What to Look for When Choosing an Outsourced Real Estate Accounting Firm
July 9, 2025

Choosing the right outsourced accounting partner requires a careful evaluation of several key factors.

In the real estate industry, accurate and timely financial management is essential for making informed investment decisions, maintaining compliance, and driving long-term profitability. For many real estate businesses, whether property managers, developers, or investors—outsourcing accounting functions can be a smart, cost-effective move. However, not all accounting firms are created equal, especially when it comes to real estate. 

1. Industry-Specific Expertise

The real estate sector has its own complex accounting requirements, including revenue recognition, lease accounting, property depreciation, and compliance with local, state, and federal tax laws. Look for a firm that specializes in real estate accounting and has experience working with businesses similar to yours, whether that's residential, commercial, multifamily, or mixed-use properties.

Key questions to ask:

  • Do you have clients in the real estate industry?
  • Are you familiar with 1031 exchanges, CAM reconciliations, and lease abstraction?
  • Can you handle real estate-specific reporting and tax filings?

2. Technology and Software Capabilities

Modern accounting is powered by technology. The right firm should be proficient with leading real estate accounting software like Yardi, AppFolio, QuickBooks, MRI Software, or Nexus. They should also be able to integrate with property management platforms and provide secure access to your financial data.

Look for:

  • Cloud-based solutions with real-time access to reports
  • Experience with your preferred accounting platform
  • Data security measures and backup protocols

3. Scalability and Flexibility

Your accounting needs will evolve as your portfolio grows. The firm you choose should be able to scale services up or down as needed, whether you are acquiring new properties, launching a development project, or winding down an asset.

Consider:

  • Can they handle seasonal or transaction-based fluctuations?
  • Do they offer a range of services, from à la carte to full CFO-level support?
  • Is there flexibility in pricing and contract terms?

4. Reporting and Financial Analysis

Beyond basic accounting, your firm should deliver customized financial reports that help you track performance, manage cash flow, and plan strategically. This includes budget vs. actual reports, rent rolls, vacancy reports, and portfolio-level analysis.

You will want:

  • Timely, accurate monthly and quarterly reports
  • KPIs and dashboards tailored to your goals
  • Clear, actionable insights—not just numbers

5. Communication and Responsiveness

Good communication is critical when you are entrusting someone with your financials. You want a firm that is accessible, responsive, and initiative-taking in their approach.

Ask about:

  • Turnaround times for questions or deliverables
  • Designated point of contact or team structure
  • Communication tools used (e.g., email, client portals)

6. Reputation and References

Finally, reputation matters. Look for testimonials, reviews, and case studies that highlight the firm’s strengths. Do not hesitate to ask for references from other real estate clients.

Evaluate:

  • Online reviews (Google, Clutch, Trustpilot)
  • Client case studies demonstrating measurable results
  • Length of client relationships (long-term clients are a good sign)



Final Thoughts

Outsourcing your real estate accounting can free up valuable time, reduce overhead costs, and provide access to specialized expertise—if you choose the right partner. Take the time to assess potential firms across these criteria, and you will find a partner who not only manages your numbers but helps you grow your business strategically.

If you are ready to explore outsourced real estate accounting, create a checklist based on the points above and reach out to us at SX Business Services. We are happy to answer all your questions and take the first steps in building a long and profitable partnership.

SX Business Services Employee Spotlight: Edward Keogh, Accounts Payable Administrator

By Lindsay Van Kauwenberg • May 1, 2025
SX Business Services is proud to introduce our newest Accounts Payable Administrator, Ed Keogh. His first job out of school was in financial services in Dublin where he spent 7 years working in various roles in the branch. Originally from southwest Dublin, he emigrated to the US in 2003. Married for 22 years to his lovely wife Sue they share two sons together, Aodhan (18) and Ryan (12) and a beautiful love story. They met at a bar in Dublin one Wednesday night and hit it off immediately while she was travelling through Europe. After a week or two of dating they took a vacation together and before the trip ended, he asked her to marry him with only his Claddagh ring. The importance of family was instilled in Ed as he was raised in a small 3-bedroom house with his parents and 6 siblings. He tries to return to Ireland once a year and brings his family back when he can. He loves watching, playing, and coaching football (OK soccer) and has been a volunteer Treasurer for Norwood Youth Soccer since 2019. His favorite team is Manchester United, and his favorite US soccer team is the NE Revolution. Additionally, he enjoys woodworking and has a small woodshop in his basement at home. He and his wife have traveled extensively together through the years and have also brought their kids to places such as: Ireland (obviously), Mexico, Canada, Spain, and Dominican Republic. Once they find a place they like, they are known to go back. Ed in his own words: What do you like about working at SX so far? “I love how friendly everyone is since I only started last month. I love the collaborative spirit as well. I love the work, my team and everyone I have come into contact with here.”

SX Business Services Employee Spotlight: Jillian Palmieri, Property Accounting

By Lindsay Van Kauwenberg • April 17, 2025
SX was fortunate to welcome Jillian as a staff accountant in December of 2023, she was quickly and deservedly promoted to the position of Property Accountant a year later. She is a graduate of Suffolk University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration – with an accounting major and business management minor. Her father has been a business owner for 43 years and motivated her to garner the minor in business management to someday follow in his footsteps. Growing up in West Bridgewater, MA, she claims her summers were the best part of living there and enjoyed each season at the beach tanning away. She has two older siblings, one brother and one sister whom she is very close to. Her family had a black labrador for over 13 years and they miss her dearly. Someday she wishes to be home more to have the flexibility to adopt at least one dog again. She is looking forward to the opportunity to travel and has never really left the United States. Her family went to Niagara Falls on the Canada side when she was two… that counts right!!? A short list of dream locales to visit include Italy, Greece, Dubai, Hawaii, and any other tropical islands. Jillian – ‘In her own words’: Have you learned anything new as an adult that you didn’t experience as a child? I recently tried skiing for the first time, and I absolutely loved it. I gave my retired gymnast self-credit as it was easy to learn. I enjoy being active. If you could have any other job, what would it be? My dream job would be to own a busy coffee shop or café since my two prior years working at Starbucks gained me a coffee addiction. I would also like to open a business for mind/body health – such as a trampoline park to help people suffering from fibromyalgia/ being a fitness instructor/ and potentially help people further with their health through supplementation/diet. What do you like most about your job, and/or working for SX? I enjoy accounting especially ever since I got to SX – I have noticed great vibes since coming here, and everyone is super helpful. We really make a great team.

What factors to consider when choosing a real estate accounting software for your business

By Lindsay Van Kauwenberg • May 30, 2024
Choosing the best real estate accounting software for your business involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your specific needs. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you make the right choice: