Sectional title spotlight shifts to the importance of choosing a good managing agent

The added complexity brought about by the introduction of the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act and the Community Schemes Ombud Service Act in early October last year, has now firmly shifted the spotlight to the importance of choosing a good managing agent.

Paul French, commercial director for Coastal Property Management Services says that the rise and prominence of sectional title property has in turn led to a flurry of new market entrants. It has therefore become vital that property owners and Bodies Corporate select very carefully when they appoint a managing agent.

Aside from the obvious importance of a credible track record in the field and area in particular, French recommends that you will also want to look for an agent that is passionate and committed to the job. It is important for property owners and investors to know that their property is in good hands.

Some of the important considerations when choosing a managing agent include:

Consider all your options – make a selection of five managing agents that you want to interview rather than just directly appointing a single agency on the say-so of someone in the complex.

Strong and recognisable brand – the next important point, is to look for a managing agent that has been in operation for at least two to five years with a proven and demonstrable track record. Ask for references.

Infrastructure, financial services and support – be sure to choose an agent with a good IT and financial infrastructure that can ensure the efficient billing and collection of levies and other moneys and someone with a “hands-on” management capability.

Full portfolio of services – it is always advisable to select a managing agent that offers a full portfolio of services to meet the end-to-end needs of a complex or scheme. While most may offer the basic running of meetings and the financial and administrative aspects, what about the vital matter of maintenance? This is something that a responsive managing agent like Coastal Property Management Services for example offers to its clients, so in essence, a one-stop-shop.

Responsiveness – you would want a fairly quick turnaround on vital issues and queries, so be sure to also check that the managing agent can respond quickly to queries and issues and address these effectively and efficiently. Most trustees and property owners work or have busy business interests and they would want a managing agent and support team that can attend to matters as speedily as possible.

Registration and accreditation – be sure to check that the managing agent is registered with all of the required industry bodies and associations including the EAAB (Estate Agency Affairs Board) and NAMA (National Association of Managing Agents).

Property is the cornerstone of wealth creation and property owners invest vast amounts of money into their sectional title property. French says that they would want to be assured that the property is managed by a credible managing agent. Anyone looking to rent, buy or invest into a property will also want to know that. A well-managed complex or scheme will no doubt also attract good capital value growth.