The quality of property management depends partly on the characteristics of the person who implements and oversees the maintenance measures a complex receives. Even when vendors perform most of the condo management services for a community, the person who coordinates the work is still responsible for ensuring its quality, and maintains contact with the board regarding this issue. Because the person who holds this position is integral to the wellbeing of a complex and its assets, association-governed communities should be sure to select a candidate that has the right qualifications for the job.
Social Personality
Because they hold a position that requires them to interact with the community, and must dialogue with the board about the functions they oversee, managers should ideally possess a friendly, social personality. Those who don’t can inadvertently project an image of aloofness that makes a bad impression on residents, and makes them seem unapproachable.
Experience with Budget Development
Property management providers should have experience with budget development. If a neighborhood has community development projects coming down the pipe, the maintenance budget will likely need to increase once the projects are finished. Experience with budget development helps a person to coordinate maintenance measures that meet a community’s maintenance needs without compromising its budgetary needs.
Experience with Staff Supervision
Vendors may supervise their own staff members, but an orchestrator of condo management services must supervise the overall performance of the vendor, and give directions for improvement as needed. The individual must also supervise the employees of the community, if there are any. Experience with staff supervision is crucial for both endeavors, as it helps the person make fair and effective criticisms and recommendations.
Understands Building Systems
A provider of condo management services should possess at least a basic understanding of how building systems work. Sewer systems, HVAC systems, electrical systems, roof systems, and other types of building systems require scheduled maintenance, and will eventually need to be replaced or repaired. Unless the overseer of building maintenance has an understanding of these systems, the community could end up paying for unnecessary replacements or repairs.
Conclusion
Condo management providers need certain characteristics and strengths to succeed at their job, such as a social personality, experience with budget development, experience with staff supervision, and a general understanding of how building systems work.
