I hate advising a property management client that a property repair is going to cost them big buck$ * a HVAC goes out, a new roof is needed, tree roots have collapsed the sewer line.
Today I had the honor of sending an e-mail advising a client that after 3 minor leaks in 2 months, we need to replace the remaining quest pipe in his home and it was going to cost $3,900 to replace it.....I e-mailed him the plumber's estimate first and he called me at my office...after a brief discussion of the leaks and upgrades to his home, he THANKED ME for spending his money wisely.
He mentioned talking to other people at work who are landlords and who have vacancies often for 4 to 6 months; who are constantly having nickel and dime repairs by their managers; and who are getting less than market rents. He expressed his appreciation for my keeping his house rented for 5 years straight with 1 month vacancy between the last two tenants and for upgrading it and solving problems rather than just spending money on patch and paste repairs.
He then promptly e-mailed me his approval for the plumber's estimate.....WOW! He expressed his appreciation for me $pending his money wi$ely!!!
Wallace S. Gibson, CPM * GIBSON MANAGEMENT GROUP, Ltd.
Central Virginia
LandlordWhisperer
View our available Charlottesville, Albemarle and Lake Monticello rental homes online with photos and floor plans
"...to be a Virginian, either by Birth, Marriage, Adoption, or even on one's Mother's side, is an Introduction to any State in the Union, a Passport to any Foreign Country, and a Benediction from the Almighty God...." Anonymous
Hi Wallace. I DO understand how you feel. The initial thought of informing the owner of a huge expense is a dread, but like you, we too have appreciative clients who are dependant upon us being their eyes and ears, for many of them haven't seen their property.....they live in other States! Getting thanked for doing what we do naturally is such good motivation isn't it?
Diane * yes it it. He obviously felt fortunate when heaing of co-workers troubles with their rental homes. I just did not think he would be appreciative when I told him I was spending $4,000.
Takes all kinds!!
Wallace, great job! You've proven your trust to him clearly...
Brian * it's the whole Frogs and Prince thing * I think I appreciate him MORE because I have kissed some FROGS over the last 45 years!!!!