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Blog » How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Virtual Accountant for Real Estate Business?

How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Virtual Accountant for Real Estate Business?

Last updated: 25 Sep, 2023 By | 6 Minutes Read

Hire A Virtual Accountant

Want to hire a virtual accountant for your real estate business but not sure if you have the budget? It has become a major concern for realtors looking to outsource their accounting tasks. You may wonder how much they will cost you.

We understand to improve your workflow, you have opted for virtual services, but at the same time, it’s crucial to calculate the cost. While virtual accountants’ costs vary, it’s easy to find one that fits your budget, regardless of your business size.

According to a survey, only a quarter of accounting and finance professionals prefer to work onsite 100% of the time.

In fact:

  • 63% express a strong preference for hybrid work setups
  • 47% of professionals are aiming for fully remote positions

Why Hire A Virtual Accountant for Real Estate? 

1. Cost-effectiveness

Employing and retaining an in-house accountant can impose substantial financial strain on your real estate business. Contrarily, when you hire a virtual accountant, they opt for an adaptable and expandable approach. They can be hired when necessary, eliminating the fixed costs linked to a full-time staff member. Moreover, virtual accountants frequently come equipped with their own tools and software licenses, reducing the financial burden.

2. Expertise

The trend of virtual accountants enables realtors to leverage specialized expertise that could otherwise be hard or costly to retain internally. Virtual accountants can be hired based on their skill sets and industry knowledge concerning tax compliance, auditing, or intricate financial analysis. This focused strategy guarantees that your real estate business leverages top-notch financial services customized to your unique needs.

3. Flexibility

Virtual accountants provide convenience and flexibility that traditional in-house accountants can’t. Leveraging the capabilities of cloud-based accounting software, these experts can retrieve financial data from any location, enabling them to offer immediate insights and assistance. If your real estate business operates in multiple locations with remote teams, it can ensure seamless financial transactions.

4. Data Security

Earlier, concerns regarding data security have posed an obstacle for real estate owners contemplating outsourcing financial services. Nevertheless, numerous virtual accounting firms have invested significantly in cutting-edge security measures to protect sensitive financial data. These security protocols frequently surpass those smaller businesses implement, providing an extra layer of reassurance.

Factors Influencing Virtual Accountant Costs

  • Scope of services: The cost of virtual bookkeeping services majorly depends on the scope and range of financial tasks required.
  • Experience and expertise: Experience and expertise levels of virtual accountants can impact the pricing, with highly specialized professionals often charging more.
  • Understanding complex real estate transactions: The complexity of real estate transactions being managed can influence the overall cost of virtual accounting support.
  • Frequency of reporting: The frequency of financial reporting needs can affect pricing, especially for realtors who need frequent updates.
  • Industry reputation: The industry reputation of a virtual accounting provider can be a factor in their pricing structure.

There is no fixed rate for part-time or full-time cost to hire an accountant virtually. Freelance virtual accountants may charge anywhere from $1 to over $100 per hour. If you decide to bring them on as employees, the typical annual salary could be approximately $75,000.

How to Hire a Virtual Accountant for Your Real Estate Business

Finding a cost-effective virtual accountant for your real estate business is essential for optimizing your financial management while keeping expenses in check. Here are some strategies to help you locate the right virtual accountant without breaking the bank:

  • Define Your Needs:

Before you search, determine exactly what accounting services for real estate businesses you require. Be specific about your real estate business’s unique financial aspects, such as property management, rental income, and tax compliance. Understanding your needs will help you identify an accountant with the right skill set.

  • Consider Experience and Expertise:

Look for virtual accountants with experience in the real estate industry. They should be well-versed in real estate transactions, tax laws, and industry-specific accounting practices. It can save you time and money by ensuring accurate financial management.

  • Evaluate Pricing Models:

Real estate accountants in a virtual space offer various pricing structures, including hourly rates, monthly retainers, or project-based fees. Compare these models to find the one that aligns with your budget and expected workload. Remember that a higher hourly rate doesn’t always mean a higher overall cost if the accountant works efficiently.

  • Ask for Recommendations:

Seek referrals from other real estate professionals or colleagues who have used virtual accounting services. Personal recommendations can help you identify reliable and cost-effective accountants who have a track record of delivering quality service.

  • Interview Multiple Candidates: 

Don’t settle for the first virtual accountant you come across. Interview multiple candidates to assess their qualifications, communication skills, and understanding of your business. This process will help you identify the best fit for your specific needs and budget.

  • Check References: 

Request references from potential virtual accountants and contact their previous clients. Inquire about their experiences, the quality of service received, and whether the accountant helped save costs or improve financial efficiency.

  • Explore Technology Utilization:

 Ask potential accountants about the accounting software and tools they use. Cloud-based accounting systems can streamline processes, reduce errors, and save time. A tech-savvy accountant can often be more cost-effective in the long run.

  • Negotiate Rates:

Don’t hesitate to negotiate rates and payment terms with your chosen virtual accountant. Some may be open to flexible pricing arrangements, especially if you commit to a long-term partnership or provide consistent work.

  • Consider Time Zones and Availability:

If you have specific time requirements for your real estate business, ensure that your virtual bookkeepers’ working hours align with your needs. Time zone differences can affect communication and project timelines.

  • Start with a Trial Period:

To minimize risk, consider starting with a trial period before committing to a long-term contract. This allows you to assess the accountant’s performance and suitability for your business without a significant upfront investment.

Bottom Line

In summary, the surge in virtual accounting services is propelled by their efficiency, cost-effectiveness, on-demand expertise, scalability, robust data security, and seamless integration of contemporary technology. In a real estate industry marked by perpetual transformation, the adoption of virtual accountants offers a strategic advantage. 

Finding it challenging to manage your books? Tired of costly accounting errors? No problem! We at Cogneesol, have got you covered. We have a team of professionals offering cost-effective virtual accounting services to help you with your bookkeeping and accounting requirements.

To learn more about us, email us at [email protected] or call us at +1 833-313-3143.

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