PHOTO: FILE
Outrage as Australian Real Estate Agency Ignores Tenants for ‘Thank A Property Manager Day’
An Australian real estate agency has sparked controversy after announcing it would ignore all non-urgent tenant requests to celebrate “Thank A Property Manager Day” on November 29, 2024. This annual event, observed on the last Friday of November, was created by Stacey Holt, CEO of Real Estate Excellence, to recognize the hard work of property managers. However, the agency’s approach has drawn sharp criticism from tenants and industry experts alike.
The Controversial Email
The backlash began when a screenshot of an email from an unnamed real estate agency surfaced on Reddit. The message informed tenants that property managers would be unavailable for non-urgent matters on the designated day. The email praised property managers for managing “difficult conversations” and handling various responsibilities but failed to acknowledge the impact on tenants.
The email stated:
“On a day-to-day basis, our property managers manage the difficult conversations, they deal with the issues, and they provide support to both parties. Today, they will only respond to urgent matters to celebrate their contributions.”
Social Media Backlash
The email quickly went viral, with many social media users expressing frustration. One Reddit commenter noted, “Thank them for what, exactly? They aren’t advocates for tenants. They should send this to landlords, not us.” Others called the decision “detached from reality” and “embarrassing.”
A property manager weighed in, describing the move as likely conceived by a “Boomer office manager with no self-awareness.” The sentiment reflects a broader frustration among renters who feel property managers often prioritize landlords’ interests over their needs.
The poster claimed this was an email they received from their real estate agency. Picture: JimmyJK96/Reddit
Industry Reaction
Amir Jahan, a Sydney real estate agent with seven years of experience, criticized the decision. Speaking to news.com.au, he remarked,
“When we sign an agreement with the owner, we manage the property on their behalf. That means we must be available when tenants need us—no matter the day.”
Jahan, founder of A-Class Estate Agents, called the email “lazy” and emphasized that the job inherently involves long hours and high availability. He questioned the appropriateness of celebrating a “Property Manager Day” by ignoring tenant needs, suggesting it damages trust and professionalism.
Real estate agent, Amir Jahan, branded the email ‘lazy’. Picture: @amirmyagent/Instagram
Broader Implications for Real Estate
This controversy highlights a growing disconnect between property managers and tenants in Australia’s competitive rental market. While initiatives like “Thank A Property Manager Day” aim to recognize industry professionals, execution matters. Ignoring tenants undermines the purpose of property management: to balance the interests of landlords and renters.
SOURCE: NEWS.COM.AU