Property managers and community managers play similar but vastly different roles. Which one is best for you?
In real estate, the terms property manager and community manager are often confused. They perform similar jobs, but the differences are major. Both types of management help with the functionality of building complexes, like apartments, but which kind do you need? Let’s take a look at each.
Property Manager
A property management company will manage the day-to-day functions of a building. They function more or less like a landlord. This means they interact primarily with property owners and tenants. Their responsibilities include a wide range of duties, from keeping the landscaping trimmed to answering tenants’ maintenance requests to moving tenants in and out of units. They also collect the rent from tenants and manage the budget. A property management company has a state license that they must keep in order to stay in business.
Property management is most helpful to a property owner who does not have the time or expertise to take care of all these particular maintenance needs. If you decide to go with a property manager, make sure to be fully knowledgeable of this role and ask questions pertaining to each responsibility. For example, you may want to ask how they collect rent, how many properties they currently manage, and how they will report to you.
Community Manager
A community manager, like a property manager, has a great big boatload of responsibilities. Unlike the property manager, however, the community manager interacts with the community rather than individual tenants and property owners. More specifically, community managers work with associations, the board of directors, and community grounds.
Like property managers, they maintain the property that the whole community uses, like swimming pools, landscaping, golf courses, etc. They should know these areas so well they could map it out in their sleep. They can help to not only make sure these properties are clean and tidy, but also adhere to the best environmental standards. Also like property managers, community managers take care of the budgeting for the associations, customer service, and advertising.
Meanwhile, as aforementioned, they work with associations like a local Homeowner’s Association (HOA) and help the property’s board of directors to abide by state laws through their policies.
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If you’re looking for the perfect realtor for your property or a professional to assist you during your purchase of any home, you can rely on Clagett Enterprises. Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistance with selling your home and getting the best possible price, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.