Alicia McCulloch, a seasoned property manager from Aqwasun Estate Agents, was our recent guest and the episode had a focus on what her first moves were, when she was asked to head up the property management department from scratch. In this blog post, I'll share the valuable insights and experiences Alicia brought to the table, covering everything from the inception of a property management department to the intricacies of customer service and social media strategy.

The Genesis of a Property Management Department
Alicia's journey in property management is a testament to her dedication and strategic thinking. Setting up a property management department from scratch is no small feat, and Alicia's approach to this challenge was both methodical and innovative. She emphasized the importance of goal setting and the need to establish a solid foundation for lead generation. Her experience serves as a blueprint for those looking to venture into the property management industry or expand their existing operations.

The Art of Lead Generation
 Alicia and I went into the various strategies for lead generation. She highlighted the significance of understanding your target audience and tailoring your approach to meet their needs. Whether it's through traditional methods or leveraging the latest technology, the goal remains the same: to attract and retain clients by offering unparalleled service and expertise.

Customer Service: The Heart of Property Management
Alicia passionately spoke about the central role of customer service in property management. She believes that maintaining a high level of satisfaction among tenants and property owners is crucial for the growth and sustainability of any property management business. Her insights remind us that at the core of every successful property management operation is a commitment to exceeding customer expectations.

Embracing Social Media
Our conversation took an interesting turn when we touched on the use of social media in property management. Alicia shared her personal experiences with platforms like TikTok, where she has received both praise and criticism for her candid approach. She underscored the importance of authenticity and the power of social media to educate and connect with audiences. Alicia's social media presence is a blend of professional and personal content, which she manages through separate accounts for work and personal use, as well as a business page on Facebook and Instagram.

The Challenges of a Growing Portfolio
Managing a growing portfolio comes with its own set of challenges, and Alicia was open about the hurdles she faces. From ensuring consistent communication to maintaining the quality of service, the complexities of scaling a property management business require strategic planning and adaptability.

The TikTok Effect
Alicia's foray into TikTok has been particularly impactful. She recounted an instance where her straightforward advice during a home open led to a viral moment. Despite the mixed reactions, Alicia stood by her belief that honesty is the best policy, especially when it comes to advising potential tenants on how to improve their chances of securing a property.

The Power of Goal Setting
Finally, we discussed the importance of setting goals, especially when starting a new business without a history of leads. Alicia's approach to goal setting is both ambitious and realistic. She sets internal goals and is motivated by targets, especially when there's a reward involved. 

My conversation with Alicia McCulloch shares her experiences and strategies and provides a wealth of knowledge for anyone in the industry, especially those starting a portfolio from scratch. From the importance of customer service to the effective use of social media and the challenges of managing a growing portfolio, Alicia's insights are a testament to her expertise and dedication to our industry.