(Thayer Associates)
A legacy of excellence in property management
Thayer & Associates has deep roots, stretching back to the 1930s when the family first ventured into property management as an extension of their insurance business. Officially incorporated in 1987, it is based in the Porter Square area of Cambridge. Specializing in residential property management, it manages over 7,000 properties.
“Our story is one of family tradition and dedication,” said President and co-owner Candice (Thayer) Morse. “As a fourth-generation property manager, I joined the family business as a teenager in 1999. Working under the guidance of my father, Douglas Thayer, who learned from his father, Donald Thayer. In 2023, my brother, Mark, and I became co-owners, continuing our family's legacy in property management.”
Thayer & Associates provides everything related to property management, including rent collection, property maintenance, association governance, community services, and record-keeping. The company philosophy revolves around prompt communication and a dedication to ongoing learning. The mission at Thayer & Associates is to provide high-quality service and maintenance while preserving the value of their homeowners' properties.
“We believe that managing our clients' homes is a privilege,” Morse said. “This is a mantra instilled in everyone at Thayer & Associates.”
The growth of Thayer & Associates has been driven by reputation and word-of-mouth. Morse said she attributes this to the company’s commitment to effective and efficient communication. Over the years, the digital era has transformed the property management industry, introducing new tools and technologies. However, the crew at Thayer & Associates firmly believes that personal connections remain the cornerstone of success.
“My philosophy,” Morse said, “is that personal connection is the key to success. It’s all about relationships with people. We have real, live people answering the phones which means our clients feel heard and know they’re concerns are being taken care of.”
Being in business for nearly 100 years doesn’t come without its challenges. From legislative changes to construction timelines and recurring property maintenance, the team at Thayer & Associates tackles everything head-on.
“Everything comes back to communication,” Morse said. “Even when navigating difficult conversations, we are always prioritizing the best interests of our clients. Everyday brings new challenges, and our team always rises to the occasion. We thrive on overcoming obstacles together.”
One of the biggest tools Thayer & Associates uses is its robust network of partners. By collaborating with groups like the Better Business Bureau, cyber security specialists, and various insurance providers, they are able to provide management strategies, financial planning, administrative services, and construction guidance for their residents, property owners, and homeowners/condo associations. Their involvement in organizations like the Institute of Real Estate Management and the Community Association Institute (CAI New England) also keeps them connected to industry best practices and provides opportunities to mentor the next generation of property managers.
Thayer & Associates has been deeply embedded in the Porter Square neighborhood of Cambridge for almost 25 years. Giving back is an important part of the company’s philosophy. Over the years, they’ve supported groups such as the Harvard Square Homeless Shelter, Phoenix, MSCPA Angell, and The Pegasus House.
“We’re committed to lifting up our local community through partnerships and financial contributions,” Morse said. “We also offer affordable housing initiatives and support for those affected by tragedies, such as rehousing victims of a Cambridge fire. This is central to our mission.”
Looking ahead, Morse said they are focused on expanding their educational offerings, with upcoming training sessions designed to help property managers execute successful capital repair projects.
Thayer & Associates services the greater Boston and surrounding areas.
Thayer & Associates has been an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau since 2000. For more information about Thayer & Associates, check out their BBB Profile. To learn more about BBB and read more stories like this, visit Behind the Business Stories with BBB in Eastern MA, ME, RI & VT.
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