The role
As a property manager, you look after residential or commercial buildings on behalf of their owners. You find and vet tenants, draw up leases, collect rent and service charges, and follow up arrears. You also organise maintenance and repairs, manage contractors and caretakers, and report to owners on occupancy and income.
Who is hiring
Real estate agencies, property developers, investment funds, banks and insurers with property portfolios, embassies and private landlords hire property managers, and diaspora owners rely on them to run homes back home. The role mixes office work with frequent visits to the buildings.
Background and career path
A diploma or degree in real estate, law, business or building helps, and some start as letting agents or assistants. You can move up to senior property manager, portfolio manager or head of an agency.