Marblestone Property Group (MPG) has been in business since 2004. We started as a small operation that only managed our own properties. But we’ve grown into a full-service company managing more than 400 rental properties for real estate investors around the world.
In the early days, we just hired people we liked. And we knew most of the property owners we took on as clients. While that worked out pretty well for a while, as we got bigger, we couldn’t depend on the “would you wanna hang out with this person” vibe checks anymore. Things got hairy when a potential teammate or client passed one person’s vibe check, but someone else didn’t like them… and usually couldn’t say exactly why.
We needed a better system to decide which job candidates we hired, which vendors we wanted to use, and even which property owners we wanted to work with. There are a lot of Chicago property managers who will work with anyone if their check clears (but who writes checks anymore?).
The solution was to create a set of core values. Now, before we hire someone, partner with a vendor, or agree to manage an owner’s properties, we make sure they align with our values. I can’t tell you how many trainwrecks we’ve avoided by using our core values as a litmus test.
Marblestone’s Core Values (GO MPG)
Growth-Oriented
We embrace a culture of continuous learning and development where everyone can live up to their fullest potential, regardless of where their paths take them. MPG helps its employees attain their personal and professional goals by providing opportunities for training, mentorship, skill-building, and financial literacy workshops. We give advice and support to our vendors on how to grow their businesses. We believe if you’re not growing, you’re dying.
Mastery
At MPG, we don’t expect perfection from each other, but we don’t half-ass anything, either. We encourage everyone to maximize their potential by improving their skills, knowledge, and expertise within their respective roles and preparing for their next ones. We each can get a little bit better than the day before—all of us.
Positivity
No Debbie-downers here! We keep our glasses full, thank you very much. We know that a constructive mindset seizes opportunities in life and ultimately achieves more. Plus, it’s just more fun to be around positive people. That’s why we cultivate a supportive and uplifting environment by fostering optimism and enthusiasm. Don’t get it twisted: we’re very serious about our roles and hold each other and our partners to high standards. We keep things light because you only get to enjoy life once.
Get Shit Done
Actions speak louder than words and good intentions. “Gonna-dos” don’t cut it here. When we say we’re going to do something, we get shit done. Pronto. That’s the MPG Way. ‘Nuff said.
Why Core Values Count
Our core values serve as our North Star for every decision we make. We hire, fire, and reward our team according to how they exemplify our core values. We’re very upfront with everyone we work with that this is who we are. If they can’t get on board with us, we have to say goodbye.
How about you? What are your core values? If you own rental property, does your Southside Chicago property manager GO-MPG for you?