Website design By BotEap.comThose wishing to enter the field of corporate suite rentals, where a management company arranges short-term rentals of houses and apartments, can become certified if they meet certain requirements. The candidate must have a high school diploma or equivalent; have a minimum of two years of experience in the corporate housing industry or related industry, such as real estate, hotels, property management, or relocation. They must also read, sign, and return the CHPA Code of Ethics Statement. The Association provides reference material to help the candidate prepare for and pass the exam.

Website design By BotEap.comAlthough the exam must be taken in person, scheduling is done online and the applicant can select any of 300 testing locations. If a candidate works renting corporate suites in Toronto, Canada, for example, and plans to take the exam while on vacation in San Diego or Miami, she simply requests the most convenient CASTLE testing center to attend.

Website design By BotEap.comThe CHPA exams are administered by CASTLE Worldwide, Inc. to provide testing centers and computer-based test administration. Results are provided immediately after the exam. The CCHP certification is valid for a period of three years. The study guide and reference articles provide the candidate with enough information to match their experience, ensuring the ability to score well on the test, which is divided into the three areas of expertise: Operations (37%), financial management (26%). and marketing and sales (37%). CHPA members pay a $500 exam fee and non-members pay $600. Select your preferred geographic area and exam date; Candidates may reschedule through CASTLE’s online test scheduling system within five days and must pay an additional $50 fee. Those who do not pass the exam can retake it for $100.

Website design By BotEap.comOperations knowledge is concerned with business planning, strategy, forecasting and ensuring the overall health of the business by dealing with suppliers, communities and associations in an effective and non-confrontational manner. Those operators who do not practice reasonable ethics, such as making demands outside the scope of a contractual agreement or booking, risk losing credibility. Guest services management includes ensuring that the intent to vacate is given in accordance with the lease agreement.

Website design By BotEap.comClients using corporate housing have special needs and a high budget, so they must be catered for and treated as potential return business. Unlike normal real estate and property management, renters require luxury facilities for a short time while they are on business. Some units are needed for only several weeks, but most reserve suites for an average of eighty days.

Website design By BotEap.comLike any business, the operator must have skills in financial management, marketing and sales. Budgets and financial reports, such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets, must be prepared. Generating business requires skill in multimedia advertising to avoid excess vacancies among the listed suites. A successful advertising campaign includes identifying effective media and allocating budget to purchase print advertising space, Internet exposure, or radio and television airtime. Writing competent copy is a key skill required for profitability, as without a far-reaching company message, financial gain projections will not materialize.