As summer begins to wind down, many rental property owners across the province start thinking about how to prepare their investments for the fall and winter months. If you’ve been considering self-managing your rental property, the end of summer can feel like the right time to take the leap. But before diving in, it’s important to understand what’s involved in managing your property on your own — especially in Alberta, where seasonal challenges and changing tenant expectations can add complexity. At unitiiPM, we know that making the decision to self-manage isn’t easy, and it’s not one-size-fits-all. That’s why we’re here to offer a balanced look at what self-management really means — and how Alberta property management professionals can help lighten the load.

Here are five important things to consider before deciding to self-manage your property this fall.

1. Seasonal Maintenance Can Be More Than You Bargain For

Alberta winters are no joke — and fall is the time to prepare. That means furnace inspections, gutter cleaning, snow removal contracts, and checking the building envelope for leaks or insulation gaps. If you’re managing the property yourself, you’ll need to coordinate all of these tasks (often with multiple vendors) and ensure they’re completed on time.

Missed maintenance can lead to costly repairs down the line, not to mention tenant dissatisfaction if something breaks mid-winter. A professional Alberta property management company like unitiiPM has seasonal maintenance schedules, trusted contractors, and 24/7 on-call support to handle these tasks efficiently and proactively.

2. Tenant Turnover Is Higher in the Fall — Are You Prepared?

While summer is typically the peak rental season, fall still sees a significant amount of tenant turnover in Alberta. Whether it’s students moving closer to school, or families settling in before winter, vacancies are common during this time of year.

If you’re self-managing, this means you’ll need to market your unit, screen applicants, schedule showings, and handle lease agreements — all on your own. And in today’s digital world, tenants expect a professional experience. Poor listing photos, slow responses, or incomplete rental applications can quickly push potential renters elsewhere. At unitiiPM, we use tools and digital leasing systems to streamline this process and attract high-quality tenants quickly.

3. You’re Responsible for Legal Compliance and Paperwork

Alberta’s Residential Tenancies Act outlines clear rules and responsibilities for both landlords and tenants, and as a self-managing owner, it’s your job to stay informed and compliant. From security deposits and notice periods to eviction processes and rent increases, it’s easy to miss important steps — especially if you're juggling multiple properties or working another job.

Non-compliance can lead to legal disputes or fines. Property management professionals stay up to date on all regulations and ensure that leases, notices, and tenant communications are handled correctly and fairly — protecting both you and your renters.

4. It Can Be Emotionally and Logistically Draining

Self-managing isn’t just about saving money — it’s a commitment of time, energy, and emotional labour. You’ll need to be available for late-night maintenance calls, difficult tenant conversations, and sudden emergencies. For some property owners, especially those with full-time jobs or families, this becomes unsustainable over time.

Fall and winter are often the busiest times of the year, with holidays, travel, and family commitments on the horizon. If you’re already stretched thin, adding property management to your plate can cause burnout. Partnering with an Alberta property management company like unitiiPM can provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus on what matters most — while still enjoying the benefits of your investment.

5. The Cost of Hiring a Property Manager Might Be Lower Than You Think

A common reason owners choose to self-manage is to save money — but the true cost of self-management often goes beyond the monthly management fee. Delayed maintenance, extended vacancies, or legal missteps can end up costing far more than hiring a professional from the start.

At unitiiPM, we work with Alberta property owners to create customized management solutions that fit your needs and budget. Whether you need full-service support or just seasonal help, we’re here to add value — not just invoices.


Choosing whether to self-manage your property is a personal decision, and there’s no “right” answer for everyone. But as fall approaches, it’s essential to weigh the workload, legal responsibilities, and seasonal demands that come with the territory. At unitiiPM, we’re here to support Alberta property owners — whether you’re just getting started, looking for occasional guidance, or ready to hand off the day-to-day.

Before you decide to go it alone, take the time to assess what your time is worth, how much support you need, and whether the DIY route will truly help you meet your goals.

If you’d like to explore how unitiiPM can make property management easier this fall — reach out to our team today. We’re always happy to chat, answer questions, and help you make the best decision for your rental property.

Q: Is fall a good time to start self-managing a rental property?
A: Fall can be a manageable time to start, but it's also a busy season for maintenance, lease turnovers, and weather prep, so timing is key.

Q: What legal risks come with self-managing a rental property?
A: Mistakes in handling security deposits, eviction notices, or lease terms can lead to disputes, fines, or tenancy board hearings.

Q: What are signs that I should switch to professional property management?
A: If you’re overwhelmed, missing maintenance, or receiving frequent tenant complaints, it might be time to seek support.