Property management remains a human-first industry, but artificial intelligence is reshaping how operators work, according to Ron Kutas, CEO of OneWall Communities. In a recent interview, Kutas challenged both the view that AI will eliminate most jobs and the idea that it is overhyped, instead positioning it as a tool to augment human capabilities.
“Let AI do the things that you’re using computers to do anyway,” Kutas said. “And allow humans to do the things that only humans can do – which is human-to-human interaction, authentic, real, genuine relationship building.”
OneWall Communities has been investing in its technology stack for years, and Kutas pointed to data visibility as a key benefit. “AI gives us the ability to have full visibility into every data point within our portfolio,” he explained. “It provides insights so that we can be proactive rather than reactive.” For OneWall’s asset management team, this means analysts can oversee more properties efficiently, freeing them to focus on interpretation and relationships rather than manual data tasks.
Kutas drew a hard line on operational functions like leasing, maintenance, and resident relations, where human interaction is critical. “It allows our on-site teams to spend more time being resident-facing,” he said, noting that OneWall’s resident app and onboarding platform were designed to reduce administrative overhead, not staff contact. The firm has added roughly 16 properties since October and invested in a dedicated head of learning and development to support new employees.
Kutas also reflected on his own leadership evolution. “As an entrepreneur, everything is urgent,” he said. “I used to just continue to add to the priority list for my direct reports without really helping them grasp what is a priority.” After noticing that multiple top performers were dropping tasks, he realized the problem was his approach. He now provides clearer direction, uses a shared project management view in Monday team meetings, and includes a standing agenda item in one-on-ones: challenges and manager support.
At the industry level, Kutas sees AI separating operators who adopt it from those who don’t. “The first disruption that happens is that workers and people who understand AI are going to replace workers who don’t,” he said. “Learn the skills, be familiar with the technology, and start to adopt it.” For OneWall, this means using technology to enhance its owner-operator mentality, treating residents as neighbors and managing expenses carefully. “That’s the part no algorithm is going to handle for you,” Kutas added.
For more information, visit onewallcommunities.com.
