Considering a career in real estate? Many agents specialize in a particular type of real estate work. For example, some work with residential buyers or sellers, some sell commercial properties, and some focus on leasing. One of the specialties becoming more and more popular is property management. Some real estate agents run their own property management companies, and others do it as a side hustle on top of their property sales work.
The laws governing property management vary according to where you live. In some states, real estate agents can be property managers only if they hold a broker's license. And in others, property managers need no qualifications at all. There are also a few states where you must have some other specialty certification before you can legally manage properties.
What Is a Property Manager?
Landlords who own investment properties may need help. They may hire property managers to handle the work that comes with renting out their property. Many landlords who don’t live near their rental property or own several units choose a property manager. The standard fee for property management is between 5 and 10 percent of the rent revenue.
Property managers take care of a wide variety of tasks for the landlord, including:
Collecting rent
Making mortgage payments
Coordinating repairs
Completing property inspections
Communicating with tenants on the landlord's behalf
The property manager also ensures the property and the owner follow relevant laws and regulations. This is especially important if the property is part of an affordable housing program.
There are four types of property management: residential, commercial, industrial, and special purpose.
Residential Property Management
This type of property manager handles residential properties where a tenant might choose to live long term. Here are some examples of properties that these professionals might manage:
Single-family homes
Vacation rentals
Multi-family homes
Townhouses
Condominiums
Apartments
Manufactured homes
REO properties
Commercial Property Management
As a commercial property manager, you would oversee many different kinds of non-residential properties. Some examples include:
Public accommodations like hotels
Retail properties like malls, restaurants, and gas stations
Office properties like real estate brokerages or doctors offices
Co-working spaces where professionals rent work space by the day or the hour
Industrial Property Management
When you manage an industrial property, you will maintain and inspect the properties. You'll also serve as a communication liaison between landlord and tenant.
There are specialized duties as well. You must ensure the property complies with building codes and regulations. Other jobs include coordinating real estate tax reviews, bidding for vendor services, and managing staff. Examples of industrial properties include:
Heavy manufacturing facilities such as automotive plants and steel mills
Light manufacturing factories such as food packaging
Warehouses
Distribution facilities
Special-Purpose Property Management
According to the Small Business Administration, a special purpose property is designed for a specific use. It may use unique construction materials or have a distinctive layout. Managing this type of property requires special skills. You'll want to be a pro in business management and property law. Here are some examples of special-purpose properties:
Theaters
Sports arenas
Resorts
Senior care facilities
Schools and universities
Places of worship
Jump Start Your Property Management Career
If you're interested in managing properties, start by earning your real estate license. Enroll in one of our real estate courses today, and you'll be well on your way toward a career in property management.