At Homeward, we take property management seriously but that doesn’t mean it’s always serious business. Working with tenants every day means we hear some unusual requests and see some truly quirky moments. And while our role is to make sure properties are cared for and landlords are protected, sometimes it’s good to pause and laugh at the lighter side of property management.
Here are a few of our favourite “did they really just ask that?” moments.
The Goat in the Courtyard
Yes, you read that right. One tenant once asked if they could keep a goat in their courtyard. While we love pets at Homeward, a barnyard buddy in a boutique apartment complex wasn’t exactly in line with the strata by-laws. The request didn’t make it through but it gave us all a laugh (and a new story for the books).
Midnight Swimming Club
Another tenant once asked if the pool hours could be extended until midnight so they could take “quiet moonlit swims.” As much as we admire the romance of the idea, body corporate by-laws meant the pool had to close earlier. We encouraged them to enjoy a moonlit stroll instead.
Dogs, Cats… and a Chicken?
Pet requests are some of the most common (and colourful) parts of property management. We’ve had everything from cats and cavoodles to a request for a backyard chicken coop. While some are perfectly fine, others require a careful balance between tenant lifestyle and landlord property care.
Why We Share These Stories
Behind every quirky tale is an important reminder: good property management is about communication and care. It’s about balancing tenant happiness with landlord protection and handling unusual requests with professionalism (and sometimes, a little humour).
At Homeward, we believe it’s this boutique approach that makes the difference. We see our tenants as people, not numbers, and our landlords as partners, not just clients.
Property management isn’t always about rent rolls, inspections, and contracts. Sometimes, it’s about goats in courtyards, chickens in backyards, or tenants who dream of midnight swims. And that’s what makes our job so unique.
At Homeward, we handle the serious side of property management with care but we never forget the human (and often humorous) side too.
Ready to experience boutique management that balances professionalism with personality?
Book your free rental appraisal with Homeward Property Management today.