15. How to Improve Communication with Owner Clients
Dec 12, 2023
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Learn strategies for effective communication with owner clients in property management, including updates on rental properties, inquiries, showings, applications, vacancies, and maintenance. Discover the importance of clear and timely communication, reserve funds, monthly strategies, educational videos, and lease renewals. Explore the advantages of buying vs. building a property management business. Don't miss out on this valuable advice!
Consistent and proactive communication with owner clients is crucial for property managers to build trust and demonstrate professionalism, and there are 7 specific times when property managers should communicate with their owners.
Property managers should have a clear plan in place to notify owners about maintenance issues by completing necessary repairs first and then informing owners, ensuring efficient management and keeping owners informed with all the necessary details.
Deep dives
Property manager's communication strategy
It is crucial for property managers to have a well-defined communication strategy with their owner clients. Many property managers tend to only contact owners when there are issues or problems. However, it is essential to have consistent and proactive communication with owners to build trust and demonstrate professionalism. The podcast episode suggests seven specific times when property managers should communicate with their owner clients. These include contacting them when bringing on a new property, providing updates on the property's vacancy status, notifying them about maintenance issues after work is completed, informing them about property turnover and the upcoming process, sending monthly owner statements and communications, notifying them about lease renewals, conducting periodic quarterly owner calls if needed, and sending an annual year-end owner letter to recap the previous year and preview the upcoming year. Each communication should be clear, informative, and concise to keep owners well-informed and reassured of the property manager's dedication.
Maintenance communication and strategies
When it comes to maintenance issues, property managers should have a clear plan in place to notify owners. Instead of seeking permission before making repairs, property managers are advised to complete the necessary repairs and then inform the owners. This strategy avoids delays caused by waiting for permission and ensures that property managers have all the information before contacting owners. An example of an email to notify owners about a repair is provided in the podcast. It is suggested to inform owners about the issue, the work performed, and the expected cost. It is also important to emphasize that no immediate action is required from the owner, but that they will see the charge in their upcoming monthly statement. This approach helps property managers take charge of maintenance issues efficiently while keeping owners informed and minimizing unnecessary involvement.
Turnover notices and lease renewal communications
Property managers need to establish effective communication strategies during property turnover and lease renewal processes. When a tenant gives notice to vacate, property managers should promptly notify owners and provide detailed information about the turnover process. This includes informing owners about the vacancy date, the planned property check-out, security deposit handling, and any potential expenses. Property managers are also advised to increase the reserve amount to cover these potential expenses and explain this action to the owner. Additionally, property managers should inform owners once the turnover process is complete and a new lease has been signed, sharing the relevant lease terms and rental rate changes. Effective communication during these crucial stages helps property managers maintain transparency and keeps owners well-informed throughout the process.
Are you a property manager looking for ways to improve your communication with owner clients? In this episode of the Property Management Business Podcast, Marc shares his key strategies for effective owner communication. Learn how to keep your owners informed and build trust with regular, clear, and timely updates - from initial notifications to vacancy updates.
Plus, get tips on creating the perfect year-end letter that will leave your owners satisfied! Don't miss out on this valuable advice to take your property management company to the next level. #propertymanagement #ownercommunication