The New Neighbors - The Ups and Downs

You don't know them, but they seem to be okay.  The new neighbors.  Everyone has had their share of stories about those strangers who move into the community.  They either mind their own business, mind yours, or cause problems.  Sometimes they are simply nice people that wave or say, "Hello" and that's it.  But whoever they are, you can be nice to strangers.

One issue that tends to arise are those busybody residents who tend to be loud, a bit too friendly, and ask to borrow some things.  New neighbors might be put off with them and so there will be some tension in the air.  Little things can turn into big things quickly.  Making new people feel welcome; instead of unwelcome, will ease some of the stress for all.  A simple exchange about the community, a story about a bad neighbor, and other useful information will help people adjust.

If your neighbor is not familiar with some rules, you can always post a note, a copy of the rental policies or speak with management, but whatever you do, don't let annoying behavior turn into a major ordeal.  Remember everyone deserves to live in peace!

Nicholl McGuire not only offers tips about her experience in the property management industry, but she also runs a small virtual assistant business part-time here. 

20 Signs Sticking It Out at a Property Might Not Be a Good Idea

Sometimes apartment management and staff just don't have a clue how irritating it can be to keep having to call, confront, and cry about a situation that just isn't being addressed.  As we all know, once you reach a point of anger, it is difficult to ever feel good about a person, place or thing again.  Therefore, small issues become big ones and before long someone is threatening to sue. 

If you are a resident of a poorly-run community and can't seem to get the company's attention with a simple phone call, office visit, or letter then maybe putting your money in escrow might help.  Do consult with a real estate attorney about this before you do it.  However, if the lease is almost up, consider going month-to-month until you can find a better place.  Remember to give a 30 or 60 day notice with management, but check your lease because timeframes vary with many companies.

Issues that will grow into bigger ones causing you and others to run away, especially if one is experiencing all of these:

1.  Unreasonable increases in rent. 
2.  Slow and unskilled maintenance workers.
3.  Weird odors that never seem to go away.
4.  Inconsistent or short office hours.
5.  Rude and/or lazy management and staff i.e.) don't smile, return phone calls, impatient, etc.
6.  Insect problems.
7.  Dirty common areas.
8.  Unruly children.
9.  Strangers using facilities i.e.) laundry room, pool areas, etc.
10.  Robberies and other crime.
11.  Worn carpets.
12.  Air conditioning or heating units that don't work properly.
13.  Problematic kitchen cabinets and drawers, doors, etc.
14.  Residents who break the rules, no consequences.
15.  Outdated amenities i.e.) stoves, refrigerators, countertops, faucets, tubs, shower doors, etc.
16.  Pet noise and waste.
17.  Garbage area pile-ups.
18.  Frequent misplaced or lost packages.
19.  Inoperable gym equipment.
20.  Smokers who stand in breezeways, in front of neighbor's door ways...smoking.

People don't stay where they don't feel at peace.  The community manager and staff's responsibility is to ensure their residents' comfort.  If more people would quit settling for simple issues that could easily be fixed, maybe property management companies would step it up.  Check housing laws usually provided by your local housing rights office and also review your lease.

Nicholl McGuire, former apartment community manager and leasing consultant.


 

7 Tips To a Cheap, Easy, & Efficient Apartment Move

Apartment Shopping...Blogger Nicholl McGuire

When I entered the property management industry as an apartment leasing consultant back in 2003, I didn't anticipate the enormous amount of responsibility that falls on the staff of a large multi-dwelling complex.  I welcomed the challenge and was quite familiar with what my position was on paper, but what I didn't expect were those unexpected titles one plays behind the scenes when he or she isn't showing an apartment or going over a lease with a tenant.

Rapidly, I became the "go-to person" once residents felt at ease with the 20 something year old at the time.  While in my leasing position, I found myself gradually falling into the social worker's role, the care taker, a teacher, and even a preacher.  People had many needs and were looking for a little solace in someone who cared.  I also had to set boundaries as well so that I and the company wouldn't be taken advantage of.  In time, I would become a community manager, who not only took on various roles that were outside of the job description, but also became a bridge over troubled waters between corporate and disgruntled residents who were still mad at the last guy.

Despite the many challenges I faced as a community manager from needed building repairs on a limited budget to learning how to get around my new city, I was able to do the best I could in my roles.  Of course, life throws you a curve ball sooner or later and so I had my share of personal issues that caused me to re-evaluate some things, but the ride was good while it lasted.  One day I plan to return to the industry, but in the meantime, I continue to provide advice and helpful resources to my online audience and those aspiring to be in the profession or are already working. 

Thanks to the readers who support this blog. 

NOTE:  If you would like to help sponsor this blog or others by purchasing ad space or writing a guest entry, feel free to contact Nicholl at this email address: nichollmcguire@gmail.com

Is Your Dwelling Haunted?