What Makes a Great General Manager in Build-to-Rent (BTR)?

Running a Build-to-Rent community isn’t a typical property job. It’s a unique blend of hospitality management, operational expertise, and resident engagement. So what makes a great General Manager in BTR? Here’s the lowdown.

1. Customer Experience Comes First in the Build-to-Rent Sector

A great General Manager thinks like a hotelier. BTR residents aren’t just tenants, they’re customers. That means delivering a first-rate experience from move-in to renewal. It’s about creating a vibrant community people love to live in.

2. Strong Operational Skills

Behind the scenes, a General Manager needs to keep a lot of wheels turning smoothly. Facilities management, maintenance, health and safety, supplier relationships, it all falls under their watch. The best General Managers are highly organised, decisive, and able to solve problems quickly in a Build-to-Rent setting.

3. Commercial Acumen

BTR is not a non-profit. General Managers need a strong grip on the numbers, from rental income, renewal rates, and net operating income to service charges and operating costs. They’re able to maximise revenue while keeping a close handle on expenses to ensure a profitable Build-to-Rent asset.

4. People Management

Your team is your greatest asset. A strong General Manager inspires, develops, and supports their team, from Leasing Consultants to Maintenance Engineers. They lead by example, foster collaboration, and empower their people to perform at their best.

5. Communication Skills

Whether it's addressing resident complaints or motivating their team, a great General Manager communicates clearly and confidently. They’re comfortable having tough conversations and are able to resolve disputes fairly. This is a must-have in tenant relationship management.

6. Adaptability and Innovation

BTR is a fast-changing sector. Regulations, PropTech solutions, and tenant expectations evolve quickly. The best General Managers stay adaptable and are always looking for ways to innovate and improve their community, ensuring their Build-to-Rent scheme stays ahead of the curve.

Final Thoughts

General Managers in Build-to-Rent are community leaders, innovators, problem-solvers, and financial managers all in one. It’s a challenging role but for the right person, it’s deeply rewarding.

Whether you’re a BTR candidate looking for your next opportunity, or a company searching for a Build to Rent General Manager to lead your community, we’re here to help you navigate the BTR landscape. Let’s start that conversation today.

At Collins Property Recruitment, we specialise in matching top talent with leading BTR companies.

Take a look at our Build to Rent, Student, and Senior Living page on our website here.

Want to speak to a specialist? Connect with Martha Kiernan, our expert in the BTR sector.

Got a question or want to chat? Drop us an email at info@collinspropertyrecruitment.com or give us a call on 020 7435 0309.