During a recent seminar with GemSeal, I had the opportunity to listen to property managers share their insights on choosing the right contractors for sealcoating projects. As a sealcoating contractor, understanding what property managers are looking for can help you stand out from the competition and secure more jobs. Property managers are responsible for the overall success of a project—they need to select contractors who will deliver quality work within budget and on time. Most property managers don’t fully understand the technical aspects of sealcoating, but they do know it’s one of the most disruptive processes they’ll deal with. Your goal is to make them feel confident and comfortable with your services, Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc., so that they choose you over the competition.
Focus on Professionalism, Not Just Price
Contrary to what some might think, you don’t have to be the cheapest to win a job. Property managers are willing to pay a little more if they believe it will result in fewer headaches and a smoother process. They’re looking for a contractor they can trust—someone who will complete the job professionally and with minimal disruption. Your goal is to showcase your professionalism and reassure them that you are the right choice, even if your price is a little higher.
Getting the Call: Boost Your Visibility
Property managers are busy professionals. They aren’t looking to conduct a long contractor search. They’ll typically call contractors they’ve worked with before, or they’ll search online for sealcoating contractors in their area. That’s why it’s crucial to be as visible as possible—both online and in the field. Make sure your business, Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc., has a strong online presence. This includes a well-designed website, up-to-date Google Business Profile, and listings on local directories like Yelp or Angie’s List. A solid online presence will make it easier for property managers to find you when they need sealcoating services.
In the field, make sure to advertise your work with visible signage. Use large, clear company signs with your logo, phone number, and website on every completed or in-progress project. Yard signs, barricades, or large banners on the project site are great ways to promote your services. Not only does this show professionalism, but it also creates a visual reminder of your company for anyone driving by.
The First Meeting: Impress with Professionalism
Once you get the call, it’s time to demonstrate your expertise. Schedule a site visit as soon as possible to meet the property manager and inspect the project site. During this meeting, ask specific questions about their needs, including whether they require crack filling, striping, signage, or any other additional services. Offer a comprehensive evaluation of the paved areas and explain how the entire process will unfold.
This is also the time to highlight the high-quality products you use, such as GemSeal products, and explain how your company, Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc., ensures the job is done right the first time. Let them know you will personally oversee the project and provide one point of contact, which gives them peace of mind that the project will go according to plan.
Leave behind an information packet with your business card, product data sheets, a certificate of insurance, brochures, and any references or testimonials you have from previous clients. Be clear about when they can expect to receive a formal proposal. This helps set expectations and demonstrates your commitment to professionalism.
Follow Up and Stay Engaged
After you’ve submitted the proposal, give the property manager a week to review it. If you haven’t heard back by then, follow up with a polite call or email. If they chose another contractor, politely ask for feedback. Understanding why you weren’t selected helps improve your future pitches. If you were professional and thorough, the property manager will likely keep you in mind for future projects.
Delivering on Your Promises
When you’re awarded the job, make sure to follow through on every promise you made. Set up a meeting or call to confirm the project details—dates, areas to be sealed, site closures, deliveries, and drying time. Once the job starts, ensure that your team is prepared, and the schedule is adhered to (weather permitting).
After completing the project, reach out to the property manager to confirm their satisfaction with the work. This follow-up shows you care about the quality of your service and helps build lasting relationships. It’s also a good time to ask for referrals. If the property manager is happy with the outcome, they may recommend your services to others in the industry.
Staying Top of Mind
Keep in touch with property managers even when you don’t have a project underway. Send them occasional emails with holiday greetings or relevant updates about your services. This keeps your business top of mind when they need sealcoating in the future.
Conclusion: Patience and Persistence Pay Off
Building relationships with property managers takes time. You won’t win every project, but by staying organized, professional, and reliable, you’ll increase your chances of securing future work. Make sure to provide value at every stage of the process, from the initial consultation to post-job follow-ups. The more consistent you are, the more likely property managers will turn to Asphalt Sealcoating Supply Inc. for their sealcoating needs.