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My Unexpected Journey into Property Management

My Unexpected Journey into Property Management

They say the best careers are the ones you never saw coming—and I couldn’t agree more.

In 2008, I was working as a server at a local restaurant, focused on balancing trays, not tenant 

ledgers. At the time, property management wasn’t even on my radar. But one customer would change all of that. She happened to be the Community Manager at a chic new apartment community, and after a few friendly chats and great service, she offered me something completely unexpected: a shot at joining her team.

That chance encounter became a career-defining moment.

I started as a Leasing Specialist, learning the ropes of the industry from the ground up. What began as curiosity quickly turned into passion. I loved the energy, the people, and the opportunity to make a tangible difference in our residents' day-to-day lives. Before long, I stepped into the role of Community Manager, overseeing entire communities and fine-tuning the art of balancing residents' needs, owner expectations, and operational efficiency.

Throughout my time at Blue Ridge Property Management—from 2008 to 2024—I took every opportunity to grow and refine my skills. I earned my CAM (Certified Apartment Manager) and NALP (National Apartment Leasing Professional) designations, and proudly obtained my South Carolina Property Manager License. These weren’t just letters behind my name—they were milestones that reflected my commitment to the craft and the communities I served.

By the time I concluded my chapter with Blue Ridge Property Management, I had managed nearly 800 units throughout the Rock Hill and Fort Mill area, built lasting relationships, and gained invaluable real-world experience that no textbook could ever replicate.

Looking back, it’s funny to think how one dinner shift turned into a 16-year career. I didn’t plan to fall into property management—but I’m so glad I did. Because what I found was more than a job. I found my career.

As a lifelong resident of York County, I bring more than professional knowledge to the table—I bring local insight. I know the communities, the hidden gems, the school districts, and the best weekend coffee spots. Whether you're a property owner or a renter, I offer personalized feedback and recommendations based on real experience, not just market trends.

In 2025, the next chapter unfolded in an all-too-familiar way—completely by chance. Just like my first introduction to property management, the founding of Tailored Homes Property Management started with an unexpected conversation. Jessica, Co-Founder and CEO of Tailored, and her husband, Brian, had just purchased a home with plans to turn it into a rental. That home happened to be directly across the street from mine.

One day, I ran into Jessica outside and casually offered to help with any questions they had about managing the property. As fate would have it, Jessica was also in a transitional phase in her career, and that simple exchange sparked something bigger. Our shared passion for real estate, community, and high-level service quickly turned into a vision—and before long, Tailored Homes Property Management was born.

At Tailored, we’re building more than a business. We’re building a culture of exceptional service, deep local knowledge, and unwavering professionalism. We understand that homes are personal—and managing them should be, too.

From an unexpected start to an exciting new chapter, I’m proud of this journey and even more excited about what’s ahead. Here's to serving York County in a new way—and doing it with heart.

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