Celebrating International Podcast Day with Beyond Rent

In celebration of International Podcast Day, we’re recapping a standout episode of our podcast, Beyond Rent, hosted by Joe Easton, Rent Manager’s Director of Partnerships and Industry Relations. This milestone 100th episode focuses on the past, present, and future of property management, providing a thorough understanding of where we’ve been and where we’re headed.

Introducing Don Brunner and BRG Realty Group

In this episode, Joe welcomed Don Brunner, a veteran property manager and the CEO of BRG Realty Group. BRG, based in Cincinnati, is known for its family-oriented approach to business. Don emphasized how BRG has grown into a company where every employee feels like part of the family—a value he carries into all aspects of his professional and personal life.

Don’s history in the industry is impressive. Having started in the supplier side of property management in 1998, he made the leap to management in 2004. His career journey includes leadership roles within the National Apartment Association (NAA) and various regional associations, further illustrating his deep involvement and passion for the industry. These experiences, he said, have shaped his perspective on the importance of networking, mentorship, and building a community.

The Evolution of Technology in Property Management

One of the key themes Don explored in the episode was the technological transformation in property management. When he first transitioned to the management side in the early 2000s, processes were mostly manual. Team members tracked leasing inquiries with notepads, phone calls were logged manually, and communication between maintenance teams relied on walkie-talkies. It was a time when technology hadn’t yet integrated fully into property management operations.

Today, things are drastically different. Don reminisced about the shift from paper-based processes to digital systems, such as online leasing platforms, which were critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rapid adoption of technology allowed BRG to continue operations seamlessly during a time when in-person interactions were limited. Yet, while BRG has embraced modern solutions, Don highlighted how the company has been strategic in its adoption of new technologies, ensuring they don’t lose the personal touch that sets them apart.

For Don, the balance between technology and human interaction is pivotal to his company’s success. He explained that while many residents prefer to manage aspects of their lease digitally—whether it’s renewing a lease, making a payment, or submitting a maintenance request—others still value in-person interaction. Don believes it’s essential for property managers to offer multiple communication options, allowing tenants to engage via their preferred medium. The challenge lies in integrating these varied preferences into the operational workflow of a property management company.

Navigating Industry Changes and Challenges

The conversation naturally moved toward the broader changes in the property management landscape. Don cited the rise in property taxes, real estate costs, and interest rates as significant hurdles for property managers. These financial pressures, he explained, have been contributing to the rise in rent prices. He also acknowledged that while some perceive rent increases negatively, they are often necessary to balance the rising costs of managing properties.

An ongoing challenge that Don addressed is the everchanging legal landscape with regard to managing properties. Local, state, and national regulations surrounding housing are becoming more complex and, in some cases, restrictive. This changing legislative landscape keeps property managers on their toes, as they must navigate a growing web of legal considerations to ensure compliance while maintaining profitability.

Despite these obstacles, Don remains optimistic about the future. BRG is continually looking for opportunities to expand, he said, even in challenging economic climates.

The Importance of People in Property Management

At the heart of Don’s success is his commitment to people—employees and tenants alike. He explained how BRG emphasizes fostering a supportive and family-like environment. For Don, success in property management is about more than just financial returns; it’s about creating an atmosphere where employees feel valued and residents feel at home.

During the pandemic, BRG took steps to reach out to renters directly. Each resident received a personal phone call, checking in to see if they needed assistance—whether financial help or simply a friendly conversation. Don believes this level of care sets BRG apart from others in the industry, where digital processes often overshadow the human touch.

From a staffing perspective, Don emphasized that recruiting and retaining top talent is crucial in today’s competitive market. BRG offers a clear path for career development, providing opportunities for education and professional growth. Don underscored that by investing in people, BRG is investing in its future. Offering comprehensive benefits and creating a positive work environment helps ensure that employees see BRG as a place for a long-term career, not just a job.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Property Management

Don wrapped up the conversation by offering insights into where he sees the property management industry heading. While the future is hard to predict, he anticipates that technology will continue to play a larger role. From artificial intelligence (AI) answering basic tenant queries to more sophisticated systems for managing leasing and maintenance, the industry is evolving rapidly. Don acknowledged that residents today expect instant communication and service, and technology will be key in meeting these demands.

He also pointed out that the growing trend of remote work will influence future developments. New apartment designs, for instance, now often include dedicated workspaces for tenants who spend significant time working from home. Even in older buildings, property managers must find creative solutions to accommodate these shifting needs.

Don’s final advice to anyone entering the industry is to embrace learning and networking. He emphasized the value of joining local and national apartment associations, where property managers can share knowledge, strategies, and support. Building relationships, according to Don, is just as important as understanding the mechanics of property management.

Conclusion

Don Brunner’s appearance on Beyond Rent offered valuable insights into the ever-changing landscape of property management. From his early days in the industry to his current role as CEO, Don’s approach has always centered on people, community, and strategic growth. As the industry continues to evolve, those who can balance technology with a personal touch will likely experience long-term success.