Real estate portfolio management is a crucial part of successful real estate investing. Many people might equate it to financial asset management. However, nothing could be further from the truth, because it doesn’t involve managing equities, mutual funds, or bonds.
Many real estate investors manage their portfolios by themselves. Others, especially experienced investors with larger portfolios and multiple investments, hire a manager to oversee their portfolios. Real estate managers are tasked with risk management, asset allocation, and taking advantage of any opportunities at the disposal of the property. They are also responsible for carrying out all transactions on behalf of the investor.
In this article, we look at what real estate portfolio management entails and how you can become a real estate portfolio manager in 2021.
What is Real Estate Portfolio Management?
There’s really no definite answer to this question as it depends on the agency you’re working for and the nature of your roles. However, regardless of your job description, the position primarily entails tracking the performance of the property in the market. Also, you have to explore ways to maximize the potential returns from the property.
To understand this work, even more, there are various categories that are involved. They include
Site Manager.
This mainly the person who serves as the link between the tenants and the property owner. They manage specific property that they’re allocated.
Regional Manager.
As the name suggests, regional managers supervise a number of commercial or residential properties within a specific geographical area. A regional manager is also in charge of a team and is also responsible for auditing the portfolio’s financial activities.
Property Manager.
This is the person who oversees commercial or residential properties in the absence of the site manager. The property manager is also the medium between the property owner and people at the site. This person is also responsible for optimizing net rental income and minimizing expenses.
Asset Manager.
The asset manager is the property owner’s representative. This is the person in charge of the owner’s assets and recognizes that any decision made with respect to the assets affects how they perform. Asset managers also supervise any third-party property management firms.
Management Executive.
The management executive handles the real estate management company. They’re less involved in the specific property management roles and more with executive tasks.
What Skills Do You Need?
As a real estate portfolio manager, you should possess a strong set of analytical and interpersonal skills. The latter especially comes in handy when communicating with tenants, service providers, and clients. Also, think of how you’d handle an issue with an irate tenant.
In addition, you should have strong record-keeping and computer skills. This helps when keeping track of maintenance equipment and tools. This will make you a hands-on manager.
If you’re aiming for the executive roles, then strong leadership skills will see you climb the career ladder.
Which Education Do You Need?
Employers looking for real estate portfolio managers strongly prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in real estate. However, other related courses such as finance or business administration can work in your favor.
Other than school certificates, you’d be better placed to get a real estate portfolio manager’s job if you have experience in the field. The ability to repair machines and tools is also preferred.
Property owners hiring portfolio managers understand that it’s not easy finding a school that teaches property management. That’s why they consider the mentioned alternative degrees.
While it won’t guarantee you employment as a property manager, having a certification in budgeting, accounting and finance can significantly boost your chances of getting hired.
Bottom Line.
Real estate portfolio management refers to a set of tasks and roles undertaken to maximize a property’s potential. Portfolio management skills are necessary for any real estate investor to succeed. However, experienced investors with large portfolios know how crucial it is to hire a portfolio manager.
As a real estate portfolio manager, some of your roles could include cash flow management, handling property transactions, budgeting, and acting as the medium between the landlord and tenants.
In terms of education, you might want to have a degree in real estate, finance, business administration, or any other related field. Consider all the tips discussed here and embark on building a successful career in real estate portfolio management.
