Property Management with an Eye on the Bottom Line

Property managers across the country are feeling the pressure to demonstrate additional value for their commercial property clients. For property managers like Kuester, that means paying close attention to efficiencies, consistent delivery of value and showing return on investment.

In a challenging economy, property owners need to look at what property management companies can offer to help them keep an eye on the bottom line. Here are reasons to go with a professional property management company.

Cost Cutting
Providing operating efficiencies, and generating return on investment has always been the primary property management responsibility. Yet, in this economic climate, being able to produce cost savings is even more of a priority. Good property managers are focusing on each property and finding creative ways to save the property owners some money such as web-based pay and maintenance -request systems.

Thinking Green
Green building and energy efficient practices are growing in popularity and the need for environmental responsibility. Property managers are taking this time to consider building materials, energy-efficient appliances, water heaters, solar and wind power, and other green ideas to save money AND help the environment.

Administration Cost
Property managers are sensitive to the fact that there is a cost for their services—but perhaps a higher one for not using them! Property management companies such as Kuester are looking at the cost of administration and making sure the office runs efficiently as well as implementing cost and time-saving changes so that we can provide an even more productive service for property owners.

Kuester Property Management is located in Charlotte, NC, with offices in Fort Mill, SC, Boone, NC, Concord, NC, and Myrtle Beach, SC.

Investing in Your Business in a Down Economy

Now is the time to invest! If you currently own a business and would like to move that business into a bigger space, or expand the space you have now is the time!

Property management companies and building owners are hungry to have their multi-unit commercial properties filled and you can get an amazing deal on space now if you qualify. So many people are on the fence about whether of not to take that leap given the economic conditions, yet we are here to tell you NOW is the time... and here is why:

1) If you can keep a business going in a down economy, you will thrive when the clouds lift.


2) You can spend this time perfecting your business process, so that when you are busy, you have all the "kinks" worked out.


3) All signs, and most experts agree that we are starting what will be a slow, but steady upswing--now is the time to invest!


4) You will get a great deal! Investors with good credit will be able to qualify for some of the best rates ever! Property owners and managers are eager to get their properties filled with great businesses - so if you are able to make the move, you will be rewarded with great deals, great rates and accommodating vendors.

So, for all of you who have wished for the extra space, thought about the move to another building or wished to start their own business and not had the motivation to do it... NOW is the time.

Property Manager
Kuester Property Management
Charlotte, NC

Finding an Affordable Property Management Firm

Dear Property Manager:

I own a commercial plaza area in South Charlotte and I currently do/manage all the property management duties myself, from my office at the complex, however, I would like to find an affordable property management company to take over--I just don't have the time any more!

Is there a list, or place that I can go to compare prices and services? How do I find a good firm and know I am getting my money's worth?

Mike
Charlotte, NC

Dear Mike:

In the Charlotte area, you have plenty of property management companies to choose from. However, I will preface my answer to your question with "you get what you pay for..." Now, that is not to say that your can't find an affordable property manager in Charlotte... because you certainly can, but you should not be making your decision solely on price!

The first thing you can do to find an affordable property management firm is to attend a Charlotte area landlord association meeting and discuss property managers with other landlords. Attending a Charlotte real estate investor association REIA meeting may also be a good idea -- just to get feedback and advice from other investors.

My best suggestion is always to to go by referrals. Get a couple referrals from other property owners and then interview each of the property management firms. When you meet, bring a list of the services that you think you will need, and a list of questions that have for the property management firm.

The thing to remember, is that property management services are designed to make and save you time and money. So, the cost should be measured against return on investment--"affordability" is a factor that is relative!

Best of luck,
Property Manager
www.kuester.com