for multi family homes that are not owner occupied, from day one....

Prior to being a licensed agent, I managed my own properties.  Truthfully, I thought I was doing a good job, until I learned what all I needed to know.  In my opinion, with all the legal issues, I think it is absolutely best to hire a great property manager- someone who keeps up on the laws, follows fair housing standards.  Property managers who also own rental properties have a great outlook, since they understand what investors are looking for - cash flow, relaible tenants, proper maintenance of the property. etc.

SO from my point of view, from day one is the best time to resommend a property manager.  Best of luck!

When they own rental properties that they do not wish to manage themselves.

I would base it more on the abilities and time constraints of the owners.

I am a real estate agent and hire property managers on my investment properties. I don't make this decision for clients but in my opinion having a good property manager is worth every penny.-Kasey

If one doesn't feel comfortable...hire-up

Is there a reason you asked this question twice?

If the owner doesn't know what they're doing or they don't live in town they should consider a property manager.

The recommendation will depend upon the goals and objectives of the property owner(s) as well as other criteria.

Depends on the owners and their interest in taking care of the property, or availability to do so

When the owner(s) don't have the skills or temperament to run the investment property portfolio as a business.  The type of property or number of owners is of no relevance in making this decision.

Depends on your schedule. Property management can be a very time consuming occupation. I know people who do it themselves, but majority just hire professionals to deal with vacancies, payments, maintenance, and all other fun stuff. 

It depends on the client's desire...

When the owner is tired of doing the work.

no set rule

I recommend it to any proepty owner that intends to lease out their property. It is not as easy as it looks.

We agree with Barbara Todaro 

When the help uses poor grammar?

Any and every rental property.

I'd recommend that a client hire a property manager at the moment the client says they don't want to manage the property on their own. 

When they can no longer handle it or lose interest in servicing the tenants!

When the property becomes a rental property - Day-1!

Any time is good.

I am very late to this question and all the best responses have been taken :-(

I never recommend a property hire a PM but I do recommend owners who have not managed properties to do so

If the owner does not have the experience and or time to manage it correctly, then they need a professiona manager from 1 to 10000  units

Corey Christiansen When you take the listing.

Christine Kankowski Temecula & San Diego nailed this one!

do it now

Whenever they want to have it managed for them.

Generally, when they are unable to manage it themselves because they lack the knowledge/skills, they are too far away, or they are too busy.

It depends on the owner.  On their experience.  On their goals.  Ask questions and then listen carefully.   

Corey Christiansen - I guess this is duplicated...

Corey - I think it would depend on the property owner. Do they want to be a property manager, and do they have the time and ability to do so? If not, then hire out and rest assured that someone else is taking care of your rental property for you.

I'm with Barbara Todaro on her answer.

within 45 days of closing

Immediately !