Property Management

November 20, 2024 Published by South Alberta Chapter - By Lisa Hamielec, Tia Hamielec

Enhancing Condominium Living With Renters: The Crucial Role Of Unit Property Managers

From the Fall 2024 issue of the CCI South Alberta CCI Review

In the dynamic realm of condominium living, the presence of renters is a common reality that significantly impacts community cohesion and overall satisfaction. Resident property owners often express concerns about tenants not being vested stakeholders, potentially leading to perceived differences in interests. To ensure a harmonious environment that accommodates both resident owners and renters, engaging property managers who specialize in unit management is crucial.

Unit property managers should possess an understanding of the Condominium Property Act, the complex's bylaws, and the nuances of communal living. They play a pivotal role in rental management which should foster a positive living experience affecting all residents. It is important to distinguish between the property manager hired by the condominium corporation, responsible for common property management, and the unit property manager hired by individual owners. The latter oversees the leasing process and tenant care, ensuring compliance with bylaws and addressing issues like noise complaints or parking infractions. Please note that there are different licensing requirements for each property manager as regulated by the Real Estate Council of Alberta.

Effective unit property management begins with rigorous tenant screening. Beyond financial qualifications, managers assess prospective renters' compatibility with community values and their commitment to bylaws. This proactive approach sets clear expectations from the outset, promoting a culture of compliance and mutual respect. Gathering previous landlord references, confirming the tenant's financial capacity, and assessing pet compatibility (if applicable) are critical steps in this process, as past performance often predicts future behavior.

Throughout a tenant's stay, unit property managers oversee essential aspects of daily living. They educate tenants on local protocols and provide them with the complex's bylaws to ensure understanding and compliance. This includes enforcing safety and aesthetic guidelines for balcony usage, noise regulations for a peaceful environment, visitor parking rules, ensuring the rental term complies, and managing pet policies to balance individual preferences with community needs.

Effective communication is essential for tenant satisfaction and community harmony. Unit property managers should educate tenants on whom to contact for specific needs, distinguishing between landlord responsibilities and broader condominium management issues. Clear guidelines on handling emergency versus non-emergency situations further streamline responses to tenant concerns, enhancing overall efficiency.

Managing visitor protocols, especially parking, is another crucial responsibility. Property managers clearly outline designated areas and regulations, minimizing disruptions and enhancing security to ensure a smooth living experience for all residents. Residents are responsible for their visiting guests' adherence to these rules.

Unit property managers also conduct various inspections throughout the tenancy, including move-in, interim, and move-out inspections. The interim inspections are for the purpose of ensuring the tenant is caring for the property, assessing the condition and determining is there are any lease violations.....

They typically hold a security deposit on behalf of the property and tenancy to cover any damages beyond normal wear and tear or any other outstanding tenancy obligations.

Furthermore, unit property managers are responsible for ensuring tenants obtain suitable tenant insurance. This insurance covers liability and the tenant's personal belongings during their stay, providing an additional layer of protection for both the tenant and the property owner.

Beyond day-to-day operations, unit property managers act as stewards of communal spaces and property values. They maintain amenities, organize community events, and ensure communal areas are well-maintained and accessible. This proactive management not only improves quality of life but also enhances the attractiveness and long-term value of the condominium.

Investing in high-quality unit property management is essential for sustainable condominium living. It boosts satisfaction among owners, tenants, and condo boards, fosters community engagement, and contributes to higher property values over time. By prioritizing thorough tenant screening, proactive management practices, and clear communication, property managers lay the foundation for a thriving, cohesive community where both owners and renters feel valued and respected. In the end, renters often seek more than just financial reasons for their choices; they want to feel respected and part of the community.

In conclusion, professional unit property managers play a vital role in condominium communities. Their diligent oversight and proactive approach are crucial for maintaining harmony, enhancing property values, and creating a vibrant living environment. By adhering to best practices and maintaining open communication with residents, unit property managers ensure that condominiums not only meet but exceed expectations, making them desirable places to live both now and in the future.

Lisa Hamielec & Tia Hamielec 
Citysearch Rental Network Inc.