Joining property management associations is an important decision that most property managers have to make. Whether you are just entering the field or are already a seasoned veteran, learn all the crucial facts of these real estate associations today.

In a nutshell, these organizations serve a number of purposes including networking, training and education of professionals in property management. They also provide a way for real estate professionals to band together to protect their interests and share research data.

What are the Benefits of Joining Property Management Associations?

For new property managers, joining this type of organization can be a career booster. For one, it provides learning tools and resources as well as the opportunity to be mentored by experienced professionals. It also lends an air of credibility to those who are new to the field and lacking work experience.

Some of the opportunities offered by these associations include:

    * Contact with potential employers

    * Networking opportunities through seminars and conferences

    * Real estate training and certification opportunities

    * Access to the latest news and property management trends

    * Solidarity with other professionals in the field

Is Joining Property Management Associations a Good Idea for You?

Even though there are many benefits to joining one of these organizations, it's important to weigh the cost of membership and your duties as a member before deciding whether it's a step you want to take. In general, you can expect to pay a few hundred dollars per year in membership fees and there may be some mandatory meetings required.

There are a few categories of property managers who derive the most benefit from joining an association, including:

    * New property managers seeking training, mentoring, and professional credibility

    * Low to mid level property managers seeking connections to boost their careers

    * Large property management firms seeking to connect with a pool of experienced property managers

Well Recognized Property Management Associations You Can Consider

There are a few choices when it comes to your ideal associations. The major organizations are the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM), the National Apartment Association (NAA), the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), and the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM).

In general, NARPM is a good fit for those who manage smaller residential properties. The NAA, on the other hand, is geared toward those who manage large, multi-unit residential properties. The BOMA caters to those who manage residential properties, while the IREM caters to professionals managing a mix of different property types.

You'll want to choose the organization or organizations that cater to the specific area of property management that you work in. If you handle more than one type of property management, the IREM offers the most comprehensive and respected professional certification program.

However IREM certification has the strictest requirements and is usually attainable by mid and upper level property managers with at least 8 years of working experience.

Wherever you may be in your career, joining property management associations can help further your career goals. Taking advantage of the benefits of these organizations will be a smart move for most property managers.  Teo Zhenjie