Example: “I would first try to speak with them about the issue in person or over the phone. If they are uncooperative, I would send them a formal letter outlining the problem and what steps they need to take to fix it. If they still do not comply after receiving the letter, I would document the situation and report it to my supervisor.”
Example: “I am familiar with the proper procedures for handling hazardous materials. I worked at an apartment complex where we had to remove lead paint from many of the units. We used special equipment to ensure we didn’t contaminate other areas while removing the paint. As part of my training, I learned about the dangers of lead paint and how to protect myself when working with it.”
Example: “I once had a tenant whose washing machine broke. I first tried to fix it myself by checking the power cord and making sure there wasn’t any damage. When that didn’t work, I called the repairman. He came out and fixed the problem within an hour. The tenant was very happy with my service.”
As a property caretaker, you are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of a property, whether it is a home, an office building, or a piece of land. This can include tasks such as mowing the lawn, shoveling snow, cleaning gutters, and painting. You may also be responsible for making minor repairs, checking for damage, and keeping an eye on the property when the owners are away.
Property caretakers often work in high-pressure situations. For example, they may need to make repairs quickly when tenants call about a broken appliance or leaky faucet. Employers ask this question to see if you can handle pressure well and complete your tasks efficiently. In your answer, explain that you are able to stay calm under pressure and prioritize your tasks effectively.
How would you handle a complaint by a difficult tenant?
Demonstrates candidates current knowledge and ability to handle administrative tasks.
How many properties are you currently managing?
With the right tools, a good property manager should be able to manage 200-600 rental units at one time. But you don’t want someone who has any more than that unit range. Your property manager should be able to keep tabs on all of your properties and your tenants to ensure everything is being tended to. Quality not quantity may be key here.
On the other hand, if they’re managing less, they may not be as capable as you want and might not be able to take on more properties if they already have trouble taking on the ones they already manage.
Do you have any rental properties of your own?
While it may seem beneficial for a property manager to have their own rental properties, according to Peter Giardini, this is actually a bad idea.
“The way I see it is my properties and my tenants are in constant competition with the managers and their properties,” he says. “If the manager has a vacancy at the same time you do, how can you know that your property will be filled first?”
Even if a manager assures you they’ll prioritize your properties, there’s no way you can confirm it and no way they can prove it until after the fact.
Do they charge a flat fee or a percentage of the rent?
Think about it: managers that charge a percentage of the rent seem like a more viable option since their paycheck depends on number of tenants and the price of rent. With lower rents and high vacancies, there’s no big payoff, which is bad for you and your property manager.
As a result, property managers will be more motivated to fill vacancies and fight for higher rents, keeping them more engaged with your property. You should also consider whether their percentage is based on the amount of rent charged or the amount that they actually collect.
Similarly, do they charge a fee when a property is vacant? If so, this will counteract the purpose of charging a percentage, as there will be no penalty for vacancies.
Finally, additionally consider if there are other miscellaneous fees they charge for their service. Miscellaneous fees have a habit of sneaking up on you.