"Working couple with two children and a dog, looking for accommodation on Gabriola immediately. Please call 247-xxxx."

As a REALTOR, I receive several of these requests a month. Decent people who are looking for a place to hang their hat, and no doubt having scoured the bulletin boards, talked to friends, advertised in 'accommodation needed', but time draws near, and still no place to call home.

To the rescue, the Property Manger putting people and places together. Sounds simple? Well, there's a lot more to it than might meet the eye.

I caught up with Brenda Gilroy, Coast Realty Property Manager and with strong ties to our Gabriola Island. So, I said, "Why?" and "Why Gabriola?"

In Brenda's words, "Gabriola is still an island of opportunity. As the need for more and different services grows to match the thriving and diverse population there is going to be more demand for local licensed Property Management on the island. Just try to find a licensed professional here on Gabriola right now. The choices are limited indeed."

Then I said, "What would make me look to you for the managing of my property?"

Again, Brenda was more than willing. "A home is a sizable investment, and like any investment, it should be managed properly. If an owner is unwilling or unable to devote the time and attention required, a professional property manager is equipped to do the job – especially one with lots of connections on the island." Absentee owners and those who want a 'by the book' approach to renting or leasing their properties will appreciate Brenda's services.

What a great package, I said to myself. Knowledgeable about Gabriola, knows what can go wrong and who can fix it, background in real estate, home maintenance and a fair degree of common sense. That's it! You're hired.

And, here's a tip: RESA (the Real Estate Services Act) now requires that anyone managing someone else's property for money in B.C. that is involved with collecting rent and holding deposits, must be licensed by the Real Estate Council of B.C. and follow all the regulations of both the RESA and the Residential Tenancy Act.

Whew! And that's 'by the book'.