The average relationship between a community association and their South Florida property management company is six to seven years. If a community association were to write a personal ad to find their next management company, instead of an RFP, this is what it might look like:
S-L-D* Community association seeking long-term relationship with stable, reliable South Florida property management company.
I am the President of a community association that is ending my relationship with my current management company. We had been together for a while, but it is just not working anymore. I having been feeling neglected and taken advantage of for quite a while. We had a whirlwind courtship with lots of promises made that were never delivered. I am ashamed to admit, I have been through this in the past. This is not my first failed relationship. I can't put up with this lack of responsiveness any longer.
I am seeking a long-term relationship with a stable, reliable management company. Based on my past experiences, following are the four key things I am looking for:
1. Solid Reputation - Who do I know that you already work with? Any neighboring associations? My Attorney, Banker or Insurance Agent? I want to hear from the people that have worked with you for a long-time to find out what you are really like.
2. Great People - Your service is only as good as the people on your team. How do you hire and develop your staff? How do you support them?
3. Customized Service - I am special. I don't want to hear, "this is just how we do it." I want to know that you can adapt to our needs and not try and force your process on our association.
4. Satisfaction Guaranteed - I don't want to be contractually locked in. I believe that having the right to end the relationship at any time will actually make our relationship stronger.
If you have a history of long-term relationships and a high renewal rate, please reply.
* Single, Lonely, Disappointed Community Association
Is your association looking for a management company currently or have you looked in the past? What were some traits you wanted in your management company? Let us know in the comments section below.