TVDM Consultants are Specialist Community Schemes Legal Consultants, advising property portfolio managers, developers, managing agencies and scheme executives in all legal aspects of community scheme property management. As trusted legal consultants, we’ve asked them to deep dive into the question, 

‘What makes a good property manager?’

As a trustee or director in a Homeowners Association or a body corporate, a good question to ask when looking for a property manager is, 

As an owner in a community scheme, a good question to ask when looking for a property manager is, 

These points are not contractually required of a managing agent, but are often seen as a “must”.

They are confident

A property portfolio manager should be confident, but not cocky! Confidence in one’s own ability and limitations is required, as is comfortability when engaging with people one-on-one and in groups, such as at an annual or special general meeting.

They communicate

A managing agent and their team should be responsive to communication. Rather than simply answering a query posed or actioning an instruction, they should also communicate when acknowledging a receipt and/or managing internal and external expectations. It is important to stick to an agreed-upon timeline to ensure client confidence in the property management process. 

They don’t overpromise and underdeliver 

In the management of the schemes in a portfolio, managing agents should be able to rely on their team. Clients should be reminded that the scheme’s management is a collective effort. It is equally important for clients to know who each team member is, this includes trustees, directors, onsite employees, and contractors.  

Managing agents are direct contacts to schemes. Along with the property management team, they work toward a common goal for the growth of the scheme, actioning changes and comprehensively tracking all administration related to the scheme. Managing agents should never overpromise and underdeliver; doing this can have a negative impact on the relationship with the client, breaking trust. Being available to clients, including trustees and members of the scheme, as and when required is important, but it is also important for all involved to set realistic timelines, and manage expectations.

They are not afraid to speak up

Managing agents should not pretend to know the answer to a question when they do not. They should also be willing to meet and engage with trustees or directors and members, and treat everyone in the scheme equally.

When a question is asked, “I don’t know” is not an answer a client pays for or wants to hear, but “I will find out” is acceptable. 

A managing agent is a partner to the trustees and directors, they offer guidance and support for the growth and development of the scheme. They should know as much as possible about scheme management and foresee any questions trustees or directors may have. It is not uncommon for trustees or directors and managing agents to have conflicting opinions, but it is important to find common ground. Trustees and directors will more than likely value the opinion of the individual entrusted to manage their scheme, it is one of their biggest investments after all.

Whether a seasoned property owner or a newcomer to sectional title scheme living, FMS Property Managers, will assist you in making informed decisions about your property investment.

Our team of knowledgeable and experienced portfolio managers are committed to excellence. Owners and trustees are assured an exceptional body corporate management service, always. 

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