Miranda Smith- Hykes
Miranda Smith-Hykes is a seasoned leader in the manufactured housing, property management, and construction industry, bringing more than 20 years of hands-on experience to her work. She currently serves as Ohio Regional Manager at UMH Properties, Inc., where she oversees 10 communities across the state while also supporting the Senior Vice President, processing loans, and managing the company’s Lease With Option to Purchase program. In parallel, Miranda works as a Ohio Regional Manager, Manufactured Home Installer, planning and coordinating installations throughout Ohio with a strong emphasis on construction management, safety, and quality control. Miranda’s career began in property management after transitioning from banking, starting as an office assistant and steadily advancing through roles including assistant manager, community manager, trainer, and eventually regional leadership. Her background spans auditing, operational coordination, sales, and construction site inspections, giving her a uniquely well-rounded perspective on housing operations. Known for her hands-on, community-forward leadership style, she regularly visits properties, addresses operational challenges directly, and prioritizes accessibility for both residents and on-site staff. Beyond her professional roles, Miranda is deeply engaged in industry and community service. She serves as a Northwest Ohio Board Member for OMHA and volunteers as a board member with Fit Chicks, supporting programs for women and children. Passionate about creating pathways to homeownership, mentoring others, and fostering strong communities, Miranda is widely respected for her dedication, consistency, and collaborative approach—qualities that have earned her recognition as a trusted leader and an Influential Women 2026 honoree representing Ohio.
• Residential Mortgage Loan Originator License
• Carnegie Institute of Integrative Medicine and Massotherapy- Associate's
• Assistant of the Year
• OMHA
• Fit Chicks Inc.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to maintaining a positive attitude, strong people skills, and the ability to navigate difficult conversations with empathy and clarity. Building trust through consistency, accessibility, and genuine care for both residents and team members has been central to my growth as a leader.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to seek out mentors and listen closely to those who have walked the path before me, because their guidance and support can accelerate growth and open doors you can’t reach alone.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to be confident, bring their full energy to their roles, and use their voice regardless of their title. Build strong networks, stay visible, and believe in your leadership potential—this industry needs stronger, people-centered leaders.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is adapting quickly while navigating difficult conversations and supporting people who may be in negative or stressful situations, all while finding solutions that still meet program requirements. At the same time, there is a tremendous opportunity to expand homeownership through structured programs like lease-to-purchase and brokered home initiatives, especially in communities that previously had no home sales. Strengthening digital visibility and community-based programs also allows us to better serve residents and build stronger, more trusted communities.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity, accessibility, accountability, and empowerment guide how I lead—I believe in being present, leading by example, and creating environments where people feel heard, supported, and capable of growing. Outside of work, I value balance and grounding, which I find through managing my hobby farm with chickens, turkeys, and sheep, and spending time outdoors hiking and kayaking.