United Group is delighted to celebrate AJ Sainato, Property Manager at College Suites at Washington Square, for reaching his five-year milestone with the Company!
AJ joined United Group in April of 2021 as Assistant Property Manager at Schaffer Heights. In 2024, he transferred to student housing and became the Property Manager at College Suites at Washington Square.
Throughout his years with United Group, AJ has proved to be a valuable asset to the United Group team, even earning Property Manager of the Year at the 2024 Manager’s Retreat at Disney. His strong work ethic, positive mindset, and commitment to both his team and residents make him an exceptional team member and we are proud to celebrate him.
To learn more about AJ’s journey within United Group, read his Q&A below.
Congratulations, AJ!
Questions
1.) Take us back to day one! What was it like? What do you remember about your first day?
My first day as an APM with Schaffer Heights was a good day. The first person I saw walking into the Main Lobby was Earl, sitting at the Front Desk, giving me a look like I shouldn’t be there in the lobby. When I introduced myself and told him it was my first day, he pretended he didn’t know what I was talking about (which he did) and made me wait in the Lobby until the PM was done with his “meeting.”
2.) Walk us through a typical workday!
A typical work day for me at CSWS always starts with coffee. From there, it’s off to the races with emails, follow-ups, meetings, walking the building, working with my Maintenance and Management Teams, welcoming new tenants and saying goodbye to the old ones. I want to make sure each day is fulfilled with a measurable progression because you never know what can happen at a moment’s notice.
3. )What is your favorite memory (so far) from your time at UGOC?
My favorite memory while with UGOC has to be the experience of going to my first Manager’s Retreat at Disney. The experience of being with my colleagues at The Most Magical Place on Earth and being shown some of the secrets of how they make their magic happen was awesome.
4.) What advice would you give yourself reflecting on the last 5 years?
My best reflective advice to myself: All days are good days, some are just better than others.
5.) How has your role changed over the years? (If at all possible)
The role doesn’t change – the property does. Managing an evolving asset will always be a challenge, but surrounding yourself with quality staff and having support from your peers makes the difference each day.