A day in the life of a Property Manager
Property management is a profession where no two days are the same. And for Gemma, one of Glide’s dedicated property managers, every day brings new challenges and opportunities to make a difference.
In this article, we’re going to explore Gemma’s day to day role and find out what it takes to be an effective property manager at Glide.
Starting the day right
As you would expect, Gemma starts her day with a focus on urgent issues. “Checking for any urgent matters, instructing maintenance repairs, and updating those who reported issues,” she explains. These tasks are a cornerstone of her daily routine, ensuring that problems are addressed quickly and efficiently.
But in the world of property management, no day is without it’s surprises. “Sometimes, I have to put aside planned tasks to deal with emergencies like leaks or urgent safety concerns,” she says. Adapting to the unexpected is just part of the job.
A diverse role
One of the things Gemma loves most about property management is the variety of the work. “I enjoy being able to improve the overall appearance and safety of a block,” she shares. From handling service charge queries to planning larger projects like fire safety upgrades, her role is as diverse as it is rewarding.
These larger projects, while challenging, provide immense satisfaction. “Seeing the results of a project that’s improved a building is one of the most fulfilling parts of my job,” she says.
Building trust through communication
For Gemma, clear communication is vital to maintaining good relationships with residents and property owners. “I send group updates to lessees through our system via email,” she explains, emphasising the importance of transparency. Whether it’s about ongoing works or general updates, keeping everyone informed helps build trust.
She also values honesty in her role. “Residents appreciate open communication, and I find they respond well when you’re upfront about what’s happening and why.”
Problem solving with empathy
Every property manager encounters challenges, and Gemma is no exception. One of her most memorable experiences involved managing a four-year-old damp issue in an uninhabitable flat. “The lessee was understandably upset, having paid for a mortgage and council tax on a property they couldn’t live in,” she recalls. Staying calm and empathetic was key to resolving the issue, which required working closely with the freeholder to get the flat back into a liveable condition. “Problems like these remind you how important it is to listen and understand where someone is coming from,” she says. “It’s not just about fixing a problem; it’s about supporting the people affected.”
Planning ahead
While emergencies often demand immediate attention, Gemma highlights the importance of proactive planning in property management. Staying on top of compliance requirements, safety checks, and maintenance schedules ensures that long-term issues are minimised.
Technology plays a big part in this. “Our management software is a lifesaver,” she says. “It helps set reminders for important tasks, so nothing is overlooked.” This combination of preparation and adaptability keeps everything on track.
Finding fulfilment
Despite the daily challenges, Gemma finds her work incredibly rewarding. “Being able to improve a building and make a positive impact on residents’ lives is why I do what I do,” she says. From resolving long-standing issues to helping buildings meet safety standards, the work is never without purpose.
For Gemma, property management is about more than just managing buildings; it’s about creating better spaces for people to live. At Glide, we’re proud of our team’s dedication to the people and properties they serve.
A big thank you to Gemma for providing her valuable insights!
