Learning Centre

Small buildings need professional management too

Some landlords feel that their properties are too small to be professionally managed, but unless they have the time and expertise to do it well, they can run into problems like my friend did…

 
Transcription

It’s happened again – Fraud. A long time family friend owns a small mixed use building in Richmond. Our company manages his other assets but this one is smaller so he thought he would manage it himself. He called me this week to explain his dilemma.

My friend began to notice that the rents were coming in slowly and whenever he confronted the building manager there was always some reason as to why. The reasons all appeared reasonable and legitimate but over time it just didn’t add up.

Upon a more detailed examination of the financial records it would appear that the building manager has stolen approximately $30,000.00 from my friend.

He has now come to us to ask for help at getting the building on track.

What I find interesting is that the theme remains the same:

  • The landlord (in this case my friend) is a nice guy and takes everyone at face value.
  • He is also a very busy person – so he doesn’t have time to review the books on a regular basis.
  • The caretaker probably tries to get away with something once and when he finds it relatively easy to do so he tries again and again until it becomes routine.
  • There are missing records including tenancy agreements, receipts etc.
  • A landlord feels his property is too small to be professionally managed so they decide to do it themselves.

If you are a landlord and find yourself in this situation it would be worthwhile talking to a knowledgeable and reputable management company. Many companies are not interested in dealing with smaller landlords or smaller buildings.

Transpacific has implemented a system whereby landlords with smaller building can get the full service that any larger landlord with a large company or large property can enjoy.

If you are unsure if your property is being the managed in the best way possible – for you – then call us and we can have a conversation.

Learn More

The Naked Truth About Property Management

Property managers need to expect the unexpected and be tactful negotiators, as in this story about a leaky pipe, a barricaded door, and a standoff with a confused tenant…

LEARN MORE
When Tenants Play Nasty Games

Tenants don’t always play fair, as shown in this story about a tenant who walked away from their possessions and suite…and then accused us of disposing of “priceless heirlooms”…

LEARN MORE
What to do if your tenant dies or is incapacitated

When tragedy strikes, your first instinct is usually to help. But before you do, you must ensure that your tenant’s rights are not violated, and that you are protected.

LEARN MORE

If you’d like to see what a client-focused property management company can do for you,
please contact our office at 604 873 8591.