Communication is an essential part of effective property management, and at IIP we make it a priority in the way we deliver our Cleveland property management services.
Our communication plans and strategies are customized for each owner because we know that everyone communicates differently. Some of the owners we work with like to hear from us regularly. They need the peace of mind that we can provide, letting them know their property is in good shape and their tenants are taking care of it. Some of our more experienced investors don’t want to hear from us at all, unless there’s a problem. They leave everything to us, and review their statements and our recommendations periodically throughout the lease term.
A good property management partner will talk to you before the relationship begins, to get an understanding of your expectations and preferences.
Setting Communication Expectations with our Owners
Setting expectations is important. We talk to a lot of property owners who are frustrated that they rarely hear from their property managers. That’s understandable, but you also have to make sure that your management company understands your needs and requirements. Before we begin working with you, we’ll ask how often you want to hear from us. We’ll also ask what your preferred method of communication is. Do you like phone calls, or are emails and texts more your speed? This is an important part of making ourselves accessible and available to our clients.
Having this conversation early in our relationship allows us to set expectations and commit to following through on what we promise. Maybe this is your first rental property and you’re not sure what to expect. In that case, frequent communication may be necessary. If you’re an experienced investor with an entire portfolio under management with us, you probably don’t need to be told every time we collect rent or respond to a minor maintenance issue.
Technology Provides New Methods of Communication
Technology has come a long way in virtually every part of our lives. The property management industry is evolving all the time, and in large part that’s due to the new technologies and software that’s available to us. This technology increases the output of our communications. It should help you stay in touch with your property and your managers. You should expect to access accounting information, inspection reports, and general maintenance requests or invoices whenever you need them.
Work with a management team that has invested in innovative technology. There are several good software systems that are customized for property management. With the best technology, your property managers can collect rent online, deposit it into your bank account electronically, and make sure all the information you need is available and transparent.
Communication will always improve when you don’t have to wait for a phone call or a response from a busy property manager. Instead, you can simply log onto your account and see what’s happening.
Cleveland Property Management is Responsive
Why are we so diligent about communicating openly and responsively? Because it contributes to your income. When your property manager communicates well with you, it’s easy to conclude that they are also communicating well with your tenants. That’s going to create a positive rental experience and lead to long term tenants and higher retention. Less tenant turnover means fewer expenses.
Communication is important. It’s part of the relationship we build with our owners and our tenants. If you’d like to hear more about what you can expect when you work with us, we’d welcome the chance to have that conversation. Contact us at IIP Management. We work with owners in Cleveland Heights, Lakewood, Lyndhurst, Parma, Solon, and South Euclid (Cuyahoga County).
