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Adam BartomeoBusiness Member
Real Estate Broker · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2015 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
1y

Their emergency is not your emergency. You will often have owners and tenants reach out with what they fell like are emergencies, very rarely are they high priority. Even when they are high priority there are often steps to be taken before they can be addressed. 

[email protected]239-339-3969
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  • Brian TeeterBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Little Rock, AR · Member since 2021 · 75 posts · 64 votes
    1y

    Are you managing your own properties or working for a PM?  

    501-951-7100
    Turnkey Property Management4.8170 Reviews
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  • Megan Rock
    OP
    Member since 2025 · 14 posts · 3 votes
    1y

    Currently working for a PM in PA here, wanted to see more about how it goes for other states and any advice for furthering myself!

    0Reply
  • Adam BartomeoBusiness Member
    Real Estate Broker · Cape Coral, FL · Member since 2015 · 2k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    Their emergency is not your emergency. You will often have owners and tenants reach out with what they fell like are emergencies, very rarely are they high priority. Even when they are high priority there are often steps to be taken before they can be addressed. 

    [email protected]239-339-3969
    Bartomeo Property Management4.7143 Reviews
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    2Reply
    • Emily Koelsch
      Rental Property Investor · Memphis, TN · Member since 2022 · 48 posts · 43 votes
      1y
      Quote from @Adam Bartomeo:

      Their emergency is not your emergency. You will often have owners and tenants reach out with what they fell like are emergencies, very rarely are they high priority. Even when they are high priority there are often steps to be taken before they can be addressed. 

       Great advice! I actually provide tenants with an Emergency Repairs Addendum at the start of the tenancy to list out examples of emergencies and what it looks like to address emergencies. The list also inlcudes items that should be addressed in a timely manner but are decidedly not emergencies. This helps to get ahead of this common landlord-tenant point of tension

      1Reply
  • Brian TeeterBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Little Rock, AR · Member since 2021 · 75 posts · 64 votes
    1y

    The number one complaint I hear from frustrated property owners, moving their management to us, is that their former PM was slow to respond.  Tenants also have the same complaint about their current PM.  Therefore, we place a big emphasis on returning calls and emails within 2 hours (for both owners and tenants).  

    I agree with Adam (above).  Their emergency is not always your emergency. But do acknowledge them as quickly as possible.

    BTW: We are utilizing AI to help us with tenant work orders.  AI literally interacts with the tenant through our PM software portal. Trouble shooting, triage, creating work orders, dispatching vendors, etc.  It's not perfect and you still have to manage the system.  But overall, our tenants have been very happy with the immediate response.  

    501-951-7100
    Turnkey Property Management4.8170 Reviews
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  • Michael SmytheBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Metro Detroit · Member since 2023 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    1y

    Train the tenants or they will train you!

    Logical Property Management4.9464 Reviews
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  • David PeschioBusiness Member
    Richmond, VA · Member since 2019 · 358 posts · 181 votes
    1y

    I wanted to share a piece of advice that I've found incredibly helpful in managing the demands of this business: avoid giving out your personal cell phone number to owners or tenants, especially tenants.

    I highly recommend setting up a separate business line, like through a service such as Ring Central. This business can easily become a 24/7 commitment if you allow it, which can quickly lead to burnout. By establishing this boundary now, you'll be able to create a healthier separation between your personal life and the business as you continue to grow.

    [email protected]804-909-1929
    PMI Richmond4.4308 Reviews
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  • Megan Rock
    OP
    Member since 2025 · 14 posts · 3 votes
    1y

    Thank you everyone I'll be implementing all these in my work life!

    0Reply
  • Josh SedivyBusiness Member
    St. Louis, MO · Member since 2024 · 134 posts · 55 votes
    1y

    Welcome to the world of property management! It's a dynamic and rewarding field, but like any business, success comes from learning, adapting, and building strong systems. Here are some tips to help you get started:

    1. Know Your Local Laws: Understanding landlord-tenant laws, fair housing regulations, and local ordinances is crucial. 

    2. Document Everything: Use leases, inspection checklists, maintenance logs, and communication records to protect yourself legally and maintain clear expectations with tenants.

    3. Communicate Clearly & Promptly: Fast, professional communication builds trust with both tenants and owners. Whether it’s maintenance updates or rent reminders, being responsive goes a long way.

    4. Build a Reliable Vendor Network: Have go-to professionals (plumbers, electricians, handymen, cleaners) you trust. Quick repairs and maintenance issues are key to tenant satisfaction.

    5. Use Property Management Software

    6. Prioritize Preventative Maintenance: Regularly inspect properties and handle issues early. This saves money in the long run and keeps your tenants happy.

    7. Build Positive Tenant Relationships: A good tenant experience = longer stays, better care of the property, and fewer problems. Be firm but fair.

    8. Network With Other Managers: Join local or online property management groups. You’ll learn a ton from others’ experiences and get help when you need it.

    9. Understand Financials: Track income and expenses, budget for vacancies and repairs, and always maintain a reserve fund. You’re running a business, treat it like one.

    10. Keep Learning: Regulations, technology, and tenant expectations change constantly. Stay updated and look for certifications or continuing education opportunities.

    [email protected]833-345-5224
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  • Colleen McDadeBusiness Member
    Member since 2024 · 31 posts · 7 votes
    1y

    Congrats on getting started in property management! It’s a busy field, but with the right approach, it can be really fulfilling. Take time to understand local rules, stay on top of your paperwork, and focus on clear, consistent communication. Having a solid network of reliable vendors also makes a big difference. Don’t worry if it feels overwhelming at first — it all comes together with time. You're doing the right thing by reaching out and connecting with others in the space!

    2Reply
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