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Apartment Maintenance Hacks for Hassle-Free Properties

Addressing various apartment maintenance issues is a significant advantage for property managers. It’s expected that residents will occasionally require assistance from the maintenance team for various reasons. Thus, it’s important to always be well-prepared, as prioritizing this aspect is crucial for effective management. 

However, adequate preparation requires a comprehensive understanding of the most common problems residents typically encounter within the property. This article aims to equip you with the knowledge needed to anticipate and effectively handle both expected and unexpected maintenance challenges, empowering you to provide excellent service to your residents. 

What Problems Do Residents Usually Run Into?

  • Clogged Drains 

A common issue in households, whether it’s the toilet, sink, or shower. Typically caused by food scraps, hair, and other debris. This can often be resolved with a drain cleaner. 

  • Pest Infestations 

Another frequent concern. Prompt pest control services are important to tackle this serious problem effectively. 

  • Locked Out 

With the most doors now automatically locking, residents getting locked out is a common complaint. Keyless smart locks, which allow unlocking via mobile app or keypad code, are recommended solutions. 

  • Toilet Flushing Issues 

Easily fixed by maintenance teams, but providing residents with immediate solutions like plungers or cleaning brushes is also beneficial. 

  • Dead Light Bulbs 

Having spare bulbs on hand for residents enables them to quickly replace malfunctioning ones. 

What are the Key Preparations You Need to Prioritize?

  • Regular Maintenance Check

Conducting monthly maintenance checks is essential to ensure the property remains in good condition. You can hire a professional for this task, saving you time and effort in the long run. Here are key considerations to include in your maintenance routine:

  • Make sure all plumbing and fixtures are clean and are working well. 
  • Hire an electrician to check for faulty wires and circuits.
  • Check if the appliances need to be replaced. 
  • Check for leaks, wood deterioration, termite infestation in wooden fixtures, and such. 
  • Keep walls and exteriors painted well.
  • Check all windows and doors for gaps to prevent leakage whenever it rains. 
  • Have all air conditioning systems cleaned regularly to avoid molds and foster proper airflow. 
  • Inspect the pipes and water lines for possible deterioration and clogs. 

  • Security Management 

In addition to maintaining cleanliness, prioritize the safety of your property. Assess what security measures are necessary and consider investing in the following:

  • Ensure all fire detection apparatus is in place. 
  • Include additional security or burglar alarm systems. 

Indeed, thorough preparation in property maintenance is a significant advantage. It helps reduce reports and negative reviews, contributing to overall resident satisfaction. Keep learning and stay updated to continually improve your management skills.

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Why Are Baguio Properties Expensive? A Resident’s Perspective

One of my mother’s friends recently inquired about the availability of houses within walking distance of the town center, expressing a desire to minimize reliance on jeepney rides. Regrettably, finding a house in close proximity to the city center is exceedingly rare in our area.  

Moreover, water shortage is a huge problem. In San Luis, our household typically receives water supply once a week, but sometimes, there is none during a typhoon. The Baguio Water District supplies 121 out of 128 barangays, with over 70 percent experiencing shortages.Those outside the coverage rely on private trucks, sources like John Hay, or have their own water supply systems.

Baguio City, the renowned “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” has long been a sought-after destination for locals and tourists. However, the city’s growing popularity and limited land availability have contributed to the rising real estate costs in the area. 

Here’s a breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of residing in the City of Baguio based on my observances and experiences: 

Pros of living in Baguio:

  • Desirable Climate and Lifestyle

Baguio’s cool, temperate climate and picturesque natural surroundings make it an attractive destination for those seeking a respite from the tropical heat. The city’s vibrant cultural scene, thriving tourism industry, and proximity to various outdoor attractions add to its appeal, driving up the demand for real estate and contributing to the high prices.

  • Infrastructure Improvements and Accessibility

The development of infrastructure projects, such as the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX) and the NLEX-SLEX road network, has improved the accessibility and connectivity of Baguio City. This has made the city more attractive for residential and commercial investments, further driving up property values.

  • Rental and Investment Opportunities

Baguio’s popularity as a tourist destination and retirement haven has created a demand for rental properties, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The potential for generating rental income and the long-term appreciation of property values contribute to the high prices of Baguio real estate. 

Cons of living in Baguio:

  1. Traffic Congestion

Baguio City is known for its narrow, winding roads, which can become heavily congested, especially during peak tourist seasons. The influx of vehicles and the city’s geography can lead to traffic jams and longer travel times.

  1. Limited Infrastructure

Despite being a popular tourist destination, Baguio City’s infrastructure, including roads, public transportation, and utilities, may not be as developed as in larger cities. This can lead to issues such as water shortages, power outages, and inadequate public transportation options.

  1. High Cost of Living

While the cost of living in Baguio is generally lower than in metropolitan areas like Manila, property prices, especially in prime locations, can be relatively high. Additionally, goods and services may be more expensive compared to other cities in the Philippines.

  1. Weather Challenges

While many people are attracted to Baguio’s cool climate, the city’s weather can pose challenges. Heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season, can lead to flooding and landslides, affecting transportation and infrastructure.

  1. Tourist Crowds

Baguio’s popularity as a tourist destination means the city can get crowded, especially during peak seasons. This can lead to longer wait times at tourist attractions, restaurants, and other amenities, as well as increased noise levels and littering.

  1. Environmental Concerns

The rapid urbanization of Baguio City has raised concerns about environmental degradation. Deforestation, improper waste disposal, and pollution are some issues the city faces, impacting residents and the environment.

Moreover, here are the key reasons why Baguio properties are considered expensive:

  1. Limited Space and Congestion

Baguio City is known for its congested streets, especially during peak tourist seasons. The limited space within the city center has led to higher property prices, pushing potential homeowners to consider areas farther from the city center, where prices are relatively lower than near the town but still increasing. Baguio City is a mountainous area with limited flat and developable land. The demand for residential and commercial properties has increased significantly for more than ten years, driving up land and property prices. The scarcity of available land has made it challenging for developers to meet the growing housing needs, further contributing to the high costs of Baguio properties.

  1. High Land Prices

The closer a property is to the city center or famous landmarks, the higher its price tends to be. Lots around key areas can cost anywhere from 10,000 to 25,000 pesos per square meter. This is a significant factor contributing to the overall cost of owning a property in Baguio.

  1. Housing Market Dynamics

The housing market in Baguio is competitive, with prices influenced by factors such as location, size, and condition of the property. For example, old houses, including lots, can still fetch prices starting at 5 million pesos for a standard two-bedroom house. Similarly, newly-built condominiums may begin at 4 million pesos for similar specifications.

  1. Standard of Living

Despite the higher property prices, the cost of living in Baguio is generally lower compared to metropolitan areas like Manila. Commodities and utilities are more affordable, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in a vibrant urban environment without the high costs associated with big cities.

  1. Lifestyle and Climate

Baguio’s cool climate and clean air are significant attractions for residents, especially those seeking a respite from the heat and pollution of larger cities. The city’s creative atmosphere, art scene, and cultural events also appeal to its appeal.

  1. Tourist Impact

While tourism is a significant part of Baguio’s economy, it can also inconvenience locals. The influx of tourists, especially during peak seasons, can lead to traffic congestion, increased noise levels, and environmental concerns.

The combination of limited land supply, desirable climate and lifestyle, improved accessibility, higher construction costs, and the potential for rental and investment opportunities have all contributed to the high prices of Baguio properties. As the city continues to grow and develop, the demand for real estate will likely remain strong, further driving up the costs of owning a piece of this picturesque and sought-after destination.

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Look Beyond: How Executive Search Works?

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The Executive Search or the “Headhunting” is the process of recruiting individuals to fill executive positions in organizations. Executive Search firms also help clients draft accurate and enticing job descriptions to draw in a pool of qualified candidates. The Executive Search profession ranges in models from “Retained” search to “Contingency” search and “Delimited” search. Retained search firms are paid a retainer up from the start of the process, another portion of the process and balance when the candidates begin work. While, Contingency search firms, receive their entire fee at the conclusion of the search process. Delimited or Engaged search is similar to retained search with a certain difference, but with the condition that the fee is refundable in case if the firm is not a suitable executive for the post. An Executive is an important part of the firm and it may not always possible for the company to find the best talent in the market, it is advisable to hire a firm that can do the task.

Since Executive Search firms are specialist in what they do and the way they operate is also very consultative; understanding the client’s business need, defining it into hiring requirement, defining the roles specs, vetting seasoned professionals against those specs, managing the offer making process and making the candidate join.

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5 main phases of Executive Search to exceed client expectations by providing the meaning choices of candidates a smooth and thorough process.

Establishment Search Priorities

Analyses the challenges unique to the organization and the role. They determine the skills, knowledge, and abilities on how clients can think about their needs. They develop a customized position and candidate specification, detailing the company, the role, responsibilities, goals and key challenges of the position as well as the experience, qualifications, and competence required for success.

Determine Search Strategy

Conduct targeted research into companies and sectors to find those with relevant skill-set and qualifications, supplementing extensive knowledge of and relationship with board directors and senior executives. Develop a long list of prospects best qualified for the role, with the goal of providing real options for clients. Talking to third-party contacts to identify and qualify prospects, preliminary referencing work for more productive long-list discussion.

Attract and Evaluate Candidates

Approach potential candidates to test their interest in the role. Conduct a rigorous competency-based interview with candidates based on the proven skills, knowledge, abilities and attitudes outlined in the position specification.

Present most Qualified Candidates for Client Interview

Drawing informal external views on each candidate to confirm and enhance knowledge of the candidate’s achievement and track record, provide meaningful insight past performance and reputation.

Complete the Search

After the client has selected its preferred candidate, conduct thorough background checks and references to further assess competencies. They conduct a client satisfaction survey to improve service and refine the approach. Assists in negotiations over compensation and other terms to be able to finalize the search. Once, the client follows up the candidate then the search is closed.

Executive Search firms are specialized recruitment services that find top-level candidates for senior, executive or other highly specialized positions for clients. Headhunters usually use a number of different tactics in their executive search to ensure their clients receive the best executive candidates. The unique method helps to find and attract a wide range of professionals. In addition, recruiters have access to “passive candidates” or individuals who are looking for a new position. These candidates often represent the most qualified talent in their industry. During an executive, the main role is to identify the best passive and active candidates for their clients. Usually, they have a more sophisticated and creative method of identifying and screening virtuoso in any field. Further, an executive searcher can execute a discreet search to find the right match, which can be appropriate in specific solutions that contributes more to an organization in terms of profits and savings compared to the cost to find them. Here are several ways they establish a talent pool.

Personal Networking

Executive recruiters are active relationship builders. By networking themselves, job seekers raise their chances of coming into contact with associates of recruiters by establishing steady and meaningful contact with acquaintances, friends, university alumni and industry influences who might be the perfect candidate for a job opening.

Referrals

Recruiters also become confidantes who can recommend individuals who might be right for job openings and provide first-hand insight about them.

LinkedIn Recruiters

The recruiter’s section of LinkedIn’s Talent Solutions programs has been a major hit with executive recruiters. The design makes it easy for headhunters to search the full profile like make notations, about prospects, send messages, collect responses and store reports.

Other Online Social Platform

Recruiters scour all types of blogs, social media websites, and forums that cater to specific professional niches. They also regularly track trending industry topics on Twitter and Facebook, nothing professionals that provide expertise, unique ideas, and engaging discussion.

Professional Organization

Recruiters frequent the conference circuit, taking note of dynamic speakers and panelist headlining events for membership associations in industries that match their specialized recruiting areas. Job seekers should attend as many professional conferences as they can and assume active roles.

Boolean Search

Recruiters use a few search tricks to find professionals in the right location, with the right certification and endorsement.

The News

The executive recruiters always have their antennae up for professional lauded in industry media sources or watching industry news.

Social Recruiting Apps

Social recruiting sites and applications are made exclusively for recruiting which provides an automated search for recruiters to find and track job candidates across the entire web.

 

References:

  1. https://www.ginkgosearch.com/the-steps-of-the-executive-search-process/
  2. https://www.siliconrepublic.com/careers/unusual-recruitment-better-candidates
  3. https://www.thebalancecareers.com/top-ideas-for-recruiting-great-candidates-1916798
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When To Use An Executive Search Firm?

An Executive search firm is something that affects every business and every level of management. The ability to recruit great talent is key to the ultimate success or failure of a business. Companies will use executive search firms so that they do not have to sort through possibly hundreds of applications for a job. These days, there are more people applying for the same position and companies do not have the time to sift through that many applications. They will, therefore, hire a recruitment agency to take care of this part of the process and to whittle the number of candidates down to a manageable level. Business owners and executives do not have the time and in many cases do not have the skills to find the perfect candidate, so outsourcing to an executive search firm will be the best solution.

Executive search firms are retained by clients in an advisory capacity. Typically used for senior-level executive positions and board directors, executive search firms partner with clients to identify, assess and select the very best possible candidate. They identify a slate of the most qualified candidates that would fit well with the client’s culture and have the right background and experience for the specific opportunity.

There are many reasons why companies are hesitant to engage an executive search firm to help them hire leadership talent. Whether it’s because they think they can hire an executive leader on their own, they don’t want to pay the cost of retaining a firm, or they’re just skeptical of the process, these companies are ultimately missing out on an opportunity to hire the best leader for their company. There’s a lot of benefits of using an Executive Search Firm, they help you find the best person by providing access to a wider, deeper pool of potential candidates. For critical roles, there’s a huge difference between an adequate candidate and an outstanding one, so you don’t want to limit your possibilities to the 5 to 10% of people who are actively looking for a new position right now. By proactively seeking out people who fit the profile, whether or not they’re in the market for a new opportunity, search firms provide you with more and better options for high-level positions.

Employers use an executive search firm when a search is important enough to warrant the investment and they are relying on search firms to help fill their executive ranks with the talent they need to stay competitive. Even with the use of executive search firms on the rise in the quest for top talent, many companies still rely on their own in-house resources to fill most of their open positions. The reasons for this are varied. Some companies believe they have sufficient resources and knowledge in-house, whereas others simply want to avoid paying a fee to outside search firms, regardless of their ability to fill mission-critical positions.

There are eight scenarios when investing in a search firm is a good idea. These eight scenarios are common cases for when it makes sense to hire help.

  1. Chase for the best

    If you use an executive search firm you’re statistically more likely to access the best job-seekers on the market (both active and passive). If you’re looking for an ideal candidate who will check all the boxes, of course, you need to work with someone who really knows what they are doing because recruiting is one of those things that anybody can do and just about anyone can find a person to do a job. Recruitment agencies may have some of the best talent already registered on their books and it could mean finding the perfect candidate sooner than later. Not only will an executive recruiter have the best jobs, but   they may also have access to the best candidates. Companies will benefit from the fact that a recruitment firm may have some of the best talent already registered on their books and it could mean finding the perfect candidate sooner rather than later.

  2. You’ve tested but have not experienced success

    Working with a recruiter open your pool of candidate beyond your network, either you have an active search that has been open for too long or you’ve used up your knowledge and recruiting tricks and you are not sure what to do next because failing to use recruitment agencies means that some candidates will not see these fantastic job advertisements and may miss the opportunity to work in a fantastic company with an excellent package.

  3. Confidential Search

    Sometimes you may need to replace an underperforming executive while they’re still in their current role. This type of search requires confidentiality and trust to get the job done. Companies conduct confidential searches when they want to replace someone who is still with the firm. In these situations, the criteria generally include a need for confidentiality, speed and finding a person with a highly specific skill set. If you have an employee that is under-performing, you may want to start recruiting before you let them go. Or you may need to recruit talent from organizations that your company does business with. In these cases, a search firm may be used to help keep things quiet until the new executive is ready to step into the position.

  4. Time & Resources

    The hiring process can be very time consuming, and especially the initial stages of sorting through applications. If your ‘day job’ is not recruiting, you may not have the time or focus to dedicate to an important search. Or your day job may be recruiting but you have too many open and not enough time. When you lack the time and resources, search firms are a great resource for giving an executive search the time and resources necessary. Giving a recruitment agency the task of creating a shortlist of candidates for a position in a company is good business sense.

  5. The most Standing out

    Most often, employers call on an executive search firm for most important roles, especially c-suite or executive leadership roles like CEO (Chief Executive Officer), CFO (Chief Financial Officer), CTO (Chief Technical Officer), CHRO (Chief Human Resources Officer), etc. Making a bad hire in your C-suite can have disastrous consequences. There’s an art to finding qualified, top-performing executives and the search for the right candidate can make the process far longer and far tougher. Not only are leadership positions crucial to the success of the business, but it’s helpful to have a third-party perspective to avoid blind hiring because sometimes internal team members see only what they want to see.

  6. Fresh Roles

    Generally, companies are used to filling their core positions, why go to an outside firm when you are in a rhythm? But then they create a brand-new position in the company and they don’t know where to begin. New roles are particularly difficult to recruit for because, typically, there is no benchmark to serve as a point of reference when determining the skills and temperament needed. This is also true for roles in which the predecessor was unsuccessful, and the role will need to be redefined/department rebuilt, etc. The need for guidance increases exponentially when the position falls outside the standard scope or target profile at other companies. Generally, successful companies find themselves in this position and quickly lean on the experience of an executive recruitment firm. Hiring them to come in and assess your workforce is a reliable way to get a fuller picture of the in-house talent you already have and also lets you know which options are available to you externally.

  7. Underwater Basket Weavers

    Several candidates may have the necessary skills on paper, but an executive firm will be able to tell which candidate has the right potential and personality for long term success and will ultimately contribute to the business’s future growth. In addition to executive-level positions, some companies offer such a unique product or service that they require rare skill sets that are essential for driving core, strategic areas of the business. Pop culture may refer to these candidates as unicorns, they call it Underwater Basket Weavers because, well, how many of those are there out there? Executive recruiters are used to developing a strategy for finding this ‘ needle in a haystack’ candidates.

  8. More passive candidates, less active job seekers 

    Executive search firms often have more connections with passive candidates, those who are not actively looking for a new job and can tap into their pipelines to search for candidates that might not otherwise be on a company’s radar. While active job seekers aren’t necessarily bad, chances are good that passive candidates aren’t going to apply to online job postings. In fact, some of them aren’t even really looking for a new job. However, they would be open to considering a new opportunity if that opportunity was presented to them. Executive recruiters know where these passive candidates are and how to present such opportunities.

Choosing the right executive recruiting firm to fill your organization’s next senior management vacancy starts with committing to some research before the search process even begins. This is one of the most important decisions your company will make, in part because of the potential upside the right executive can deliver and in part because of the huge cost of making a bad executive hire.

Whether you decide to use in-house resources or hire an outside consulting firm, your goal should always be to ensure that you will be able to identify and attract top-notch candidates for each position and build or restore your company’s talent pool. Nothing is more critical to your company’s long-term success.

References:

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A Guide on Building a Good Relationship With Executive Researchers

Upon entering the industry you want to pursue a lot of people you will meet along the way and one of them is the Executive Researchers, also known as Executive Recruiters. Their main responsibility is to help employers fill the senior and highest-paying positions in a company. They are one of the many people one would like to have a good relationship with because they might be the key for one to move up in their career.

Developing a relationship with headhunters as early as now is a very good strategy, especially that building this kind of relationship takes time. Having headhunters work with you side by side can be very advantageous, as they can be a good help in future endeavors. There are different types of recruiters that one can meet along the way but with the right recipe for brewing a good relationship and they might just call you when they land a research assignment that compliments your background.

Being approached by an executive researcher can be confusing at times. Some might be persuaded but some might think that it is a prank call done by someone they know. If you are a rising talent or starting to build a career for yourself there is a great chance that you will be approached by one. Especially now that business leaders are more visible and accessible because of online professional networks. On the other hand, some might be wondering why they have not yet experienced being approached by one. Maybe there is something missing, or that you have exceeded their expectations. But nonetheless, once those mistakes are corrected, sooner or later an Executive Researcher will contact you.

Once you are approached by executive recruiters or planning to approach one, you should remember that they are not all the same, they work for their clients and building relationships with them is a two-way process. To help you with that, here are some tips on how to build a good relationship with Executive Researchers.

  1. Know Their Industry

    Executive Researchers will greatly appreciate when one has a background on what they are doing and know their real intention. In addition, knowing their industry will give you an advantage when talking to them. When you know how they feel and how they do things, you will be able to speak with them with higher confidence than usual.

  2. Extend Help

    In situations when you feel that the position offered to you does not suit you or different from what you are imagining, you can suggest possible candidates that might be well suited for it.

  3. Explain Rejections

    When you reject an offer, there is a possibility that headhunters might misinterpret your decision. So, it is better to let them understand why the job is not a good match for you, also, this can clear false impressions.

  4. Never Lie

    Always be honest about your capabilities and credentials. This is one key to landing a new opportunity. Honesty gives you additional points, not only to the recruiter’s side but also to their clients.

  5. Be Certain

    Always be sure about your decisions, it will not hurt to take a minute or two to reflect on the action you are about to do. One might leave a bad impression on recruiters once you did not stick to your word. And if there are changes to your plan, always update your recruiter ahead of time and let them know your whereabouts before an interview or any special appointment with their client. This way, the possibility of a misunderstanding will be lesser.

  6. Stay Involved

    Make sure that you never lose connection with them. When you accept a job offer, always keep them updated, whether you are up for an interview or you encountered a problem and need to cancel the latter, always update them ahead of time. As well as in future employment, it will also be great for you to keep in touch with them, with this they will also feel involved with you.

  7. Share Knowledge

    Once you share knowledge with a search consultant they will also share theirs. They can also make suggestions and provide you with information that can help you broaden your network for future endeavors.

  8. Be Calm

    There might be instances when an Executive Researcher happens to call on a bad time. During these situations always keep your cool so that there will not be a misunderstanding between the both of you. Better, explain your current situation and wish that they would understand.

  9. Be Friends with them

    There are chances that you will be able to be friends with Executive Researchers and this is a very good thing as they would really like it to have a candidate as a friend. Also, this will make the environment between the two of you comfortable.

  10. Respect them

    Having respect for an executive researcher is the most essential thing one must do upon meeting one. Whatever industry you desire to go to will always tell that respect is very important as how important EQ is in the workplace. This is one factor that shows what kind of person one is and the one that helps a recruiter decide whether they are fit for a job or not.

It is important to be one of the top candidates for a job, but it is not everything. Leaving a great impression toward an Executive Researcher, on the other hand, is everything. Once you get stuck on their mind there will be a greater chance that they will contact you in the future and might even give you a boost towards their candidates. Just remember that whatever you do or wherever you go, there is a chance that you will meet a headhunter, so always be prepared and ready yourself for what is about to come.

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