Today we’d like to introduce you to Susanne Castro.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started out in 1986 working as a property manager for a company in Santa Ana. Unfortunately, my boss passed away and I purchased the company from his parents in 1995. Since that time, I have moved the company to Laguna Hills and doubled the amount of properties that we manage. As we are managing homeowner associations the industry is different than residential property management. In an effort to be better educated and make myself more valuable to my clients, I became a Certified Manager for Community Associations (CMCA) and a licensed Real Estate Agent. My staff has doubled in size from 1995 and we continue to grow and develop in this ever-changing industry.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has not always been a smooth journey as this industry is dominated by men, particularly in the construction and landscape industry. Many of the Board Members tend to be men, as they can take time away from their home life more than women can. Being a young Property Manager in 1986 was a challenge as I had to prove to people that I knew what I was talking about. I worked hard to earn the respect of the board members and the vendors that I worked with. I am thankful that I did have people who were patient and willing to teach me things, in the beginning, to get me to where I am today, which is with a wealth of knowledge on community association management.
what should we know about Western Property Management? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Our company only manages homeowner associations. We specialize in condominium association management. We are most proud of the fact that as a service provider, we have been able to retain many of our clients for more than 20 years. We recognize that we are dealing with people in a more personal manner than a professional manner, as we are dealing with their home, which is uniquely important to them. What sets us apart from other companies is our commitment to service, professionalism, compassion, and willingness to adapt to a communities needs. We are also proud of the fact that we have been in business for 23 years and our client base is built on referrals only.
What do you feel are the biggest barriers today to female leadership, in your industry or generally?
The biggest barrier today to female leadership is the stereotype that women cannot compete in an industry that is dominated by men. Women are always willing to learn more, gather information and listen in an effort to be educated. Given the chance, women can do anything that they set their mind to, as they are historically strong, determined and goal oriented.
Contact Info:
- Address: 23282 Mill Creek Dr. #320
Laguna Hills, CA 92653 - Website: www.westernpropmgmt.com
- Phone: (949) 334-6025
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credit:
Susanne Castro
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Mike K
May 7, 2018 at 20:36
I Know Susanne Castro and she is committed to her family, her friends and anything she does. She is a Hero and doesn’t even know it.
Alisson Rosal a
May 8, 2018 at 20:40
Susanne is one of the most intelligent & committed women I know. Such an incredible woman of influence & character. She definitely deserves this recognition plus more.
Jessie Castro
May 9, 2018 at 13:25
Susanne Castro is not only a special person, she is a hard working woman in every way you can think. She is honest and caring. She goes out of way to help HOA home owners. I’m proud to call her my wife and life partner.
L. B. Friedmann
May 10, 2018 at 16:49
I can only imagine how difficult it is to try to “corral” a voluntary board of directors but Susanne handles it with grace, kindness & professionalism. I find it an honor to work with Susanne.