Last updated on Mar 13, 2024

You're looking to break into property management. What's the first step?

If you have a passion for real estate, customer service, and problem-solving, property management might be the ideal career for you. Property managers are responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of rental properties, such as apartments, condos, offices, or retail spaces. They handle tasks like marketing vacancies, screening tenants, collecting rent, maintaining facilities, resolving issues, and enforcing leases. But how do you get started in this rewarding and challenging field? Here are some steps to help you break into property management.

1 Get educated

The first step to becoming a property manager is to learn the basics of the industry. You need to understand the laws and regulations that govern rental properties, such as fair housing, landlord-tenant rights, and property maintenance standards. You also need to develop skills in accounting, budgeting, marketing, communication, and customer service. You can acquire these knowledge and skills through various sources, such as online courses, books, podcasts, webinars, or workshops. Some states also require property managers to have a license or certification, so check the requirements in your area and prepare for the exams.

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Kat Templeton

Assistant Community Manager 🏢 Artist🎨Creative designer 📐
Its not as much about breaking into the industry its about falling into the industry. There are many industries that cross over into property management. So even if you don't have experience, it's ok. Property management can be very different depending if you work for single family or multifamily housing, what state you live in, and what department. Do you want a career with on-site management working directly with residents and the care for the property in office or as maintenance? ETC. Most of the positions in on-site management do not require degrees, and you are always learning something new. You fall into these jobs because you come bringing different skills that can be shared to improve this niche industry .
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2 Gain experience

The next step to breaking into property management is to gain some hands-on experience in the field. You can start by working as an assistant property manager, a leasing agent, a maintenance technician, or a customer service representative for a property management company. These roles will expose you to the different aspects of property management and help you build your resume and network. You can also look for opportunities to manage your own or someone else's property, such as a friend's or family member's vacation home, a short-term rental, or a co-op. This will give you a taste of what it's like to be a property manager and help you develop your portfolio and reputation.

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Cameron Ohrazda, CM

Community Manager at Greystar
If you are looking for a fast entry into property management, you will want sales experience and apply to a leasing agent position. The role is fairly entry level, but experience in customer service (especially high pressure like retail or barista) is going to help. You will be questioned on your sales experience, how you work under pressure, and computer skills. These will all contribute to securing your first role in PM. From there, understanding the company culture will help strategize your career growth and future goals.
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3 Find your niche

The third step to breaking into property management is to find your niche. Property management is a diverse and competitive industry, so you need to differentiate yourself from other candidates and managers. You can do this by focusing on a specific type of property, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use. You can also specialize in a certain market segment, such as luxury, affordable, student, or senior housing. You can also offer unique services or features, such as green practices, smart technology, or pet-friendly policies. By finding your niche, you can showcase your expertise, attract your ideal clients, and stand out from the crowd.

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4 Grow your network

The fourth step to breaking into property management is to grow your network. Networking is essential for finding opportunities, referrals, and support in the property management industry. You can network with other property managers, landlords, tenants, vendors, contractors, agents, brokers, and associations. You can attend events, join groups, participate in forums, follow influencers, and share your insights and experiences. You can also ask for feedback, recommendations, and testimonials from your current and previous clients, colleagues, and mentors. By growing your network, you can expand your reach, reputation, and resources.

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5 Keep learning

The fifth step to breaking into property management is to keep learning. Property management is a dynamic and evolving industry, so you need to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and best practices. You also need to comply with the changing laws and regulations that affect your properties and tenants. You can keep learning by taking courses, earning certifications, reading blogs, listening to podcasts, watching videos, or attending webinars and workshops. You can also seek mentorship, coaching, or consulting from experienced and successful property managers. By keeping learning, you can improve your skills, knowledge, and performance.

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Oleksandr F.

Valuation Consultant, Avison Young
Educational Background - While a formal education isn't always required for entry-level positions in property management, having a degree in a related field such as business, real estate, finance, or property management can be beneficial. Consider pursuing relevant certifications or courses offered by professional organizations such as the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) or the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM).
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6 Enjoy the journey

The sixth and final step to breaking into property management is to enjoy the journey. Property management is not an easy or glamorous job, but it can be very rewarding and fulfilling. You get to make a difference in people's lives, create value for your properties, and solve problems creatively. You also get to enjoy the flexibility, variety, and growth that come with managing different properties and clients. You also get to face challenges, risks, and opportunities that test your abilities and potential. By enjoying the journey, you can appreciate the benefits and overcome the drawbacks of property management.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Hilmi Işıkören

27 years of industry experienced trainer and mentor who will help you reach the top in real estate | Author | Speaker | Do you want to grow your business in real estate? |
Get licensed: In some states, you need to be licensed to manage properties. Check the requirements in your state. Build your skills: In addition to education and experience, there are a number of skills that are important for property managers. These include communication, customer service, problem-solving, and organization. Be patient: It takes time to build a successful career in property management. Don't get discouraged if you don't see results immediately.
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You're looking to break into property management. What's the first step?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Get educated

2 Gain experience

3 Find your niche

4 Grow your network

5 Keep learning

6 Enjoy the journey

7 Here’s what else to consider

Property Management

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You're looking to break into property management. What's the first step?

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Get educated

2 Gain experience

3 Find your niche

4 Grow your network

5 Keep learning

6 Enjoy the journey

7 Here’s what else to consider

Property Management

Rate this article

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