March 8, 2024 - Industry News

IHM Celebrating International Women's Week - Marissa Zuliani

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Marissa Zuliani 

Owner
Property Management Solutions 
Responsibilities:

A property management company manages real estate properties on behalf of their owners. Our company is responsible for a wide range of tasks related to the day-to-day management of properties, including maintenance, rent collection, tenant screening, lease agreements, etc.

What led you to a career in property management?

I became involved in property management in 2011 when I was employed by Windsor Essex Community Housing in the Asset Management Department.  During my career there I completed my accreditation in Property Management and in 2018 I started my own Property Management Company.  Shortly thereafter I became a Member of the Board of The Institute of Housing Management (IHM) and I also am the Chair of the Marketing and Membership Committee and the Southwestern Chapter of IHM.

How many years have you worked in this profession?

22 years

What was your first job?

Receptionist with McPherson, Prince & Geddes Law Firm

What is your proudest professional moment?

My proudest professional moments come when I am able to house perspective tenants who face challenging situations in their life and have applied repeatedly to other companies with no success.

What has been your biggest challenge?

The most challenging part of property management is time management, sustainably scaling, reducing costs, retaining quality tenants, and managing your mental health throughout it all.  

Who do you consider a mentor or hero?

There are two people who have been instrumental in my success in property management. The first is Hans Kogel.  He was my Supervisor when I worked at Windsor Essex Community Housing in Asset Management.  He encouraged me to pursue my designation in Property Management and held me accountable to timelines and ultimately to my completion.  He believed in my success and encouraged me to open my own business(es) and has over the years continued to check in and support my endeavours.  The second person is Deborah Filice.  Deborah was initially one of my course teachers and we had many conversations as I navigated the course and she too was extremely positive and supportive.  Fast forward to 2022 and we have together chaired the Southwest Chapter of IHM and her wisdom has been invaluable and her guidance unwavering.

What is the best advice you ever received?

If you have integrity and character nothing else matters, if you do not have integrity and character nothing else matters.  

"What you have to give, you offer least of all through what you say; in greater part through what you do; but in greatest part through who you are.”  Aunt Elle

What advice would you give to those entering the property management profession?

Conduct yourself with integrity.  It is the foundation of strong ethical standards and the reason you develop a reputation within the profession as reliable, trustworthy, honest and respectful – or not.

What changes have you seen in property management in recent years?

The industry is strongly influenced by the general level of economic growth and availability of a variety of properties; apartment buildings, duplexes, single family homes, commercial and industrial space.  It is projected that Property Management will enjoy steady growth as the economy stabilizes following COVID 19 and we see growth of disposable income.

What changes do you see facing this profession in the future?

In the coming years, tenant experience will continue to be a focal point in property management. Property managers are focusing on enhancing the overall tenant experience by providing personalized services and amenities. This includes offering convenient online portals for rent payment and maintenance requests, organizing community events and activities, and providing exceptional customer service. By prioritizing tenant satisfaction, property managers can improve tenant retention and attract new tenants through positive word-of-mouth.

Fun fact you wish to share:

On January 12, 2024 I opened a Tea Room in Windsor.