Although I began college at Ball State University’s architecture school, I was asked to meet with a representative from the residential property management (RPM) program during my first semester. The meeting sparked my interest in an RPM career — so much so that I switched my major to RPM almost right away.
Since then, I have been eager to explore the many career opportunities for those with an RPM degree. I got my start in our industry in 2011 as an intern and worked through college as a leasing specialist. After graduating in 2013, I became an assistant property manager and then property manager. I’ve had the chance to open two brand-new communities and to become a marketing specialist at the corporate level, which allowed me to work with the full portfolio of new assets, fees managed, and student housing.
I’m still drawn to the RPM industry because it lets me work with people, grow and gain experience in using a wide variety of skills, and take care of the place that people call home. From the business perspective, I also love working on marketing the property and developing its brand — influencing the landscape, models, colors, and overall appeal of the websites. It gives me pride and ownership in my community. With so many avenues and responsibilities in this industry, I’m always kept on my toes and enjoying the new tasks and challenges that each day brings. Now I’m the director of residential services for Milhaus in Indianapolis, overseeing a community of luxury downtown apartments with 554 units and 68,000 square feet of commercial space. The property offers a variety of unique amenities and features, including a rotating public art gallery, a permanent art collection, a ground-level and underground garage, a rooftop infinity pool, herb gardens, and a putting-green and bocce ball court. I supervise all daily operations, events, marketing and outreach, and also manage a great leasing and maintenance team. We work hard to keep the large campus operating smoothly each day.
During my career, I have been fortunate to learn from two mentors about their vast industry knowledge and experience. I’m excited to be an RPM Careers ambassador now so that I can honor my mentors by passing along their wisdom to candidates looking to get started in the industry. I hope to be able to instill the same fire and passion that I have for property management into anyone motivated and willing to develop a fulfilling career.
If you know someone who would make a great RPM Careers ambassador, email Sarah Levine.