Building Management Hawaii June/July 2013 - (Page 50)

On Site Life Of A Property Manager Two Honolulu residential managers share their experiences. Many of BMH magazine's readers are property managers, and On Site is your forum to address common problems and share insights that might help you in your profession. In this issue you'll hear from Duane Komine and Ron Komine Jr., also known as the "Brothers Komine." Together they have five decades of experience in the industry. Both are property managers for luxury highrises and serve on the Institute of Real Estate Management® (IREM) ARM® Executive Board. They sat down to discuss the business and offer advice to new managers. Q: How did you become residential managers? Duane: I was a musician when Ron hired me as a janitor. I later became the site manager at Piikoi Tower, earned my ARM designation in 1986 and moved on to Royal Capitol Plaza, Nauru Tower and now at the award-winning Hokua. Ron: I started in 1985 as a mail clerk with Chaney Brooks. I worked up to assistant property manager before changing careers. I returned as a resident manager in 1999. Buildings I have managed include Royal Kunia Gardens, Melemanu Woodlands, Banyan Tree Plaza and currently 1350 Ala Moana. Q: Describe a typical day at work. Duane: Managers are politicians in their own small community. You live in a fishbowl and are the mayor, doctor and counselor. My day starts with a positive attitude, which is something I instill in my employees. Ron: My day starts at 7 a.m. with a staff meeting. We review incidents and the day's assignments. We end with a pep talk, putting our hands together and yelling "1350!" I then put out fires all day. I walk the property to make sure the building is running smoothly. 50 June-July 2014 BMH Q: How important is the board to building management? Duane: Your board can be your biggest ally or worst enemy. Managers need to lobby for their board and work with it. A happy board makes happy employees, resulting in a healthy building. Duane Komine and Ron Komine Jr. Q: What is the most difficult thing you've encountered? Duane: 2006 was very difficult. We opened Hokua in January. Spring brought 40 days of rain. October brought the earthquake and power outages. We also experienced our first PEX water leak in September, which ultimately led to replacing all potable water lines. Ron: The most difficult project was the re-pipe of the waste and vent lines at 1350 Ala Moana. We opened walls and removed kitchen cabinets in every apartment. Q: How has your education affected the decisions you make? Duane: Embracing continuing education by joining IREM or a similar organization will give managers the tools to make the best decisions for their associations. Ron: Educational seminars from IREM, CAI (Community Associations Institute) and MRMA (Moiliili Residents Managers' Association) keep me informed about current events and national trends. Education has made a positive influence during my work day. Ron: The board is composed of volunteers who give their own time. Respect the chain of command and work closely with your board to make critical decisions. Seek knowledgeable volunteers with leadership qualities. Managers should also set up active committees to assist the board. Q: How can managers give back to the community? Duane: Managers should participate in security watches and organizations such as IREM, HHVISA (Hawaii Hotel & Visitor Industry Security Association) and CAI. They should attend neighborhood board meetings and participate in brown bag meetings with building managers from the surrounding area. Ron: Our employees donate part of their yearly bonuses to the Lokahi Giving Project or The Salvation Army. We always should be good neighbors at all times. Q: What is the best work advice you ever received or gave? Duane: I was told to always surround yourself with positive and influential people; it takes you to the next level. Your employees are your best commodity, so enjoy the ride together. Ron: I was told a long time ago to treat your employees like family and they'll show you the same respect. And, always stay within budget. www.buildingmanagementhawaii.com

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Building Management Hawaii June/July 2013

ASPHALT AND CONCRETE PAVING
RAILINGS
SOLAR AND PHOTOVOLTAIC
PAINTING
The Age Of IREM
On Site: Life Of A Property Manager

Building Management Hawaii June/July 2013