CORPORATE CITIZENSHIP REPORT 2013
FROM OUR PRESIDENT & CEO management practices. In addition, we have the ability to bring awareness regarding sustainable living practices to the over 52,000+ residents and 110 commercial tenants that have chosen to be a part of our Gables communities. Our goal is to be a responsible developer, owner and manager as well as to serve as a positive presence in our communities and neighborhoods. In an effort to achieve our ecological goals, Gables has implemented sustainability initiatives that engage our associates, residents, tenants, vendors and communities. Gables has the opportunity to have a meaningful influence on our home towns. An important tradition in which Gables gives back to our local communities is through Gables Day, a program that was established 13 years ago. This special day is celebrated company-wide across the nation and brings together our associates and vendors to participate in designated community service projects within our local neighborhoods. Many of our associates state that Gables Day is their favorite day of the year.
Gables Residential is committed to “Taking Care of the Way People Live ™.” In the pursuit of fulfilling our core values we devote our attention to delivering extraordinary quality and service to our residents, unparalleled employment experience to our associates, integrity and value to our investors and customers as well as enduring contributions to our local communities. These core values create what we believe to be the definition of corporate citizenship. I am very proud of our company’s extensive work in the areas of sustainability, social responsibility and associate engagement, as we believe these efforts are interdependent upon each other and a requirement of a robust platform that delivers on the goal of providing strong corporate citizenship. With these goals in mind I am pleased to present our 2013 Corporate Citizenship Report. This report provides a scorecard of our sustainability initiatives, community service activities, associate engagement and corporate governance practices. It is intended to serve as a repository of information for all Gables stakeholders and reflects the level of commitment and the overall effect that these measures create.
Our efforts are clearly measured via industry standards but also calibrated by internal systems and reporting designed to ensure continuity and progress. Our results have been honored by many industry and green organizations locally and globally. However, the success of our programs lies in the hearts and minds of our associates who take our mission seriously and put forth the effort to be environmentally and socially responsible every day. I am so appreciative of what our team does and thank them for being so dedicated. Good corporate citizenship has been a cornerstone at Gables since our beginning. It is a mission we have held in importance and strived to deliver for decades. Many of our sustainable practices trace their history back to our roots. Our goal is to be a leader in corporate citizenship by demonstrating sustainable apartment and mixed use living, social responsibility and extraordinary care for our associates. I thank you for your interest in Gables and welcome any feedback that you may have on our efforts.
Susan Ansel President and Chief Executive Officer
We understand that we have a tremendous impact on our communities through our development and
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
from our president & ceo
2
About Gables Residential 4
Our MISSION & VISION
5
VISION
6
Development & Construction
8
ON-SITE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
8
OFFICE administration
8
RETAIL
10
impact on environment
12
SUSTAINABILITY AWARENESS
13
VALUE OF TRACKING & MEASUREMENT
14
GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
17
GROWING OUR ASSOCIATES
commitment TO SUSTAINABILITY
WHY GREEN?
Sustainability INITIATIVES
COMMUNITY SERVICE
OUR gables workplace
WHAT WE’RE HEARING
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Pictured On Cover : Gables Park Plaza | Austin, TX
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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ABOUT GABLES RESIDENTIAL OUR MISSION & VISION Gables Residential is an award-winning, vertically integrated real estate company and privately held REIT specializing in the development, construction, acquisition and management of multifamily and mixed-use communities. We manage approximately 35,000 apartment homes and 500,000 square feet of retail space in high-growth markets throughout the United States, including Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, Houston, South Florida, Southern California, Boston, Denver, and metropolitan Washington, D.C. In addition, on behalf of our third-party clients, we manage communities located in other markets that are referenced on the map below.
OUR CORE VALUES
Our Core Values are our rock solid beliefs, regardless of trends or market conditions, and are based on delivering the following: • Extraordinary quality and service for our residents
OUR VISION To be the industry leader for innovation, adaptability and entrepreneurship in providing high-quality living experiences in premier apartment communities that are created from a culture committed to producing products and services that appeal to the evolving demographic in high-growth markets in the United States.
•
Unparalleled employment experiences for our associates
•
Utmost integrity and value for our shareholders and customers
• Enduring contributions to our local communities
Seattle
Metro New York/New Jersey
Boston
Washington D.C./MD/VA
Denver Southern California
Virginia Beach
North Carolina
Dallas Atlanta
Austin
North/Central Florida Houston
Phoenix
South Florida
Regional Office Headquarters More Communities Portfolio
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
STABILIZED
INVESTMENT PIPELINE
DEVELOPMENT/LEASE-UP
THIRD-PARTY MANAGED
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COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY VISION As a natural extension of our corporate mission, “Taking Care of the Way People Live ™”, Gables is dedicated to “Taking Care of Our Environment.” As a developer and manager of real estate, we are mindful of our impact on the local environment. Gables Residential has been taking care of the way people live for over 30 years. We provide property management for Gables Residential-owned assets, and third-party owned communities. Our partners benefit from regional and corporate office support ranging from accounting, training, IT and risk management to human resources, marketing and facilities management. We also offer our clients cost savings through our Gables Power Buying Program which utilizes national partnerships with suppliers that also support green initiatives. These partnerships include companies like Wilmar, HD Supply, PPG Paint, Sherwin Williams and Dixie Carpet. Gables Residential develops cost-effective and high-quality living and retail communities in Established Premium Neighborhoods (EPNs). Through outstanding product type, unit mix and architectural design, we have a long history of developing award-winning communities. We are experienced at site selection, underwriting, entitlement and zoning. We are also committed developers who believe quality and the environment go hand-in-hand, and we work with conservation and green building organizations including USGBC LEED, ENERGY STAR and EarthCraft.
Sustainability Practices Gables Residential is committed to sustainability efforts, and seeks certification from green building programs for all new developements. Typical efforts include: •
ENERGY STAR lighting and appliances
•
Water conservation efforts
•
Resource-conserving design and materials to avoid landfill waste
•
Healthy indoor air quality
• Selective site locations for transportation orientation •
Education programs for residents
Gables Residential Ranked #1 by GLOBAL REAL ESTATE SUSTAINABILITY BENCHMARK (GRESB) For the second year in a row, GRESB, a leading global source of comprehensive portfolio level sustainability data for the real estate industry, ranked Gables #1 in the North America Residential Sector and #2 globally in the Residential Sector. GRESB is an industry-led organization committed to rigorous and independent evaluation of the sustainability performance of real estate portfolios. GRESB works in tandem with institutional investors and their portfolio managers to identify and implement sustainability best practices in order to enhance and protect shareholder value. Gables received this honor as a result of implementing sustainable initiatives across all areas of company activity and based on diligence in data collection relative to best practices within the industry. The 2013 report released by GRESB is based on sustainability data gathered from 543 real estate companies and funds, providing aggregate information on 49,000 properties across the globe. The report shows that the real estate sector is significantly reducing its environmental impact, and Gables is at the forefront of this effort.
Gables Tanglewood | Houston, TX | NGBS Silver Candidate
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Gables was selected as the overall leader in the North America Residential Sector.
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WHY GREEN? We believe in being a responsible corporate citizen and real estate developer, therefore incorporating sound green and sustainable practices into our business. As a company, we are also sensitive to the changing needs and concerns of our residents, customers, associates and investors. As awareness and desire for green products and services increase, we adapt our business to meet those demands. These four concepts define our focus on sustainability: •
Sustainability is an important value to our leadership team
•
There are economic benefits of “going green,” including reduced operating costs and long term value creation
•
Our investors and financial partners are committed to sustainable investments
•
It’s the right thing to do!
CORE AREAS Gables Residential is committed to working towards green initiatives in three key areas: • DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION •
ON-SITE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE
•
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
green programs Every project team understands the importance of sustainability and works with their respective design consultants to make the necessary decisions to achieve certification. Every certification program has a checklist that the Gables Residential project team and the design consultants review to determine what items make the most sense for the respective projects. • LEED NC • LEED for Homes • EarthCraft Multifamily • EarthCraft Light Commercial (Retail) • EarthCraft Communities (Multi-phase Development) • Austin Energy Green Building (AEGB) • National Green Building Standard (NGBS) from NAHB • Florida Green Building System (FGBS)
Our sustainability initiatives incorporate multiple energy efficiency categories including HVAC equipment, better windows, more efficient lighting, ENERGY STAR appliances, smart irrigation systems, drought tolerant landscaping, indoor air quality measures, installation of low-flow plumbing fixtures and performance tests to ensure that all systems are operating at an optimal level.
DEVELOPMENT & CONSTRUCTION In 1997, we developed the first green apartment community in Austin, Texas as part of the city’s early green building program. Today, 100% of all of our new developments are built to a green certification standard. We use two of our most important resources – time and money – to ensure sustainability from the onset of our projects. All of our buildings go through a rigorous review during the initial design phases to determine how to maximize sustainability. Once a plan is in place, we operate within strict guidelines to maintain our sustainability goals across the design, construction and operation phases of our communities.
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
“Sustainability has many economic benefits for our company, our residents and investors, among them - reduced energy, water and maintenance costs and asset appreciation.”
– Dawn Severt, Executive Vice President Chief Financial Officer
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SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES GABLES PARK 17 | Dallas, TX Materials and Resources • Recycled content – 10% • Regional materials – 20% • Use of eco-friendly cleaning products by cleaning staff and management • Recyclable carpeting • Roof system features high SRI Indoor Environmental Quality • Outdoor air monitoring • Low-emitting materials – adhesives, sealants, zero VOC paint, carpet and composite wood products • Controllable lighting and thermal comfort • Daylight views for 90% of spaces
Landscaping & Environment • Brownfield redevelopment • Reduced heat island effect – roof and non-roof Transportation • Public transportation access • Bicycle storage facility • Electric vehicle charging stations Awards & Certifications • LEED New Construction Silver Certified
Energy & Water Efficiency • Drought-tolerant native plantings • 20% reduction of water use from toilets and general use • ENERGY STAR® appliances • Solar shades in every apartment home
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SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES ON-SITE OPERATIONS & MAINTENANCE Our goal is to be a leader in sustainable apartment living, and have operational policies and procedures in place to improve areas such as energy efficiency and the reduction of office and paper waste. Maintenance teams actively collaborate with vendors to adhere to sustainable buying guidelines. We source green products from recycled fiber carpets and low-emission paints and sealants to chlorine-alternative pool products and environmentally friendly cleaners and chemicals. Some of our operational practices include the use of: OPERATIONAL STANDARDS • • • • • • • • •
Low or zero VOC paint Green cleaning products High-efficiency and/or compact fluorescent lighting in common areas Lighting timers and sensors in offices, models and common areas Water-saving devices on plumbing fixtures Water/energy conservation efforts, including retrofits Recycling, including flooring-recycling Written operating procedure auditing Smart irrigation systems
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION Whether its improving recycling efforts or reducing paper usage, we also adopt green practices in our leasing and corporate offices, and encourage our associates to engage in a culture that cares about the environment. Our “green in the workplace” initiatives include: • Supply offices with recycling containers and bins for office and food waste • Require disposable items be ordered of recycled materials • Source 30% post-consumer recycled paper for copying and printing • Use direct deposit and pay cards over check printing for payroll • Reduce disposable cups and bottled water by using reusable cups and filtered water systems • Eliminate resident file papers, copying and storage of files for collection agencies and internal use, while replacing with electronic file transmission • Implement online portal for residents to submit rent payments and service requests electronically
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
• All new hire paperwork and applications are handled electronically • Associates using online electronic learning courses • Associates taking the Gables-developed “green training” class • Use of 100% post-consumer recycled paper for all business cards and letterhead • Transition of marketing collateral to recycled papers and e-brochures • Partnership with printing vendors who are Forest Stewardship Council-certified and use environmentally friendly soy-based inks • Inform prospects, and residents, of green features during leasing tours and move-in • Provide “green tips of the month” in company calendars and newsletters • Offer reusable shopping bags, and/or green cleaning supplies, as move-in and appreciation gifts to residents • Educate residents on energy consumption and suggest ways for improving energy efficiency
RETAIL Our retail division also incorporates green practices in their daily operations. These include: • Shared recycling tubs with residential for the collection of glass and plastic • Recycling of all corrugated material • Single-stream recycling that permits all but glass to co-mingle with corrugated cardboard • Many retailers built their box/premises to EarthCraft standards using sustainable materials
Gables Post Oak | Houston, TX | NGBS Certified at Silver Level
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SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
GABLES EMORY POINT | Atlanta, GA Materials and Resources • Recycling center on every residential floor • CFC-free HVAC refrigerant • Chlorine-free saline pool treatment • Use of eco-friendly cleaning products by cleaning staff and management • Recyclable carpeting
Landscaping & Environment • Two underground 30,000 gallon cisterns collect roof rainwater and HVAC condensation, providing all landscape irrigation • Abundant courtyards • One-acre green space
Indoor Environmental Quality • Low-emitting materials – adhesives, sealants, zero VOC paint, carpet and composite wood products • Smoke-free community Energy & Water Efficiency • ENERGY STAR® appliances, roofs, lighting and ceiling fans • Water-conserving plumbing fixtures • Energy-efficient light-colored roof • Energy-efficient double pane windows • High-efficiency heating/cooling system • High-efficiency lighting in apartment homes and common areas • Low-E glass
Transportation • Mixed-use community features shops and restaurants on-site/within walking distance • Bike share program • Bus and private university (Emory University) shuttle stops • Connectivity to existing pedestrian walkways and bike paths • Electric vehicle charging stations
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Awards & Certifications • EarthCraft Community, Multifamily, and Light Commercial Certified
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SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES IMPACT ON ENVIRONMENT Today, more prospects who are interested in making a Gables community their home use the Internet to research and select their home. In the past, the rental application and all supporting paperwork were completed manually by the customer and our on-site sales associate. In late 2011, we launched a new initiative to modernize our application processes with an Online Leasing Application (OLA). Several important benefits resulted from our OLA implementation: • Customers can now apply for a new home 24/7 vs. having to visit a leasing office during business hours • As a company, Gables Residential eliminated over 28% of the paper previously required for rental applications • OLA has saved over 300 labor hours per year • By electronically collecting and storing our customer’s confidential information, we have improved data accuracy and security and operational efficiencies
Gables Emory Point | Atlanta, GA EarthCraft Community, Multifamily, and Light Commercial Certified
GABLES GATEWAY We offer a resident portal for online services, where residents can easily: • • •
Submit service requests Pay rent online Communicate with Gables associates
Gables Takoma Park | Washington, DC | LEED Silver
“We are mindful of our impact on the local environment and have adopted green management practices and policies at our communities and corporate offices.”
– Cristina Sullivan, Executive Vice President
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Gables Uptown Trail | Dallas, TX | NGBS Certified at Bronze Level
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SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES GABLES PARK PLAZA | Austin, TX Materials and Resources • Over 20% of building materials – concrete and steel – manufactured from recycled content • Reduced carbon footprint – more than 30% of the materials originated within 300 miles • Over 70% of construction waste material diverted from the landfill and recycled • Rapidly renewable bamboo flooring in apartment homes • Recyclable carpeting • Solar shades to reduce heat transfer • Use of eco-friendly cleaning products by staff and management • Energy efficient light colored roof Indoor Environmental Quality • Low-emitting materials – adhesives, sealants, zero VOC paint, carpet and composite wood products • Smoke-free community
Landscaping & Environment • Drought-tolerant native plants • Bio-filtration meadow to filter debris and sediment prior to entering source of area’s drinking water • Widening of sidewalks, extension of a pedestrian bridge and future railroad underpass to enhance nearby pedestrian and cyclist infrastructure • Rain sensors on irrigation
Energy & Water Efficiency • Interior fluorescent lighting inside apartment homes and common areas • Programmable thermostats • Low-flow plumbing fixtures • White, highly reflective roof material • Double-glazed windows • Energy Star appliances • High-efficiency HVAC systems • Low-E glass
Awards & Certifications • LEED New Construction Silver Certified • Austin Energy Green Building Two Star
Transportation • Shopping, restaurants and other service oriented businesses within walking distance • Amtrak station within a ½ mile • Two bus stops within a ¼ mile • Bicycle storage facility • Preferred parking for energy-efficient vehicles • Electric vehicle charging stations
“Sustainability is an intricate part of our mission. Our communities are a direct reflection of our company’s commitment to ‘Taking Care of the Way People Live’, and the surrounding areas they call home. Green is our gold standard.”
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
-Benjamin Pisklak, Chief Investment Officer
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SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES SUSTAINABILITY AWARENESS We believe that the more education we provide, the better understanding there is of how important sustainability is to the future of real estate. Some of the sustainability initiatives Gables has undertaken include: Green Commitment Video - A green awareness video featured on Gables.com describes the company’s green initiatives, and is also used as an educational tool for residents or anyone visiting Gables.com, including third-party owners and investors Community Green Pages - A list of sustainable features used, or available, on each Gables-owned and managed community is available on Gables.com for interested parties to review. These features are discussed with prospective residents while touring our communities Training Green - Gables associates attend courses offered through Gables University - Development associates are encouraged to complete the appropriate certifications as it pertains to sustainable building and development - We engage our residents in daily sustainability efforts via various communication tools
• • •
earth day Every year on April 22nd, our communities and offices celebrate Earth Day. The goal is to share “green” living tips, best practices and ways that everyone can contribute to protecting the earth and its resources. We encourage our residents and associates to participate in activities including: • • •
Recycling drives Clean-up/beautification events Conservation/awareness events
GALLONS OF WATER SAVED / YEAR (MILLIONS) AT OUR COMMUNITIES
GREEN OFFICE SUPPLIES ORDERED
34.6 42 %
GREEN OFFICE PRODUCTS Gables Residential uses the following green office products and practices in both our corporate and on-site offices: • • •
Biodegradable sustainable products: - Coffee cups and cold cups - Napkins, paper towels - Plates and utensils - Hot cup sleeves 50% recycled paper products Refurbished and recycled toner
RECYCLABLE CARPET INSTALLED IN APARTMENT HOMES
100 %
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Gables Park Tower | Austin, TX | LEED Silver Candidate
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SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES VALUE OF TRACKING & MEASUREMENT Tracking and measuring our sustainability efforts is a critical component to ensuring that what we are doing is truly having an impact on our sustainability model. The results of our efforts are important to know as it allows us to understand where there is room for improvement as well as recognize and set goals for future opportunities. In addition, we can benchmark results compared to others in the industry and better understand opportunities for improvement. We continuously strive to seek new ways to apply sustainability practices to our development and operations efforts. •
Sustainability Tracking - Meter and track consumption of common area electricity usage (KwH converted to BTUs) on a monthly and annual basis - Meter and track consumption of common area gas (terms converted to BTUs) on a monthly and annual basis - Meter and track consumption of water (gallons) on a monthly and annual basis - Measure and track waste streams (tonnage) on a monthly and annual basis - Measure and track recycled waste (tonnage and category) on a monthly and annual basis - Measure and track the amount of office products and green office products consumed monthly and annually in company operations
Gables Ponce | Miami, FL Certified Florida Green High-Rise Residential Building
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
GABLES RECYCLING PROGRAM TOTAL WEIGHT (TONS) OF NON-HAZARDOUS WASTE / MONTH TOTAL WEIGHT (TONS) OF RECYCLING / MONTH OWNED ASSETS RECYCLING PROGRAM PARTICIPATION RATE COMMUNITY RECYCLING RESIDENT PARTICIPATION RATE (INDUSTRY RATE: 15%)
696 229 100 % 22 %
Gables 12 Twenty One | Arlington, VA | LEED for Homes Silver
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COMMUNITY SERVICE GIVING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY Community service is vital to our corporate mission. For this reason, we host a signature associate event every year – Gables Day, where associates across the country take a full day off to participate in company-wide community service projects. Every corporate and on-site office closes for the day. Company executives and associates team up and work together as a region on a designated service project. We also give back to our communities by regularly sponsoring events and supporting several non-profit organizations such as the American Cancer Society, the Humane Society, the USO and the Veterans Administration Hospital. Our associates also participate in Making Strides Walks throughout the company’s regions.
Since the inception of the program in 2000, Gables Day activities have contributed over
$1,000,000 & 125,000 hours of service to local communities.
400 Gables associates participated in the rebuilding efforts of New Orleans as part of our 2007 Gables Day. We worked to renovate, repair, and rebuild several homes and buildings in the Freret Street neighborhood damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Projects included exterior renovations and landscaping of five area homes, a fire station and construction of office and dormitory space in a local community center that has acted as a base of operations for area volunteer efforts.
2013 GABLES DAY CONTRIBUTIONS Veterans Empowerment - Atlanta
www.veteransempowerment.org
Posada Esperanza - Austin www.casamarianella.org
People Helping People - Dallas www.dallascityhall.com
Phoenix House – Washington, DC www.phoenixhouse.org
Anchor House - North Florida
www.mhcci.com/centers/anchor-house
HomeSafe - South Florida www.helphomesafe.org
Mission of Yahweh - Houston www.missionofyahweh.org
San Diego Rescue Mission - California www.sdrescue.org
Food for the Hungry - Phoenix www.fh.org
Food Lifeline - Washington (state) www.foodlifeline.org
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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COMMUNITY SERVICE
“Gables Day has come and gone and words cannot express how grateful we (PHMA) are for the opportunity and experience. The level of commitment, energy and enthusiasm demonstrated by you and your team of volunteers was inspiring and sincerely appreciated....It was amazing to watch you guys work diligently, against all odds, to complete your mission...Our clients, staff and visitors have made very positive comments on the outcome of the project and we expect to enjoy and flourish in our updated environment for years to come.”
-Jo-Anne Gerald
Phoenix House
“Thank you so much for helping the San Diego Rescue Mission on the Gables Day 2013 Giving Service. We are always in need of great volunteers who are hard-working, organized from start to finish, you guys were incredible volunteers, and because of you company’s dedication and hard work our clients are very appreciative of the work that your organizations has given us.”
-Art De Guzman San Diego Rescue Mission
“Words cannot express our gratitude and appreciation for all you have done at the most recent work day at our Boca campus. This was a shining example of your immense generosity and dedication to helping victims of child abuse and domestic violence in South Florida. Thanks to your help, HomeSafe is able to continue transforming lives of more and more children and families.” -Matthew Ladika
HomeSafe
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SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES GABLES 12 TWENTY ONE | Arlington, VA Materials and Resources • Approximately 25% of selected building materials manufactured from recycled materials • 80% of construction waste debris diverted from landfill • Separate trash and recycling chutes located on each residential level • Use of eco-friendly cleaning products by cleaning staff and management • Scale of four-story building keeps with surrounding buildings, and innovative design fits in with the neighborhood architecture • Recyclable carpeting
Transportation • Walking distance to Metrorail and bus stops • Proximity to surrounding services provides reduced commute times and less traffic for the neighborhood • Preferred parking for low emitting vehicles Awards & Certifications • First multifamily development in the DC Metro area to receive LEED for Homes Silver Certification
Indoor Environmental Quality • Low-emitting materials – adhesives, sealants, zero VOC paint, carpet and composite wood products • Smoke-free community • Outside fresh air ventilation system • Low-E glass reduces solar heat gain and improves energy efficiency • Carbon monoxide sensors in all units • All combustion appliances are exhausted • Pre-occupancy flush of buildings performed • MERV 8 Filters used in apartment homes and corridors • ENERGY STAR® bath exhaust fans • High Efficiency lighting package • Blower tests were performed on units • ENERGY STAR® level air sealing was performed on all units • Air cycler on unit HAVC systems Energy & Water Efficiency • Energy-efficient lighting in common areas • Energy-conserving business practices by management staff • Water-conserving shower heads and faucet aerators • Water-conserving dual flush toilets • Energy-efficient double-glazed windows • ENERGY STAR® refrigerators, low water use dishwashers • 92% efficient furnaces used at corridors • 13 SEER A/C systems at units Landscaping & Environment • Erosion control site planning • Rain sensors on irrigation system • Mulched landscape for moisture retention • Brownfield redevelopment of LUSTS • Non-invasive plants used
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our gables workplace GROWING OUR ASSOCIATES ASSOCIATE TRAINING We strive for a professional environment that values meritocracy and inclusion. Our workforce is made up of men and women, with wide-ranging interests and experience, empowered by leaders who respect diversity as a community builder and business advantage. The people who represent our company embody a broad range of age, gender, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, religion and culture, mirroring the diversity of our residential communities, clients and the markets in which we operate.
TRAINING HOURS DELIVERED OVER 12 MONTHS
31,041
COMPANY-WIDE GENDER BREAKDOWN
Through our learning management system, associates begin their orientation on day one covering the basics plus some specific Gables highlights: • • • • • •
Associate recognition programs Green initiatives Company awards and honors Associate stories Position specific development plans Training deadlines, enrollment notifications and reminders via e-mail
Our new video platform focuses on providing learning-onthe-go for our associates. This platform is called Foundations on Demand and currently consists of 48 oneto-four minute long videos relating to topics such as sales, customer service, green practices, team building, motivation and many more.
54.1% Male
45.9% Female
ASSOCIATE ETHNICITY BREAKDOWN 2% American Indian
gABLES LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE The Gables Leadership Institute is a year-long development program designed to groom high potential associates into future leaders. Successful candidates participate in development classes in addition to monthly training sessions hosted by current members of the Gables Leadership team. This blended approach to learning is designed to teach leadership presence, develop leadership skills and build a greater understanding of how each department contributes to the company’s success. Associates not only learn from the external trainers and the members of the executive team, but they also learn from each other, helping to develop a more global perspective about what drives organizational success.
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
2% Asian
2% One or more races
15% African American 49% Caucasian 30% Hispanic
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our gables workplace Compensation Surveys
Associate engagement
We understand the importance of offering competitive compensation packages as a part of providing a positive employment experience for our associates. In addition to offering robust benefit packages, a unique cultural environment and valuable recognition programs, we understand that compensation is an important factor in safeguarding associate happiness and engagement at Gables Residential.
Gables Residential strives to achieve a best-in-class work environment, but can’t accomplish this without associate feedback. Our feedback process is powered by Kingsley Associates, the real estate industry’s leading provider of research and consulting services since 1985. The Kingsley Survey is 100% confidential and all associates are encouraged to participate. Each associate has a voice and receives the opportunity to share his/her opinion on the survey after the first 90 days with the company, and then twice per year thereafter.
In order to ensure our compensation programs are competitive, we participate in a number of industry-specific compensation benchmarking surveys annually, including surveys sponsored by: • • •
National Association of Real Estate Investment Trusts (NAREIT) National Apartment Association (NAA) National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC)
Through participation in these surveys, we are able to see how our peers and competitors are compensating their associates on a global level, as well as geographically, by organization size and position. We also survey our peers and competitors each year to measure the average annual increase given across our industry. Utilizing this information, we are able to award annual increases to our deserving associates that are competitive with other opportunities in our industry.
ASSOCIATE TESTIMONIALS
Gables Residential outranked the Kingsley IndexSM in four key areas of the survey, which indicates that our associates are satisfied and proud to work for Gables Residential! www.kingsleyassociates.com
RATING AREA Overall satisfaction Would recommend Gables to a friend seeking employment Gables Residential cares about me and my well-being I am proud to work for Gables Residential
GABLES 2012-2013
Kingsley IndexSM
87%
85%
91%
87%
77%
75%
93%
91%
“It’s not easy working fulltime and trying to go to school at the same time, but you know that you work for a company that will support your growth and assist through the Forever Great Scholarship program!” “It is encouraging to know that employee satisfaction is a priority and also evolving. I appreciate the systems that have been put in place to support the on-site teams daily tasks and look forward to what is to come.” “I am grateful that such an important person in my life is able to have a career with a company that provides so many opportunities to not only their team, but also their families.”
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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our gables workplace Health and Wellness Program We are invested in our associates’ wellness. A healthier associate is a happier associate, and happy associates are vital in carrying out our organizational mission of “Taking Care of the Way People Live ™.” The goal of our incentive-based program is to get our associates talking and thinking about wellness, and incorporating healthy habits into their daily life. • • •
Fit4Funds: Incentives for a healthy lifestyle based on quarterly challenges featured in monthly internal newsletter Annual Benefits Fairs: Held in major markets, associates can ask questions of representatives from our insurance carrier, learn ways to save more from our 401(k) education specialists, and receive free flue shots, biometric screenings and personalized health coaching Premium Reductions: Associates earn incentives in the form of premium reductions for their participation, and also quarterly financial rewards for taking part in: - Weight management programs - Fitness center memberships - Smoking cessation programs/solutions - Local events/teams (softball team, marathon, triathlon) - Aetna health coaching
Ethics Policy At Gables Residential, we have an open communication policy to encourage discussion and feedback about any topic. We want associates to feel free to speak with any manager at any time and share challenges, complaints, suggestions and observations. By listening to our associates, we are able to address complaints and foster associate understanding of the rationale for practices, processes and decisions.
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Our confidential hotline, EthicsPoint, invites associates to call anonymously and confidentially to report actual or suspected activities that may involve misconduct or violations of Gables Residential’s Code of Ethics. Our associates also have the option to file a report on EthicPoint’s website.
our military We are committed to helping our country’s military veterans and host military fairs to advance job potential and job prospects to veterans, spouses and active reservists. Our company has participated in military job fairs in San Diego, Maryland and Dallas. Our goal is to educate people coming from the military about careers in property management and specifically Gables Residential, and to provide career opportunities within our organization for those who served our country.
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our gables workplace GABLES SABBATICAL PROGRAM Gables encourages a work/life balance for our associates and is committed to rewarding associates for long-term tenure. Our sabbatical program encourages associates to improve their quality of life through education, contributions to the community, travel, family time, or other valuable life experiences. Associates who have reached 10 years of service are eligible for a fully paid six-week leave of absence. Additional sabbaticals are granted to associates every five years following their previous sabbatical. Since 2000, over 400 associates have taken at least one sabbatical.
TENURE (IN YEARS)
14.1 REGIONAL MANAGERS 6.5 COMMUNITY MANAGERS 5.5 ON-SITE ASSOCIATES 4.3 AVERAGE TENURE 7.8 LEADERSHIP TEAM
ASSOCIATE TESTIMONIAL “I just wanted to take a moment out of my SABBATICAL to thank you for the opportunity. Very few people get to stop in the middle of their career and unplug for six weeks to take in ‘life”. I did just that!”
SAFETY Gables utilizes an effective means of targeting, tracking, and assessing safety trends and needs by having a full-time National Safety Coordinator (OSHA Construction and General Industry Outreach Trainer, OTI certified Safety and Health Professional) visit all construction projects on a monthly basis. Regional safety consultants (MOSH, OTI trained) conduct weekly inspections at the construction projects.
OUR OBJECTIVE IS ZERO INJURY JOBSITES
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES
GABLES UPPER ROCK | Rockville, MD Materials and Resources • 80% of construction waste debris diverted from landfill • Recycled construction materials including drywall, carpet, and other building supplies • Separate trash and recycling chutes located on each residential level • Use of eco-friendly cleaning products by cleaning staff and management • Recyclable carpeting Indoor Environmental Quality • All combustion appliances are exhausted • High-efficiency HVAC units with programmable thermostats • Living spaces sealed to prevent unwanted contaminants and improve insulation value • Low-emitting materials – adhesives, sealants, zero VOC paint, carpet and composite wood products • Protection of ductwork during construction • MERV 8 Filters used in apartment homes and corridors
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
Energy & Water Efficiency • Carbon monoxide sensors in all units • ENERGY STAR® bath exhaust fans • High efficiency lighting package • ENERGY STAR® appliances: refrigerators, dishwashers (also low water use), front loading clothes washers • Low flow plumbing fixtures: dual flush toilets, low flow shower heads, aerators on bath faucets Landscaping & Environment • Native grasses, vegetation and trees • Saline pool • New Urbanism design Transportation • Shuttle to METRO stop • Electric vehicle charging stations • Preferred parking for low emitting vehicles Awards & Certifications • National Green Building Standard – Bronze Rating
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what we’re hearing
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS
RETAIL TESTIMONIALS
“Based on our experiences with Gables, I would heartily recommend its services to other firms, investors and owners of multifamily assets. The senior management team includes solid citizens who have a well-earned respect of their peers in the industry. Gables is an industry-leading multifamily firm with a well-deserved reputation for providing high quality, value-added services. Clarion’s above- benchmark multifamily investment performance has much to do with the services Gables has provided over the years. Their industry leading methods in the areas of leasing execution, marketing, technology, operations, reporting and capital improvements are a testament to their reputation in the industry as a leading innovator.”
“Ligne Roset Houston has been very excited to be associated with Gables and West Ave at River Oaks shopping center because of the volume of qualified traffic they draw into their center. West Ave is a great visual landmark located on the best cross streets in Houston which makes it easy for our new clients to know where Ligne Roset is located. Being a mixed-use facility, we truly feel that it is a great synergy between the two uses.”
-Robert D. Greer, Jr., Managing Director Clarion Partners
“Gables provides a high quality level of service. Their professional, proactive employees truly understand the importance of relationships and market knowledge, while maximizing the return of a residential multifamily investment property.”
-Adam Branscum Owner of Ligne Roset Houston
“I chose Emory Point for my specialty food concept because of the proximity to Emory University, the Center for Disease Control and the affluent neighborhoods nearby. The ambiance of the center provides a great town center feeling and the co-tenancy with restaurants and retailers creates a unique synergy.” -Celia Tully Owner of Strippaggio
-Ron Bily, Senior Asset Manager II Principal Real Estate Investors
“McDowell has developed a strong working relationship/ partnership with Gables. Their team has worked tirelessly toward achieving our goals and we would highly recommend their services to other firms, investors and multi-family owners. The senior management team always demonstrates a willingness to do ‘whatever it takes’ and treats us as if we are their most important client. We have found Gables to always be ahead of the curve and we consider them a leading firm in the industry. They understand investment performance and execute our strategies consistently. Moreover, they are flexible and collaborative and have been a pleasure to work with over many years”.
-Patrick McDowell, President McDowell Properties
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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what we’re hearing
RESIDENT SATISFACTION SURVEY
RESIDENT TESTIMONIALS “I have really enjoyed my almost two years here. The building is well-maintained, clean, and secure. The building management is very responsive to issues and the concierge service is excellent.”
“Your rental-office staff are excellent--efficient and friendly, which are two traits that are typically hard to mix together. The staff and the way we have been treated is one of the primary reasons for choosing Gables.”
“The management team is great. The property is clean and safe, and the appliances and facilities are excellent.”
“The management and maintenance teams have gone out of their way to complete all requests, and have been a pleasure to work with! Keep up the excellent work!!”
Source: Kingsley Survey Reviews, Q3 2013 www.kingsleyassociates.com
50%
100%
Overall Satisfaction Suite 800 Dallas, TX 7
50%
100%
Overall Impression of Community
50%
100%
Maintenance Overall Satisfaction
50%
100%
Community Recommendation
50%
100%
Management Overall Satisfaction
Gables Report Percentage Kingsley IndexSM
Source: Kingsley Survey Reviews, Q3 2013 www.kingsleyassociates.com
ASSESSMENT CATEGORY
SATISFACTION INDICATOR
Leasing Move-In Experience Community Management Maintenance Community Features
Satisfaction Indicators represent the percentile ranking vs. the Kingsley IndexSM.
Bottom quartile
2nd quartile
Above Kingsley IndexSM
Gables Residential | Corporate Citizenship Report 2013
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contact For more information, please visit gables.com or contact your local corporate office.
CORPORATE OFFICES Corporate Headquarters Atlanta 3399 Peachtree Road NE Suite 600 Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 923-5500 Boca Raton 225 NE Mizner Blvd. Suite 400 Boca Raton, FL 33432 (561) 997-9700 Houston 5847 San Felipe Suite 3250 Houston, TX 77057 (713) 784-4144 Dallas 3811 Turtle Creek Blvd. Suite 1500 Dallas, TX 75219 (214) 252-2600 Austin 6850 Austin Center Blvd. Suite 200 Austin, TX 78731 (512) 502-6000 Washington, DC 8280 Greensboro Drive Suite 605 McLean, VA 22102 (703) 918-2500 San Diego 9909 Mira Mesa Blvd. Suite 350 San Diego, CA 92131 (858) 684-3600
Pictured: Gables Ponce | Miami, FL