It can be tough to get along with everyone, but if you’re a property manager, your business depends on how well you get along with tenants. To learn about how to maintain good relationships with your tenants, this quick guide is for you.
Get to know them
This doesn’t mean that, right off the bat, you talk to them as though you have been best friends forever—you don’t want to come on too strong and scare them away. But part of your job as a manager is to show your tenants that you care about their satisfaction and wellbeing. To make them happy, you need to know what interests them. Here are a few appropriate ice breakers.
- What kinds of things do you and your family enjoy? We might have some facilities that will interest you.
- How familiar are you with the area?
- I remember when we talked during the interview, you said you enjoy playing tennis. Would you like me to remind you where the tennis courts are?
Those are just a few things you can say when your tenants first move in. You want to seem like a good host, but keep the conversation natural.
Be patient with their questions
Tenants will probably have many questions when they first move in. Try to answer them as clearly as possible. Tenants may also forget some things or need clarification in the future. Some of them might ask the same question several times. When this happens, be patient and empathetic. Offer to write the answers down for them. If a tenant suffers from dementia or Alzheimer’s, ask if the person has a family member available. Give the answers to a reliable family member, or offer to email them.
Offer occasional game nights
Everyone enjoys a friendly game. Hosting a game night is a great way to help tenants meet their neighbors. New tenants will feel welcome. Keep the games family-friendly. Consider printing out a list of times and optional games to put on the front door. Maybe offer tenants the ability to bring visitors for a small fee. And when you see tenants close to the game night, remind them about the event. It doesn’t need to be a weekly or monthly event—whenever you have one, it’s sure to be fun.
Act like a friendly neighbor
While you don’t have to act exactly like Mr. Rogers, be friendly to your tenants. Say hello when you see them. If you notice that they’re alone or appear sad, ask them if anything is wrong and if you can help them. Tenants like to feel that you care about them. After all, they are paying you to live there. Your level of friendliness and assistance affects the living quality and emotional wellbeing of your tenants.
Hopefully, these tips about how to maintain good relationships with your tenants will make your job enjoyable and drama-free. If you would like more advice about how to be a great landlord, contact our Orlando property management company today.
