Written by Kimberly Varney
Do you conduct a year-end review with your vendors and contractors? It’s one of the most effective ways to assess the strength of your service network and make informed decisions before extending any agreement. A proper review looks at services delivered and the outcome of those services on your operations and budget and provides a non-contentious format to approach renegotiation or scope or cost before entering a new contract.
Written by Kimberly Varney
We’ve just updated our Canva Guide! This time, it’s more than a guide; it’s now a mini-course, complete with over 90 minutes of video tutorials. The course will walk you through how Estate Managers can use Canva to create polished, professional documents and make the most of the templates we publish at the Estate Management Network.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Estate operations rely on trusted people and trusted systems. Computers, phones, cameras, and smart-home platforms are essential tools for managing large properties. A Technology and Internet Use Policy establishes how those systems are used, protecting both the principal’s privacy and the staff’s professionalism.
Written by EMN
In our latest “Ask an Expert” session, we sat down with Ken Aaron of Virtual Home Inventory, a specialist in creating complete digital records of estates. Ken begins every project with a 3D scan of the property, inside and out, before moving through each room to document items in detail. From heirlooms and art collections … Continue reading “Ask an Expert Podcast / Ken Aaron from Virtual Home Inventory”
Written by Kimberly Varney
Our strategic planning guide provides a clear framework for estate managers to define priorities, set goals, and structure long-term operational plans. Includes step-by-step guidance and a full sample plan for reference.
Written by Kimberly Varney
When Estate Managers put structured systems in place, they gain the ability to lead with intention. Staff work with greater confidence, knowing expectations are clear and support is available when adjustments are needed.
Written by Kimberly Varney
A private estate requires coordinated leadership to maintain continuity, uphold standards, and manage a diverse set of responsibilities. An internal chain of command is the system that defines who gives direction, who receives it, and how accountability is maintained across the property.
Written by Kimberly Varney
SOPs provide a common set of expectations for all stakeholders by establishing uniformity in task execution. With clear, step-by-step instructions, SOPs minimize variations in performance regardless of who is carrying out the task.
Written by Kimberly Varney
When developing an asset management system, Estate Managers should consider whether their current program can grow with the estate, adapt to changes in ownership, and support broader planning efforts.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Prepare for summer staffing in the same way you plan for property readiness, vendor maintenance, or seasonal upgrades. Build the calendar, allocate the budget, confirm the resources, and have documentation ready before the season begins.
Written by EMN
If you’ve ever received a call asking ‘Where are we on fixing the _____ “ you’ll understand the value of having the answer immediately available. A simple spreadsheet can provide a quick reference that can be used for answering that question, as well as planning, budgeting, tracking and reporting status and outcomes.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Estate managers who successfully balance short-term and long-term planning create more stable estate operations. A well-structured plan ensures that immediate tasks contribute to the estate’s long-term success.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Documenting disciplinary actions for domestic employees is necessary to comply with labor laws, ensure fairness and consistency, and provide a record for performance evaluation and improvement. An Estate Manager should include a progressive discipline policy in their Employee Handbook and Estate Manual.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Providing luxury service in a HNW residence demands highly-personalized attention to detail. One of the most effective tools for an estate team to deliver on that expectation is an organizational chart
Written by EMN
Most of our templates are based in Google Suite or Canva; a free, cloud-based, entry-level, graphic design tool one can use to create a variety of content from flyers to guides and manuals.
Written by Kimberly Varney
A good employee expense policy and proper tools to facilitate expense reporting can lead to many positive outcomes, such as increased trust and productivity, improved morale, and easier financial management.
Written by Kimberly Varney
Approaching the owner and/or their financial manager to discuss additional staffing needs requires a tactful and strategic approach. We’ve created a guide for Estate Managers with some key points to effectively communicate the need for expanding household staff, ensuring a successful outcome for all parties involved.
Written by Jason Shelby
Becoming an estate manager is an exciting transition for professionals who have honed their skills in managing smaller households. As the responsibilities expand to encompass larger estates, there are numerous challenges to overcome and new skills to acquire. Successfully navigating this transition requires careful planning, effective organization, and a comprehensive understanding of the role of… … Continue reading “Transitioning To Estate Manager: Expanding From Small Households”
Written by Jason Shelby
Estate management is a complex process that requires expertise, planning, and effective management skills to ensure optimal performance. Estate managers are responsible for overseeing the operations of the property, ensuring that it is well-maintained and meets the needs of its owners. With the increasing complexities of estate management, estate managers must adopt effective strategies to… … Continue reading “5 Effective Strategies For Estate Managers To Optimize Operations”
Written by Kimberly Varney
An individual may require a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect their privacy and personal confidential information. By having an NDA in place, they can legally require anyone who interacts with them to keep this information confidential. PRO Content.
