How Can Property Management Be More Than Just Business?
Today, the real estate and property management industries are shaped by shifting market conditions, technological advancements, and changing tenant expectations. With increasing competition and rising property values, real estate investors and landlords face the challenge of effectively managing their assets while ensuring profitability. Traditional property management often falls short—leaving property owners overwhelmed, tenants frustrated, and inefficiencies unchecked.
So, how do you create a system that manages properties efficiently and transforms real estate into a seamless, high-performing investment?
For Matthew Leschber, Founder and Broker of 1836 Property Management, the answer lies in innovation, trust, and technology. As a leader redefining property management in Austin, Texas, Matthew has built a company that stands out in an industry often plagued by outdated systems and impersonal service. With a deep commitment to client success, operational excellence, and tech-driven solutions, he has positioned 1836 Property Management as a game-changer in real estate management.
“We built this company on one core belief—building relationships and delivering trust. Everything else follows from there,” Matthew shares.
However, his journey to success wasn’t conventional. It was fueled by a deep understanding of real estate challenges, a drive to revolutionize property management, and a relentless focus on long-term solutions rather than short-term fixes.
This is the story of how Matthew and 1836 Property Management became the gold standard in Austin’s real estate market—and why he is one of the most visionary leaders in real estate to watch in 2025.
The Genesis of 1836 Property Management
Matthew Leschber’s journey into property management was not a conventional one. Initially working as a real estate agent, he quickly realized that the industry was plagued by inefficiencies—rental properties were mismanaged, landlords faced frequent issues with tenants, and property managers often fell short in providing quality service. This frustrating experience ignited his entrepreneurial spirit.
“I was working lease leads and helping people find rental properties when I realized how poorly managed many of these properties were,” Matthew recalls. “Properties were dirty, tenants weren’t vacating on time, and managers were unresponsive. I knew there had to be a better way.”
Fueled by the desire to redefine property management, Matthew founded 1836 Property Management in 2007. What started as a one-person operation soon grew into an industry-leading firm that manages a vast portfolio of properties across Austin.
“We built this company on a single principle—building relationships and delivering trust. That’s what sets us apart,” he states.
A Leadership Philosophy Built on Integrity
Leadership in the real estate industry requires more than just industry knowledge—it demands integrity, adaptability, and a people-first approach. Matthew Leschber’s leadership style is deeply influenced by his upbringing and professional experiences.
“Our core values at 1836 Property Management are integrity, guidance, innovation, excellence-driven results, and personal connection,” Matthew explains. “If we’re not talking to people as humans, we’re losing the essence of this business.”
His leadership is guided by the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), a framework that encourages continuous improvement and alignment across the organization. Every year, the team at 1836 Property Management revisits and refines their core values to ensure they remain aligned with their mission.
What Makes 1836 Property Management Unique?
The real estate management industry is crowded, but 1836 Property Management has carved a niche for itself by prioritizing transparency, efficiency, and innovation. Here’s what makes the company stand out:
- People-Centric Approach: Unlike many firms that focus solely on profits, 1836 Property Management invests in its employees and fosters a culture of trust and collaboration.
- Cutting-Edge Technology: The firm has implemented state-of-the-art software to manage properties efficiently, track analytics, and enhance customer experience.
- Deep Industry Expertise: With years of experience in real estate, the team provides landlords with valuable insights and guidance to maximize their investments.
- Compliance and Risk Management: Staying ahead of regulatory changes, the company ensures that all properties comply with evolving legal requirements.
- Client-Centric Services: The firm offers personalized property management solutions, ensuring that every client receives tailored support.
Shaping the Future of Tech-Driven Property Management
Technology is revolutionizing property management, and Matthew Leschber saw the shift early, positioning 1836 Property Management at the forefront of innovation.
“When interest rates rise, business slows. Elections bring uncertainty, and large corporations have been acquiring property management firms—often overspending with investor money,” he explains.
Smaller firms struggled to compete, with many forced to exit. Instead, Matthew doubled down on technology to future-proof his business. “We anticipated this trend 8–10 years ago. Five years ago, we spent a year researching solutions, committed to a plan, refined it, and have been improving ever since.”
1836 Property Management now operates on a fully digital, automated platform, integrating real-time systems with property management software through an open API. This has eliminated inefficiencies and enhanced scalability.
“Our proprietary systems track KPIs like days on market, tenant satisfaction, and lease renewals,” says Matthew Leschber. “This data-driven approach helps us address issues before they escalate.”
By leveraging AI and automation, the company has optimized maintenance requests, rent collection, and landlord-tenant communication, creating a seamless experience. While many competitors still rely on outdated processes, Matthew’s tech-driven approach ensures efficiency, superior client service, and long-term success.
Overcoming Challenges in the Industry
Every entrepreneur faces challenges, and for Matthew, navigating the highly competitive real estate landscape has been a journey filled with lessons.
“The biggest challenge we’ve faced is educating property owners about the importance of professional management,” he shares. “Many investors think they can manage properties themselves, but they often underestimate the complexities involved.”
Another challenge has been adapting to market fluctuations. The real estate industry is influenced by interest rate changes, regulatory shifts, and economic downturns. However, Matthew Leschber believes that staying informed and leveraging technology helps businesses navigate these uncertainties effectively.
The Future of 1836 Property Management
As the company looks ahead, Matthew envisions expanding 1836 Property Management’s footprint beyond Austin and continuously improving its technology-driven solutions. The goal is to redefine property management as a strategic asset for investors, rather than just a necessity.
“We want to provide the best real estate experience for landlords, investors, and tenants alike,” Matthew Leschber says. “That means staying ahead of trends, adopting emerging technologies, and ensuring our clients feel supported every step of the way.”
Key priorities for the company’s future include:
- Enhancing customer engagement through personalized support and advanced analytics.
- Expanding services to cater to new markets and real estate investors.
- Investing in employee development to ensure continued excellence in property management.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Matthew’s journey is an inspiration to many aspiring entrepreneurs. When asked about the key lessons he has learned, he offers the following advice:
- Trust Your Team: “Your employees are your greatest asset. Treat them well, and they will take care of your business.”
- Adapt to Change: “The real estate market is dynamic. If you don’t adapt, you’ll fall behind.”
- Focus on Relationships: “Success isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the trust you build with your clients.”
- Leverage Technology: “Automation and analytics are game-changers in today’s business landscape.”
- Stay Educated: “Continuous learning is key to staying ahead in any industry.”
A Legacy of Excellence
Matthew Leschber’s leadership and commitment to innovation have cemented 1836 Property Management as a leading force in real estate management. His story is one of perseverance, strategic thinking, and an unwavering dedication to client success.
“As a leader, I don’t just want to manage properties—I want to set a new standard for property management,” he concludes.
With a visionary approach, cutting-edge technology, and a strong commitment to ethical business practices, Matthew and 1836 Property Management are reshaping the real estate industry, making them one of the most influential names to watch in 2025 and beyond.
Testimonials:
1.
“I’ve been using 1836 to manage my rental property for over 2 1/2 years and they are amazing. I live in Florida and it is impossible for me to manage the rental from halfway across the US. With the stellar team at 1836, I can rest easy. They have taken care of every issue that has come up, whether big or small. I’m grateful that I can rely on such an awesome company. Thank you Blue Team!”
Alisha W.
2.
“My clients worked with 1836 Realty to lease a property in RR. Although the beginning application process was a little challenging, 1836 was able to direct us to the right party to get things fixed quickly. The rest of the process was so easy and Tania was very responsive and helpful the entire way. Looking forward to working with 1836 more in the future with clients.”
April Gomez
3.
“My family and I just had our house leased in 4 days!!!! Through 1836, it was a painless, streamlined procedure. We worked with Melanie Price, Alyssa Smith, and Erica Griggs. The experience was completely seamless. They were extremely responsive and patiently walked us through the process. We highly recommend working with 1836 for all your housing needs.”
Cindy M.
Key Takeaways from Matthew Leschber’s Visionary Leadership
1. Innovation is the Key to Growth
Traditional property management falls short in addressing the evolving needs of real estate investors. Matthew revolutionized the industry by leveraging technology, automation, and data-driven insights to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
2. Relationships and Trust Drive Success
At the core of 1836 Property Management is the belief that strong client relationships and transparency are essential. Matthew built his company on trust, ensuring that property owners and tenants receive exceptional service.
3. Technology is the Future of Property Management
Recognizing the industry’s shift early, Matthew Leschber invested in automation, AI-driven analytics, and real-time data tracking. This approach has streamlined operations, making property management more proactive and scalable.
4. Adapting to Market Challenges is Crucial
The real estate market is shaped by economic shifts, interest rate fluctuations, and regulatory changes. Matthew’s ability to anticipate trends and adjust strategies has kept 1836 Property Management ahead of the competition.
5. Leadership is About Continuous Learning
From mentors to books, Matthew emphasizes the importance of ongoing education. His success stems from his commitment to learning, staying informed, and continuously improving both personally and professionally.
