Welcome to The Lodges at Fort Mill: Shelby Hughes, Community Manager

A Childhood Passion Turned Career

I’ve always had a passion for real estate, stemming from my childhood experiences of visiting open houses with my mom. Those visits were thrilling for me. After graduating from college, I became interested in multifamily properties, especially after the 2008 housing recession. I believed that housing would always be in demand, and the concept of apartments intrigued me. Fast forward to today, and here I am! Originally from the DC area, I moved to Charlotte over 10 years ago and have been fortunate to work in various markets since then.

A Day in the Life at Lodges at Fort Mill

In multifamily, no two days are ever the same, which is one of the things I enjoy most about the industry! As the manager of The Lodges at Fort Mill, I wear multiple hats, jumping in wherever needed. Our priority is leasing up our new property, so my day typically involves touring with potential residents, addressing the needs of our current residents, collaborating with our team to maintain the property’s aesthetics, and handling various administrative tasks. I also dedicate time to outreach in the surrounding community to ensure we’re building relationships.

The Joys and Challenges of Property Management

The most rewarding aspect of my job is being part of the transition process as people look for their new homes. I take pride in being a resource and helping to make the experience as smooth as possible for them. Ensuring that our residents are happy and settled here at The Lodges at Fort Mill brings me great joy.

Building Community and Making an Impact

I engage with the community by fostering a welcoming environment where residents feel at home and connected. We work to create an inclusive atmosphere through events and outreach, making sure our residents feel involved and supported.

One memorable moment was when we successfully leased up our first set of units during the initial opening phase. It was incredibly rewarding to see people excited about making The Lodges at Fort Mill their new home, especially after all the hard work that went into getting the property ready.

Essential Skills for Success

In this role, communication and problem-solving are key. You need to be able to effectively communicate with prospective and current residents, as well as the team. Organizational skills are also crucial to juggle the many tasks and responsibilities that come with managing a property.

What Makes Lodges at Fort Mill Special

I really enjoy connecting with people and being part of their journey to find a new home. Moving can be overwhelming, so my goal is to alleviate some of that stress by ensuring a seamless and enjoyable process, so they feel excited about the next chapter of their lives.

Advice for Aspiring Property Managers

Property management can be incredibly rewarding, but it also requires a lot of patience, attention to detail, and a strong sense of responsibility. My advice would be to start by learning as much as you can about the industry—whether through education, mentorship, or hands-on experience—and be ready to adapt to the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the role.

To prepare, I would recommend developing strong customer service skills, gaining a good understanding of real estate and leasing practices, and learning to manage time and multiple tasks efficiently. Experience in a related field, such as sales or operations, can also be helpful.

Life Beyond Property Management

In my spare time, I enjoy exploring local foodie spots, walking the nearby greenways, and rowing. I find these activities both relaxing and rewarding, and they allow me to connect with the local community in a meaningful way.

It’s been a wonderful experience working at The Lodges at Fort Mill. The property is a unique and one-of-a-kind luxury neighborhood in the Fort Mill/Indian Land area. It’s been so rewarding to introduce this exciting new concept to the community and showcase the high-end living we offer.

The Lodges at Fort Mill is more than just a community; it provides a luxurious living experience in a brand-new, upscale rental neighborhood. Our offerings include apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes, which cater to individuals and families at all stages of life. Whether residents are looking for a temporary home or a long-term residence, we strive to accommodate all needs and transitions.