As a property manager, you have to think above and beyond simply maintaining your property. You have to also work to create a sense of community among all of your residents. This sense of community isn't just about helping your residents bond with one another, as it also helps to create a bond between them and the property. This helps to ensure that when it comes time for residents to renew their leases that they don't leave and it also encourages them to refer your community to their friends, family members, and colleagues. One way in which you can begin to develop that sense of community to organize resident activities that they will enjoy. Here are three ideas:
1. Appreciation Barbeques
This is probably the easiest and most popular ways to get your residents involved in an activity at your property. However, you won't be in charge of all the food. Instead, you will want to host a potluck barbeque. You can take care of the meat, such as hamburgers and hot dogs, and allow the staff members to set-up and man the grill, but you can encourage the residents to participate by bringing some of their favorite sides and desserts. Don't forget to consider bringing in a bounce house or coordinating organized games, contests, and/or pool activities to keep the children entertained.
2. Craft Nights
There is a good chance that you have some residents on your property that are very creative and love to be hands-on. This is why craft night can go over really well. Craft night can consist of anything from something as simple as painting coffee mugs something a bit more complex like learning how to crochet. If there is a huge turnout, you could even turn some crafts, such as crocheting, into a regular event for those who are interested in honing their skills. You can also have a craft night for kids so that the little ones don't feel left out.
3. Cook-Offs
A third great idea is to host a cook-off, such as with chili or beans, and this can be done on an annual basis. Of course, you need to make sure that you have the space and/or the equipment to host a cook-off. Alternatively, you could require that residents provide their own stove tops. To make things really interesting, you can provide incentives for your residents to participate, such as one month's free rent for the winner and half of one month's rent for the runner-up.
Contact a realty team that understands local real estate properties for more information and assistance.
