Over the past months the housing market has entered into a new era with property prices generally stagnating and in some cases falling.  At times like these, strong management strategies and proactive management policies are imperative to help both maximise the value of the property whilst at the same time making sure that value for money is being achieved. 

In our years of experience, we have found that many leaseholders often have similar concerns relating to the management of their property and with this in mind we would like to ask you the following questions:-

1.  Is your agent affiliated to either The Association of Residential Managing Agents (ARMA) or the Association of Retirement Home Managers (ARHM)?

2.  Does your managing agent have a local representative and office?

3.  Does your managing agent provide a service tailored to your needs?

4.  Does your managing agent respond to queries promptly?

5.  Are your Service Charge Budgets realistic?

6.  Do you know what you are paying for?

7.  Does your managing agent liaise with the directors of the management committee when formulating the budget?

8.  Does your managing agent organise repairs in a timely or cost effective manner?

9.  Does your managing agent use local contractors?

10.Does your managing agent receive commission from contractors?

11.Does your managing agent pay contractors/utility companies on time?

12.Do you and your fellow leaseholders receive the annual accounts on time? 

If you answered "NO" to all or any of the questions, Town and City Management Limited may be able to assist in turning the managment of your property around.

 
We have recently been appointed as managing agents for some of the most prestigious developments in the North of England.  One of the main reasons for this is that whilst many companies offer a basic level of service, it is our belief and that of our clients, that in many cases, especially within the more prestigious developments that these clients require a more personal and tailored service to their individuals needs and this we feel is one of our strengths. Services provided range from full management to partial management this again underlines the wide and varied services that we are able to tailor to our clients needs. We also strongly believe that high levels of service can only be provided by management agents who are based in the local vicinity and are both willing and able to develop a close working partnership with the leaseholders and Directors of the Management Company. In our experience it is often the case that managing agents have been appointed by the developer of the property and in some cases these agents are not regulated by recognised associations such as ARMA or the RICS whilst this may be an easy solution for the developer it is seldom a satisfactory situation for the Leaseholders of the property.

With the possibility of the housing market slowing it is more important than ever to make sure your property is being maintained to the highest levels. Obviously if you live within the property you want the communal hallways and grounds to be welcoming and in pristine condition. It is equally important whether you are selling or letting your flat that the property is in first class condition, as first impressions are very important and will maximise the value of your property.

Since September 2003 the introduction of ‘The Commonhold and Leasehold Act 2002’ has meant the rights of leaseholders have changed dramatically and now include ‘The Right to Manage’ (right to appoint an agent). This process allows leaseholders to appoint an agent of their choice and is a comparatively simple procedure to follow, the main requirement being that 51% of the leaseholders wish to enact this change. Town and City Management Limited are able to give free advice to leaseholders to enable The Right to Manage.

Town and City Management Ltd are Associated Members of ARMA (The Association of Residential Managers) & ARHM (The Association of Retirement Housing Managers)as well as being authorised and regulated by the FSA (The Financial Services Authority).  We would be delighted to explain in greater detail how we manage our properties and how we may be able to assist with the management of your property and these meetings are free of charge, with this in mind we look forward to hearing from you.  Contact us for more information or to ask any questions