downtown Burlington or a duplex in Stoney Creek, we’ve got you covered.

Conclusion: So, How Much Do Property Managers in Ontario Charge?

To wrap it up: Property management in Ontario usually costs between 8% and 12% of your rental income, with additional one-time fees for leasing, setup, and special services. But the real value isn’t just in cost — it’s in peace of mind, legal compliance, and long-term rental profitability.

If you’re a landlord trying to grow your portfolio or reduce your stress, understanding the breakdown of these charges is the first step. From Hamilton to Niagara, the right property manager can make or break your investment success.

We believe in transparency, local expertise, and ethical service — no shortcuts. That’s what we offer at Golfi Property Management.

FAQs

1. What is a fair percentage for property management in Ontario?
A fair rate is typically between 8% to 12% of the monthly rent, depending on services and location.

2. Do I have to pay a fee every time a lease is renewed?
Some managers charge a lease renewal fee (around $100–$300), while others include it in their monthly management package.

3. Can I write off property management fees in Ontario?
Yes, property management fees are considered tax-deductible expenses on your rental income.

4. How do I know if a property manager is reliable?
Check for transparent pricing, local experience, online reviews, and responsiveness. Always request a written agreement.

5. Are property management fees negotiable in Ontario?
In some cases, yes. Managers may offer tiered services or discounts for multiple properties.