Entirely new way to structure the property management process

There is a popular business model called "Value Stream" leadership.

Could this be applied to our business? In our company we have an array of smaller buildings that don't have onsite offices. They are 30 units, 65 units, etc. and are grouped in geographic "zones" within the city.

A Value Stream Leader would lease, do Yardi input, cut the lease, do the move in, and handle the resident all through the life of that relationship, including all property management duties. Work orders would go to that value stream leader. Ideas could spring from this leader for marketing, specials, etc. Compensation would be based not only on new leases, but retention, speed/satisfaction with work orders, low delinquencies, etc. In other words, that person is a leasing agent, property manager, and maintenance supervisor. Of course, there would be enough people to cover the work, but they would all be Value Stream Leaders.

Do you think this would work? Are we specialists for a reason? Have any other companies tried this? Could it prove to be the greatest new thing in property management?

Chuck,

Depending on the work load and number of units you manage, we recommend two or three managers: leasing agent, work order and financial. And it can be accomplished with any software you use whether QuickBooks or Yardi....

Value Stream sounds a lot like work overload - to expect one person to fullfill each role equally well is asking a lot. It can be accomplished depending on total number of units managed, but you will want to be careful that the Manager is extremely capable and trustworthy and knows all aspects of the business well. Also, working, for a lot of people, is a social activity. There are a great many people who will say they are comfortable working alone; however, it is rare to find someone who actually CAN work well alone. (Meaning, to manage, answer phones, chase leads, lease, create a great resident retention plan, market, and maintain everything and schedule the work - that is a lot to ask one person to do for several different properties all in different locations within a city 7 days a week, 365 days a year.)I always suggest a Manager who is good at all those things, but also, a leasing specialist in the office, who can act as a support and back-up.

I agree with Mindy that is a lot of work for one person. Is your goal to lower the cost of salary? Why not have a team of Value stream leaders...instead of one person doing everything have Manager, Leasing Agent, and Maintenance tech. Also if this person is going to be in charge of your marketing and financials make sure they understand & have a strong grasp of these subjects. Essentially you are putting your assets needs in the hands of one person or team they need to be able to understand all aspects and how their decisions affect your business. I think you could do something like this but you need to make sure you are hiring the right team or it could back fire on you.

I'm really appreciating these responses. Hope to hear from more people too!