What makes NYARM special?

The Executive Director of NYARM explains why The New York Association of Realty Managers is so special:

"We organize monthly educational programs to help those in attendance learn how to make sound decisions by developing good business judgment. Particularly as they relate to topical subjects.

For example, the month following the blackout, just when the buildings owners were asking about it, we had a panel laying out a roadmap for property managers on how to avoid the pitfalls that may occur when planning to install emergency backup generators.

"Other key topics have been: Local Law Compliance, Insurance Risks, Employee Safety Hazards, Managing Electrical Power, Monitoring Fuel Costs, Court & Deposition Protocol, Staying on Budget, Employee Safety Hazards AND ETHICS."

Russell also explains that NYARM is the only organization devoted to property management that is a New York State based organization not a local chapter of a national organization.

She feels that this fact serves the membership well because NY City property managers have such unique real estate experiences that they require an organization devoted to their distinctive needs.

NYARM also educates through its certification program. The New York Accredited Realty Manager (nyarm) designation is recognized by the New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal (DHCR) and NY City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HUD).

Certification courses are given through NYARM, Baruch College, NYU and HPD. However some credit is given to those property managers who have acquired other professional designations and verifiable experience.

The President of NYARM is Rochell Captan who heads a volunteer Board of Directors made up of veteran property manages and industry associates who help keep NYARM a progressive organization.

NYARM is very optimistic on the future of the profession of property management.

Margie Russell believes the exciting part is keeping pace with the constant flow of new complexities and aiding the managers to digest and react to the multiple levels of responsibilities. However, she has a unique twist in accomplishing this.

Russell explains, "I believe that property managers can work smarter by keeping their building service workers informed and up to date.

"How? By encouraging that they attend the available training for them. Specifically, Local Union 32B/J.

For example it is not unusual for a porter, doorman or security guard to be in charge of a building during off hours.

If there is an emergency these service workers need to know how and when to step into a situation by appropriately asserting themselves, assessing the situation and making creative judgment calls.

This only comes with training.

"I also believe that the service workers are a key ingredient to keeping within budget. It is they who will carry out the plans created by the manager and owner."

NYARM also believes that a strong working relationship between management and Local 32B/J can only be good for all involved and, it should be encouraged.

In January of this year the NYARM PEACE PRIZE was awarded to James Berg, president of the Realty Advisory Board, RAB, and Michael Fishman, president of SEIU, 32B/J for their combined personal dedication in creating such a working relationship.

The effort put forth by both honorees culminated in the settlement of the 2003 & 2002 Commercial & Residential Building Agreements between Service Employees and Real Estate Owners.

For more information about NYARM, its programs and services, log onto www.nyarm.org.