Property managers look after several aspects of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. They make sure the properties remain in a good condition and retain its resale value. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment for realtors and property agents will grow by 12% from 2012 to 2022 as more people will live in apartment buildings, homeowner communities, and senior housing that Property Management companies administer. Forbes has reported being a property manager among the Happiest Jobs in America. This line of work can be great for those of you who have good speaking skills. The ones who have negotiation and interpersonal skills can also get into this field. Working in this profession can possibly result in successful career in this field.
What are the Steps to Enroll in an Online Property Management Course?
The steps to enrolling in an online property management course will vary slightly from college to college. Applicants may have to meet minimum GPA requirement or take a standardized admission test. However, the general steps for enrollment are:
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Select a college and a program
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Visit the official web page of the institute and fill out an admission form
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Submit the admission form
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Provide documents and official college transcripts
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Provide letters of recommendation
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Pay the admission fee
What Property Managers Do?
As a property manager, you will have to meet prospective buyers and renters and show properties to them. You will also be required to collect monthly fees from tenants, inspect all building facilities and pay or delegate the paying of bills, such as insurance, taxes etc. In addition, you will also be responsible for keeping records of rental activity and preparing budgets and financial reports.
Property Management Courses
To become a property manager, you need to hold at least a high school diploma or equivalent. But many employers prefer to hire property managers with a bachelor's or a master's degree in business administration, real estate, finance or public administration. The certification programs are also available for aspiring property managers. Professional certification shows competence and professionalism.
Curriculum
Students in the property management programs may learn how to run and maintain mechanical systems in buildings and how to improve property values. Other courses may include areas such as business and real estate law, personnel management, tenant relations, accounting and financial concepts.
Online Property Management Courses
Some distance-learning institutes also offer programs in property management. The ones who are already practicing professionals can advance their careers by earning advanced credentials online. Those who want to switch careers can also pursue a program online.
The online programs are highly flexible, helping students to study from any location and at timings that suit their personal routine. Students can pursue degrees or certificates online and acquire the necessary skills to enter this field without making major changes to their routine. But students in the distance learning programs must follow a personal schedule properly. Before enrolling in an online course, students should verify the accreditation of a school and its general ranking so that they can benefit from a quality education.
Employment Opportunities for Property Managers
Property managers can work in a variety of industries including local government, real estate firms, offices of real estate agents and brokers. Opportunities are also available in political, business, professional, labor and similar organizations According to the
BLS , Property managers earned a median wage of $52,610 on an annual basis in may 2012. These professionals are required to attend evening meetings with property owners, residents or community association boards of directors so long hours are common. Some may have to work weekends as well. According to the BLS, job prospects should be best for property managers with a college degree in real estate and business administration.
What can you be After Completing a Property Management Course?
The type of job you can get with a qualification in property management depends on various factors such as specialization, degree level, and skill set. For example, if you have specialized in commercial property, you can pursue a career in commercial real estate management. Here are some of the common job titles that fall under the category of property management:
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Residential property manager
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Commercial property manager
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Leasing consultant
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Residential relations manager
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Property manager
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Assistant property manager
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Maintenance supervisor
Most of these professionals work within real estate firms and similar organizations.
Where can I work after completing Property Management Courses?
After completing courses in property management, you may work as a property manager. Some common industries that employ property managers are as follows.
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Offices of real estate agents and brokers
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Civic, social, and professional organizations
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Local government except hospitals and education
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Lessors of real estate