19 JULY 2024INSIGHTSCXOKimberley Cecile, Commercial Property Manager, Canderel GroupNAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND CONSTRUCTIONKimberly is an experienced professional in property management, particularly in condominiums and the commercial sector. She assists property owners in managing maintenance tasks, negotiating contracts, and overseeing construction or remediation projects.Please tell us about the journey that you've had so far and your roles and responsibilities at Canderel Group.I began my career in property management in British Columbia, primarily focusing on Strata properties, similar to condominiums in Alberta. Initially, I worked with residential properties, occasionally handling commercial ones as well. Upon moving to Alberta, I managed a diverse portfolio comprising both condominiums and commercial properties. Eventually, I transitioned fully into commercial property management.In my role, I assist property owners in overseeing their assets. This entails managing maintenance tasks, negotiating contracts, and overseeing construction or remediation projects, whether they're necessitated by the building's age or emergency situations like water damage. In addition, I handle financial matters such as accounts receivable and payable on behalf of property owners.The objective is to create harmony within condominium communities by fostering positive relationships between the board of directors and unit owners. In the commercial realm, I focus on establishing and maintaining positive relationships between property owners and tenants to ensure a mutually beneficial partnership for all parties involved.What are some of the major challenges in the apartment and condominium space?From my experience and perspective, managing a condominium owned by a corporation or overseen by a board of directors presents unique challenges, especially concerning construction and contractors. When it comes to construction projects and working with contractors, there seems to be a misconception between the industry and the board of directors or condominium owners regarding project proposals and quotes. There's an expectation for fast turnarounds and immediate results, driven by the fact that condominium residents view it as their home rather than a business they're representing.As property managers, we strive to obtain quotes to ensure that we deliver the best quality service to the property owners. However, there is a common misconception, especially in the construction industry, regarding this process. Some highly reputable contractors may be extremely busy, and this can lead to a delay in project timelines. On the flip side, apartment or condominium owners might not fully grasp that occasionally, time sacrifices are necessary to secure superior quality of work. When we talk about higher quality, it's not just about the end result; it also involves factors such as the skill level of the construction teams, which can be reflected in the pricing of their quotations depending on the project.The property owners and decision-makers overseeing the management of apartments and condominiums often overlook the complexities involved in hiring contractors for construction projects. They may prioritize price without fully comprehending the myriad dynamics at play. Often, there's a tendency to prioritize price as the key factor, seeking the best value. However, it's crucial to convey that the best value doesn't always guarantee the best results. Therefore, it's crucial to emphasize that selecting a reputable contractor based on referrals or recommendations might come with a higher price tag, but it ensures quality and reliability.Understanding the dynamic between property managers and the construction field is crucial for identifying the specific needs and skill sets required for a given project. This knowledge Kimberley Cecile
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