Property or real estate managers oversee the critical behind-the-scenes operations of shopping malls, commercial office buildings, and residential buildings. They market apartments and commercial space, negotiate leases, pay bills, prepare financial accounts, and report on the status of their properties to the owners. 

Managers also negotiate building service contracts and hire and supervise maintenance and management staff. They function as the owners' agents and frequently manage many properties. Most firms prefer managers with real estate, business, or finance degrees. They must be effective administrators, have excellent oral and written communication skills, and love working with a diverse range of people. 

Work is divided between the office and on-site at the property. The hours might be long and unpredictable at times. Managers must be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week in the event of an emergency. Evening and weekend hours are frequently required to show prospective clients unoccupied homes or attend building association meetings. 

Apartment building managers frequently live in the building they manage. A job as a property and real estate manager can be lucrative if you enjoy running things and are up for new challenges.