Ask an Expert Podcast / Ken Aaron from Virtual Home Inventory
EMN
In our latest “Ask an Expert” session, we sat down with Ken Aaron of Virtual Home Inventory, a specialist in
Planning Ahead for 2026
Kimberly Varney
As we look ahead to 2026, the Estate Management Network has started our strategic planning, and we’d like for you to be a part of that. This community was built for Estate Managers, and it should continue to reflect what you want and need from it. Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts.
Building Systems That Work Under Pressure
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.
Asset Management as an Essential System in Estate Operations
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.
EM Templates: Maintenance Planner
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.
Using Zoning to Streamline Estate Operations
EMN
Zoning serves two primary roles within an estate: operational zoning and service zoning. Operational zoning addresses the physical structure and movement within the property, supporting security, vendor movements, environmental operations, and maintenance. Service zoning is the working foundation of the daily schedule, determining how each space is assigned, cleaned, and cared for. These two systems work together to create a manageable, efficient, and aware household environment.
Balancing Long-Term and Short-Term Planning in Estate Management
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.
A Summer Home’s Readiness // Preparedness and Pre-Arrivals
Joanie Veage
If you’re a little like me and many of my private service colleagues, this may be your favorite part of the job; the annual relocation to your principal’s summer home.
Seating Arrangements
Kimberly Varney
Whether you’re seating 10 or 100, it’s important to know who is seated where and what’s important to them. Seating charts are the tool for the job. We’ve created Canva templates for several typical layouts, and it’s easy to cut and paste the elements to create your own.
Standardizing Service with Task Sheets
EMN
Creating repeated task sheets can help streamline and automate routine tasks, saving time and reducing the likelihood of errors or missed details.