Today we’d like to introduce you to Maria Green
Hi Maria, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
As I approach my 15-year anniversary in property management—eight of which have been with my current organization, Cortland—I can’t help but reflect on the journey that brought me here. I started in this industry at just 19 years old, shortly after having my first daughter. At the time, her father and I were too young and emotionally unprepared to navigate our relationship, and as we went our separate ways, I found myself in a position where I had to secure stable income and housing for both of us.
Even at that young age, I knew that with dedication and determination, there was nothing I couldn’t accomplish. I was working the night shift at a call center, from 7 PM to 4 AM, when I came across a job posting for a Leasing Agent in Winter Park. I applied immediately, landed the interview, and was quickly hired. It didn’t take long for me to realize that leasing and sales came naturally to me—I took to it like a duck to water. I built strong connections, learned more about the industry, and steadily climbed the ladder.
As I grew in my career, I moved to a different company, where I became a Senior Leasing Agent and began training new associates. Seeing the positive impact I had on them and the company fueled my passion for leadership. After five years, I parted ways with that organization and found my way to Cortland, where I took on the role of Assistant Manager and later advanced to Community Manager.
Over the years, my career has given me more than just professional growth—it has provided stability, housing, and even led me to my now-husband Casey Green, whom I met when he visited my community as a vendor. Property management has shaped me into a compassionate leader who values human connection.
Now, after three years as a Community Manager, I can confidently say that I love what I do. I adore my team, and I take pride in creating an environment where they feel excited to come to work each day. I believe in leading, not just managing, and I’m grateful for the opportunities this career has given me.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
To say the least, life hasn’t always been an easy road. As I mentioned, I had my first daughter at a very young age, which brought immense responsibility—not just for her but for myself as well. While my career in property management was on an upward trajectory, like many others, I explored different paths. I attended and graduated from the Aveda Institute, pursuing a career in the beauty industry and working in a salon for a few years.
Despite my passion for that field, I never found the same level of success and fulfillment as I did in property management. Once I accepted that this industry was my true calling, I fully committed to growing my career. However, while my professional life flourished, my personal and love life was a different story.
For a long time, I felt unsupported, as if I only had myself to rely on. That sense of isolation made me doubt whether I would ever find someone who truly believed in me—someone who would support my ambitions and encourage my growth, both in education and in my career.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I currently manage a 300-unit mid-rise apartment community, overseeing everything from bill management to cultivating strong relationships with vendors and residents. I work closely with my Service Manager to maintain the community’s curb appeal and coordinate major repairs to ensure our building remains in top condition.
The most important part of my job, however, is navigating resident relationships. Housing isn’t just a financial commitment—it’s deeply personal. A home is where people create memories, and I’ve had the privilege of sharing in some of life’s most special moments. I’ve welcomed newlywed couples, celebrated with residents bringing home a new baby or adopting a pet, and supported individuals renting their first apartment.
At the same time, I’ve also witnessed the more difficult aspects of life. I’ve helped residents facing domestic violence situations, guided those who have lost their jobs through difficult transitions, and worked with individuals experiencing displacement.
Despite the challenges, my favorite part of my job is developing and mentoring my team. I love listening to their goals, helping them create a plan, and guiding them toward success. I truly believe in working as a collective team, where everyone’s growth contributes to our overall achievements. Seeing my team thrive is what makes this career so rewarding.
Do you have any advice for those just starting out?
“It’s okay to have hard days—be patient.”
In property management, turnover is high, and I’ve seen many people become overwhelmed by challenges that are only temporary. It’s important to remember that tough days will come, but they don’t last forever. It’s okay to have a bad day, to feel frustrated, or to struggle through a difficult situation.
What matters most is how you push through. The feeling of success is even more rewarding when you know you’ve overcome obstacles to get there. Patience, resilience, and perspective are key to thriving in this industry—and in life.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: mrs.green_407
- LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/maria-green-24469a64
