The day-to-day operation of an apartment complex is typically handled by an apartment manager. His responsibilities include collecting rent, depositing payments, and contacting residents who have fallen behind on their rent payments. He may also deal with tenant requests, comments, and complaints. The manager is generally expected to find a solution if someone requires maintenance or if an emergency occurs in one of the apartments. He might also put out a notice for new tenants and screen potential tenants.
Finding tenants to fill vacancies is one of an apartment manager’s most important tasks. He does this by placing ads in newspapers, phone directories, and apartment living guides, but he may also use fliers, signs, Web sites, and other methods. He might also come up with special promotions to make moving into a complex he manages more appealing. When a potential tenant expresses interest in a vacancy, the manager may give him a tour of the apartment and grounds, collect his application, screen him, and either rent to him or forward the owner’s decision to him.
A typical apartment manager is responsible for a variety of financial matters. He has the authority to collect rent and security deposits. If a tenant is late, he or she may be charged a late fee or face other delinquency actions. An apartment manager may also be responsible for paying bills incurred by the apartment complex. If the complex requires construction services, for example, he may be responsible for paying the construction company.
In many cases, an apartment manager also serves as a general supervisor for the employees of the complex. He has the authority to hire and supervise customer service reps, accountants, maintenance personnel, cleaners, and groundskeepers. He might, for example, set work schedules, assign tasks, and keep track of employee records. If someone isn’t performing as expected, he’s often the one who has to fire them.
A large part of an apartment manager’s job entails problem-solving. Tenants and employees may approach him with requests and complaints. If a tenant complains about a broken dishwasher, for example, it is usually his responsibility to decide whether or not to repair or replace it, as well as to hire or assign someone to do so. Similarly, if an employee complains that a portion of his paycheck is missing, it is frequently the apartment manager’s responsibility to investigate and resolve the issue.
There are no specific requirements for becoming an apartment manager in most cases. Many employers only require applicants to have a high school diploma or the equivalent, but a college diploma may make an applicant more appealing. Experience in business, management, and customer service may also be beneficial.