Understanding CAM in Property Management

Being an apartment manager is a big responsibility. You are responsible for the safety and well-being of your tenants and the upkeep of the property itself. It is important to understand all aspects of apartment management, from marketing and leasing to maintenance and finances.

One way to demonstrate your commitment to excellence in apartment management is by becoming a Certified Apartment Manager (CAM). This certification shows you have the knowledge and skills necessary to be a successful apartment manager.

So what does being a CAM involve? And how can you become certified? Keep reading to find out!

What Is a Certified Apartment Manager?

A CAM is a designation the National Apartment Association (NAA) gives property managers with specific education and experience requirements. The certification serves as a vital link to residents and owners and is a way to show that you are dedicated to your profession.

Just like property and apartment employees, a CAM-certified manager is responsible for the day-to-day operations of an apartment community. It must manage all staff, financial, and maintenance issues effectively. A CAM must also have strong customer service skills and effectively communicate with residents, vendors, and other stakeholders.

Earning the certified apartment manager designation is not required to work in the apartment industry, but it does demonstrate a commitment to professional development and excellence. Those interested in pursuing a career in apartment management are strongly encouraged to seek this certification.

What Does CAM Mean in Property Management?

While it is not necessarily required, CAM certification is highly recommended for anyone pursuing a property management career. Here are other benefits of CAM certification:

• Broad range of apartment management knowledge: CAM certification covers a broad range of topics related to apartment management. The certification includes everything from marketing and leasing to maintenance and finances. This makes it a valuable credential for anyone wanting to advance in their career. Moreover, the CAM certification is widely recognized by industry leaders so that it can open doors to new opportunities.

• Increased job opportunities: Apartment managers that are CAM certified often have the edge over those not regarding job opportunities. Those who are CAM certified are often seen as being more qualified and more dedicated to their profession. This can give you a leg up when applying for jobs or promotions. As a result, employers often see CAM-certified apartment managers as more reliable and trustworthy.

• Builds professional credibility: As with any credential, CAM certification can help build your credibility. CAM-certified apartment managers are often seen as more credible than those who are not certified. A CAM certification implies that an apartment manager has met specific education and experience requirements. It also demonstrates that a person is dedicated to professional growth. This can make CAM-certified apartment managers more credible in the eyes of potential employers.

• Builds resident trust and security: In addition, CAM certification can help build credibility with residents. CAM-certified apartment managers are often seen as more knowledgeable and qualified to handle the day-to-day operations of an apartment community. It can give residents a sense of security and trust that their apartment community is in good hands.

How Do I Become a CAM?

There are a few requirements that must be met to become CAM certified.

• Minimum of 12 months of on-site experience in property management
• Successful completion of CAM Coursework
• Passing of CAM Examination within six months of declaring CAM candidacy

You can freely choose to learn CAM coursework through standalone seminars, online CAM courses, or CAM courses offered at many colleges and universities. CAM courses are offered by many different organizations, including universities, community colleges, and private companies. The cost of CAM courses can vary widely, so shopping around for the best deal is essential.

Once you have completed the CAM coursework, you must pass the CAM examination. The CAM examination is a multiple-choice test that covers a wide range of topics related to apartment management. You will have four hours to complete the CAM examination, and your computer must have a webcam and audio to take the CAM examination.

After you have passed the CAM examination, you will be CAM certified and receive a CAM digital badge that will be sent to your email. This digital badge can either be placed on your website or social media profiles or printed out and displayed in your office.

Topics Covered in CAM Coursework

The CAM coursework is helpful for anyone who wants to learn more about apartment management. From recruitment of new residents to the day-to-day operations of an apartment community, CAM coursework covers a wide range of topics:

• Occupancy rates
• Comprehensive marketing plans
• Sales team management and product readiness
• Equitable treatment of current and potential residents
• Resident retention and the maintenance of a positive company image
• Consistent and ongoing resident communication
• Positive resident service and issue resolution
• Enforcement of company policy in compliance with laws and regulations
• Property inspections
• Preventive maintenance programs
• Service request process
• Apartment turnover process
• Contractors and vendors
• Recruitment, hiring, orientation, and training of high-caliber employees
• Systematic employee evaluation
• Employment regulations and record keeping
• Analysis of the property’s financial operations with corrective actions for underperformance
• Monitoring of property performance to achieve the owner’s investment goals
• Accounting principles and practices
• Maximizing net operating income
• Reporting property performance honestly and accurately

By becoming CAM certified, you will be able to show that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage an apartment community effectively.

What Else Do I Need To Know?

Having a CAM certification doesn’t mean that it is there forever. The NAA offers CAM renewals annually to ensure that CAM-certified apartment managers keep up with the latest trends and best practices in the industry. A $100 renewal fee is required to maintain your CAM certification and proof of documentation of eight hours of continuing education credits. You can renew your CAM certification here.

Conclusion

The Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) designation is a valuable asset for anyone in property management. With this certification, property managers can show they have the knowledge and skills necessary to manage an apartment community effectively. Plus, CAM certification is a great way to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and best practices in the industry.

If you are a property manager that wants to make it easy for you to manage an apartment community, consider using a property management software like ExactEstate.

ExactEstate is an all-in-one software solution that helps property managers with various tasks, from marketing and lease management to accounting and maintenance. With ExactEstate, you can streamline your workflows, save time, and make your job easier.

To learn more about how ExactEstate can help you in your property management job, request a demo today or contact us for more information.