Leading as a CEO isn’t easy. No matter what business you are in.
The key is to trust yourself, your conscience, and what you believe in.
Check out my interview with Paul Tennen, CEO of Linder & Associates.
He’s in property management. Talk about mental toughness!
Our podcasts are interviews between Justin Krane, Krane Financial Solution’s President, and various professionals, one or more of which are or have been Krane Financial Solutions clients. However, nothing stated within the podcasts should be considered a testimonial or endorsement of Krane Financial Solutions or Justin Krane, and the professionals have not been directly or indirectly compensated for being interviewed.
In this episode, Paul shares the raw, behind-the-scenes truth about buying a property management company, shifting from one-time broker commissions to recurring revenue, and the financial and emotional grit it took to turn a struggling business into a thriving operation. They dive into business models, margins, staffing, leadership, personal burnout, and how entrepreneurs can build a company that grows without costing them their health, family, or sanity. It’s a must-listen for anyone scaling a service-based business or considering real estate as a long-term wealth strategy.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Paul’s Backstory & Business Purchase
- How Paul transitioned from apartment building broker to buying a 30-year-old property management company.
- Why he kept the original company name, and why property managers rarely put their own name on the door.
- The unique challenge of buying a business where clients can leave with 30 days’ notice.
The Business Model Shift
- Moving from one-time commissions → recurring revenue (management fees, leasing fees, maintenance income).
- The early mistake that cost him $50,000 per month: undercharging for maintenance and staffing too early.
- How he added new revenue streams to stabilize cash flow.
Scaling, Staffing & Leadership
- Why hiring for integrity, communication, and heart matters more than hiring for experience.
- The shift from surviving to building a healthy, stable internal culture.
- What finally reduced staff turnover and improved team performance.
Mindset, Grit & Personal Growth
- The brutal first years: losing money, working nonstop, becoming a new husband, new father, new homeowner all in one year.
- How therapy, personal development work, and prioritizing family helped him rebuild his own wellbeing.
- His advice for entrepreneurs stuck in survival mode who want more balance without losing business momentum.
Financial Insights for Entrepreneurs
- How Paul tracks numbers monthly across management fees, leasing, and maintenance.
- Why understanding margins in a service business is critical.
- The importance of selling passion, not just services, in business development roles.
Life, Routines & What Success Looks Like Now
- Paul’s morning routine, parenting, travel habits, and commitment to staying mentally and physically strong.
- What he sees coming next for property managers as legislation shifts the industry.
Connect With Paul
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