Methods and apparatus to manage a plurality of geographically dispersed residential properties are disclosed. The methods and apparatus enable a plurality of rental properties to be managed by a central property management system despite the facts that in some areas, full time professional property managers are not available, the individual rental properties may be too small to justify a dedicated property manager and may be located in a plurality of different, and possibly remote, geographic regions. The methods described greatly reduce the time required and knowledge needed for real estate agents to manage residential properties. The method of delivery enables virtually any real estate agent to manage residential properties regardless of their physical location volume of properties or training in property management. Certain of the property management functions are performed automatically by a central computer that is part of the central property management system. Other property management functions are performed by the central property management system with the assistance of one or more central property managers. Still other property management functions are performed with the assistance of a local property manager.