If you’re looking for a dynamic career in real estate but don’t want to be a real estate broker, consider property management. Property managers play a crucial role in the industry by overseeing rental properties, maintaining tenant relationships, and ensuring the financial success of property investments. Here’s how to become a property manager in Washington.
Key Takeaways
- Property Manager’s Duties & Required Skills: Property managers oversee rental properties, manage tenant relations, and ensure financial and operational success. Key skills include effective communication, organization, problem-solving, and financial management, supported by tools and software to streamline tasks.
- Property Managers Must Have a Real Estate License: To become a property manager, candidates must complete 90 hours of pre-licensing coursework, pass the real estate exam, and obtain a real estate broker license. Employers increasingly prefer a bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Benefits of Becoming a Property Manager: Property management offers flexibility, career advancement, and competitive salaries. Washington is the top-paying state for property managers, with an average annual earnings of $118,360.
- How to Get Started as a Property Manager: Starting with entry-level roles or internships helps gain hands-on experience. Networking through professional organizations, events, and online platforms is essential for career growth.
What Does a Property Manager Do?
If you’ve ever rented a home or apartment, chances are you’ve interacted with a property manager. Here’s a quick snapshot of their day-to-day responsibilities.
Overview of a property manager’s daily responsibilities
Property managers wear many hats, performing tasks such as the following:
- Collecting rent from tenants
- Handling maintenance requests
- Ensuring the property meets safety codes and regulations
- Reviewing and approving tenant applications
- Marketing and showing vacant units to potential renters
- Managing other staff members (e.g., maintenance teams, security personnel)
- Monitoring and managing property expenses
Of course, many of these tasks are related to residential property management. However, commercial or industrial property managers have similar and additional tasks.
Skills Required by a Property Manager
Key skills for excelling in this role include effective communication, organization, problem-solving, and familiarity with property management tools.
Communication and interpersonal skills
As a property manager, a significant portion of your work involves interacting with tenants, property owners, and team members. Strong communication and interpersonal abilities are vital for success in this role. If this is an area where you’d like to improve, there are numerous resources to help you develop these skills.
Organizational and time management skills
Effective organization and time management are crucial for property managers. From reviewing tenant applications to coordinating maintenance requests, staying on top of tasks is critical to maintaining smooth operations. Fortunately, a variety of tools and software solutions are available to simplify tracking and managing the many aspects of property management.
Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills
Problem-solving and conflict resolution are essential components of property management. Whether mediating tenant disputes, addressing maintenance emergencies, or handling late rent payments, these skills help property managers navigate challenges effectively and maintain positive relationships.
Financial and budgeting skills
With rising labor and materials costs, a solid grasp of budgeting is more important than ever. Property managers need to create and adhere to budgets to ensure financial success. Property management software and tools make it easier to monitor expenses and revenues effectively.
Why Choose a Career in Property Management?
A career in property management in Washington offers several benefits.
- Flexibility and Variety: Not only can you work in many different industries as a property manager (residential, government, industrial, commercial), but your day-to-day job will also offer a lot of variety. Some property management positions also offer flexible schedules.
- Career Growth: After gaining experience, property managers often have opportunities to advance to senior roles or higher-paying jobs within the industry.
- Job Outlook in Washington: The growing housing market and demand for rental properties make it a promising career choice.
- Income: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), property managers in Washington make an average mean wage of $56.90 per hour—or $118,360 per year.
Property Manager Salary: What to Expect at Different Stages
Washington ranks among the top-paying states for property managers (second to New York), with an average annual wage around $93,670 according to aggregated data.
By Experience Level
| Experience Level | Estimated Annual Salary Range (National/WA Adjusted) |
| Entry-level (0–2 years) | $45,000–$60,000 |
| Mid-level (3–7 years) | $65,000–$90,000 |
| Senior/Portfolio Manager (8+ years) | $95,000–$130,000+ |
By Property Type
Residential managers (single-family, apartments, HOAs) start lower but grow with portfolio size. Commercial/industrial roles pay higher due to complexity. Affordable housing/government positions offer stability and benefits over top base pay.
Ways to Earn More
Boost income by managing larger/complex portfolios, gaining certifications like CPM, or advancing to senior/multi-site roles.
Educational Requirements for Property Managers in Washington
To work as a property manager in Washington, you must have a high school diploma and a real estate license. Many employers increasingly prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in fields such as business administration, real estate, accounting, public administration, finance, or related areas.
Do you need a license to be a property manager in Washington?
Yes, a real estate license is often required for certain property management activities.
Steps to Get Your Real Estate Broker License in Washington
Property management in Washington requires a real estate broker license. Here are the four steps to earn it, including the associated costs. For a complete walkthrough of the full licensing process, visit our Washington real estate broker licensing guide.
Total estimated cost: $900–$1,100
Step 1 — Complete Your Pre-Licensing Education
Complete 90 hours of pre-licensing coursework from a state-approved school. Rockwell Institute offers self-paced online, livestream, and in-person formats to fit around your current schedule.
Estimated cost: Varies by package — contact Rockwell Institute for current pricing.
Step 2 — Pass the Real Estate Exam
The Washington real estate broker exam is administered by PSI and covers both state and national topics from your coursework. You must pass both sections to proceed.
Exam fee: $210
Step 3 — Submit Your Fingerprints for a Background Check
Submit your fingerprints to the Washington State Department of Licensing as part of the background screening process.
Fingerprinting fee: approximately $45
Step 4 — Submit Your License Application
Submit your application online through the Washington Department of Licensing and pay the required fee to finalize the process.
Application fee: $223
How long does it take to become a property manager in Washington?
It takes approximately one to two months to earn your real estate license in Washington, which allows you to work as a property manager. However, the length of time depends on several factors. Completing this education can range from two weeks with a self-paced online course to three to eight weeks for in-person or livestream classes. Additional time is needed to schedule and take the licensing exam, which can vary based on testing center availability. If a retake is necessary, this will extend the timeline. Finally, the application and background check process typically takes five to ten business days.
Property Management Certifications and Qualifications
Earning a professional certification is one of the most effective ways to advance your career as a property manager, increase your earning potential, and demonstrate expertise to employers and property owners. This is also what separates competitive candidates for senior roles from those with only baseline licensing.
The following certifications are among the most recognized in the industry and directly address what employers mean when they ask about “property management qualifications.”
Certified Property Manager (CPM)
The CPM designation is offered by the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and is widely considered the gold standard in property management credentials. It is recognized across residential, commercial, and industrial property types.
Requirements: Active real estate license (where required by state law), completion of IREM coursework, a passing score on the CPM exam, and three years of qualifying real estate management experience.
Best for: Property managers pursuing senior roles, portfolio management positions, or leadership within a property management firm.
Residential Management Professional (RMP)
The RMP designation is offered by the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) and is specifically designed for managers of single-family and small residential properties.
Requirements: Active real estate license, completion of NARPM education requirements, 24 months of residential property management experience, and 100 management units under management.
Best for: Property managers specializing in residential portfolios who want a credential that signals expertise to property owners looking to hire a professional manager.
Certified Apartment Manager (CAM)
The CAM credential is offered by the National Apartment Association (NAA) and focuses specifically on apartment and multifamily property management.
Requirements: One year of on-site property management experience, completion of CAM coursework (typically 40 hours), and a passing score on the CAM exam.
Best for: Managers working in apartment communities or multifamily housing who want a nationally recognized credential in their specific property type.
Gaining Experience in Property Management
Once you are a licensed broker in Washington, you’re ready to start your journey as a property manager. Gaining relevant experience is essential for building your career and establishing yourself in the industry. Here are actionable tips to help you get started and grow.
Start with entry-level positions and internships
The best way to break into property management is to start with entry-level roles, such as leasing agent, assistant property manager, or administrative assistant, at a property management firm. These roles allow you to learn the basics of the job, such as tenant relations, lease administration, and maintenance coordination, while gaining valuable industry exposure.
Internships can also provide hands-on experience in the field. Many real estate firms and property management companies offer internship programs that let you shadow experienced property managers, participate in daily operations, and develop practical skills. Internships are also an excellent way to determine whether property management aligns with your long-term career goals.
Build a network
Networking is a cornerstone of success in the property management industry. Establishing connections with industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities, mentorship, and valuable insights. Here are some ways to network.
- Join Professional Organizations: Joining groups like the National Association of Residential Property Managers (NARPM) or the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) can help you stay up to date on industry trends and connect with other professionals.
- Attend Industry Events: Local conferences, seminars, and workshops provide opportunities to meet property owners, fellow property managers, and other stakeholders.
- Utilize Social Media and Online Communities: Platforms like LinkedIn and specialized property management forums are great for building your online presence and connecting with professionals.
Continuing Education and Specialized Training
Once you are licensed, continuing education keeps your license current and expands your expertise into specialized areas of property management. Washington requires 30 hours of CE every two years for standard renewal.
If you are already a licensed Washington broker and want to deepen your property management knowledge, Rockwell Institute offers a dedicated 27-hour property management course designed for active licensees. It covers the operational, legal, and financial aspects of managing residential and commercial properties in Washington.
For a broader look at what else you can do with your real estate license — including other career paths beyond property management — visit our guide on careers you can pursue with a Washington real estate license.
FAQs
Do you need a degree to become a property manager?
A degree is not required to get started in property management in Washington — a real estate broker license and a high school diploma are the baseline legal requirements. That said, many employers increasingly prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in business administration, real estate, finance, or a related field, particularly for roles managing larger commercial or institutional portfolios.
Do you need a real estate license to be a property manager in Washington?
Yes. Washington state requires property managers who perform licensed activities — such as leasing units, collecting rent, or negotiating leases on behalf of property owners — to hold a real estate broker license. This is the entry-level license in Washington, distinct from the managing broker license held by more experienced agents.
How long does it take to become a property manager in Washington?
Most candidates complete the full licensing process in one to two months. The 90-hour pre-licensing course can be completed in as little as two weeks with a self-paced online format. Exam scheduling, fingerprint processing, and application review add additional time. After licensing, gaining enough experience to qualify for professional certifications like the CPM or RMP typically takes two to three years.
What is the difference between a property manager and a leasing agent?
A leasing agent focuses specifically on marketing vacant units, showing properties, and converting prospective tenants into signed leases. A property manager has a broader ongoing role — overseeing the full operational, financial, and tenant-relations functions of a property after it is leased. Many property managers start their careers as leasing agents before taking on management responsibilities. For more on the leasing agent role and how it fits into a real estate career, see our leasing agent career guide.
What certifications do property managers need?
There is no single mandatory certification beyond a real estate license in Washington, but professional credentials like the CPM (IREM), RMP (NARPM), and CAM (NAA) are widely recognized by employers and property owners as markers of expertise. They are especially valuable for managers pursuing senior roles or seeking to specialize in a specific property type such as residential portfolios, apartments, or commercial properties.
