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Imagine not having to speak to the manager because you’re the manager. Such is the life of a property manager. It’s good to be in charge of things.
Everyone wants to be the boss, but not everyone knows how to become a property manager. To learn how to become one, check out this guide.
How to Become a Property Manager
Like with other professions, property management requires some basic qualifications. First, you have to be at least 18 (or 21 in some states). You must have a GED or secondary school diploma.
You also must have permanent residency in America or be a legal American citizen. Moreover, you have to complete the pre-licensing real estate classwork if it’s required by your state. In most states, you’ll have to pass a licensing exam for real estate.
Now let’s talk skills. In addition to the qualifications described above, property managers need strong communication and organizational skills. They also need attentive customer service skills and fundamental marketing skills.
Back to credentials. State governments issue licenses, while nationwide organizations issue certifications. Even property management companies provide training programs.
Early-career certifications include the National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) certification. It requires at least six months of on-location experience in property management, in a leasing position.
Furthermore, you have to complete seven NALP courses (including the Market Survey course) to earn 25 credit hours. You must complete all other exam requirements within a year of course enrollment.
Put the Work In
Another early-career certification is the Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) certification. This is for the onsite managers with whom apartment residents interact.
CAM candidates must have at least 12 months of on-location experience in property management in a management position. They also need to complete all CAM courses to achieve 40 total credit hours. Finally, they need to complete all other exam requirements within a year of course enrollment.
Later in your career, you can really separate yourself from the pack with a Certified Property Manager (CPM) designation.
It starts with at least 36 months of experience in real estate management, in a management position. That means at least 36 months of continued employment in such a position.
You also have to have a real estate license or another verification that you don’t have to hold in your current role. The candidate must manage a portfolio of rental properties that includes at least 100 units at five or more sites or 200 residential units at one to four sites.
The portfolio also has to include at least 80,000 square footage of commercial property at two or more sites or 120,000 square footage of commercial property at one site. Finally, the portfolio should include at least 200,000 square footage at one or more industrial sites. The CPM candidate must complete all other exam requirements within a year of course enrollment.
The Master Property Manager designation is the highest mark of distinction for property managers and can help you start your own property management company.
Take things a step even further with SEO property management.
The Life of a Boss
Now that you know how to become a property manager, get out there and chase your dreams. The next time you have a complaint about your apartment complex (if you manage it), you’ll be able to resolve it yourself.
See how else you can take charge of your career by browsing the site’s Business section.
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