Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often from property owners, tenants, and buyers across San Luis Obispo County.

Commercial Property Management

What does a commercial property manager do?

A commercial property manager handles the day-to-day operations of a commercial property on behalf of the owner. This includes finding and screening tenants, negotiating and administering leases, collecting rent, coordinating maintenance and repairs, managing vendor relationships, and handling all tenant communications.

We also provide transparent financial reporting so you always know how your investment is performing. The goal is to maximize your property's income and long-term value while freeing you from the demands of day-to-day management.

How much does commercial property management cost in San Luis Obispo?

Commercial property management fees depend on the property type, size, and services required. Fees are typically structured as a percentage of collected rents or a flat monthly fee — and sometimes a combination of both.

We tailor our fee structure to the specific needs of each property rather than applying a one-size-fits-all rate. Contact us for a no-obligation proposal for your property.

What types of commercial properties does Peak Property Management handle?

Our portfolio includes retail centers, office buildings, flex and warehouse spaces, mixed-use properties, and multi-tenant commercial buildings throughout San Luis Obispo County. We currently manage notable properties including University Square on Foothill Boulevard in SLO, buildings at 651 Tank Farm Road and 2861 Airpark Drive, and commercial properties in Arroyo Grande and Paso Robles.

If you own a commercial property on the Central Coast and are considering professional management, we'd be glad to discuss whether we're a good fit.

What is the difference between a NNN lease, a Gross lease, and a Modified Gross lease?

NNN (Triple Net) lease: The tenant pays base rent plus their proportionate share of property taxes, building insurance, and common area maintenance (CAM) costs. The landlord's net income is more predictable since operating expenses pass through to tenants. NNN leases are standard for retail and many commercial properties.

Gross lease: The tenant pays a single all-inclusive rent and the landlord covers most operating expenses. Tenants often prefer this structure for its simplicity and cost predictability. Our Cambria retail space at 4158 Bridge St is offered on a Gross basis.

Modified Gross lease: A hybrid structure — some expenses are included in the base rent and others pass through to the tenant. Common in office and some retail situations. Our Foothill Blvd space at 799 Foothill uses this structure.

The right lease type depends on the property, market norms, and the preferences of both owner and tenant. We can walk you through the pros and cons for your specific situation.

What areas of San Luis Obispo County does Peak Property Management serve?

We serve all of San Luis Obispo County and northern Santa Barbara County, including San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande, Pismo Beach, Grover Beach, Cambria, Oceano, Morro Bay, Santa Maria, Lompoc, and Big Sur. Our team has deep local market knowledge built over more than 20 years of managing properties across the Central Coast.

What makes Peak Property Management different from other property management companies in SLO?

Peak Property Management was founded by Gary Stevenson, a 4th generation San Luis Obispo native with over 20 years of commercial property management experience in SLO County. We are a locally owned, hands-on firm — not a large franchise or out-of-area company.

Our team combines deep commercial management expertise with a full-service real estate brokerage, so we can help property owners both manage their current portfolio and navigate sales and acquisitions. We know our tenants, our properties, and our market personally — and that local knowledge makes a difference in how we manage and lease properties.

Tenants & Leasing

How do I apply to rent a property managed by Peak Property Management?

You can apply online at any time through our Tenant Portal at peakslo.twa.rentmanager.com/applynow. The application asks for standard information including rental history, employment and income verification, and references.

Our team reviews applications promptly and will contact you with next steps. If you have questions before applying, feel free to reach out to us directly.

When is rent due and how do I pay it?

Rent is due on the 1st of each month. The easiest way to pay is through the online Tenant Portal, where you can set up one-time or recurring payments, view your payment history, and access your lease documents.

If you have questions about your account or need another payment arrangement, contact our office at (805) 592-2226.

How do I submit a maintenance request?

Current tenants can submit maintenance requests through the online Tenant Portal, or by emailing our Assistant Property Manager Audrey Beckett at audrey@peakslo.com.

For after-hours emergencies, contact Gary Stevenson directly at (805) 704-8000. For fire, gas leaks, or any medical emergency, always call 911 first.

What do I need to do when I move out?

Written notice is required as specified in your lease agreement — typically 30 days for residential and longer for commercial tenancies. Please notify us in writing as early as possible so we can provide you with a move-out checklist and schedule a walk-through.

Contact us at our contact page or email audrey@peakslo.com to start the process.

Are pets allowed in your rental properties?

We do not allow pets in our rental properties. Service animals required by law are of course an exception. If you have questions, contact us before applying.

Buying & Selling a Home

How do I work with Peak Property Management to buy or sell a home on the Central Coast?

Our licensed realtors — Ryan Benson, Timothy Bomben, and Marc Wood — represent buyers and sellers throughout San Luis Obispo County and the broader Central Coast region. We handle everything from first-time home purchases to investment property acquisitions and high-end coastal sales.

To get started, contact us or reach out directly to any of our agents on the About Us page. We'll connect you with the right person based on your needs and location.

What areas do your realtors cover for home sales?

Our realtors are licensed throughout California and actively work deals across San Luis Obispo County and adjacent areas including Santa Barbara County, Monterey County (Big Sur), and the broader Central Coast. Current active listings include homes in Big Sur, Lompoc, and land in Oceano.

What is the San Luis Obispo real estate market like right now?

The SLO County real estate market continues to be driven by limited inventory, strong demand from remote workers and retirees attracted to the Central Coast lifestyle, and the influence of Cal Poly SLO. Commercial real estate — particularly retail — is seeing selective activity as businesses seek well-located spaces in walkable areas like downtown SLO and the Paso Robles wine country corridor.

For the most current market picture, contact our team — we track active listings, pricing trends, and days on market closely and can give you a frank assessment for your specific situation.

About Peak Property Management

How long has Peak Property Management been in business?

Peak Property Management, Inc. has been operating in San Luis Obispo County for over 20 years. Founder and Managing Broker Gary Stevenson has built long-term relationships with property owners, tenants, and partners throughout the Central Coast over that time.

Is Peak Property Management licensed in California?

Yes. Peak Property Management, Inc. holds a California Department of Real Estate (DRE) broker license. Our realtors are individually licensed agents operating under the brokerage. You can verify license status at the California DRE website at dre.ca.gov.

How do I get started with Peak Property Management for my property?

The best first step is a conversation. Contact Gary Stevenson directly at gary@peakslo.com or (805) 704-8000, or use our contact form to describe your property and what you're looking for. We'll follow up promptly to discuss whether we're a good fit and what management or brokerage services make sense for your situation.

Still have a question?

Our team is happy to help. Reach us by phone, email, or the contact form — we respond promptly.