Q&A session with DG Property Management founder Marlon Opigo
Marlon Opigo is a 21 year-old graduate from East London who recently started his own business called DG property Management. During the Q&A session you will get an insight into how his business started, what expectations he had in the beginning compared to now and what he wants to achieve in the future. In addition, the interview aims to reach out to any individual who own there own properties or know someone that has a property portfolio and may consider hiring a property manager.
Question 1: How did DG Property Management start and why did you get involved with property management?
For some time I have been considering starting my own business which lead me to look for ideas on how I can get started. Both my parents are home owners and I have witnessed first hand on what it is like to run a property, its not just an investment in your future but a business. I decided to learn more about property management by conducting research online and discovered you don't need a large amount of expertise or experience. I found myself managing my first property when my Dad was struggling to evict a tenant. The eviction process was time consuming but eventually the tenant was evicted and from there my property management business started''.
Question 2: What were your expectations in the beginning and has it changed so far?
My expectations in the beginning was that managing properties would be fairly easy provided I find the right tenants. However, I quickly discovered that managing properties is more than just collecting rent but being attentive to tenants' requests and concerns. Currently, I have one property under management so I don't spend huge amount of time communicating with tenants but when problems do arise I have to make myself available. My expectations has definitely changed from when I started but every experience gives you the opportunity to grow.
Question 3: What are your goals and aspirations for the future of the business?
At the beginning of the year, I originally set my self the goal to have at least five properties under management before I officially graduate in September. I believe this goal is achievable and will continue to persist until I can reach this goal. In the more distant future, I would like to manage properties not just within London but across the UK, having close family and friends work with me and build new relationships in this field
Question 4: What advice would you give to anyone wanting to start a business in this field?
Learn the market where you want to set up the business and continue to educate yourself on the industry by attending networking events, reading books or attending meetings. Laws can easily change which is why its always important to keep up to date with government laws that can have an affect your business. Also, try and build relationships with people within your industry because someone might need your services at some point.
Concluding remarks:
If you have read up to this point I would like to thank you for taking the time out to hear my thoughts and piece of advice. I welcome any feedback regarding what you have read and hope to be sharing more news about my business very soon. Till then I hope you enjoyed reading the Q&A blog.
