Ensuring the highest level of integrity and investment in the properties we oversee

As estate and house managers, our primary goal is to ensure the highest level of integrity and investment in the properties we oversee. This article explores the challenges we face and the strategies we employ to maintain these standards. From natural and disaster preparedness to coordination with staff and service providers, as well as being guest-ready, we strive for excellence in all aspects of our work. NO AI here.

Challenges and Preparedness: One of the greatest challenges we encounter is the need for year-round natural and disaster preparedness, depending on the geographic location of the properties we manage. For instance, if the summer home is situated in a mountainous region with heavy winter conditions, we must be prepared for potential disasters for at least six months of the year. Similarly, while our principals enjoy their summer retreat, we must monitor their primary homes on the Eastern seaboard during hurricane season. Therefore, we are continually engaged in proactive measures to mitigate risks and ensure the safety of the properties.

To aid us in our preparedness, we may rely on history, long-range weather predictions, followed by the use of weather apps such as MyRadar, ClimeRadar, and NOAA to stay updated on weather conditions and potential threats.

Coordination and Logistics: Efficient coordination with our domestic and international staff, as well as service providers, is crucial to our success. By establishing year-round policies and procedures that offer flexibility, we can effectively manage the integrity of the homes we oversee. This includes ensuring the readiness of our contracted services, service providers, and full-time staff for the arrival of the principals and guests.

Management Style: Our management style is centered around building a human connection based on honesty, integrity, and trust. We set clear expectations and goals while fostering a positive environment that motivates, coaches, educates, and elevates our staff. Regular checklists at various intervals, from weekly to seasonal, enable us to stay on top of tasks and identify potential risk factors. We believe in a hands-on approach, providing clear direction and working towards mutually agreeable resolutions.

Effective Preventative Maintenance and Management: Maintaining the integrity and investment of the properties we manage is a significant achievement. To accomplish this, we rely on professional and reliable service providers who meticulously inspect the homes regularly. Their attention to detail and effective preventative maintenance ensures that areas such as crawl spaces, drain fields, and roofs are well-maintained. By detecting and addressing issues early on, we can prevent costly damage, such as storm damage, leaky roofs, mold infestation, or security vulnerabilities. Regular communication with our team and service providers remains key to our success.

Being Guest Ready: In addition to the physical aspects of managing a home, we also prioritize creating a welcoming environment for incoming guests. Being guest-ready involves meticulous attention to detail and thorough preparation. Before their arrival, we collaborate with vendors and contractors to ensure the home is serviced and cleaned, addressing areas such as windows, appliances, landscaping, and more. We curate provision lists to cater to the needs of the household, family, extended family, friends, and guests.

To enhance the guest experience, we also set up a concierge service to provide a seamless and enjoyable stay for our principals and their guests.

Conclusion: Maintaining the highest integrity and investment in the properties we manage is a multifaceted endeavor that requires diligent preparation, coordination, and attention to detail. By embracing a comprehensive approach that encompasses natural and disaster preparedness, logistics, effective management styles, preventative maintenance, and guest readiness, we can ensure that the homes we oversee remain in optimal condition, ready to provide comfort and enjoyment for our principals and their family, incoming guests.

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