Title: The Future of Your Building's Super: In-House or Contracted Out? Attention apartment owners and committee members! The live-in super of your building is retiring! What's next? You might be asking yourself: Hire another or contract it out? This decision is not to be taken lightly. It will impact the daily workings and overall value of your building. As a professional in the real estate industry, I have seen both options play out in various settings. Here are the pros and cons of each. Hiring another live-in super has its advantages. They are easily accessible in case of emergencies, readily available for building inspections, and typically feel more committed to the building's maintenance and overall success. Having in-house staff also fosters a sense of community among the building's inhabitants, and they tend to care for the property as if it were their own. However, hiring a live-in super also has its downsides. Benefits and living quarters add to the cost of hiring, not to mention the potential of a conflict of interest with other residents. You also give up flexibility in case of a dispute or unsatisfactory performance. Needing to let go of a live-in super can lead to uncomfortable living situations and legal action. On the contrary, contracting out the superintendent position also has its benefits. You have more financial flexibility, and you can choose a company that meets your specific maintenance needs. Additionally, they are not tied to the building in the same personal way as an in-house super, reducing the risk of delicate situations. The drawbacks of contracting out are that the contractor may not have a personal connection with the building, leading to a lack of attention to detail and carelessness in their work. It also may not develop the same level of trust and loyalty to the building. Both hiring in-house or contracting out the superintendent have their perks and pitfalls. It is up to you to weigh the options based on your building's specific circumstances. Regardless of which is chosen, make sure that you and your committee conduct a thorough search and screening process. Remember, the success of the building relies on the proper hiring of management staff. Don't take this lightly. There are services for hire that will fulfill the duties of a building superintendent. Here are the pros and cons.
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