How to Find a Good Owner’s Corporation Manager

An Owners Corporation Manager is essential for anyone who owns property within a strata complex. They ensure that the building is well-maintained, finances are managed effectively, and that Victorian strata laws are complied with, simplifying life for property owners.

Dissatisfied with your current Owner's Corporation Manager?  You and the other owners have the power to make a change. The key is to find a replacement who excels in communication, offers superior service and delivers expert advice.

Here’s what to look for when choosing a new Owner’s Corporation Manager.

1. Look Beyond Fees and Focus on Experience

Price is important, but choosing a manager based only on cost can lead to poor service. Some managers offer lower fees but lack the experience or resources to manage properties effectively.

A skilled Owner’s Corporation Manager should understand:

• Victorian strata laws and regulations
• Financial management and budgeting for Owners Corporations
• Property maintenance and contractor coordination
• Handling disputes and ensuring smooth communication between owners and renters

An experienced manager will help avoid legal and maintenance issues, saving time and money in the long run.

2. Assess Their Communication and Responsiveness

One of the biggest frustrations for property owners is poor communication. If your current manager takes too long to respond or fails to follow through on issues, it may be time for a change.

When evaluating a new manager, ask:

• How quickly do they respond to emails and phone calls?
• Do they provide regular updates on financials, maintenance, and upcoming decisions?
• Are they proactive in addressing potential issues?

Reliable communication makes all the difference in keeping an Owners Corporation running smoothly.

3. Make Sure They Understand Victorian Strata Laws

Victoria’s Owners Corporations Act 2006 and the Owners Corporations and Other Acts Amendment Act 2021 set strict guidelines for how Owners Corporations must operate. A knowledgeable manager will ensure compliance, reducing the risk of disputes or penalties.

The Owners Corporations and Other Acts Amendment Act 2021 introduced several key changes, including different tiers of Owners Corporations based on the number of units in a scheme. As Flex Insurance explains:

"From December 2021, the amendment Act brings in a number of major changes to the way owners corporations in Victoria are run, the responsibilities they have, and the rights they can enjoy."

A manager who stays updated on these regulations will help protect the interests of all property owners in the complex.

4. Check Their Financial Management Skills

An Owner’s Corporation Manager handles budgets, levies, and expenses, so strong financial management is essential. Poor handling of finances can lead to delayed maintenance, disputes, and additional costs for owners.

A reliable manager should:

• Provide clear financial reports
• Ensure levies are collected on time
• Have a process for managing overdue payments
• Maintain a well-planned sinking fund for long-term maintenance

Before committing, ask how they manage finances and whether they have experience working with similar properties.

5. Find Out How They Handle Maintenance and Repairs

Property maintenance is a key responsibility of an Owner’s Corporation Manager. The best managers have strong relationships with tradespeople and service providers, ensuring that maintenance is handled quickly and at a fair price.

Ask potential managers:

• Do they have a network of trusted contractors?
• How do they prioritise and manage maintenance requests?
• Do they negotiate competitive pricing for services?

A well-maintained property keeps tenants and owners happy while protecting the value of the investment.

6. Ask for References and Reviews

A good Owner’s Corporation Manager should be able to provide references from satisfied clients. Positive feedback from other Owners Corporations is a strong sign of reliability and professionalism.

Look for comments about:

• Responsiveness and communication
• Financial transparency
• Ability to handle disputes and maintenance effectively

If a manager cannot provide references or has consistently negative reviews, it may be best to keep looking.

7. If You’re Not Happy, Make a Change

Many Owners Corporations continue with poor management because they believe switching will be too complicated. In reality, the process is straightforward.

At BISE Property, we offer a fresh approach to Owners Corporation Management, focusing on communication, expertise, and proactive support.

Choosing the right Owner’s Corporation Manager can make a significant difference in the way your property is managed. Focus on experience, communication, and financial transparency rather than just fees. A good strata manager who knows how to communicate and understands Victorian strata laws can protect your investment and make things better for everyone by talking to people and keeping up with maintenance.

If your current manager is not delivering, now is the time to find a better option. Contact us at BISE Property to discuss how we can support your Owners Corporation.