Business Details
31 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Property Management Partner in Monterey County
Backus Properties has been serving Monterey County for over three decades with a commitment to personalized property management solutions. Our team of licensed professionals brings extensive local expertise to every client interaction, ensuring properties are managed with the same care as if they were our own. We specialize in tailored services that adapt to each owner's specific involvement preferences while maintaining rigorous standards for tenant screening and property maintenance. Our unique approach combines 24/7 emergency response capabilities with comprehensive financial reporting tools that empower property owners with complete transparency.With multiple team members each managing over 250 properties, we combine individual attention with proven systems that guarantee rent collection and protect property investments. Our deep-rooted local knowledge spans Salinas, Monterey, Carmel, and surrounding areas, making us the trusted choice for property management in this region. The company's leadership includes industry-recognized professionals with prestigious designations like Master Property Manager and Residential Management Professional, ensuring our clients receive expert-level service at every touchpoint.
Services
Property Management
Real Estate Sales
Tenant Screening
Rent Collection
Maintenance Services
Financial Reporting
Eviction Protection
Lease Management
Property Marketing
Owner Portals
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of property management experience in Monterey County
- 24/7 emergency repair services with guaranteed response times
- Customizable management plans tailored to owner preferences
- Proven tenant screening process with eviction protection options
- Comprehensive financial reporting with electronic payment options
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM)
- Master Property Manager (MPM) Designation
- Residential Management Professional (RMP) Designation
What people say
Very helpful
Promptly responds
Best property manager
Worth every penny
Accommodating staff
Services
Property Management
Our comprehensive property management services cover every aspect from tenant relations to financial reporting. We handle rent collection, maintenance coordination, and legal compliance while providing 24/7 emergency response. Owners benefit from customized management plans that adapt to their specific needs while ensuring maximum property protection and investment returns.
Tenant Screening
We implement rigorous tenant screening processes including credit checks, criminal background investigations, and rental history verification. This thorough approach minimizes risk while ensuring qualified tenants for property owners. Our system balances thoroughness with fair housing compliance to protect both owners and applicants.
Rent Collection
Our automated rent collection system ensures timely payments with multiple payment options for tenants. We handle late payment protocols and provide detailed financial reports to owners. The system integrates with our property management tools to maintain accurate records and streamline owner disbursements.
Maintenance Services
We coordinate all property maintenance needs with vetted service providers while respecting owner preferences. Our system allows customizable approval thresholds for repair costs while maintaining 24/7 emergency response capabilities. Regular property inspections help preserve asset value and identify potential issues early.
Financial Reporting
Our detailed financial reporting tools provide owners with complete transparency through online portals. Monthly statements include income/expenses breakdowns and electronic payment options. The system maintains accurate records for tax purposes while enabling real-time investment performance monitoring.
People
Bill Backus
President and Broker Associate
Born and raised in Monterey County with 19 years real estate experience. Active member of Monterey County Association of Realtors and NARPM. Graduate of Salinas High School and Chico State University.
Michele Backus
Property Manager
Licensed Real Estate Agent with 9 years experience at Backus Properties. Manages largest portfolio with expertise in tenant relations. Bilingual assistant supports office operations and client communications.
Cindy Vargas
Property Manager
Salinas native with 14 years property management experience. Specializes in residential and commercial portfolio management. Active NARPM member with extensive local market knowledge.
Sally Backus
Managing Broker
42 years real estate experience with Master Property Manager designation. Nationally recognized expert and former NARPM instructor. Graduate of Notre Dame High School and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.
Molly Scott
Assistant Property Manager
Supports property management team with tenant issues and administrative tasks. Knowledgeable professional who joined the company after graduation and developed expertise through hands-on experience.
Questions
How should I prepare my property for rental?
Ensure the property is in excellent condition with fresh landscaping and neutral window coverings. Remove all personal belongings and debris before tenant move-in.
How will my property be marketed?
We advertise on 8 major platforms including Zillow and Craigslist with professional photography. Marketing costs are $250 per vacancy.
What are the pet and smoking policies?
Smoking is prohibited inside properties. Pet policies are owner-determined, though allowing pets with deposits may increase tenant pool.
How are late rent payments handled?
Rent is due on the 1st and considered late after the 5th. We issue 3-day notices and follow legal collection processes as directed by owners.
When do owners receive monthly payments?
Funds are distributed between the 15th and 22nd of each month via electronic transfer, check, or held balance as requested.
How are property repairs managed?
Customizable repair handling options available. Owners can choose approval thresholds while we coordinate with trusted vendors at actual cost.
