Meet Sara Brady, the dynamic Community Manager at Cosgrove Hill. Sara’s journey into property management is a tale of serendipity and passion. From an unexpected start in the industry to navigating the daily adventures and rewards of her role, Sara offers a captivating glimpse into what makes her job so fulfilling. In this interview, she shares her experiences, the unique charm of the Cosgrove Hill community, and the personal touches that define her career. Join us as we dive into Sara’s story and discover the enthusiasm and dedication she brings to Cosgrove Hill.
A Serendipitous Start: Discovering My True Calling
I was in the right place at the right time! Property management was never on my radar as a career option, even though I had been a renter myself. A former coworker reached out and encouraged me to apply for a leasing position at Trinity Commons, and that opportunity changed everything. At the time, Andrea Morris was the Community Manager, and she emphasized that the most important part of my job was creating an exceptional customer experience. That truly resonated with me because making people feel special and creating memorable moments is what I live for. From that moment on, I knew I had found a career where I could make a real impact every day.
A Day in the Life at Cosgrove: Expect the Unexpected
Let’s all agree—there’s no such thing as a typical day in property management. One minute, I’m approving maintenance and marketing spending, trying to stay within budget. The next, I’m tracking down a missing package, calming a resident who just discovered their upstairs neighbor tap dances at midnight, or reminding contractors again not to block the garages. Mornings start with emails, team check-ins, and prioritizing work orders. Afternoons are a balancing act of resident concerns, leasing inquiries, event planning, and ensuring our community stays in top shape. I’m also reviewing budgets, signing off on vendor invoices, and finding creative ways to stretch marketing dollars so we can continue hosting great events. By evening, I’m at resident events, enjoying the fun side of community life—whether it’s book club, happy hour, or handing out grab-and-go breakfasts to residents who definitely appreciate the coffee. And just when I think the day is winding down, something unexpected always pops up—because, let’s be honest, predictable and property management rarely go hand in hand. But, that’s what keeps it exciting!
The Joy of Connection: Challenges and Rewards
Without a doubt, it’s the connections I get to build every day. There’s nothing better than helping a family find their perfect home. It’s like being a matchmaker, but for apartments instead of romance (though honestly, people fall pretty hard for a great kitchen and natural light). I also love when residents pop in just to say hi—it’s those little moments that make the community feel like home. And, of course, my daily after-school visits from our younger residents. Whether it’s handing out dog treats or getting a surprise drawing from a tiny artist-in-residence, these little interactions remind me why I love what I do.
Building Community: Engaging with Residents at Cosgrove
I engage with the community at Cosgrove by asking lots of questions and getting to know residents, their family members, and their interests. We love to host fun events that bring everyone together and focus on creating a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can enjoy themselves. It’s all about making connections and fostering a sense of belonging.
I can’t pinpoint just one memorable experience, but the joy I feel when I’m invited to a resident’s graduation, wedding, or baby shower really stands out. I’ve also been gifted with beautiful paintings, plants, and handmade items, but what means the most to me is being thought of as more than just the community manager. Being treated as an extended family member is truly the greatest reward.
Essential Skills for Success in Property Management
Patience is definitely one of the most essential skills in my role as community manager. Managing a diverse community involves understanding different perspectives and being able to listen to residents’ concerns with empathy. It’s also important to be adaptable and flexible, as every day can bring new challenges and unexpected situations. Strong communication skills are key, whether it’s ensuring everyone stays informed or resolving conflicts in a way that keeps the community feeling connected and respected. Additionally, organization and problem-solving abilities are crucial for managing multiple projects and events while keeping everything running smoothly. Ultimately, being able to build relationships, show empathy, and stay calm under pressure allows me to create a positive and welcoming environment for everyone at Cosgrove Hill.
The Cosgrove Experience: What I Love About My Job
What I enjoy most about working at Cosgrove is spending time with my amazing onsite team and the residents. I love training and teaching my team, helping them grow in their roles and watching their progress. We have such a strong, supportive community, and being able to connect with everyone on a personal level makes every day meaningful. Whether it’s collaborating with my team to bring events to life or sharing in special moments with the residents, it’s the relationships, development, and sense of community that make working here so rewarding.
Advice for Aspiring Property Managers
Just go for it! There are countless opportunities for growth and development once you master the foundations of property management. The possibilities are endless! You’ll acquire valuable skills that can unlock a wide range of opportunities in the field. It’s a rewarding career where you can make a real impact on people’s lives while continuing to grow professionally.
It’s important to be curious, engaged, flexible, and generous with your time. Be curious by continuously learning about the industry, staying updated on trends, and asking questions to deepen your understanding of the community and its needs. Being engaged means actively connecting with residents and your team, building relationships, and truly listening to their concerns. Flexibility is key because every day brings new challenges and unexpected situations, so being adaptable helps you navigate changes smoothly. Lastly, be generous with your time—whether it’s mentoring others, organizing events, or simply being present for your team and residents. The more you invest in these areas, the better prepared you’ll be for the dynamic and rewarding role of a community manager.
Balancing Work and Personal Life
I absolutely love spending quality time with my family, especially my son and my two adorable dogs. I’m also passionate about learning Japanese—there’s something fun about the challenge of picking up new words and phrases! Traveling is another thing I truly cherish, and I can never resist getting lost in a thrift store to hunt for something one-of-a-kind. Crafting is my go-to for unwinding and letting my creativity flow. And of course, I love hanging out with friends, especially when we’re all cheering on UNC together!
Closing Thoughts: Why Cosgrove is Special
Cosgrove is truly a unique place to work, and that’s largely due to the incredible people and the genuine sense of community we’ve built. From the residents who love where they live to the passionate and supportive team I work alongside every day, there’s a true feeling of camaraderie and shared purpose. We’re not just focused on maintaining a property; we’re building a community where everyone feels welcomed and valued. The leadership here encourages growth, creativity, and innovation, making it an environment where you can truly thrive. The sense of belonging and collaboration makes Cosgrove not just a workplace, but a place where you feel proud to contribute and be part of something special.
