Behind the Scenes of Property Management: Insights from Felicia at Arcadia Property

Unlocking the Secrets of a Successful Property Journey in Queenstown

We recently sat down with Felicia from Arcadia Property, a Queenstown property manager with over 7 years of experience in the industry. As the director of her business, Felicia has been navigating the ever-changing property market and creating meaningful relationships with landlords and tenants. But what’s the real story behind the person who helps so many property owners thrive? We’ve got the inside scoop on her experience, the challenges of today’s rental market, and her approach to property management. Let’s dive in!

What Drew You to Property Management?

“I’ve been working in property management in Queenstown since 2016, beginning my journey as a personal assistant at a national real estate brand. Over the years, I progressed into the role of Operations Manager, gaining invaluable hands-on experience across many aspects of the industry. Since then, I’ve continued to advance my qualifications, earning my real estate license and certifications in trust accounting to deepen my expertise. In 2022, we launched Arcadia Property—and it’s truly been the best decision I’ve ever made. Building something from the ground up that reflects my values and vision has been both rewarding and inspiring. I was initially drawn to property management through a genuine passion for property, but what’s kept me in the industry is the people. I love being part of my clients’ and tenants’ journeys—building relationships, offering support, and sharing in life’s key milestones. It’s a dynamic, ever-changing role where no two days are the same.”

Felicia’s story shows how important passion and growth are in property management. It’s great that she started from the ground up and now owns her company, Arcadia Property. I agree with her that the best part of property management is the relationships you build. It’s so much more than just maintaining homes, it’s about people!

What Are Some Challenges You Face in Property Management, and How Do You Address Them?

“One of the biggest challenges in recent times has been navigating the constantly evolving rental market. Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen a significant drop in rental prices, which has required us to stay agile and responsive. As both a director and property manager, it’s my responsibility to ensure our properties remain competitive—this means maintaining a high standard through ongoing upkeep, proactive maintenance, and presenting homes that truly stand out. Another key part of my role is education. I believe in empowering both landlords and tenants with the knowledge they need to make confident decisions. For landlords, this means setting realistic expectations and understanding the full scope of the investment journey. For tenants, it’s about helping them understand their responsibilities and the terms of their tenancy agreements. By fostering this understanding on both sides, we create stronger, more respectful relationships—and ultimately better outcomes for everyone involved.”

I completely agree with Felicia on this. The market has been fluctuating a lot, and staying ahead means making sure properties are always in tip-top shape. And education? It’s so important! Helping both tenants and landlords understand each other leads to smoother, stronger relationships. It’s the little things that make a big difference!

How Do You Ensure Effective Communication with Property Owners, and What Can Owners Expect from You?

“Throughout the rental process, our clients can expect consistent and proactive communication. We provide multiple updates each week, covering key details such as viewing attendance, the number of applications received, and any conditions applicants may propose for the tenancy agreement. This level of detail ensures landlords feel informed and confident every step of the way. Once a tenancy is in place, I stay closely connected with our clients. Landlords receive a comprehensive inspection report every quarter, as well as an annual rent review to ensure their investment remains competitive in the current market. Transparency is the foundation of everything we do at Arcadia Property. And on a more personal note—if any of my clients are in town, I love to invite them along for a property inspection, followed by a coffee and catch-up with the tenants. It’s a great way to build relationships and create a sense of community between landlords, tenants, and our team.”

I love how Felicia makes communication such a priority. Keeping clients in the loop with regular updates ensures everyone stays on the same page, which is essential. And the personal touch of inviting landlords for inspections and coffee really shows how much she values those relationships. I couldn’t agree more that transparency and connection are key to successful property management.

What Current Trends in the Property Market Should Owners Be Aware Of?

“Right now, one of the key trends property owners should be aware of is the softening rental market, particularly in areas like Queenstown. Over the past 12 months, we’ve seen a noticeable decline in rental prices, driven by a combination of increased supply and shifting tenant demand. Properties that would have leased quickly in previous years may now take longer to rent, and at lower weekly rates. This change highlights the importance of property presentation and upkeep. Well-maintained homes that are priced appropriately and marketed effectively will always stand out. Tenants today are discerning—they’re looking for value, quality, and flexibility. That’s why we focus on ensuring our properties are in top condition and why we provide strategic advice to our landlords to help them stay competitive.”

Felicia nails it here. The market has shifted, and tenants are becoming more selective. A well-maintained property that’s priced right is always going to attract more attention. I agree that property owners need to stay flexible and keep their homes looking great to stand out in today’s competitive market.

In Conclusion…

Felicia’s approach to property management is a breath of fresh air, rooted in experience, heart, and a deep understanding of what truly matters to both owners and tenants.

At Remarkable Plumbing, we love connecting with professionals like Felicia who raise the bar in their fields. Every relationship we build—whether with homeowners, tenants, or property managers—helps us do our job better and serve more homes with care.

Because at the end of the day, it’s not just about fixing pipes or taps. It’s about keeping homes running smoothly, so people like Felicia can focus on what they do best.