Pros
High-end properties that are easy to sell (depending on price point and location) Good selling experience for those with limited sales background Decent compensation for the duties required; health benefits are inexpensive (but also not great) Steady growth in the Columbus area, company seems healthy
Cons
In retrospect, I should have acknowledged the warning signs we were taught the basics of property management by a "Certified Laughter Leader" in the first week of training. Ever heard of that professional designation? Me neither. You can imagine my growing concern when finger puppets and bubbles were added to the mix. Sound professional? Welcome to Edwards Communities Management Company. Ladies, be sure to read the Edwards Communities Employee Manual thoroughly. You will be sent home for have a "bare" face, unshaven legs, and/or un-manicured fingernails (I'm not kidding). Don't worry - you will learn proper shoe choice at the annual Employee Conference. Demonstrations of these crucial priorities are provided by the company President to ensure you achieve success. Be aware that in the interview process you will be led to believe that management positions are available for leasing consultants who work hard and achieve their goals. The facts, however, are hard to dispute: in 2014-15, three management positions came available and were filled by individuals from outside the organization. In fact, interviews were not opened up to existing staff for any of these positions. Apart from these management roles, there are few (read: no) other options for advancement. Turnover is, naturally, quite high and morale depends on the caliber of the manager. I was fortunate to work for one of the better managers, but your mileage may vary. There are very few leasing consultants that have stayed longer than two years due to the lack of support from the higher management and the fact that advancement opportunities are few and far between. If you walk into this position expecting a job that pays you to lease apartments, you're in luck! Some of the properties are quite nice and the leasing offices are pleasant. However, don't expect to build a career with Edwards Communities - there just isn't anywhere for you to go. If you take this job, you will join the dozens of employees that are earning a paycheck while searching for another job that pays better, offers better hours, and provides upward career mobility. My advice? Look elsewhere.
