Property and Real Estate Managers

Aspiring property managers should obtain three months to several years of experience working for a property management company.

Property managers need experience in all aspects of building management, from leasing and maintenance to repair and service. They should be good communicators who can deal effectively with clients; they should be detail oriented; possess good organizational skills; and understand building finances such as mortgages, taxes, insurance and payroll.

Property and real estate managers must be skilled in both oral and written communications and be adept at dealing with people. They need to be good administrators and negotiators, and those who specialize in land development must be especially resourceful and creative to arrange financing for their projects. Managers for small rental or condominium complexes may be required to have building repair and maintenance skills as well as business management skills.