So You Want to Be a Property Manager

Dear Property Manager:

I am considering a second career in Property Management. I have been an account manager and assistant sales person for 10 years, but my degree is in business. I would like to transition out of my current position and take on a new challenge and I think that property management might be a good fit.

Can you tell me a little about property management as a career, and what your company looks for in property managers?

Best personal regards,

Carrie G - Charlotte, NC

Dear Carrie:

If you’ve been thinking about becoming a property manager, now is a good time to move in that direction. It’s not an easy job, but it’s a great field to be in!

The top attributes you’ll need are that you love people and have excellent communication skills. People who manage properties are in contact with all types of people from various walks of life, and you must be able to relate to all of them. Often, you’ll also be in a position where you must negotiate between parties or guide decisions, so it’s important to feel comfortable in a leadership role.

Other important attributes you’ll need are exceptional organizational, time management and customer relations skills. The day-to-day operations of multiple properties requires the juggling of many priorities and if you’re not organized and don’t manage time well, the job can feel overwhelming.

For example, here at Kuester, all of our property managers, in addition to being knowledgeable about building maintenance, have experience with budget preparation as it relates to the operating and capital expenditures, to operating expenses and to managing projects. Their financial experience typically includes financial reporting, costs, budgets, executing contracts, service contracts and arrears.

We look for employees who are self-motivated, know how to control maintenance costs and follow the direction of our clients. Naturally, we always seek to ensure the highest level of accuracy, confidentiality and professionalism.

Does this sound like you? If so, then property management may be the field for you! Best of luck!