Outsourced accounting delivers accuracy, transparency, and scalability through skilled guidance, modern tech, and structured onboarding.
Transitioning your real estate accounting function to an outsourced model is a big decision. Real estate accounting involves complex entity structures, compliance requirements, and investor reporting.
The right provider should make this transition seamless, through structured onboarding, proactive communication, and technology that delivers accuracy and insight.
Why outsource? Expect more than cost savings
Outsourcing is not only about reducing expenses. Today’s real estate companies and leaders face talent shortages, rising compliance demands, and the need for advanced technology. When evaluating a provider, expect:
- Specialized guidance from professionals who understand real estate structures, regulations, and reporting requirements
- Scalability to flex resources as your portfolio grows or shifts
- Operational efficiency through streamlined processes and automation that reduce manual work and accelerate reporting
- Strategic insights with portfolio-level KPIs and analytics to support better decisions
Risk mitigation: What a provider should deliver
Concerns about control, communication, and data security are common. A strong provider should address these head-on by offering:
- Clear onboarding with a single intake checklist and defined communication cadence
- Confidence in your numbers through early close cycles and reporting packages that validate processes
- Proactive communication with regular working sessions and transparent reporting so you are never in the dark
- Robust data security with secure system access, strong controls, and compliance with industry standards
Technology integration: Non-negotiable
Modern real estate accounting depends on technology for efficiency and insight. Expect your provider to:
- Configure secure system access for all stakeholders from day one
- Automate repeatable steps to reduce cycle times and reduce errors
- Integrate with your existing platforms to avoid disruption and enhance value
- Deliver portfolio-level dashboards for real-time visibility into cash flow, NOI, compliance, and fund metrics
The first 90 days: A roadmap you should see
A structured onboarding process is essential. Here is what a best-in-class roadmap looks like:
Phase 0 — Contracting and intake (week 1)
- Confirm scope and staffing
- Gather documents, system access, and key contacts
Phase 1 — Stand-up and blueprint (weeks 1–2)
- Secure system access and configuration
- Establish a month-end close calendar for each entity
- Define communication cadence and responsibilities
Phase 2 — Transition and stabilize (weeks 3–8)
- Run the first close cycle and refine timelines
- Deliver the first management reporting package
- Complete the first capital call or distribution and investor reporting cycle
- Hold weekly working sessions to track progress
Phase 3 — Enhance and scale (by Day 90)
- Automate repeatable steps
- Provide portfolio-level KPI views such as cash flow, NOI, covenant compliance, waterfall calculations, and fund metrics
By Day 90, you should have a predictable reporting rhythm and a scalable platform that supports informed decision making.
How CLA can help with outsourced accounting
The first 90 days in an outsourced accounting journey should be about building a foundation for accuracy, transparency, and scalability. At CLA, we anticipate challenges, communicate proactively, and deliver a seamless transition so you can focus on what matters most: growing your real estate portfolio.
Ready to learn more? Contact us to schedule a consultation or request our onboarding checklist to see how we can help you achieve your goals.