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What it takes to survive as a property manager…

{and seriously, there is no might about it}

Ever wondered what it takes to be in this profession? Probably not. Ever wondering how it is that you came to still be working in this profession despite all the stress and disagreements and carry on and fuss? Well, I think I may have some of the answer below. And if not, add this to your resume. 
Here’s what it takes to be a {GOOD} Property Manager
  • A sense of humor. A big one. A good one. An unfaltering one. As I sat in the court house today awaiting a warrant of possession there was a crowd of agents and self managing owners there. And we laughed and chatted and shared war stories. And laughed some more. This is key. 
  • You have to know, it will never be about you. And be ok with that. You need to be able to get that when being yelled at, praised, manipulated or cajoled. It is never personal. It is not about you. 
  • An adaptable, fast learner. Things change fast. Well they appear to sometimes. Rules change, people change and it can all shift on a dime. You need to be good at being on your toes. 
  • A straight talker. The first thing I train people in is economy of words. I learnt this through a former employer and have developed it through ongoing training. Never say more than you need to and never argue with someone who isn’t listening. Make your communication direct, easy to understand and make the request if you are making one. Give them the question that you want answered.
  • Be friendly but not their friends. Owners or tenants this applies. It confuses them and when you need to do your job and be forceful or whatever. 
  • Do what you said you would do when you said you would do it. It will make you a stand out in the industry. Promise. You will be a shining star to owners and tenants alike. And it will stop you doing your head in. A good diary system, file system and incoming messages and email system will take all that extra out of your head and put it somewhere for safe keeping. 
  • And did I mention having a sense of humor..? I did. Well, it is essential. 
Actually. This list could almost work to be effective almost everywhere. What do you think?

Suger

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5 responses to “What it takes to survive as a property manager…”

  1. Kristen Avatar
    Kristen

    Reminds me of my days as a recruiter!

    Reply
  2. inspiredkate Avatar
    inspiredkate

    Yes as a previous owner and now tenant it would be great if property managers actually followed through with what they said they would do – also not give out my phone number to the owner so he calls me all the time! Apart from that I have mad friends with my current property manager and it works okay – we just agreed to have a healthy respect for each other when we have an issue to solve.

    Reply
  3. Rianna Avatar
    Rianna

    Ah! If Mum's said that quote to me once, she's said it a thousand time! Great post – I never cease to wonder how you manage it – I take things too personally. xo

    Reply
  4. Toni Avatar
    Toni

    YES! I've been renting for more than 20 years and I would love a property manager who did what she said she would. We're still waiting on keys to the shed so we can lock our valuables up (we've been here since June)Having said that, hats off to you chook. NOT the easiest job in the world.

    Reply
  5. Melissa @Suger Coat It Avatar
    Melissa @Suger Coat It

    I've done it both ways… Trying to wing it and remember everything and using the systems I employ now. I would never go back. I think it is why so many agents burn themselves out. Trying to REMEMBER everything. With their head.

    Reply

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