Be sure to join us at Ghent Village Apartments where the 3rd Annual upcoming ACE Awards Orientation will be the topic of discussion. This event will be sponsored by Peerless Carpet Care & Restoration Services from 8:30 a.m.-10 a.m. Please register by logging on to www.vamaonline.org/events, and we look forward to seeing you there!

 

Our very own Patrick McCloud was kind enough to be our guest speaker for July 18's Morning Coffee held at Liberty Apartments in Newport News sponsored by Apartments.com. Patrick had an open discussion on how best to manage the stresses of Property Management. He discussed how property management can be stressful for all persons involved and how important it is to find a healthy vehicle through which to relieve these stresses. 

1. It is very important to remember that in the majority of cases, when a resident yells, they are simply upset with the situation rather than with the person at whom they are yelling. If you are meeting with an agitated resident in person, Patrick suggests sitting next to the person instead of across from them to prevent the resident from being intimidated. Always listen to the person, letting them express their concerns before you speak.
2. Additionally, there is the stress of communicating with vendors. Try to align your expectations with the fee you are paying for their services. Make sure to keep an open line of communication so that any problems that may arise can be resolved with minimal tension. The best way to receive the services you expect from your vendor is to be on the same page with them.
3. Maintaining an open line of communication is also crucial when attempting to avoid stress while managing employees. An important point to keep in mind is discussing expectations with each employee on a regular basis. You cannot hold someone accountable if they are unaware of your expectations. Encouraging our employees, setting goals and acknowledging those goals attained is a excellent way to improve the relationship one has with their staff.