As the world begins to emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, many are wondering how the real estate industry will change and what practices will continue to stick around. In response to social distancing guidelines, property management businesses have had to adapt their policies and processes to support virtual interactions between residents and managers.
Leasing has gone virtual
With in-person showings and lease signings being replaced with online tours and remote lease agreements. The adoption of cloud-based technology has accelerated to enable these virtual interactions. Additionally, the majority of property management teams have shifted to remote work. Teams now manage day-to-day operations, provide customer service, and carry out accounting from home. While this change has had some challenges, it's likely that remote work will continue to some degree in the future, as 60.6% of workers plan to split their time between the office and home going forward.
In-person interactions have now gone digital
The industry has been forced to push many of its processes online, which has streamlined property management and created a new wave of efficiency. Text messaging and email have become basic forms of communication for businesses to connect with customers. Going forward, residents will likely prefer to communicate digitally rather than in person. With the help of mobile technology, like PYP (Park Your Property) Property Managers can quickly bulk text and email residents and share important documents individually or all at once.
Maintenance operations have also shifted,
With non-essential repairs being deferred initially to limit in-person interactions. Property management companies have developed creative ways for residents to complete non-emergency repairs themselves with step-by-step online tutorials, video calls, and doorstep supply drop-offs. In the post-pandemic world, property managers will need technology that enables quick and safe communication with residents and vendors, and digital property management software can help resolve non-essential repairs more efficiently. PYP residents can request maintenance from home on one call.
Overall, property management has rapidly changed over the course of the pandemic. Businesses have been able to maintain their operations and uncover new opportunities through the adoption of mobile technology while keeping their residents and employees safe. By embracing cloud-based technology and making the most of these changes, property management businesses can prepare for the future and come out stronger than before.
Interesting facts!