- The main principals for real estate agents are landlords
- However, it is important to recognise all stakeholders
- Meeting with a tenant provides a fantastic opportunity to report back to a landlord, Wouter Jellema explains
Traditionally, in real estate, the tenants were second-grade clients.
The phrase “I work for the lessor” was commonly used by property managers.
Ever since I entered the real estate industry, having worked for both tenants and landlords, I understand both sides and their interests within the real estate transactions.
I am an advocate for treating tenants well and building relationships with them as much as with the landlords.
The phrase I commonly use is “a happy tenant makes a content owner” – as a result, I will be a happy property manager, looking after the best interest of all stakeholders.
This way of operating also extends to building relationships with contractors and other businesses associates within the industry.
It is essential to remember that real estate agents’ principals are the landlords. So when disputes do take place, we need to prioritise the lessor’s interests first.
However, acting respectfully towards all parties should be the number one priority.
Remember, parties can wear different hats or change their circumstances. For example, owners can become tenants; contractors can also become tenants and tenants can own property and give you business.
To top things off, we need to ensure we treat all our stakeholders fairly.
Our reputation of being a respectable professional is always at risk.
So, why do I like to meet with my tenants?
I like to meet with tenants as it helps me understand their business and learn the latest facts and updates of the property I manage on behalf of the lessor.
It is also, in my opinion, one of the best ways to build solid relationships with the tenants and a fantastic opportunity to report back to the landlords.
Late last year, I had a tenant who had a few challenging situations as they moved into their new premises.
I went to meet with them to clarify and resolve matters. A few months passed since we met, I reached out and asked if the tenants wanted to catch up again. I showed interest in their well-being, their business, and the property that they occupied.
The tenant appreciated this way so much, that they went online and gave me a five-star Google review.
Reporting back to the property owner showed I was looking after their investment, giving them peace of mind.
This situation was a win-win for both the tenant and landlord – as it should be.
