At StoneRiver Company, we recognize the immense value our team brings to our success. We take pride in our team and celebrate their accomplishments every day. We are delighted to share their stories with the world, so stay tuned for our monthly employee highlights. We hope you enjoy getting to know our exceptional team!
This month’s featured employee is Michael Babkowski.
What is your role at StoneRiver, and how long have you been a part of the team?
I am a Leasing Consultant at Pecan Springs, and in this role, my primary responsibilities are leasing, marketing, and maintaining positive resident relations for my community. I have been in the industry for nine years and have worked in various positions, such as leasing consultant, assistant property manager, and property manager. Since joining the team in February 2023, I have had the privilege to help in the due diligence process for Concord Ridge and assist at other locations as needed.
How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
I am currently pursuing a master’s degree in business, so I spend most of my free time studying. When not studying, I enjoy hiking, reading a book, or listening to podcasts.
When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
From a young age, I had a strong desire to work in the medical field and initially pursued a career as a PA by enrolling in college. However, after tackling chemistry and biology simultaneously, I realized that perhaps this wasn’t the right path for me. As a result, I decided to pursue property management as my next career choice. While I may not be saving lives, I still find fulfillment in helping people on a daily basis.
What advice would you give to your teenage self?
I have two things I would tell my teenage self. One would be “Don’t let the ignorant and superficial opinions of others destroy your self-confidence,” and the second is “When unsure, remind yourself that “everything you want is often on the other side of fear.”
What’s one of your favorite memories from the past year?
One of my fondest memories from the past year took place at a Dallas restaurant called XOXO. My best friend and I decided to play a prank and pretended to have a proposal, fooling the entire restaurant. It was such a fun experience that now I jokingly refer to her as my “fiancé” instead of just a friend.
What led you to this career?
When I was 17 and rented my first apartment, it was a complete nightmare. The unit was unfinished, appliances were on the patio, the carpet was torn up, doors were painted shut, and there were pest control issues. However, this experience sparked my interest in property management, and I’ve since had success in this field. My goal is to ensure that all prospects and move-ins have a positive and substantially better experience.
What’s the biggest misconception people have about your position?
In my opinion, one of the most common misunderstandings about being a leasing consultant is the belief that we are the lowest-ranked or least significant role. However, as the face of the company, we are crucial in shaping the community’s first impression and ultimately impacting the property’s success. As the initial point of contact with prospects, our role is vital and should not be underestimated.
