HELP! New in industry, already Property Manager

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10 years 10 months ago #13226 by Elizabeth
So.. I have known through my various jobs that I am driven to be a manager.
One day I woke up and was fed up with my retail management career!
My next move would have to be something I was passionate about. It all
Made sense one day and multi family was the only thing on my mind. So I built
A new resume and the next day took it to 15 properties into area. Long story
Short I knew I had to start in leasing and work my way up. The next day I get a
call back from the first property manager that I spoke to. They wanted
to meet me in 30 minutes. Red flag one. The interview went well and I secured a leasing position.
I started the next week.

Day 1: the property manager quit and I was thrown to the wolves.
They made me Assistant Property Manager. In my six months
With the company I have seen two property managers go, multiple maintenance,
And have had a lot of time to figure things out for myself.

Let's just say it is not the most efficient property in the world. That is to say
The very least.

My question is: Is it the right experience I am gaining with this
Company? Or should I ace the interview I have tomorrow as a
Full time leasing consultant and run for the hills?
10 years 10 months ago #13226 by Elizabeth
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10 years 10 months ago #13227 by Brent Williams
That's a tough call... Your situation puts you in a sink or swim opportunity. I say opportunity because some people thrive on that. The question is whether the community is one you can eventually take hold of and be successful at, or if ownership will always stifle you. With the turnover you mentioned, it sounds like the latter, but it's hard to say with only a few details. In general, the larger management companies will have more training, more mentorship, and often more advanced operations. But it would also take longer to move up. So there are pros and cons to each, and it really depends on your personal style, assuming that the community can actually be brought up to speed with a fair owner.
10 years 10 months ago #13227 by Brent Williams
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10 years 9 months ago #13248 by Mindy Sharp
I agree you are in a tough spot. I guess I am wondering if they promoted you just to keep you thinking they can get leasing consultants pretty easy - during the meantime, they can take their time trying to find a suitable Manager, since it has not worked out with anyone yet. You are gaining exceptional experience, but is it the right kind? You are the only one who can answer that question. You get up each morning - are you raring to go? Or, are you dreading it? Once onsite are you running around just trying to make sure maintenance showed up and all the fires are put out? Pay attention to the stress this creates mentally and physically. Life is too short to not pay attention to the signals.

Personally, I kind of love taking a crap property and turning it around. However, in order to do that, you must feel absolutely confident in your ability, knowledge and your team. You must have permission to do what needs to be done. You need proper tools or at least a Mentor to guide you in the right direction. You can put into best practices to optimize efficiency. But at the end of the day, if you are worn out, are screaming at your family, too tired to eat or relax and there is no joy, is it worth it?
10 years 9 months ago #13248 by Mindy Sharp