July 2025
Hiring a management company and condominium manager is similar to marriage. First comes courtship, then a walk down the aisle and honeymoon. At some point the relationship grows stale. Problems, frustrations and conflicts grow. Work doesn’t get done to everyone’s satisfaction.
Eventually it becomes time for a divorce. The condo board interviews new candidates and are courted by management companies hungry for their business. Each candidate is rated on many factors including knowledge, experience, attitude and demeanor. Consideration is given for the number of buildings handled and how they answer specific questions. Price is a consideration.
Eventually, most candidates appear similar with little to distinguish one from another. One way to avoid this sameness is to ask specific questions about how they would handle specific situations. What would you do if there was a major water leak at 3 am? What are your immediate steps if there is a fire? How do you handle a noise or smoking complaint?
Most boards give preference to the management company and individual with the most properties under management and years of experience. Asking questions that require unscripted answers helps to identify those candidates with practical experience, and who may be more suitable for your community. This approach can provide insight to the reasons a company or individual is interested in your community.
Finding the right candidate means a better and longer relationship without having to repeat the courtship ritual for a long time.
