Career Spotlight: Jamaula "Jay" Sykes

Name: Jamaula "Jay" Sykes Company: Hanover Terrace with Drucker + Falk, LLC Title: Property Manager Email: jsykes@druckerandfalk.com Local NC Affiliate: PTAA

Tell us about your career:

As a dedicated professional with six years of experience in residential property management, I've come to cherish not just what I do, but who I am because of it. What started as happenstance has evolved into a deeply fulfilling career that has allowed me to explore every facet of the industry, from my beginnings as a leasing consultant to my current role as a property manager.

Through these years, I've had the privilege of witnessing the intricate workings that make an office and a business thrive. From managing leases to overseeing maintenance, every task has contributed to my growth and understanding of this dynamic field. Along the way, I seized the opportunity to obtain my CAM certification, further enhancing my expertise and credibility in the industry.

Being a property manager isn't just about managing properties—it's about wearing numerous hats and embracing the multifaceted challenges that come with it. Whether it's navigating tenant relations, optimizing property performance, or ensuring compliance with regulations, I approach each day with enthusiasm and a genuine love for what I do.

In essence, my journey in residential property management has not only shaped my career but has also shaped me as an individual. I am grateful for the opportunities I've had and excited for the challenges and growth that lie ahead.

What advice do you have for someone just starting in your field:

As a dedicated professional working for a company committed to cultivating exceptional places to live, work, shop, and play, be deeply passionate about your mission. Each day, strive to embody your values of creating unrivaled value through exceptional performance. 

Centralize your approach to fostering a culture of kindness and leading by example, both with your team and the residents you serve. By consistently demonstrating a positive attitude and embodying the values your company, aim to contribute to the creation of vibrant and thriving communities. 

Believe that by embodying these principles, you not only will achieve your organizational goals but also make a meaningful impact on the lives of those around you. Continue to build spaces where people can truly flourish.

Anything else you would like to share:

Here's a glimpse into what your day-to-day adventures look like:

1. **Master of All Trades**: I wear many hats, from advertising and filling vacancies to negotiating and enforcing leases. My charisma and negotiation skills are put to the test as I ensure my property is always bustling with happy residents.
2. **Rental Rate Guru**: I channel my inner financial wizard as I establish rental rates. By surveying local rental rates and crunching numbers like overhead costs, depreciation, taxes, and profit goals, I set rates that keeps my property thriving.
3. **Problem-Solving Pro**: From pesky grievances to maintenance requests, I handle it all with a smile. I am the go-to person for tenants and contractors alike, turning their problems into opportunities for resolution and growth.
4. **Infrastructure Maestro**: As the overseer of my property maintenance and repairs, I supervise a team to keep things running smoothly.  My keen eye for detail ensures that every job is done to perfection.
5. **Contract Connoisseur**: I keep track of and uphold contracts and leases with finesse, ensuring that all parties are happy and fulfilled.

But wait, there's more! As a property manager extraordinaire, I am not just a manager—I am a counselor, a friend, a teacher, a mediator, and so much more. My dedication to my residents and my passion for creating a vibrant community makes me the heart and soul of my property.