Why Choosing the Right Property Manager in Columbus Matters

Whether you’re a seasoned investor or an accidental landlord, finding the right property management company can make or break your rental experience. Columbus, Ohio is a growing and competitive rental market with diverse tenant needs and an evolving regulatory landscape. If you’re managing properties without the right partner, you risk vacancy losses, compliance issues, poor tenant relationships, and more time than you bargained for.

A great property manager does more than collect rent. They protect your investment, optimize cash flow, and streamline operations so you can focus on growth—not damage control. But with dozens of companies out there, it’s tough to know who actually delivers and who just has a polished website.

That’s why we created this guide: to cut through the noise and highlight the top-performing property management companies in Columbus for 2025. We’ve done the research and selected companies based on local reputation, customer reviews, specialties, service quality, and pricing transparency.

Some of these companies serve niche markets like student housing or Airbnb. Others, like our top pick RL Property Management, serve serious investors with portfolio-minded strategies and flat-rate pricing. Whatever your goals, this list will help you find the company best suited to manage your properties, maximize your returns, and reduce your stress.

Let’s dive in.

🏆 Top Pick: RL Property Management (Best Overall for Serious Investors)

If you’re looking for a property management company that treats your investment like a business (because it is) RL Property Management Group stands above the rest. Based in Gahanna and locally owned, RLPM has spent over a decade building a reputation for data-driven operations, responsive service, and investor-first systems.

RL specializes in managing small-to-midsize residential portfolios, including single-family homes and multifamily buildings up to 99 units. Their clients include long-term investors, accidental landlords who’ve decided to scale, and out-of-state owners looking for a reliable team on the ground. With a flat-rate pricing model and no leasing fees, RLPM is built for owners who care about ROI and transparency.

What sets RL apart is its commitment to proactive management: quarterly property inspections, 24/7 maintenance coordination, strict tenant screening, and legally vetted leases come standard. They even offer investor education through free webinars and a unique “Text a Property Manager” hotline where anyone can get PM advice directly from a licensed pro.

Quick Facts:

• CEO: Peter Lohmann
• Google Rating: 4.3 (425+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 12
• Properties Managed: 690+
• Specialties: Single-family homes, duplexes/fourplexes, small multifamily buildings, out-of-state investors
• Management Fee: Flat-rate monthly fee (no % of rent)
• Leasing Fee: $0
• Lease Renewal Fee: $250
• Extras: Free Market Rent Analysis, Rent vs. Sell Calculator, investor webinars, Text-a-Property-Manager, custom legal leases, in-house maintenance
• Website: rlpmg.com

RL Property Management is the go-to partner for Columbus investors who value professionalism, predictability, and performance.

🧠 Methodology: How We Chose the Top Property Managers in Columbus

We know how important it is to trust the source when it comes to recommendations. That’s why our list is based on a thorough evaluation of each company’s reputation, service offerings, pricing transparency, and ability to serve diverse rental needs throughout Columbus. Here are the key criteria we used:

• Local Reputation & Reviews: We considered Google ratings, BBB standings, and customer sentiment across multiple platforms.
• Service Scope & Specialization: From single-family rentals to large multifamily buildings, student housing, Section 8, and short-term rentals—we evaluated the breadth and depth of services offered.
• Transparency in Pricing: Companies that clearly publish or explain their fees earned higher marks. No hidden costs means more peace of mind for property owners.
• Technology & Communication: Online portals, maintenance tracking, rent collection systems, and owner dashboards are now industry standards. We gave preference to companies with strong digital infrastructure.
• Investor Support: Companies that offer tools, resources, or educational support for landlords and investors—like rent calculators or free consultations—earned bonus points.
• Local Market Expertise: We prioritized companies with deep knowledge of Columbus neighborhoods, rental demand trends, and local regulatory requirements.

Each company on this list brings something unique to the table, whether it’s a niche specialization or full-service expertise. By evaluating them across multiple dimensions, our goal is to give property owners a realistic, apples-to-apples comparison.

🏢 Oakwood Management Company (Best for Large Multifamily Properties)

Oakwood Management Company has been a cornerstone of the Columbus rental landscape for decades. With a focus on managing large-scale multifamily communities—many with 100+ units—Oakwood offers institutional-grade service with deep local roots.

Their experience managing thousands of rental units across Central Ohio makes them an ideal partner for developers, REITs, or owners with sizable holdings. Oakwood brings in-house leasing, maintenance, resident support, and property marketing under one roof, giving owners a single point of contact for even the most complex communities.

Oakwood also has an impressive portfolio of Class A apartment communities and new developments. Their teams are skilled in managing lease-ups, brand-new construction, and full-service amenities—making them a great choice for investors focused on high-end or large-scale rentals.

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 4.1 (500+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 60+
• Properties Managed: Thousands across Central Ohio
• Specialties: Large multifamily (100+ units), new construction, lease-ups, Class A communities
• Management Fee: Contact for custom pricing
• Leasing Fee: Varies by property type
• Renewal Fee: Varies by property
• Website: liveoakwood.com

If you’re managing a large multifamily asset and want a property manager with deep experience and a polished, scalable system—Oakwood Management is the clear choice.

🎓 All County NEO Property Management (Best for Student Housing)

Serving the heart of Ohio’s student rental market, All County NEO Property Management is a go-to choice for investors looking to manage rentals near The Ohio State University and other local colleges. They understand the seasonal nature and unique demands of student tenants, offering systems designed to reduce turnover headaches and ensure on-time rent collection.

As part of the All County national franchise, the NEO Columbus branch offers personalized service with the support of a broader management infrastructure. They provide full-service management, including leasing, maintenance, rent collection, and detailed financial reporting. Their team is experienced in managing high-density rentals and roommate leases, which is especially important in student-heavy neighborhoods.

If you’re renting to students or planning to invest in off-campus housing, All County NEO offers the structure and support to keep things running smoothly.

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 3.7 (40+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 10+
• Properties Managed: Undisclosed
• Specialties: Student rentals, roommate leases, near-campus housing
• Management Fee: Contact for quote
• Leasing Fee: Varies by unit
• Renewal Fee: Contact for details
• Website: allcountyprop.com

All County NEO combines national backing with local knowledge, making them a smart choice for anyone operating in Columbus’s student housing market.

🏘 ERA Real Solutions Realty (Best for Section 8 and Low-Income Housing)

ERA Real Solutions Realty offers a hands-on approach to affordable housing and HUD-compliant rentals. With experience in managing Section 8 and income-restricted properties, ERA is a strong resource for property owners who want to do well while doing good.

Their team understands the intricacies of Columbus’s housing assistance programs and helps owners navigate inspections, compliance, and subsidy payments. This makes ERA Real Solutions a top pick for landlords working with the Columbus Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) or looking to expand into affordable housing investments.

In addition to property management, ERA Real Solutions also operates a real estate brokerage, giving investors support on both acquisition and management sides of the business.

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 3.3 (80+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 15+
• Properties Managed: Undisclosed
• Specialties: Section 8 housing, low-income rentals, affordable housing compliance
• Management Fee: Contact for pricing
• Leasing Fee: Contact for details
• Renewal Fee: Contact for details
• Website: realsolutionsrentals.com

ERA Real Solutions is a reliable partner for investors who want to make an impact in underserved communities while maintaining strong financial performance.

🏡 Towne Properties (Best for Full-Service HOA & COA Management)

With over 60 years of experience, Towne Properties stands as a leading full-service real estate firm specializing in Homeowners Association (HOA) and Condominium Owners Association (COA) management across Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, and North Carolina. Managing over 800 associations and more than 120,000 units, their extensive portfolio includes large-scale communities, high-rise condominiums, townhomes, and single-family neighborhoods.

Towne Properties offers comprehensive services encompassing financial management, vendor coordination, legal compliance, and community engagement. Their approach is tailored to ease the responsibilities of board members, ensuring communities are well-maintained and residents are satisfied. With a focus on creating “Great Places to Live,” Towne Properties combines industry expertise with a commitment to community well-being.

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 4.3 (650+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 60+
• Properties Managed: 800+ associations, 120,000+ units
• Specialties: HOA/COA management, large-scale communities, high-rise condos, single-family homes
• Website: towneproperties.com

 

🏡 SBS Management (Best for Personalized HOA & COA Services)

SBS Management is a family-owned company based in Hilliard, Ohio, offering personalized property management services to homeowner and condominium associations in Central Ohio, including Columbus, Dayton, Cincinnati, and surrounding areas. With over 25 years in the industry, SBS prides itself on delivering attentive, locally managed services tailored to each community’s unique needs .

Their comprehensive services cover financial management, maintenance coordination, property inspections, and effective communication strategies. SBS’s commitment to responsiveness and community engagement has earned them high praise from board members and residents alike, making them a trusted partner for associations seeking dedicated management solutions .

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 2.9 (20+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 25+
• Properties Managed: Undisclosed
• Specialties: HOA/COA management, financial services, maintenance, communications
• Website: sbs.management

 

🛏️ Housepitality (Best for Short-Term and Airbnb Rentals)

Housepitality is Columbus’s leading short-term rental management company, offering full-service Airbnb and vacation rental solutions to property owners looking to maximize nightly rates and occupancy. They specialize in high-touch guest experiences, five-star hospitality standards, and revenue optimization for furnished rentals.

Whether you’re renting out a second home, an ADU, or a professionally staged investment property, Housepitality handles everything—from listing optimization and dynamic pricing to guest communication, cleaning, and restocking.

With a growing presence in multiple cities and a strong reputation among hosts, Housepitality is a great partner for investors seeking passive income from short-term rentals without the day-to-day hassle.

Quick Facts:

• Google Rating: 4.6 (50+ reviews)
• Years in Business: 5+
• Properties Managed: Undisclosed
• Specialties: Airbnb management, vacation rentals, short-term executive stays
• Management Fee: Contact for quote
• Leasing Fee: N/A (short-term booking model)
• Renewal Fee: N/A
• Website: housepitality.io

For landlords seeking to break into the Airbnb market—or scale their existing short-term portfolio—Housepitality offers a concierge-level solution that drives results and rave reviews.

Which Property Manager is Right for You?

Choosing a property management company isn’t just about services and fees—it’s about finding the right fit for your investment goals, property type, and preferred level of involvement. Whether you’re managing a small portfolio, expanding into multifamily, renting to students, or experimenting with short-term stays, Columbus has a number of strong, specialized options to choose from.

If you’re looking for a well-rounded, investor-minded partner with no leasing fees and flat-rate pricing, RL Property Management remains our top recommendation. But the right choice ultimately depends on your unique needs and what kind of return—and experience—you want from your rental properties.

Still unsure? Start by scheduling a free Market Rent Analysis with RL Property Management to get a clearer picture of your property’s income potential. You can also text a property manager directly to ask questions and get personalized guidance at any stage of your investment journey.

Looking for more tools, insights, or investor support? Check us out to access resources, educational webinars, and investor-friendly property management services designed for the Columbus market.