How to Help Your Residents With the Moving Process

By Madison White on February 13, 2017

By Creativity103 [CC BY 2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

As a property manager, you know the many pains of moving. But since you’re not the one moving, what can you do to help your residents with the moving process?

The moving process may not be easy. In fact, it may require a lot of grunt work. However, if you’re thoughtful and ready to assist your residents, you’re going to make their move a whole lot easier.

1. Include them in the plans

One of the worst things that can happen during the moving process is miscommunication. Because so many things are bound to be happening, try and state things as clearly as possible. Don’t leave your residents out on details, whether they’re moving in or moving out. Make sure you go over what time they’re expected to arrive/leave and exactly what the procedures will be.

Ask if they’re going to need any extra help and if you’re available, offer to be there at a certain time to make sure things are going smoothly. It’s also a great way to leave a good first or last impression. Even if you’ve gone over the times already, be sure to send it in writing like over text or email so they definitely have the information.

Go over what process will happen first and in what order the rest will. If you are on a strict time schedule or have special requirements, let them know way ahead of time so they have room to plan ahead.

2. Update their information

Similarly, before or during the move-in or moving out process, make sure you’re getting properly updated information from your residents. If your residents are moving out, you’ll need a new address where you can send possible information and fees about last month’s rent or any outstanding fees. You’ll also need updated emails and phone numbers so you can call them should any issues arise.

With new residents, you’re also going to want updated, regularly checked information so you can contact them frequently with updates about the property. If an email or phone number is the only way you’ll be contacting them, be sure to state that all official correspondence will go through that address and should any late fees or issues arise, it could be their fault for not checking it.

3. Stay organized

Because of the impending chaos of moving, it is extra important to stay organized. You surely already have a system for organizing leases, contracts, and other paperwork related to your property. If you’re preparing for new residents to move in, be sure to have all the paperwork necessary for them ready and set aside before they arrive. This way you won’t have to waste precious daylight searching for the things you need.

If you have a resident moving out, be sure to also have all the documents around to check in on previously made agreements. You’ll also need to check the inventory and compare the property now to the damages listed initially.

4. If your resident is new, be extra welcoming

Because you may have residents move in and out all the time, you may feel that moving isn’t that big of a deal anymore. Keep in mind that for most people, moving is extremely stressful and difficult. Especially if your residents are completely new to the city, or even the area, everything is sure to be a bit overwhelming at best. Do whatever you can to make them feel a little better about moving.

Of course, you don’t want to overwhelm them at first, but within the first couple of weeks try and reach out by getting to know them. It may be smart to ask them for breakfast or offer to introduce them to their neighbors if they have them. You could compile a list of restaurants, grocery stores, and other essential locations in a helpful document for them. They’re going to feel a lot better if they know someone is looking out for them during this process.

5. Check the property again

If you have some time in the empty property after the old residents have moved out and the new ones move in, it might be in your best interest to check the property again. You can look for a few things you may have missed during the initial property move-out check. You may want to check the light bulbs to see if any of them have burnt out. Check the drains for any build up or clogs. Check for any squeaks, leaks, or problems that may have gone unnoticed before. This way the property will be in tip-top shape before the new residents arrive.

As a property manager, you must know the fine line between wanting to help and overstepping your boundaries. Of course, once you’ve figured this out, you’ll be the property manager nobody will want to leave!

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