Having worked so hard to buy that dream cottage property, you want to be able to maximize your leisure time while you’re there. And when you’re away, you want to know that huge investment is well cared for.
Let’s face it, keeping the cottage in tip-top shape and addressing any issues that arise can be a full-time job in itself; but that’s not what you envisioned when buying the place.
A good property manager can alleviate all those stresses and free up your time so you can do what you want while at the cottage, and not worry about what needs doing when you’re not there.
A quality property manager will care for your home or cottage with the same honesty, integrity and dedication they do their own property, says Richard Bonvanie of 5 Pines Property Management. The company was named as such because Richard and wife Carolyn have five children.
“Navigating all the cottage checklists, vetting and hiring the right people for the right jobs, and making sure those jobs are done right is all part of what a good property manager does,” explains Richard. “Keeping the property owner informed throughout is key to building a strong and long-lasting relationship.”
As well, property managers are able to satisfy insurance requirements regarding regular property checks and documentation should unforeseen issues arise. Even better are those like Richard who have a keen eye for trouble shooting.
For instance, if the HVAC unit is acting up, Richard has the ability and knowledge to figure out the root issue before calling any tradespeople up.
“If the problem is actually electrical in nature, for example, then calling the HVAC person will only cost more money and take more time than just calling an electrician right away,” says Richard.
“Or perhaps you notice some cracked tiles – is that a tiling issue, or is it something happening beneath the floor that needs to be solved first?”
Richard draws on years of troubleshooting experience as a field engineer, as well as decades of managing home projects – including serving as general contractor on new builds.
“I know what to look for, and what a good quote from a quality trade person looks like. And I also know how to spot the opposite – which saves my clients time, money and frustration,” says Richard. “Our motto is integrity at every doorstep.”
Choosing the right property manager means freeing up time and having the peace of mind necessary to fully enjoy your cottage.
TEXT CHRIS OCCHIUZZI
PHOTOS ANDREW FEARMAN
