I am often asked what boards should expect from a property manager,” says Ira Meister President and CEO, Matthew Adam Properties, Inc.
Meister says that at first glance the question seems obvious. The board wants a person available 24/7 who can oversee the staff so the building is maintained in top-flight condition and provides excellent services. Someone who can help control costs and supervise capital improvement projects.
Professionalism and having communication with tenants are key in property management
“All management companies will say they do this,” Meister says. “But to truly
understand what a board and its residents should expect, the answer must be more specific
Meister says that probably the most important quality is professionalism. This means a manager who conducts themselves in a professional manner, who is courteous and patient with board members and residents and who is a good manager of staffs. Communications and the ability to deal with and work with others is a key ingredient.
“While a manager oversees a multi-million budget, management is very much a people business and those with good people skills and professionalism are excellent managers,” Meister says.
A good manager is organized and keeps detailed records and reports
Another area, he says, is having someone with experience. Other characteristics include being prompt when attending meetings and making certain anything with a timeframe is delivered on schedule, whether a report or project. A good manager is organized and keeps detailed records and reports.
A bane of many boards is a lack of responsiveness. A board should expect that all calls or emails are returned within 24 hours, if not sooner, and that questions are answered directly and accurately. The board should also expect that the company has a manager available 24/7 in case of emergencies.
“While knowledge of building systems and construction are important, the people aspect and developing a trusting working relationship is the key to good management,” Meister says.