CAI-NJ April 2020(w)

Communication Generation

By Heather Fiore, CMCA, AMS Corner Property Management, AAMC

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A s a professional working within community associ- ations, it is expected that one will encounter a vari- ety of homeowners and renters spanning a broad spectrum of age demographics. Standing in the lobby or clubhouse of a typical community will quickly reveal this fact. There could be a young family waiting for a pool access card; an elderly couple submitting a work order; a twenty-something filling out a clubhouse rent form.These varying demographics present a unique challenge to even the most seasoned property manager when trying to ensure that everyone receives the same level of service based on their particular needs. While the complexities involved with providing consistent service and accommodations to all these members of the community can be daunting, a good community leader must be able to navigate those

complexities without excluding any group of residents and homeowners. Negotiating these complexities begins with adequate communication that bridges the generational divide. Communication must be at the forefront of every manag- er’s action plan to mitigate conflict and adequately address the needs of any community. From a scheduled water out- age to a large parking lot being repaved; from new pool hours to a massive construction project; communication is vital. When homeowners and residents are fully aware of events and occurrences affecting their daily routine or property, the ensuing onslaught of questions or issues with noncompliance can be significantly reduced. The same can be applied to new homeowners or renters when they arrive at the community ready to move in or take over own-

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