Bachelor of Commerce (Valuation & Property Management) graduate

Manager, Christchurch Apartments

Personal experience of a family-run residential property business made the Bachelor of Commerce, Valuation and Property Management (VPM) degree at Lincoln University the obvious choice for Jenna Harris.
 
“The BCom (VPM) degree at Lincoln University offers students a good understanding of what the industry is really about. I loved the field trips and the practical work and enjoyed the variety of subjects from building and property management to statistics and finance.”
 
Soon after graduation Jenna set off on an OE. When she returned to New Zealand her mother had semi-retired and the family business was being managed by a property agency so Jenna decided it was a good time to take over the reins.  

 “I took immediate management of 160 apartments, houses and bedsit rooms in Christchurch and hired a team of staff.’’ Jenna organised renovations, upgrades of furnishings and managed to get full occupancy for most of the properties soon after.

This was a big challenge but one she felt her degree had well prepared her for. “Learning about property law and construction was very helpful, especially when renovating and managing properties. I was also given a good insight into the accounting side of things, which is a great asset.”
 
Jenna has most properties running at full capacity, and continues renovations and upgrades as tenants vacate. ‘Once I have the city office running well, I will also take on the management of Wigram Lodge (200 accommodation units) and Franklyn Village (180 rooms and apartments).”

“Managing a residential property business is a big challenge but one my degree has prepared me well for.”

[bcom alumni profile]