The Ceres Chamber of Commerce held its October Halloween-themed monthly mixer at Countryside Property Management at its Orchard Park Center office. Bales of hay, drinks and door prizes were set up in the parking lot in front of 3649 Mitchell Road, Suite B.

Jason Alves, president and broker of Countryside, said the business was set up in Ceres about three years ago. The company manages all types of property, including commercial, but mostly multiple family complexes, smaller duplexes and single-family residential rentals for long-distance owners. In fact, Alves said 95 percent of the company's clientele is in residential property management. The company's services include online document signing, through tenant screening, hiring of handymen for repairs, collecting rent and providing reports of income and expenses, and general property maintenance and upkeep.

The company's website, countrysidepm.com also allows anyone to search for properties to lease. Most vacant and available rentals may be viewed by checking out a key from the office. When a key is not available for viewing, showings will be by appointment. Checking out a key requires that a prospective tenant to present a valid photo ID and a $50 refundable cash key deposit.

About a year ago, classmate Robert Moore joined the firm as a senior property manager.