What they do
Property managers act as the intermediary between tenants and property owners in rental agreements. They are responsible for showing prospective tenants through the property and at the same time assessing their suitability on behalf of the owner. Once tenants have moved in, the property manager is responsible for collecting rent, carrying out regular inspections to ensure the property is being maintained and organising any necessary repairs on behalf of the owner. Property managers must also develop a property condition report to be used as a record in cases where repairs are necessary and the costs are taken from a tenant's bond and as evidence of the condition of the property when tenants move in.
Working conditions
Property managers generally have a central office, but may spend a large part of their day visiting properties to conduct inspections and viewings. They generally look after numerous properties, and so can be very busy, requiring a well developed organisational system to manage appointments and property specific records. They often work regular hours, however some weekend and evening work may be required to show properties or deal with emergencies. Property managers have a high level of contact with people, including property owners, tenants, tradespeople, council representatives and real estate agents.
Tools and technologies
Property managers often use computers, diaries and mobile phones to manage their workload and keep track of appointments. When producing property reports, or advertising new properties for lease, they will often use digital cameras to photograph the condition of the property, noting any pre-existing damage. Paperwork also plays an important role in a property manager's work, including legally binding lease agreements, property reports and financial transaction records. Most property managers use a car to travel between properties.
How do I become one?
Education and training
To become a property manager, you usually need to gain a qualification in real estate practice.
The Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice was endorsed as the qualification for property managers in February 2019. At the time of writing, a list of Western Australian TAFE colleges and other registered training organisations offering this qualification is not yet available.
Browse courses through Jobs and Skills WA and search on the My Skills website to find a registered provider near you.
You can also undertake a traineeship in property management (level 4). The traineeship usually takes 24 months to complete.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
As an apprentice or trainee, you enter into a formal training contract with an employer, enabling you to complete training towards a nationally recognised qualification. You spend time working and learning practical skills on the job and you spend some time undertaking structured training with a registered training provider.
You can do an apprenticeship or traineeship if you are a school-leaver, re-entering the workforce or as an adult or mature-aged person wishing to change careers. You can even begin your apprenticeship or traineeship while you're still at school.
If you are still at school you can access an apprenticeship through your school. Talk to your school's VET Co-ordinator to start your training now through VET in Schools. If you are no longer at school you can apply for an apprenticeship or traineeship and get paid while you learn and work.
Required registration and licensing
To work as a property manager in Western Australia, you must register with the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety.
To register, you must be over 18 years of age and provide proof of completion of a property management registration course. You will also need to obtain a National Police Clearance.