Dealing with Difficult Residents

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Difficult residents can make the world of property management a bit more complicated. Here's how to deal with them.

Listen to residents who complain often, their concerns might be valid. Rather than writing them off as constant complainers, take time to hear them out and if you can help, do it.

However, make sure that you keep your word—if you say you'll look into an issue, follow through, Multi-Housing News suggests.

If you find that the problem is complex and the resolution will take a while, or there's no solution at all, communicate that. Don't leave residents guessing.

If possible, share specific time frames and updates so that they're less likely to storm into the office confrontationally.

To guard your back against difficult residents, make sure the lease writes out the rules of your community. Include directives such as, "Rent must be paid the first of the month," or "There is to be no subletting or renting using sites such as Airbnb." Then, if renters break any rules, you can reference the lease and, if need be, have grounds for eviction.

As a property manager, always be professional. Although some residents may push it, strive to maintain a cordial attitude and save the venting for when you get home.

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