What a property manager does
Property managers oversee the operation, finances and people of residential, condominium, commercial or industrial properties. They prepare and manage budgets, collect rents or common expenses, oversee maintenance and contractors, handle leasing or resident issues, enforce rules and report to owners or boards. In condominiums, they work with the board of directors, support reserve fund planning and follow the Condominium Act. A capable manager reduces vacancy, controls costs and keeps owners informed and confident.
Licensing is a key screening point. Condominium managers in Ontario must hold a licence from the Condominium Management Regulatory Authority of Ontario, while managers of rental or commercial properties generally do not. Finch confirms licence status for condominium roles and looks at the property types, portfolio size and financial responsibilities each candidate has handled. You receive a shortlist of qualified property managers who suit your buildings and your owners.
Typical responsibilities
- Prepare and manage operating budgets and financial reports
- Oversee rent or common expense collection and arrears
- Manage maintenance, contractors, tenders and capital projects
- Handle leasing, tenant relations or owner communications
- Attend board meetings and carry out board decisions in condominiums
- Follow the Residential Tenancies Act or Condominium Act, as applicable
Qualifications and credentials
- A CMRAO licence for condominium management roles, typically a general licence to manage independently
- Experience managing residential, condominium or commercial properties
- Strong financial, budgeting and reporting skills
- Familiarity with property management software such as Yardi or similar platforms
- Designations such as RPA or CPM are an asset for commercial roles
- Clear written communication and conflict resolution skills
Who hires a property manager
- Residential property management companies
- Condominium management firms and self-managed condominium corporations
- Commercial and industrial landlords
- Real estate investment owners and family-owned portfolios
- Non-profit and co-operative housing providers
Where we recruit property manager candidates
We fill property manager roles for employers across Toronto and the GTA, including North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, Vaughan, Markham, Richmond Hill, Mississauga, Brampton, Oakville, Burlington, Oshawa and Pickering, and for employers across Canada. GTA employers can meet us at our North York office by appointment.
What Finch checks before you meet a candidate
- CMRAO licence type and status for condominium roles
- Property types and portfolio size managed
- Budgeting, arrears and financial reporting experience
- Board, owner and tenant communication
- References from owners, boards or senior managers
Interview questions to ask
- Walk me through how you prepare an annual operating budget for a building.
- How do you handle a board or owner who disagrees with a maintenance recommendation?
- Tell me about a major capital project you managed. What went well and what would you change?