Today we’d like to introduce you to Ken Bertolucci.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Ken. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
The company was founded in 1986 to manage a condominium, townhome, and homeowner associations. It was a small business and mainly served the Glenview area. I bought the business in 2010 from the founder and immediately discovered that the association management industry was strongly in need of a new approach.
As we did market research to determine how to grow the business I was amazed at the amount of venom directed toward management companies. I knew we had to be different to make an impact. We focused on three key areas: Speed, Trust, and adding Value. Below is the “meat” on the bones of those principles:
(1) Speed- responding quickly to all inquiries from homeowners, even if it was only to inform them that we are aware of the issue and work is (for example) scheduled for next Tuesday. We discovered that a quick reply reduced a huge amount of anxiety among residents and promoted confidence in the board and management.
(2) Trust- Since we handle the association’s funds, trust is paramount. Of course, we follow all state laws and accounting best practices. Beyond that, we made the decision to not accept any commissions, incentives, or kickbacks of any type from contractors that want to do business with one of our association customers. When we recommend a contractor to the board, it is only because we believe they are the best company for the job, period.
(3) Adding Value- while a management company does not affect the market price for properties, we still add value in several ways. When the residents see that issues are handled promptly, the property condition is improved each year, and the financial documents are in good order, it adds value for them since they know they are living in a well-cared for property. As third parties such as contractors, realtors, and village officials have interaction with the property, they see this same orderly care and organization and know they are working with a top-notch building. This improves the reputation and image of the association and adds value.
This approach has resulted in a 350% growth rate since 2010 and stellar ratings from our customers. Virtually all growth has come from word of mouth.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Early on, the main struggle was taking the 1980-style office systems in place originally and bringing them up to current standards. We did a deep dive on the most efficient systems and practices and invested in new software, phone systems, computers, IT network, digital mailing system, website, online payment system and many other areas. Every piece of original office equipment and furniture was replaced. We moved to new offices in Skokie, into a former art gallery with a cool modern vibe. This allowed a comfortable environment for our team to work and grow.
Please tell us about NS Management.
The key ingredient is the “why” of what we do. Our reason for existence is to shine some light into what is sometimes a dark and negative industry. We endeavor to change that, one association at a time.
Our team members are highly qualified, many with advanced degrees. All share our focus on service and strive each day to follow our company motto, “we’re on it.”
If you had to go back in time and start over, would you have done anything differently?
Early on, I wish I had understood the benefit of networking. Meeting with other business people, even if their businesses are very different than yours, provides great insight, advice, and inspiration. I am a member of BNI (Business Networking International) and it is inspiring to hear entrepreneurs stand up each week and talk about their business growth and success stories. In addition, sharing leads and offering business insight to each other is priceless.
Contact Info:
- Address: NS Management Co, Inc.
4811 Main Street Suite 101
Skokie, IL 60077 - Website: www.nsmanagement.net
- Phone: 847-998-0404
- Email: office@nsmanagment.net
- Google: ns management skokie reviews
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nsmanagementco/
- Twitter: @nsmanagementco
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/ns-management-skokie-2
- Other: www.bbb.org/chicago/business-reviews/property-management/ns-management-in-skokie-il-90002112
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