Honestly, from people who did it privately for over 2 years, and then finally got wise and put the property through an agent, i would have to say AGENT 100%!!!!

Its not so much just about the work, but also it can be a HUGE nightmare say you have tenants (like the ones who we just had) in your property who you need to take to VCAT or etc. Our agent was a godsend here, as there was no way i would of had the time, (or really knew the guidelines etc) to have achieved the outcome she did.

Also, how would you be if the rent is late? do you feel you ca handle chasing the rent? and then if the rent is not given doing all you need to do after that??

Take it from me, i chased rent from some bad tenants nearly every month, for over a year (when we did it ourselves) and it was hell. Especially with how busy i was....

Yes, it costs. But if you shop around you can get them at a great price. And, most of the time- (if you get a good agent) they are worth EVERY dollar.

We are selling this property, so no longer renting it out as we want a quick sale, however, when we have more in the future, we will be agent all the way.

If for nothing more, because managing rental's/investment properties can get VERY messy, and when they do, the support/advice and the work the agent puts in make every cent worth it!!!

TIP: just include the agent fee's/landlord insurance into the rent.

Goodluck