Whether you are a full time professional property manager or an individual who manages personal rentals everyone reaches a point where you just want to pack it all in.
I love property management but in order for me to be fresh, creative and have a long career in the field I love I need to take a break every now and then. It is tough since the month is pretty full and routine with rent collections, move in’s and out’s, maintenance, inspections etc etc.
So, once a year I take a week – trying to add more time but I will take what I can get. Annually I fly up to the Columbia River Gorge (my spouse windsurfs for a month – and is retired) to relax, meet old friends, expore the area and just watch the kids play in the river. Mornings are regular with 6:30am walks through the peach orchard with our dog. I love it!
Yes, I take my computer and iphone and check email in the mornings and late afternoons. My office can call me if something is really important. Now, I know you’re saying this isn’t a break but for me it is. I can check in and then check out and not worry.
What I find is that by taking time off to relax, enjoy friends and nature I recharge my batteries so-to-speak and I also allow my mind to wander and get creative about work, systems to put in place, new programs to offer owners and tenants, new articles for my blog etc. I find I am really productive.
This year I had the special treat of reading a book that a friend has been in the process of writing over the last 3 years and to provide feedback. I felt so honored and loved the book. It was a pleasure to do this since I would have had time if at home. Others in the campground make jewlery, paint, photograph, fish, or just read a good book. I think I read through every piece of material the Chamber of Commerce puts out on the different towns.
I encourage everyone to take some time off – 3 day weekends at a minimum. Put in place procedures and people to cover for you while you are gone. I tell my owners I am on vacation but still accessible if something is urgent.
Don’t get burned out and then cash it all in. Allow yourself time to re-energize.
As I said I love what I do and hope to be doing it for many years to come.
Please check out my website at www.PortolaRentals.com if you are interested in properties in Santa Cruz or have rentals in Santa Cruz, CA.
Kathleen Richards
