The property management business can provide a highly rewarding, successful career, but it’s not for everyone. There are certain personalities and skill sets that are better suited for this line of work, which can be hectic and demanding. If you’re visiting this blog because you’re considering getting into this industry, or if you’re in a hiring position and are considering candidates to join your organization, here are five of the most important traits that a property manager should have if he or she will be successful in their role.
Communication
The property management business requires excellent communication if everything is to run like the well-oiled machine it’s supposed to. This is especially important internally, given the hectic and sometimes chaotic nature of the industry. Everyone must be on the same page in order for the business to function successfully. External sources, like clients and tenants, also need to know that they can get a hold of their property manager when they need to as well. That means answering the phone, responding to emails, returning messages and keeping the lines of communication open at all times.
Knowledge/Experience
A good property manager must know his or her stuff when it comes to all aspects of the industry. They must be able to create and interpret reports, including financial reports, and stay up to date on all of the changing laws relating to property ownership, landlord/tenants and other real estate related regulations. These rules change constantly, and many of them are quite intricate. In order to do this job successfully, it’s critical that the person at the helm have a firm grasp on all of these important matters.
People Skills
The most successful property management professionals place people as their highest priority. In order to do this job well, you absolutely must be able to deal with people. You have to be able to maintain composure and be a trusted advocate, both for your coworkers and for your clients and tenants. When people feel that they have someone they can trust and come to with any issues that may arise, they are much happier. That means harder workers in your organization and more long-term clients and tenants on the books.
Professionalism
There’s a fine line between being personable and being professional. It’s important that a property manager maintain a certain level of professionalism when dealing with internal employees as well as external parties like tenants, customers, vendors and colleagues. You must be kind but firm, particularly when dealing with sensitive business matters that may seem more personal to those they are affecting, such as raising the rent. Property managers must also feel comfortable interacting with other professionals on a regular basis, including accountants and attorneys.
Organization
In this role, you will inevitably find yourself being pulled in a dozen different directions on any given day. It’s imperative that when things get busy, you are still able to stay on top of your to-do list and remain focused. Organizational skills are among the most important traits of those that are successful in this industry. If you’re not naturally organized, that doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to be successful. You just may need a little outside help. Technology and tools like property management software can help you stay focused and on task so nothing important slips through the cracks.
The property management business can be an incredibly rewarding career path, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re considering getting into this line of work, or are weighing candidates to hire for your existing property management organization, these are the important traits to look for to achieve the best possible results.
