A property manager is a person or business who is usually hired to supervise the entire day-to-day operational functions of an apartment or commercial property. Some property owners find it challenging to monitor their property, and there are times when you need someone you can trust and confide in, such as a property manager. A property manager can be the person that will take care of all the necessary daily operations such as rent collections, maintenance, accounting, repairs and tenants, and other duties.
A great property manager can get along with all types of people. A property management professional has to have excellent interpersonal skills because property management is a team-building job. The property manager has to be able to diffuse any conflict or misunderstandings politely. A great property manager also can make decisions quickly. The ability to make good decisions and quick decisions under pressure is a must for a property management professional.
In addition, a property manager has to have excellent communication skills. They must be good at making agreements with tenants and landlords. If the property manager doesn’t communicate effectively with landlords and tenants, the end result could be increased turnover and reduced rentals. Communication is one of the key aspects of a successful property management career.
Landlords often give property managers responsibilities such as collecting late rent payments. Some property managers handle the leasing process for their landlords, while some do it themselves. In order to be a successful property manager, the landlord and the manager must be on the same page about the terms of the lease agreement.
Property managers are also responsible for the maintenance and upkeep of properties. They usually spend their workdays walking around the grounds and checking for damaged properties, broken doors, and leaks. If they see anything out of the ordinary, the real estate agent or lawyer who represents the owner may need to be called. The property manager can also conduct inspections of properties at any time. They are often called in to investigate complaints from tenants.
A property manager also makes recommendations to lower the rent prices of units that aren’t profitable for tenants. For example, a building that has many elderly tenants may set rent prices so high that it is unprofitable for them to stay there. A property manager will often consult with the landlord and the tenant on ways to keep them both comfortable.
To become a property manager, a person needs at least a high school diploma. Those who have worked previously in the industry and who have the managerial skills to run a variety of properties will have a higher probability of being hired. Property management companies are very interested in those who maintain excellent relations with their tenants and landlords. These types of individuals are less likely to receive negative feedback than others.
In order to become a certified apartment manager, a person must pass one of two examinations: the Certified Apartment Manager (CAPM) exam and the Certified Management Information Systems (CMS) exam. Both of these exams are nationally recognized. There are several companies online where a person can take an exam for either the CAPM or CMS. Before a person can begin working as a manager, they must pass both of these exams. After that, they should have no trouble finding jobs with certified property managers available.