COVID-19 is a contagious disease caused by the coronavirus SARS-CoV-2. In January 2020, the disease spread worldwide, resulting in the COVID-19 pandemic.

The symptoms of COVID‑19 can vary but often include fever,[7] fatigue, cough, breathing difficulties, loss of smell, and loss of taste.[8][9][10] Symptoms may begin one to fourteen days after exposure to the virus. At least a third of people who are infected do not develop noticeable symptoms.[11][12] Of those who develop symptoms noticeable enough to be classified as patients, most (81%) develop mild to moderate symptoms (up to mild pneumonia), while 14% develop severe symptoms (dyspnea, hypoxia, or more than 50% lung involvement on imaging), and 5% develop critical symptoms (respiratory failure, shock, or multiorgan dysfunction).[13] Older people have a higher risk of developing severe symptoms. Some complications result in death. Some people continue to experience a range of effects (long COVID) for months or years after infection, and damage to organs has been observed.[14] Multi-year studies on the long-term effects are ongoing.[15]

COVID‑19 transmission occurs when infectious particles are breathed in or come into contact with the eyes, nose, or mouth. The risk is highest when people are in close proximity, but small airborne particles containing the virus can remain suspended in the air and travel over longer distances, particularly indoors. Transmission can also occur when people touch their eyes, nose, or mouth after touching surfaces or objects that have been contaminated by the virus. People remain contagious for up to 20 days and can spread the virus even if they do not develop symptoms.[16]

Testing methods for COVID-19 to detect the virus’s nucleic acid include real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‑PCR),[17][18] transcription-mediated amplification,[17][18][19] and reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT‑LAMP)[17][18] from a nasopharyngeal swab.[20]

Several COVID-19 vaccines have been approved and distributed in various countries, many of which have initiated mass vaccination campaigns. Other preventive measures include physical or social distancing, quarantining, ventilation of indoor spaces, use of face masks or coverings in public, covering coughs and sneezes, hand washing, and keeping unwashed hands away from the face. While drugs have been developed to inhibit the virus, the primary treatment is still symptomatic, managing the disease through supportive care, isolation, and experimental measures.

Whether you’re a first-time seller or you’ve done it all before, selling a home can be a complicated and stressful experience. It’s no wonder that 89% of sellers choose to list with a real estate agent, according to the latest Zillow Group Consumer Housing Trends Report.

Sellers surveyed said working with an agent was valuable to them chiefly because their agent helped promote their home and find potential buyers (69%). Read on for tips on how to choose the real estate agent that’s the best fit for you.

1. Compare real estate agents online

One of the most efficient ways to find agents is to search your local area for vetted agents on Zillow’s Agent Directory and compare reviews, specialties, and numbers of homes sold. You can also use other online search tools to check an agent’s online presence once you’ve narrowed down your top choices.

Pro tip: Note how an agent responds to any potential negative or neutral reviews.

2. Interview multiple agents

When hiring a real estate agent, don’t feel like you need to settle on the first agent you meet. According to Zillow research, 59% of sellers only ever contact one agent, but by talking with multiple agents, you’ll be able to compare and contrast to find someone who will be a good fit. Handle it like a job interview — because it is! While you might have a front-runner, ask each of the three agents the same questions and compare their responses.

3. Ask the right questions

Get a sense for their business style by asking important vetting questions.

“How long have you been working in real estate?”

This can help you get an idea of your agent’s experience. The longer they’ve been in the business, the more knowledgeable they’ll be. Then they can use their know-how to help you make the best choices to sell your home.

A newer agent can still do a good job — the important part is that you are aware that they have less experience before you agree to work with them. That could avoid any surprises as you work together.

“Do you primarily work with buyers, or sellers?”

Sellers typically prefer to work with seller’s agents, and buyers with buyer’s agents. In a seller’s case, this is because an agent who focuses on selling homes will be more familiar with the process, and will know what to expect as you start the process. Plus, they can answer your questions with more expertise behind them.

“How many active clients do you have at a time?”

Do you want an agent who you can call at any time, as often as you need? And would you prefer your agent really focus on you and your home sale? These are things to reflect on before you ask about the amount of clients they usually have at a time.

“Are you part of a team?”

You don’t want to hire an agent only to realize you’re hardly ever going to talk to them. Or maybe you like that your agent has a team, so there are more people available to help you through the home-selling process. Either way, know what to expect.

“What’s your specialty?”

By specialty, we mean the type of properties your agent primarily focuses on. Do they mostly work on selling commercial real estate, or residential? This also applies to price points. Some agents only sell homes that are worth upwards of a million dollars. You’ll want to make sure you’re talking to an agent who can sell your specific type of property.

“Are you equipped to handle my unique situation?“

Are you trying to sell your home on a certain timeline? Does your home need repairs that you aren’t able to complete before you sell? Make sure your agent understands your unique needs and can work with you on a selling plan that’s best suited to them.

“How will you market my home?”

There are a number of ways to reach buyers, from having your agent list your home on a local Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a database used by real estate sites like Zillow, to hosting and promoting open houses at your property. Check if your agent plans to list your home privately; private listings get far less attention from buyers, and they make it harder and slower to sell your home. Whatever your potential agent’s strategy will be, make sure it will work for your situation and selling goals.

“Can you put me in contact with some references?”

There aren’t many agents who would admit to their faults. That’s why it can be a good idea to ask your agent to connect you with some of their past clients. Those people would have a different perspective on your potential agent, and they’d probably give you insight from a seller’s viewpoint — i.e. “they made me feel heard,” or “they didn’t answer my questions very well.”

4. Explain your communication preferences

Make sure you’re on the same page from the get-go. Discuss how the agent will keep you informed and how often you expect to hear from them. If you prefer email but the agent is most responsive to phone calls, you may not be a good fit for each other. Or, if you know you’re going to have lots of questions and expect quick responses, but the agent usually just sends bi-weekly updates, you may want to find someone who is a better fit.

5. Clarify your motivation to sell

Make sure you’ve made clear any requirements that are specific to your own home sale. Are you on a strict timeline? Need to reach a specific bottom dollar? Looking to fall within a particular timing window to avoid capital gains taxes? Make sure to share these details from the beginning so your agent knows what to expect.

6. Discuss selling strategy and number of showings

There are various ways to boost the amount of people who see your home. Make sure you and your potential agent are on the same page about your selling strategy.

If your agent uses tools like 3D tours or Zillow’s Showcase feature, it can create a high quality, immersive experience that gives buyers a better feel for the home before even stepping foot inside. Almost half of the buyers Zillow surveyed (49%) were confident enough to make an offer on a home after only taking a virtual tour. How will the property be marketed? In other words, how will you list your property? More than half (52%) of sellers say their agent’s ability to get their home in front of the largest pool of interested buyers is among the most important factors when choosing an agent, according to our research. Make sure you’re on the same page about selling strategies before you move forward.

7. Agree on all the important details

The best agent-seller relationships are those with clearly defined expectations. Make sure that, in your listing agreement, you’ve agreed upon the commission structure, list price, and contract length (i.e., what happens if your home hasn’t sold after a certain amount of time).  Yes, you can negotiate your agent’s commission, and it could even help you decide which agent to choose based on how competitive each agent’s rates are.

Property management is the operation, control, maintenance, and oversight of real estate and physical property. This can include residential, commercial, industrial, public capital, and land real estate.^[1] Management indicates the need for real estate to be cared for and monitored, with accountability for and attention to its useful life and condition.^[2][3] This is much akin to the role of management in any business.

Property management is the administration of personal property, equipment, tooling, and physical capital assets acquired and used to build, repair, and maintain end-item deliverables. Property management involves the processes, systems, and workforce required to manage the life cycle of all acquired property as defined above, including acquisition, control, accountability, responsibility, maintenance, utilization, and disposition.

An owner of a single-family home, condominium, or multi-family building may engage the services of a professional property management company. The company will then advertise the rental property, handle tenant inquiries, screen applicants, select suitable candidates, draw up a lease agreement, conduct a move-in inspection, move the tenant(s) into the property and collect rental income. The company will then coordinate any maintenance issues, supply the owner(s) with financial statements and any relevant information regarding the property, etc.

Property management involves a wide range of tasks and responsibilities carried out by property managers, management companies, or individual landlords. Property managers serve as the operational backbone of real estate ownership, balancing the financial interests of the owner with the comfort and satisfaction of tenants while maintaining the property’s long-term value.^[2][3]

The specific roles depend on the type of property^[1]—residential, commercial, or industrial—but generally include:

Property managers act as intermediaries between property owners and tenants. They handle tenant inquiries, process applications, conduct screenings, negotiate lease agreements, and coordinate move-in and move-out procedures. In most settings, property management companies also operate the mailroom of the buildings in which they lease to tenants or manage on behalf of the landlord client; Mailroom Operations is a component of property management.

Managers are responsible for collecting rent, enforcing payment terms, issuing late notices, and managing security deposits. Many also prepare financial statements, budgets, and reports for property owners, ensuring compliance with local and national regulations.

A key role of property management is the maintenance of the property. This includes scheduling regular inspections, coordinating repairs, overseeing contractors, and ensuring that the property meets safety and habitability standards.^[4]

Facilities management (or facility management) is a professional discipline within property management, focused on coordinating the use of space, infrastructure, people, and organizational resources to ensure that physical assets and environments are managed effectively to meet the needs of their users.^[5][4]

• Building services or building services engineering, strives to achieve a safe and comfortable indoor environment while minimizing the environmental impact of a building; it, as a part of facilities management and property management, plays a part in the operation and management of physical infrastructure in the built environment.^[4]

Property managers must ensure that the property adheres to housing laws, landlord-tenant regulations, fair housing rules, and zoning ordinances. They may also handle evictions and represent owners in legal proceedings related to tenancy issues.

In residential and commercial contexts, managers are often responsible for advertising vacancies, setting rental rates based on market conditions, and maintaining high occupancy levels through effective marketing strategies.

Administrative responsibilities may include record-keeping, contract management, insurance coordination, and maintaining communication with property owners and vendors.

The percentage of rent model is the most common property management model, typically used by companies managing multi-unit residential buildings and single-family homes. In this arrangement, the property owner enters into a management agreement granting the company the authority to lease the house or property to new tenants and collect rent on the owner’s behalf. Property owners are generally not directly involved with tenants and may not even know their identities. The management company usually retains between 8% and 12% of the rental income as a management fee, remitting the remainder to the property owner.^[6][7][8]

A fixed-fee property management model, also known as a flat-fee model, is an alternative to the traditional percentage-based structure. In this arrangement, the property management company charges a predetermined monthly or annual fee for its services, regardless of the property’s rental income. This model is often preferred by property owners seeking predictable management costs, especially for higher-rent properties where a percentage-based fee could result in higher expenses.

Under a fixed-fee agreement, the scope of services—such as tenant placement, rent collection, maintenance coordination, and property inspections—is typically defined in advance. Some companies offer tiered or customizable service packages to accommodate different owner needs. The fixed-fee model has gained popularity in recent years due to its transparency, cost stability, and appeal to investors managing multiple rental units.

The flat-fee model is also popular among vacation property owners who do not wish to rent out their properties but want a management company to oversee maintenance, inspections, and general upkeep.^[9]

A growing trend in property management, is the hybrid pricing model, which combines elements of both percentage-based and fixed-fee structures. Under this approach, property management companies charge a reduced percentage of the monthly rent along with a flat administrative fee. This model aims to balance affordability and service flexibility, providing property owners with predictable costs while ensuring management companies maintain sustainable revenue for operational expenses.^[10]

This model is also used in the residential space, but mostly for small units in high-demand locations. Here, the company signs a rental agreement with the owner and pays them a fixed rent. As per the agreement, the company is given the right to sublet the property for a higher rent. The company’s income is the difference between the two rents. As is evident, in this case, the company minimizes the rent paid to the owner, which is usually lower than market rates.^[11]

A percentage lease is a type of commercial lease commonly used in retail environments, particularly in shopping centers and other high-traffic locations. Under this arrangement, the tenant pays a fixed base rent in addition to a percentage of their gross sales that exceed a specified amount, known as the breakpoint. This structure aligns the interests of the landlord and tenant by allowing rent to fluctuate based on the tenant’s sales performance.^[12]

The property management services market has increasingly emphasized technological innovation, largely driven by the adoption of software such as property management systems, hotel operating systems (HOS), and property technology (PropTech) solutions. The global property management software market was valued at approximately USD 5.51 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow to around USD 9.68 billion by 2030.^[13]

Many property management firms now utilize artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT)–enabled maintenance systems, mobile applications, and cloud-based platforms to improve operational efficiency and tenant engagement. These technologies facilitate functions such as predictive maintenance, automated rent collection, digital leasing processes, and data analytics for real-time decision-making. As tenant expectations continue to evolve, PropTech has become an integral component of contemporary property management practices.^[14][15]

Licensing requirements for property managers vary widely depending on the jurisdiction and type of property but generally aim to ensure professional standards, consumer protection, and ethical business practices within the real estate industry. As a result, Property management is a regulated profession in many countries with licensing requirements designed to protect property owners and tenants alike. The specific requirements vary by country, region, state, etc but in many cases, property managers must hold a real estate broker’s license or a specialized property management license to legally manage rental properties on behalf of others.^[16]

To obtain a license, applicants are typically required to complete pre-licensing education, pass a state examination, and undergo a background check. Once licensed, property managers must follow state and/or local laws that govern leasing practices, trust accounting, fair housing compliance, and tenant-landlord relations.

In some places, unlicensed individuals may manage properties they personally own, but cannot legally collect rent, negotiate leases, or represent other property owners without proper licensure. Some places offer exceptions or separate licensing paths for managing community associations, vacation rentals, or commercial properties.

Even in areas without strict licensing laws, many professional property managers voluntarily pursue certification through national organizations such as the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) or the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM). These credentials help demonstrate knowledge, professionalism, and a commitment to ethical standards in the industry.

Rent Control Act in the Philippines

Republic Act 9653^[1], better known as the Rent Control Act of 2009, is the law that protects housing tenants (especially in the lower-income class) against unreasonable rent increases. It also provides the eviction rules that both landlords and tenants must observe.

This rental law in the Philippines covers housing units with a monthly rent of up to PHP 10,000 in Metro Manila and other highly urbanized cities nationwide.

Particularly, the following rental properties are covered by the Rent Control Act:

• • Apartments
  • Boarding houses, bedspaces, dormitories, and rooms for rent
  • Houses and/or land

Landlords and renters who violate any provision of the rental law face penalties—a fine of PHP 25,000 to PHP 50,000, imprisonment of one month and one day to six months, or both.

Civil Code of the Philippines

The Civil Code^[2] has lease provisions that cover rentals above PHP 10,000 and those not covered by the Rent Control Act of 2009, including commercial spaces and rent-to-own units.

The lease provisions in the Civil Code are rather lengthy and too technical for common people to understand. If you’re covered by this rental law in the Philippines and you think your landlord has violated your tenant rights, it’s best to consult a lawyer who specializes in this field.

What are the Rights of a Tenant in the Philippines?

Tenants are entitled to protection as mandated by rental laws in the Philippines. Based on data from the Philippine Statistical Research and Training Institute^[3], the majority or 97% of renters in the country are paying monthly rent at PHP 10,000 and below. Thus, in this article, we’ll focus on the tenant rights provisions under the Rent Control Act.

Here are the basic rights you should know if you’re renting a home.

1. Limit on Rent Increases

Landlords cannot increase the rent by more than what the law allows. The Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), a government agency that regulates residential leases in the Philippines, has set the rental increase limits^[4] based on the Rent Control Act.

Until how much can landlords increase their rent?

Before you sign a lease agreement, check if it has any provision on rent increase. If it does, it should be within the legal limit.

Also, the Rent Control Act allows landlords to increase rents only once a year for bedspaces, boarding houses, dorms, and rooms leased to students. In this case, no rent increase can be charged twice or more per year even if a new tenant moves into the unit within the same year.

2. No Charging of Excessive Deposit and Advance Rent

Under the Rent Control Act, landlords can only collect not more than two-month deposit and not more than one-month advance rent.

The rental law also requires them to keep the deposit payment in a bank account under the landlord’s name throughout the duration of the lease agreement. When the contract expires, the deposit and the interest it earned, plus any remaining balance from the advance rent, should be returned to the tenant.

However, landlords can use the deposit and advance rent to compensate for losses they incur when tenants fail to pay the rent, settle utility bills, and/or causes damage to any part of the property.

3. No Eviction Without Legal Ground

If your landlord tells you to vacate the house, ask for the specific reason for the eviction. You cannot be evicted for unjust reasons.

When Can a Tenant be Evicted in the Philippines?

The decision to evict a tenant must be based on grounds specified by the rental law in the Philippines. The Rent Control Act allows eviction only for any of the following reasons:

• • Subleasing – The tenant rents out a portion or all of the unit to another person without the property owner’s written consent.
  • Overdue rental payments – The tenant has not paid the rent for three months or more.
  • Owner’s legitimate need to use the property – The landlord or his/her family needs to occupy the unit. In such a case, the tenant can be evicted only after the lease contract expires. The renter should also be given a formal notice to vacate three months in advance.
  • Necessary house repairs – The landlord has to do necessary repairs on the leased unit to make it safe and suitable to live in. When the repair is finished, the evicted tenant should be the priority in leasing the unit.
  • Lease contract expiration – The landlord has the option not to renew the rental agreement once it expires. This usually happens when the landlord wants to get rid of unruly or delinquent tenants.

When is Eviction Illegal?

Renters in the Philippines cannot be asked to leave the leased property for any of the following reasons:

1. Sale or mortgage of the property

Under the Rent Control Act, if the landlord has sold or mortgaged the leased unit to a third party, the landlord or the new owner cannot evict the tenant.

2. If you’re a COVID-19 patient or frontliner

If you’re renting in a city with an anti-COVID-19 discrimination ordinance (such as Makati, Manila, Muntinlupa, Pasig, and Quezon City), you shouldn’t be forced to leave your rented unit or be denied of leasing if you’re suspected or infected with COVID-19 or any infectious disease. The same goes for healthcare and emergency workers.

3. Failure to pay rent and other reasons during the quarantine period and grace period

Property owners cannot evict tenants in ECQ, MECQ, and GCQ areas from the start of the quarantine until the end of the mandatory 30-day grace period (which starts from the last due date of rent or from the lifting of the quarantine, whichever is longer).

This rule, which is based on a Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) memorandum circular^[5] under the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act, applies to residential tenants and commercial tenants in the MSME (micro, small, and medium enterprise) industry that were banned from operating during the ECQ.

Related: 5 Ways to Save Your Small Business from a Pandemic

Under the DTI memo, no eviction is allowed even for tenants who fail to settle their rent during the community quarantine. Landlords who refuse to comply with the grace period could be fined at least PHP 10,000, jailed for at least two months, or both.

All unpaid rents during the quarantine period can be settled in six monthly installments—without any penalties, interests, fees, and other charges—after the end of the grace period. According to the DTI, tenants who opt to do that should give their landlord a promissory note or any letter stating their intention to pay the overdue rents in installments.

Related: 9 Helpful Family Budgeting Tips in the New Normal

What Should I Do If My Tenant Rights are Violated?

Rental laws are not clear about what you can do in case your rights as a renter are violated. You can first try to negotiate with your landlord for a settlement. If you don’t reach an agreement, seek the assistance of your barangay chairman or lupon^[6], which has the authority to protect landlord and tenant rights.

If your landlord evicts you during the quarantine period, it’s a clear violation of the DTI guidelines on residential and commercial rents^[7]. You can file a complaint with the DTI through email or in person. The DTI will then issue a notice of violation to the landlord and require a written reply. Once the violation is confirmed, an appropriate criminal case will be filed with the Department of Justice against the erring landlord.

Final Thoughts

Especially during a crisis, the law gives special consideration to renters struggling to settle their rent. Knowing your tenant rights under the rental laws in the Philippines certainly helps you avoid unfair and stressful situations like illegal eviction.

A condominium offers individuals ownership of their residential unit while providing communal sharing of facilities and maintenance through association agreements.

The New Civil Code of the Philippinesdefines a contract of sale as a contract whereby one of the contracting parties obligates himself to transfer the ownership of and to deliver a determinate thing, and the other to pay therefor a price certain in money or its equivalent. In view of the said definition, Contract of Sale, by its very nature, is a consensual contract because it is perfected by mere consent. The essential elements of a contract of sale are the following:

Consent or meeting of the minds, that is, consent to transfer ownership in exchange for the price;

Determinate subject matter; and

Price certain in money or its equivalent.

Under this definition, a contract to sell may not be considered as a contract of salebecause the first essential element is lacking. In a contract to sell, the prospective seller explicitly reserves the transfer of title to the prospective buyer, meaning, the prospective seller does not as yet agree or consent to transfer ownership of the property subject of the contract to sell until the happening of an event, which for present purposes we shall take as the full payment of the purchase price. What the seller agrees or obliges himself to do is to fulfill his promise to sell the subject property when the entire amount of the purchase price is delivered to him. In other words, the full payment of the purchase price partakes of a suspensive condition, the non-fulfillment of which prevents the obligation to sell from arising and thus, ownership is retained by the prospective seller without further remedies by the prospective buyer (Coronel vs. Court of Appeals 263 SCRA 15, October 07, 1996).

In Roque vs. Lapuz (96 SCRA 741 [1980]), the Supreme Court had occasion to rule that the contract between the parties was a contract to sell where the ownership or title is retained by the seller and is not to pass until the full payment of the price, such payment being a positive suspensive condition and failure of which is not a breach, casual or serious, but simply an event that prevented the obligation of the vendor to convey title from acquiring binding force. Stated positively, upon the fulfillment of the suspensive condition which is the full payment of the purchase price, the prospective seller’s obligation to sell the subject property by entering into a contract of sale with the prospective buyer becomes demandable as provided in Article 1479 of the Civil Code which states:

Art. 1479. A promise to buy and sell a determinate thing for a price certain is reciprocally demandable.

An accepted unilateral promise to buy or to sell a determinate thing for a price certain is binding upon the promisor if the promise is supported by a consideration distinct from the price.

Thus, a contract to sell may be defined as a bilateral contract whereby the prospective seller, while expressly reserving the ownership of the subject property despite delivery thereof to the prospective buyer, binds himself to sell the said property exclusively to the prospective buyer upon fulfillment of the condition agreed upon, that is, full payment of the purchase price.

A contract to sell as defined hereinabove, may not even be considered as a conditional contract of sale where the seller may likewise reserve title to the property subject of the sale until the fulfillment of a suspensive condition, because in a conditional contract of sale, the first element of consent is present, although it is conditioned upon the happening of a contingent event which may or may not occur. If the suspensive condition is not fulfilled, the perfection of the contract of sale is completely abated (Homesite and housing Corp. vs. Court of Appeals, 133 SCRA 777 [1984]). However, if the suspensive condition is fulfilled, the contract of sale is thereby perfected, such that if there had already been previous delivery of the property subject of the sale to the buyer, ownership thereto automatically transfers to the buyer by operation of law without any further act having to be performed by the seller.

In a contract to sell, upon the fulfillment of the suspensive condition which is the full payment of the purchase price, ownership will not automatically transfer to the buyer although the property may have been previously delivered to him. The prospective seller still has to convey title to the prospective buyer by entering into a contract of absolute sale.

Importance of Knowing the Difference between Contract to Sell and Contract of Sale

It is essential to distinguish between a contract to sell and a conditional contract of sale specially in cases where the subject property is sold by the owner not to the party the seller contracted with, but to a third person, as in the case at bench. In a contract to sell, there being no previous sale of the property, a third person buying such property despite the fulfillment of the suspensive condition such as the full payment of the purchase price, for instance, cannot be deemed a buyer in bad faith and the prospective buyer cannot seek the relief of reconveyance of the property. There is no double sale in such case. Title to the property will transfer to the buyer after registration because there is no defect in the owner-seller’s title per se, but the latter, of course, may be used for damages by the intending buyer (Coronel vs. Court of Appeals).

In a conditional contract of sale, however, upon the fulfillment of the suspensive condition, the sale becomes absolute and this will definitely affect the seller’s title thereto. In fact, if there had been previous delivery of the subject property, the seller’s ownership or title to the property is automatically transferred to the buyer such that, the seller will no longer have any title to transfer to any third person. Applying Article 1544 of the Civil Code, such second buyer of the property who may have had actual or constructive knowledge of such defect in the seller’s title, or at least was charged with the obligation to discover such defect, cannot be a registrant in good faith. Such second buyer cannot defeat the first buyer’s title. In case a title is issued to the second buyer, the first buyer may seek reconveyance of the property subject of the sale (Ibid).

With the above postulates as guidelines, contracting parties may now proceed to the task of deciphering the real nature of the contract they entered into.

What Is Commercial Real Estate (CRE)?

Commercial real estate (CRE) encompasses properties used for business activities rather than residential purposes. It includes a diverse range of properties, from single retail stores to expansive industrial complexes, often leased to tenants for income through rent or business operations. Leasing terms in CRE can significantly differ from residential agreements, offering unique investment opportunities and challenges.

The business of commercial real estate involves the construction, marketing, management, and leasing of property for business use.

There are many categories of commercial real estate such as retail and office space, hotels and resorts, strip malls, restaurants, and healthcare facilities.

Distinguishing Commercial From Residential Real Estate

Real estate is mainly categorized as commercial or residential.

Residential properties are structures reserved for human habitation rather than commercial or industrial use. As its name implies, commercial real estate is used in commerce, and multiunit rental properties that serve as residences for tenants are classified as commercial activity for the landlord.

Commercial real estate is typically categorized into four classes, depending on function:

1. Office space
2. Industrial use
3. Multifamily rental
4. Retail

Individual categories may also be further classified. There are, for instance, different types of retail real estate:

• Hotels and resorts
• Strip malls
• Restaurants
• Healthcare facilities

Similarly, office space has several subtypes. Office structures are often characterized as class A, class B, or class C:

• Class A represents the best buildings in terms of aesthetics, age, quality of infrastructure, and location.
• Class B buildings are older and not as competitive—price-wise—as class A buildings. Investors often target these buildings for restoration.
• Class C buildings are the oldest, usually more than 20 years of age, and may be located in less attractive areas and in need of maintenance.

Some zoning and licensing authorities further break out industrial properties, which are sites used for the manufacture and production of goods, especially heavy goods. Most consider industrial properties to be a subset of commercial real estate.

Navigating Commercial Lease Agreements

Some businesses own the buildings that they occupy. More commonly, commercial property is leased. An investor or a group of investors owns the building and collects rent from each business that operates there.

Commercial lease rates—the price to occupy a space over a stated period—are customarily quoted in annual rental dollars per square foot. (Residential real estate rates are quoted as an annual sum or a monthly rent.)

Commercial leases typically run from one year to 10 years or more, with office and retail space typically averaging five- to 10-year leases. This, too, is different from residential real estate, where yearly or month-to-month leases are common.

The Roles of a Property Manager: Keeping Real Estate Investments Profitable and Well-Maintained

Real estate ownership can be a rewarding investment, but managing properties effectively requires time, expertise, and attention to detail. This is where property managers play a crucial role. Whether handling residential, commercial, or mixed-use developments, property managers ensure that properties operate efficiently, tenants remain satisfied, and owners achieve their investment goals.

What is a Property Manager?

A property manager is a professional responsible for overseeing the daily operations, maintenance, and administration of a property on behalf of the owner. They act as the bridge between property owners and tenants, ensuring that the property remains profitable, compliant, and well-maintained.

Property managers are commonly employed for condominiums, apartment buildings, office spaces, retail centers, and residential subdivisions.

Key Roles and Responsibilities of a Property Manager

1. Tenant Management

One of the primary responsibilities of a property manager is handling tenant-related concerns. This includes:

• Marketing vacant units
• Screening prospective tenants
• Processing lease agreements
• Handling tenant inquiries and complaints
• Managing lease renewals and terminations

Effective tenant management helps maintain high occupancy rates and positive tenant relationships.

2. Property Maintenance and Repairs

Property managers ensure that buildings, facilities, and common areas remain in excellent condition. Their responsibilities include:

• Conducting regular property inspections
• Coordinating preventive maintenance programs
• Scheduling repairs and renovations
• Supervising contractors and service providers
• Ensuring safety and cleanliness standards

Well-maintained properties retain their value and attract quality tenants.

3. Financial Management

Property managers are responsible for overseeing the financial performance of a property. Key tasks include:

• Collecting rent and association dues
• Monitoring operating expenses
• Preparing budgets and financial reports
• Managing vendor payments
• Recommending strategies to improve profitability

Proper financial management helps maximize returns for property owners.

4. Lease Administration

Managing lease agreements is a critical part of property management. Property managers:

• Prepare and review lease contracts
• Ensure compliance with lease terms
• Monitor rental escalations
• Handle renewals and amendments
• Address lease violations when necessary

Effective lease administration protects both owners and tenants.

5. Legal and Regulatory Compliance

Property managers help ensure compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and local ordinances. This includes:

• Building and safety regulations
• Fire safety requirements
• Environmental standards
• Local government permits
• Property tax and documentation requirements

Compliance reduces legal risks and protects the property’s reputation.

6. Risk Management and Security

Property managers identify potential risks and implement measures to protect the property and its occupants. Their responsibilities may include:

• Monitoring security systems
• Coordinating emergency response procedures
• Managing insurance requirements
• Conducting safety inspections
• Addressing potential hazards

A proactive approach to risk management helps prevent costly incidents.

7. Vendor and Contractor Coordination

Property managers work with various service providers, including:

• Maintenance personnel
• Security agencies
• Landscaping contractors
• Cleaning services
• Utility providers

They ensure that services are delivered efficiently and within budget.

Benefits of Hiring a Property Manager

Improved Property Performance

Professional management helps maintain property value and operational efficiency.

Higher Tenant Satisfaction

Prompt responses to tenant concerns lead to better tenant retention and occupancy rates.

Time Savings for Owners

Property owners can focus on investment growth while managers handle day-to-day operations.

Better Financial Control

Property managers monitor expenses, collect payments, and provide accurate financial reporting.

Legal Protection

Experienced property managers help ensure compliance with laws and regulations, reducing potential liabilities.

Skills of an Effective Property Manager

Successful property managers typically possess:

• Strong communication skills
• Leadership and organizational abilities
• Financial management expertise
• Problem-solving capabilities
• Knowledge of real estate laws and regulations
• Customer service orientation

These skills allow them to effectively manage properties while balancing the needs of owners and tenants.