What 27 Years In Cessnock Property Management Has Taught Me.
It’s hard to believe it’s been 27 years since I first stepped into the world of property management. Back then, rent was still paid in person, type writers were used and handwritten applications were the norm, and a lot of business was done on trust and a handshake.
Today, the industry has changed dramatically — but what hasn’t changed is the importance of good people, strong relationships, and protecting what matters most: your investment.
Here are the biggest lessons 27 years in property management — and proudly serving the Cessnock community — have taught me:
Experience Matters When Things Get Hard
Anyone can look good when everything’s going smoothly — but experience shows its value when things go wrong. Whether it’s a tenancy dispute, an unexpected maintenance crisis, or new legislation, landlords need someone who’s been there before and knows how to navigate it calmly, legally, and confidently. I’ve learned that staying cool under pressure, knowing the law inside out, and protecting both the property and the people involved is what separates an average property manager from a great one.
Local Knowledge Isn’t Just Helpful — It’s Powerful
Working in Cessnock means I don’t just know the suburbs — I know the streets, the market shifts, and the stories behind the properties. I’ve seen neighbourhoods change, schools grow, and families settle into the area.
That kind of insight helps me guide investors on where to buy, how to price their property competitively, and what kinds of tenants will thrive in their homes.
Tenants Aren’t Just “Tenants” — They’re People
I’ve seen landlords hold onto great tenants for years simply because they took the time to treat them with respect and fairness. A happy tenant is more likely to care for the property, pay rent on time, and stay longer, another rule my team and I live by is today's tenants are tomorrow buyers, this why we understand that good property management is about more than rules and reports — it’s about building respectful, professional relationships that benefit everyone.
The Best Landlords Ask Questions
One of the joys of this job is working with landlords who want to learn. The best outcomes happen when clients ask questions, seek advice, and trust the process. After managing thousands of tenancies, I’ve learned that education is power. When landlords understand how legislation works, what to expect from tenants, and why certain processes matter, they feel more confident — and the property performs better.
Trust Is Everything
Over the years, I’ve been trusted to manage people’s homes, their investments, and in some cases, their retirement income. I don’t take that responsibility lightly. Whether it’s a single rental or a portfolio of properties, I treat each one as if it were my own — with care, diligence, and absolute transparency.
Final Thoughts
A lot has changed since I first started in property management — but my commitment to doing what’s right has never wavered.
If you’re a landlord in the Cessnock area looking for experience you can trust, a team who knows the market inside out, and service that puts people first, I’d love to have a conversation with you.
After 27 years, I’m still passionate about property — but even more passionate about helping people get the most out of theirs.
Need help managing your property?
📞 Contact Mellissa Gibson at LJ Hooker Cessnock
📍 84 Vincent St, Cessnock NSW
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