PROPERTY MANAGER SPOTLIGHT: Q&A WITH CRYSTAL AVERY

August 12, 2019

A new property manager, Crystal Avery is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and eager to assist homeowners and tenants. Tori Dotson, the owner of Windermere Property Management/West Sound, describes Crystal as “communicative” and “on the ball”, saying she’s the type of property manager who “treats people’s homes as if they were her own”. Read on to learn about Crystal’s professional background, interests, and more in our Q&A.

1. What drew you to property management?

I consider myself a creative spirit and wanted to use my education and skills in a positive way that could lead to amazing change for others. Property Management has its way of doing that by giving owners and tenants peace of mind.

2. Was this an obvious career path for you?

In a way, yes. When I graduated high school, I took a test to determine the best career for me and I scored the highest in real estate. At the time, real estate intimidated me. So I did not go further than an initial course through a different firm back in 2002. I enjoyed the field of HR so decided to pursue that path. After meeting a pretty special lady who is a current property manager and has taught me so much, I realized I have nothing to be intimidated about. I needed to just go for it! So here I am, loving every day and blessed to meet new people.

3. What do you love about working as a Windermere property manager?

I love the people, the chance to view different properties and the opportunity to get to know our lovely PNW a bit more. Also, I enjoy the freedom of setting my own schedule so I can be home for my family and take time to explore different hobbies and interests. Every day is different, and I appreciate that. It keeps me on my toes.

4. What’s the best part of your job?

The best part of my job is my colleagues. I am blessed to work with a group of people who come together and support, encourage and collaborate with each other. It is definitely a team here!

5. Every job has its challenges. What is one of this position’s challenges and how do you try to prevent or address it?

At times I feel I have to be a bit tough to guarantee compliance with laws and lease agreements and that can be a challenge. I am firm but kind. I think having a realistic approach with people is better than beating around the bush.

6. What’s one thing that homeowners, tenants, and/or colleagues might be surprised to learn about you?

I lived in Germany for three years. I was little but I remember the zoo and the colored chickens. Just ask me and I will tell you all about it!

7. Name two personality traits that you possess and how they benefit your clients.

I am humble and honest. When it comes to advice, I am not afraid to take it or give it. I’m always learning and, in a way, teaching.

8. Windermere Property Management/West Sound manages a variety of properties across Kitsap County. How long have you lived here and what do you think is one of the best parts about the Kitsap Peninsula?

We moved around a lot because my dad was in the Army. But we were mainly between Washington and northern Nevada. I have lived off and on in the PNW my whole life. Most recently, I moved here in 2016. I love it all except the traffic going towards Tacoma and beyond! I enjoy exploring the whole area. Some of my favorite spots are Neah Bay, Westport, Lake Cushman, Lake Crescent and the more local areas like Tahuya, Wildcat Lake, and Seabeck’s Guillemot Cove.

9. How do you try to stay involved in the community?

Honestly, with a full-time career, kids’ school, sports schedules, and my master’s degree program, I haven’t had much time. But I do offer to volunteer for office events or school field trips with my kids. I encourage them to get involved. It fosters a sense of social responsibility and care for what’s going on around you.

10. Can you share a recent professional moment that filled you with joy or gratitude?

I have only been with Windermere a short time, but I have received compliments that solidify this is the right field for me. Some homeowners have said that they are impressed with me and can’t believe I just started. Others have said they like the way I think outside the box to remedy issues. I can’t say I am any different from any of my colleagues. We all feed off each other and I have learned quite a bit from them.

When I first started, there was a property that had some issues. It seemed to be one thing after another. After all the repairs the owner said, “We just thank God for you” and that felt really good. My hope is that every owner and tenant is thankful for the services we provide at Windermere and I will do my best to assure that.

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