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Return Service Requested
HONORS AWARDS RECIPIENTS
Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd. Houston, Texas 77041
ABODE THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE
www.haaonline.org
February 2022
ABODE • FEBRUARY 2022 • VOLUME 45, ISSUE 2 www.haaonline.org
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CONTENTS February 2022
ON THE COVER 30 2021 Honors Awards – The HAA Honors Awards recognizes members for their commitment to their communities and the apartment industry. Last month, we recognized four honorees. In this issue, we continue the 2021 Honors Awards coverage with more Q&As starting on Page 30. Cover design by Deborah Nix, HAA Staff.
FEATURES & PHOTOS 28 2022 Event Calendar – Mark your calendar for events throughout the year. 30 The Best of the Best in Onsite Management – A continuation of Q&As from the recipients of the 2021 HAA Honors Awards. 46 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA Food Drive. 50 On the Scene – Photos from the ACES Holiday Luncheon.
COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES 7 President’s Corner – HAA President Christy Rodriguez encourages members to lean into each other. 8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Cotton Commercial USA Inc. 9 Legislative Update – New carbon monoxide requirements and a look into HAA’s endorsed candidates for the March primary elections.
52 On the Scene – Photos from the HAAPAC afternoon reception.
11 It’s The Law – Learn what you can charge a deliquent resident according to the new TAA lease.
54 On the Scene – Photos from the Harris County Justices of the Peace and Constables Holiday Luncheon.
14 Resident Relations – Learn what happens when management fails to provide a complete lease.
56 HAAPAC Endorsements – A list of endorsed candidates in the upcoming primary elections.
20 Calendar – HAA’s schedule of events for the next coming months.
72 On Site with ABODE – Take a look at three HAA Honors Awards property winners.
26 NAA Update – NAA research bolsters testimony against rent control in Boston. 60 Welcome Mat – Meet the newest HAA members. 62 Go-Getters – A refresher on who HAA Go-Getters are and why they are vital to the association. 64 The Ambassador ONE Society – See the 2021 Ambassador “ONE of the Year” and the 2022 Ambassador ONE Society leadership. 70 Portfolio Changes and In the News – Industry news clips from our members. 74 Index of Advertisers – See the supplier members who support this publication. 75 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers. 76 BackPage – News from around the community.
We welcome your comments. Email us at comm@haaonline.org.
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OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS STEPHANIE GRAVES President-Elect CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ President
LOYAL PROFFITT Vice President at Large
DEREK DEVRIES, CAS President Camp Construction Services
SHELLEY WATSON Vice President at Large
CANDIS MOHR, CAS Vice President, AAA Plumbers
QUINTINA WILLIS Vice President at Large
JOSEPH RODRIGUEZ, CAS Secretary, The Urban Foresters
TRACIE YODER Vice President at Large
DEBORAH DEROUEN, CAS Treasurer, OneApp Guarantee
JOHN BORIACK Immediate Past President
DAVID LINDLEY, CAS Immediate Past President, FSI Construction
GINA ERWIN Secretary/Treasurer
HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel
CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Christy Rodriguez, CAPS President John Boriack Immediate Past President Mack Armstrong Julie Batche Jeff Blevins, CAS Jill Bounds, CAM Michelle Bridges, CAS Kyle Brown Joseph Bryson, CAM, IROP Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Michelle Croasmun Deborah DeRouen, CAS Derek DeVries, CAS Scott Douglas, CAM, CAPS Gina Erwin Tamara Foster Israel Garza, CAS Diane Gilbert Monica Gracia Stephanie Graves, CAM, CAPS Clark Gregg, CASe, CAPSe Manu Gupta Bryan Head, CAM Melissa Herrera Deborah Holcombe Crystal Jackson, CAM, CAPS Tyler Johnson Debbie Kelm Jacob Kunath, CAS Barby Lake Laura Lestus, CAS David Lindley, CAS Sonia Lopez, CAM, CAPS Betsy Marshall, CAM, CAPS Kristin McLaughlin, CASe Candis Mohr, CAS Carlos Neto Dean O’Kelley, CAS Jenifer Paneral Mark Park, CAS Angelee Kumar Parikh Velissa Parmer Michelle Pawelek Loyal Proffitt Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Corri Smith Penny Sprang Kelley Suess Debbie Sulzer
Ryan Terrell Starla Turnbo Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS Shelley Watson Quintina Willis, CAM Tracie Yoder, CAPS DIRECTORS EMERITUS Josh Allen Ken Bohan Gary Blumberg Kathy Clem Jack Dinerstein Jenard Gross Darlene Guidry Alison Hall David Hargrove Larry Hill Stacy Hunt Hap Hunnicutt David Jones Mike Koch Dick LaMarche Cesar Lima Tim Myers P David Onanian Jackie Rhone John Ridgway Kim Small Eileen Subinsky Steve Sweet Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley H J Tollett, Jr. Pat Tollett Vic Vacek, Jr. Beth Van Winkle Jerry Winograd ADVISORY DIRECTORS Melissa Friend Billy Griffin, CAS Amanda Kelly, CAS Stacy Lastovica, CAM, CAPS Mary Lawler Katy Myrick Bruce McClenny Bill Nye Ruha Vohra, NALP, CAM Tony Whitaker GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Joe Bax
HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Kevin Fenn Diane Gilbert Anita Harrison Dwayne Henson Mike Koch Merry Mount Monette Reynolds Sherry Stevenson Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley Sonny Unverzagt Del Walmsley Nancé Wells H.P. Paul Young Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks PATRON MEMBERS 1961 CSC ServiceWorks 1968 Century A/C Supply 1978 Houston Planned Energy Systems 1982 Cotton Commercial USA Inc. 1984 AAA Plumbers 1985 Gemstar Construction Development 1986 Craven Carpet 1987 Dixie Carpet Installations 1994 Camp Construction Services 1997 Apartments.com 1999 FSI Construction Inc. 2006 Lowe’s Pro Supply
PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL MEMBERS Giovanna Gone, CAS, VICE PRESIDENTS Century A/C Supply AT LARGE Jimmie Hotz, CASE, Karen Nelsen, CAS Chadwell Supply ALN Apartment Dan James, CAS, Data Redevelopment Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Services Gemstar Amanda Kelly, CAS, Construction Brandt Electrical A/C Development & Heating Services Debra Knight, CAS, Susan Alvarado, CAS Comm-Fit Century A/C Supply Stephanie Krop, Chris Bell, CAS, CASe, Poolsure Cotton Commercial Liz Levins, CAS, Marivel Bownds, Rasa Floors CAS, Valet Living Jim Martensen, CAS Tammy Broadway, CAS Camp Construction American Fire Systems Services Shaun Callaway, CAS, Tracey Moore, CAS, Earthworks Flooring Warehouse Neal Conant, CAS, Matthew Nunn, CAS, Gemstar Capital Construction Construction Doug Oehl, CAS. Development Flooring Warehouse Sean Cunningham, Nikki Sekunda, CAS, CAS, Flooring The Liberty Group Warehouse Mat Tilley, CAS, Deborah DeRouen, WeDoTrash CAS, OneApp Amber Whitaker, CAS Guarantee FSI Construction Juana Estrada, CAS, First OnSite
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FEBRUARY 2022 I VOLUME 45, ISSUE 2 Chief Executive Officer and Publisher CASEY WATTS MORGAN, MPP cmorgan@haaonline.org EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org Communications Manager MORGAN TAYLOR mtaylor@haaonline.org ADVERTISING Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY, CAE asherbondy@haaonline.org CONTRIBUTING STAFF Chief Operating Officer SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP, CAE ehilton@haaonline.org Vice President of Government Affairs BRADLEY PEPPER bpepper@haaonline.org Chief Financial Officer TREY WIMBERLY, CPA twimberly@haaonline.org Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org Director of Events and Meetings LAUREN RAGIN, CMP lragin@haaonline.org Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org Assistant Vice President – Outreach LAUREN TURNER, CAE, CMP lturner@haaonline.org Government Affairs Manager MADISON POLSTON mpolston@haaonline.org Membership and Marketing Manager KAYLON NEWCOMB knewcomb@haaonline.org Member Services Coordinator CINDY DE LA RIVA cdelariva@haaonline.org Director of IT WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org PRINTER TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com
HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES COMMITTEE CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR Executive Christy Rodriguez Casey Morgan Nominating John Boriack Casey Morgan Fair Housing Mack Armstrong Casey Morgan Ethics Michelle Pawelek Casey Morgan Finance Gary Blumberg Casey Morgan ByLaws Kyle Brown Casey Morgan Past Presidents Council Kathy Clem Casey Morgan Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Elizabeth Castro-Gray Bradley Pepper Developers Todd Triggs Bradley Pepper Legislative Stephanie Graves Bradley Pepper Political Action Stacy Hunt Bradley Pepper Golf Starla Turnbo Madison Polston Century Club Deborah DeRouen Madison Polston Strategic Outreach Gina Erwin Lauren Turner Leadership Development Alison Hall Susan Hinkley Community Outreach Jackie Aguirre Susan Hinkley Product Service Council Derek DeVries Susan Hinkley Expo Exhibitor Candis Mohr Amanda Sherbondy Membership Richard Wall Amanda Sherbondy Ryan Weis Ambassador ONE Society Liz Levins Amanda Sherbondy Blaise Spitaleri Independent Owners Connection Ramon Nunez Amanda Sherbondy Education Advisory Council Betsy Marshall Emily Hilton Career & Community Development Penny Sprang Emily Hilton Resident Relations A Diane Totten Matti Luna Resident Relations B Jana Gragg Matti Luna Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry Matti Luna HAF Fundraiser Brandon Coleman Lauren Ragin Stephanie Krop NEXT Ruha Vohra Lauren Ragin Amanda Kelley Property Awards Norma Alvear Tina DeFiore Diane Gilbert
HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MISSION AND VISION: HAA is the leading advocate, resource and community partner for quality rental housing providers in the Houston and surrounding area. HAA develops leadership in the multifamily industry by engaging broadly diverse membership, embracing effective technology and advocating for a geographically inclusive association. ABODE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION serving the multihousing industry in Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Waller and Wharton counties. ABODE, FEBRUARY 2022, VOLUME 45, ISSUE 2 ABODE (USPS 024-962) is published monthly by the Houston Multi Housing Corporation. Publishing, editorial and advertising offices are located at 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Telephone 713-595-0300. The $50 annual ABODE subscription rate is included in all member dues and additional subscriptions are available. The annual subscription rate is $50 for members, $65 for non-members. Advertising rates are available upon request. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Houston Apartment Association. Copyright © 2022 by HAA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABODE, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041.
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SPONSOR MEMBERS These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their sponsor membership. Please give them careful consideration, whenever possible, in your business. 100% Tree & Lawn Care LLC 3BeeGuys Bee Removal AAA Staffing Ltd AAdvantage Laundry Systems ACM Contractors of Texas ACT Security Group Action Window Coverings Inc ACTIV Answer by Audio Images Adobe Floors Inc Adventure Playground Systems Inc Affinity Hot Water Technoogy Inc Alexander-Rose Associates Inc All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc Allegion The Allshouse Group LLC ALN Apartment Data Inc Ambassador Services LLC America Outdoor Furniture American Fire Systems Inc AmRent Andrews Myers PC Apartment Lines ApartmentData.com APEX Lighting Store AppFolio Arbor Contract Carpet Inc arc electric + lighting Archcon ASAP Personnel Inc ASAP Steamers Carpet Cleaning Atom4 Security Camera AZPartsmaster The J.P. Barnes Law Firm PLLC Belfor Property Restoration Bell’s Laundries Benefits 4 Rent Bentley, Bratcher & Associates - PC Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC BGE Inc/aka Brown & Gay Engineers Inc Bio-One Houston South BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning BluSky Restoration Contractors Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc Brannan Designs LLC Architecture & Interior Design BrightView Landscape LLC BSI Cano Electric Inc Cantrell McCulloch Inc Carradine Valet CashFlow Pros LLC Centex Construction Century Fire Protection Houston CFI Group Chadwell Supply Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete City Wide Building Services Classic Same Day Blinds Commercial Fire Protection Contractors Inc ControlByNet Cloud and Managed Video Surveillance Solutions CORT Furniture The Crawfish Men Catering CRE Business Solutions LLC
Creative Blinds Crowned Eagle Construction CSI LED & Hardware Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc D&G Quality Roofing Inc DeNyse Companies Designs by Holmes Diamond Services LLC DNM Contracting Inc DoodyCalls Door Clearance Center Ecolo Environmental Inc Embark Services Emersyn Electrical Services LLC EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions Epic Air Conditioning EPICHTX Construction Fantastic Floors Featherston Sign Partners Fedora Intertech Fiat Construction LLC Fidus Construction Services Finish Factory Inc Finishes Insurance Agency Fire and Life Safety America Flavor Finish Resurfacing Flexirocks Front Row Signs Frontier Waste Solutions fun abounds Furniture Refinishing Services Gambit Construction Garan Commercial Construction Inc Gateman Inc Gemaire Giordano Construction Inc Go-Staff Inc Graphic Stylus Promotional Products Great American Business Products Green City Security LLC Green Garbology Greenlogic Lighting & Electric Guardian Gutters Halo Doors Inc Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents HARCO Insurance Services Hard Works Valet Trash & Recycling Hays Recruiting Higginbotham Hillco Building Service Hive Technology HK Morris Group LLC The Home Team Roofing & A/C Hoover Slovacek LLP Hut Services LLC IGD Plumbing LLC Industrial Disposal Supply Infinity Power Partners Innovated Homes LLC Johnstone Supply Jonah Digital Agency Kathy Andrews Interiors Keylo Painting & Construction KONE L.A. Public Adjusters LandscapesUSA Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting
The Liberty Group Lights Out Production Company Lincoln Jacob Construction Lithotech Printed Products/ Forms Center LJL DESIGN, LLC Local Roofing and Restoration Lopez Carpet Care & Painting LP Building Solutions: LouisianaPacific Corporation LSR Multifamily LVL Up Remodeling Macyas Remodeling LLC Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc Masonry Solutions Inc Matrix Construction Services McMahan's Flooring Inc MGL Rehab Construction Milwaukee Tool MPS Direct Mueller Water Conditioning Inc MX2 Commercial Paving Nations Roof Houston LLC Nationwide Eviction NGC Renovation LLC Norman Roofing and Construction Northwest Construction Group O’Conor Mason & Bone PC Oasis Eco Services On Duty Tree and Landscape On Site Towing LLC Outdoor Elements P.A.I. Restoration Pace Mechanical Services LLC Parking Management Company/PMC Towing Paul Davis Restoration North Houston PCS Creative Surface LLC Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas The Phoenix Staffing Pool Knights Precision Hydro Pros Precision Safe Sidewalks LLC Priority Protection & Investigations Inc Pro Turf Landscaping Professional Resurface LLC Pura Flo Corporation PuroClean Quick Roofing RAM Construction Ram Jack Foundation Solutions Redevelopment Services Redstone Payment Solutions Reliable Roofing of Texas Inc Reliant Remedy Roofing Inc RENCON Rent Debt Automated Collections RentPath RentSense LLC Residential Waste Service LLC Restoration 1 of Central Houston REVS (Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions) RezClean Houston RG Miller Engineers RLB Construction Ltd dba RoofTec
Roadrunner Restoration Company LLC Roosevelt General Contracting Roto-Rooter Services Co SafeRent Solutions Saifee Signs & Graphics Saint Clair & Sons Inc Scoop Troop HTX SEAL Security Solutions LLC Secure Insurance Sherwin Williams Company Sign-Ups & Banners Signal 88 Security Skyline Highrise Services SOS-ASAP Softwashing South Central Electric LLC Southern Shingles Steward Trash Valet Service Storm Maintenance & Monitoring Stormwater Professionals Group Strata Roofing and Construction LLC Structural Concrete Systems LLC Sunny Pressure Washing LLC Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management Texas Apartment Pool Services Texas Concrete Professional Company Texas Engineered Roofing & General Contracting Texas Landscape Group LLC Texas Management Group LLC Texas Southwest Floors Inc Texas Waste Management Solutions LLC Texas Window Cleaning Co Inc The Lane Law Firm Three Amigos Texas LLC Threshold Agency LLC Tidal Renovations LLC Tile Center Top Brass Services Group Tpo Pros Roofing & Restoration Trash Roundup LLC Triangle DJ Contractors Two Brothers Foundation Repair United Protective Services Urban Value Corner Store USA Patrol Division Valet Living VBM Waste LLC VERO Vima Decor WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems Watermark Restoration and Construction Wayfinder Tax Relief LLC Webb Pest Control Westco Grounds Maintenance LLC Whitmans Contracting and Roofing Willbanks & Associates Inc Wilson Fire Equipment Winhill Advisors World Cinema Inc WRLD PRO Vending LLC
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Letter from the President
By CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ, 2022 HAA President
AS I WRITE THIS COLUMN, IT’S MID-JANUARY AND OUR FRONTLINE TEAMS ARE WORKING HARDER THAN EVER BEFORE. We are all feeling the burden of the labor shortage that has been compounded by the spike in positive COVID-19 cases. I want to first say to our onsite teams and supplier partners, we see you, we appreciate you and we need more of you. During the pandemic, people are reassessing their core values. In addition to the “Great Resignation” we are also experiencing what is called “the big quit.” People are quitting their jobs more than ever before and asking themselves big questions like “What do I really want to do?” And people are taking those leaps into completely new careers. As an industry, we are struggling to find new talent. This burden is putting downward pressure on the frontlines and customer service is being impacted. We must recruit new talent into our industry. How will we navigate this challenge as an association? As leaders, we have to continually go inward and reflect on what we can control and release what we can’t control, both in the short term and long term. We have to measure ourselves and our teams to incremental goals because the massive amount of change is burning people out. Please remember, you are not alone. We are all connected and we’re all experiencing these challenges together right now. There is a vast and robust network of your peers within the Houston Apartment Association. Don’t forget the power of that network. Lean into each other. That’s the beautiful thing about HAA – when you’re a member of this organization, all of the fence lines go away. We’re all in this together. Owners and suppliers alike, we are in this industry together. We’re in the midst of this historical time, but I compel each of you to leverage the incredible resources and people you are surrounded by. As HAA members and volunteers, we have access to tools, people and resources from HAA, the Texas Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association. We aren’t just HAA strong, we are TAA strong and NAA strong. Right now, we have to meet each other where we are with kindness and patience. Remember, there is power in our multifamily network, we must keep tapping into it.
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Houston Planned Energy Systems
These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their patron membership. Please give them careful consideration, whenever possible, in your business.
HAA Member since 1997
Cotton Commercial USA Inc.
Gemstar Construction Development Inc.
HAA Member since 1982
Lowe’s Pro - MSH
HAA Member since 2006
CSC ServiceWorks
HAA Member since 1961
Craven Carpet
HAA Member since 1986
Camp Construction Services
HAA Member since 1994
February Patron of the Month
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Apartments.com
HAA Member since 1978
HAA Member since 1985
AAA Plumbers
HAA Member since 1984
FSI Construction Inc.
HAA Member since 1999
Dixie Carpet Installations
HAA Member since 1987
Century A/C Supply
HAA Member since 1968
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Legislative Update
By STEPHANIE GRAVES, HAA Legislative Chair, with BRADLEY PEPPER, Vice President of Government Affairs
CARBON MONOXIDE SAFETY HAA and Harris County Fire Marshal team up for safety.
CARBOM MONOXIDE IS a silent killer. It’s rarely a problem in the southern United States, but last winter’s freeze and associated power outages led to several fatalities – mostly involving people trying to use gas-powered generators improperly. Both Houston and unincorporated Harris County are phasing in new carbon monoxide alarm requirements. By 2025, every apartment unit in a building with either enclosed garages or
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any gas appliances will need to have an approved carbon monoxide alarm. One missing element, however, is in the process of being corrected. Though it should be common sense, Harris County’s fire code, which applies in the unincorporated areas of the county, did not actually ban the unsafe use of certain things that can produce carbon monoxide. The Harris County Fire Marshal, along with the
Houston Apartment Association, is proposing an amendment to the county fire code that would prohibit “charcoal burners, LP-gas cooking appliances, open-flame cooking devices, gas and fuel fired heaters or any other solid, liquid or gas fueled appliance” from being stored or used in an apartment or on an apartment patio or balcony. The amendment would also prohibit “vehicles, portable generators, lawn-care equipment and / See Legislative, Page 59
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It’s the Law
By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel
WHAT CAN YOU CHARGE? To a delinquent resident who skipped, according to the new TAA lease
IT’S THE BEST day ever! You just signed up your first resident on the new TAA lease. You will now get rent of a $1,000 per month for a 12-month term. Then, after only two weeks, your worst nightmare occurs. (Maybe that’s a little dramatic.) While you were enjoying your morning coffee, you read your delinquency report. It’s the fourth day of the month and you discover the resident you just leased to only days ago has failed to pay rent. While making your rounds to deliver your notices to vacate, you realize the resident skipped. Now comes the job of filling out a moveout statement. You have to itemize what the resident owes, but since you have never filled out a statement for amounts owed under the new lease, you have a number of questions. What can you charge? Reletting Charge – Yes (LEASE DETAILS paragraph I and paragraph 7.1) The amount of the reletting fee is identified on the first page in the “LEASE DETAILS” section. As with the prior TAA lease, the reletting fee is not to exceed 85% of the highest monthly rent during the lease term. It is important that this blank is filled in. If not, you won’t have the right to charge a reletting fee. Pursuant to paragraph 7.1, the resident is liable for the reletting charge if the resident: (A) fails to move in, or fails to give written moveout notice as required by the lease; (B) moves out without paying rent in full for the entire lease term or renewal period; (C) moves out at the owner’s demand because of the resident’s default; or (D) is judicially evicted. Keep in mind, the reletting charge does not compensate the owner for unpaid rent. The reletting charge is a liquidated amount covering only part of the owner’s damages for the owner’s time, effort and expense in finding and processing a replacement resident. The reletting charge is not a termination, www.haaonline.org
cancellation or buyout fee and does not release the resident from obligations under the lease, including liability for future or past-due rent, charges for damages or other sums due.
Now comes the job of filling out a move-out statement. You have to itemize what the resident owes, but since you have never filled out a statement for amounts owed under the new lease, you have a number of questions. What can you charge?
Accelerated Rent – Yes (paragraph 23.3) Similar to the old lease, the new lease provides that unless the owner has elected not to accelerate rent, all monthly rent for the rest of the lease term or renewal period will be accelerated automatically without notice or demand and will be immediately due if, without the owner’s consent: (A) the resident moves out, removes property in preparing to move out, or the resident or any occupant gives oral or written notice of intent to move out before the lease term or renewal period ends; and (B) the resident hasn’t paid all rent for the entire lease term or renewal period. Remaining rent is also accelerated if the resident is judicially evicted or moves out when the owner demands because the resident has defaulted. Paying Back Concessions – Yes (paragraph 23.5) Like the old lease, the new lease provides that if the resident defaults, the resident will pay, in addition to other sums due, any rental discounts or concessions agreed to in writing that have been applied to the resident’s account. Consequently, any rent discounts or concessions that have already been given through the date the resident skips are required to be reimbursed. Attorney’s Fees and Eviction Costs – Yes (paragraph 23.5) The lease states that the owner may recover attorney's fees in connection with enforcing the owner’s rights under the lease. The lease
also provides that the resident is liable for a charge (not to exceed $150) to cover the owner’s time, costs and expense for an eviction proceeding against the resident, plus the owner’s attorney’s fees and expenses, court costs and filing fees actually paid. Of course, attorney’s fees and eviction costs will only be recoverable if the owner actually incurs these fees and costs. If no attorney was involved or no eviction was filed, these fees and costs should not be assessed. Damages, Charges and Fees – Yes (paragraph 9 and other provisions throughout the lease) Paragraph 9 provides that the resident must promptly pay or reimburse the owner for loss, damage, consequential damages, government fines or charges or costs of repair or service in the apartment community because of a lease or community policy violation, improper use, negligence or other conduct by the resident, the resident’s invitees, occupants or guests; or any other cause not due the owner’s negligence or fault as allowed by law, except for damages by acts of God to the extent they couldn’t be mitigated by the resident’s action or inaction. There are also a number of other provisions in the lease that place the responsibility on the resident to pay damages, charges and fees. The key to being able to charge damages, charges and fees is to identify the provision that makes it the resident’s responsibility to February 2022
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pay the damage, charge or fee. Pursuant to paragraph 9, if the resident or any occupants or guests damage the property, the resident is responsible for paying for the costs of repairs or service. If you cannot put your finger on the lease provision that places the responsibility on the resident, the damage, charge or fee should not be assessed. Termination Fee – No The early termination option was previously included in a separate addendum identified as the “Lease Addendum for Early Termination of the Lease Contract.” The concept of this lease addendum is now incorporated into the lease. However, it is important to note that the early termination option is only available to the resident if the resident is not in default. Pursuant to paragraph J of the “LEASE DETAILS”, the resident is not eligible for early termination if the resident is in default of the lease. Pursuant to paragraph 7.2, if the resident is in default of the lease, the lease remedies (identified above) apply.
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Insufficient Notice Fee – No The standard TAA lease does not incorporate an insufficient notice fee. If the resident vacates the unit without proper notice, the resident would be held responsible for rent due for the remainder of the term of the lease through the accelerated rent provision. Mitigation of Damages – Yes Under the old TAA lease, the owner agreed to exercise customary diligence to relet and minimize damages and credit all later rent that the owner actually received from subsequent residents against the delinquent resident’s liability for past-due and future rent and other sums due. Although this provision has been removed from the new TAA lease, Texas law provides that a landlord has a duty to mitigate damages if a tenant abandons the leased premises in violation of the lease. A provision of a lease that purports to waive a right or to exempt a landlord from a liability or duty under this section is void. Consequently, even though the language is no longer in the TAA lease, an owner has a duty to mitigate damages. Although the statutory
provision is subject to interpretation, if the unit is relet, it would be unlikely that a court would allow the owner to recover double rent from both the previous resident and the current resident. Consequently, you should continue to exercise customary diligence to relet the unit and minimize damages. If the unit is relet, you would then credit any amounts received from the subsequent resident against the liability of the previous resident. Knowing what to charge to a delinquent resident who has skipped out can be challenging. By complying with the terms of the lease, you should be able to avoid unnecessary problems.
Want more Howard? He’s online! Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode.
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Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE
INCOMPLETE CASE
A resident gets a refund on his security deposit because management failed to provide a complete lease. A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with the Houston Apartment Association to receive a refund on his security deposit. In his complaint, the resident claimed he left the unit clean. The resident stated the apartment came with a rusted tub, which was still rusted upon moveout. He claimed he submitted various work orders to resolve this issue. According to the resident, he should have received a full refund on his security deposit. The resident provided pictures. Management’s reponse to HAA was forwarded to the resident. Ultimately, management felt the resident was charged accordingly.
Enclosed in management’s The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide response were copies of the an impartial review of resident complaints using lease, application, move-in condition form, move-out condition the documentation provided by both the resident form, notice to vacate, security and management. deposit statement, resident ledger and pictures. The committee ruled in favor of the resident. Management could not provide all plaints using the documentation provided by pages of the lease. both the resident and management. Therefore, management is to remove When the committee finds in favor of the charges and refund the resident the full $250 property owner, the decision is final. security deposit. If you are a manager with a resident The HAA Resident Relations Committee relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 provides an impartial review of resident comfor direct assistance. I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
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February 2022
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
www.haaonline.org
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It’s back and hosting HAA ACES members!
G O L F
W O R K S H O P 10 a.m. - Registration 10:45 a.m. - Hands-On Skills Sessions Driving Range • Putting Green • Course Hole Golf Basics • Chipping Green
1 p.m. - Lunch $85/per person – ACES members only (property management executives and supervisors only)
Players will visit a series of golf sessions throughout the course where they will learn the basics from golf pros. Lunch and beverages will be served throughout the workshop.
Tuesday, March 1 Quail Valley Golf Course 2880 La Quinta Drive Missouri City, TX 77459
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Register at www.haaonline.org
APARTMENT COMMUNITY EXECUTIVES & SUPERVISORS
Sponsored by: Lunch: Camp Construction Services and Contractors Inc. Coffee Station: Guardian Construction and Outdoor Elements Beverage Station: Earthworks and Matrix Construction Services Driving Range: American Fire Systems and FSI Construction Hole Sponsor: Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas and Texscape Services Player carts: ICONstrux Design + Build and Milwaukee Tool Essentials bag: Core Landscape and Gemstar Construction Development Putting Green: AAA Plumbers and Flooring Warehouse
Volleyball pg 17.qxp_Volleyball pg 25 1/19/22 2:38 PM Page 1
2022 HAA Volleyball Tournament Dust of your skills, grab your coworkers and get ready to bump, set and spike your way to the top! Festivities include lunch and snacks, networking opportunities and checking out the HAA athletes. Teams are registered on a first-come, first-served basis. All players must be members of HAA. Form your teams now (maximum two teams per company). Teams are not confirmed until payment has been received.
Friday, March 25 Gates open at 10 a.m. Registration and Practice: 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Tournament begins at 11 a.m. *Each team must have all players present by 10:45 a.m. to play.
District 249 23238 State Highway 249 in Tomball, 77375 Tournament fee is $300 per team (6 players, 2 alternates). Spectator fee is $35 per person. Register online at www.haaonline.org. Requests for refunds must be received in writing by end of business day on March 18 and will be subject to a $50 cancellation fee. No refunds will be granted after March 18 or for no shows. No refunds will be given for individual tickets, but tickets are fully transferrable.
Court Sponsors Contractors Inc. Roadrunner Restoration Company LLC Lunch Sponsor Camp Construction Services Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search Snack Station Sponsor Saferent Solutions
Questions? Contact the Meetings and Events Department at 713-595-0323, or email at events@haaonline.org.
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It’s Back! Wednesday, February 16 Bayou City Event Center 9401 Knight Road, Houston, TX 77045
National Presenting Sponsor HD Supply Lunch & Awards The Liberty Group Lowe’s Pro Supply Matrix Construction Services Racecar Competition Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC Chadwell Supply Click Lock Plank Installation Dixie Carpet Installations Inc Faucet Installation Carrier Enterprise Fire & Carbon Monoxide Safety Commercial Fire Protection Icemaker Installation Dixie Carpet Installations Inc Key Control Deadbolt Test Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas Water Heater Installation AAA Plumbers
Show off your maintenance skills and cheer on your best! 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. – Registration, practice and breakfast 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Skills-based competition 11:30 a.m. – Race car competition Noon to 1 p.m. – Awards luncheon Cash Prizes for Contestants! The following cash prizes will be given for achievement in Maintenance Mania competition events • $100 for First Place, Individual category • $200 for First Place, Overall • $100 for Second Place, Overall • $50 for Third Place, Overall Attendees will compete against other Maintenance Professionals in a series of skill-based competitions that challenges them to exhibit talents used on the job every day. Compete for a chance at the National Title at the NAA Education Conference!
Maintenance Mania Competitors: $70 (Entry fee for competition, breakfast and awards lunch)
Spectators: $60 (Access to competition event as spectator, breakfast and awards lunch)
Register online today at www.haaonline.org
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BE A PART OF THE NEXT GENERATION OF HAA LEADERSHIP. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA’s young professionals and it is open to all members. Network with your peers and grow your career together among the next generation of HAA leadership! To learn how to become involved with NEXT, see online at www.haaonline.org/next.
NEXT Mission Statement: A network of young professionals committed to the growth of future leaders with the Houston Apartment Association through education, peer-to-peer networking, and legislative and community involvement.
NEXT Co-Chairs:
HAA NEXT programs include free networking events held at various venues across Houston and low-cost Professional Development Breakfasts held virtually or at the HAA Education Center. The Professional Development programs feature special guest speakers on timely topics relevant to enhancing and furthering your multifamily industry career.
Amanda Kelly, CAS, Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services
Register online at www.haaonline.org/next or email us at events@haaonline.org for more information. We look forward to meeting you!
Ruha Vohra, NALP, CAM, Veritas Equity Management
tay
ds n a s r a calend r u o y EXT! N Mark s ’ t a for wh d e n u t Upcoming NEXT Events: Professional Development Breakfasts February 4 June 3 October 28 Socials April 7 July 20 August 25 December 8
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Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE
FEBRUARY 2 Certified Apartment Leasing Professional Course Wednesday, February 2 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To enhance the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better-informed, highly professional individuals with increased lease activity and improved resident relations. Schedule consists of four consecutive Wednesdays. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by Blue Ox Moving & Storage New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, February 2 10 a.m. Via Zoom All new supplier members are welcome. Contact members@haaonline.org for the link to join. Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, February 2 3:30 to 5 p.m. Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Ambassador members only. Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.
3 State of the Industry Breakfast Thursday, February 3 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road See Page 57 for details. Legal Lowdown Thursday, February 3 3 p.m. See Page 58 for more information. Sponsored by Steward Trash Valet Service
4 HAA NEXT: Professional Development Breakfast Friday, February 4 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA young professionals. Network with your peers at this low-cost breakfast and grow your career together among the next generation of HAA leadership. See Page 19 for details. Sponsored by LAmerican Fire System and Century A/C Supp.y
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FEBRUARY S M T W 1 2 6 7 8 9 13 14 15 16 20 21 22 23 27 28
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HAAPAC Luncheon Wednesday, January 23 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact Madison at mpolston@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by ICONstrux Design + Build
State of the Submarket – Montgomery County Tuesday, February 15 7 a.m. to noon The Woodlands Country Club 100 Grand Fairway Drive The Woodlands 77381 Join HAA in Montgomery County to learn the state of the area’s economy and apartment market. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonlne.org for details. Sponsored by Fidus Construction Services, Matrix Construction Services and Steward Trash Valet Service
9 Certified Apartment Leasing Professional Course Wednesday, February 9 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To enhance the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better-informed, highly professional individuals with increased lease activity and improved resident relations. Schedule consists of four consecutive Wednesdays. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by Blue Ox Moving & Storage Resident Relations Committee B Meeting Wednesday, February 9 Via Zoom 2 p.m.
10 Blue Star Program Thursday, February 10 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Blue Star Certification Program is a joint effort by the Houston Police Department and HAA. Created for rental properties of all sizes, the program's goal is to help law enforcement officials and the multifamily housing industry work together to effectively reduce criminal activity in rental properties. Please direct questions to officer Leoroy Ferguson at Leoroy.Ferguson @houstonpolice.org. Sponsored by American Fire Systems State of the Submarket – Fort Bend County Virtual Thursday, February 10 7 a.m. to noon Via Zoom Join HAA in Fort Bend County to learn the state of the area’s economy and apartment market. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonlne.org for details. Sponsored by Steward Trash Valet Service
11 IROC Breakfast Friday, February 11 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sponsored by Brayn Consulting
16 FEATURED EVENT Maintenance Mania Wednesday, February 16 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Bayou City Event Center 9401 Knight Road, 77045 Hands-on competition dedicated to the celebration of HAA's maintenance and service professionals. From faucet repair to ceiling fan replacement, come cheer on your favorite maintenance technicians as HAA competes against the region for a chance to send a representative to the National Championship. See Page 18 for details. Nationally sponsored by HD Supply, see Page 18 for local sponsors. IROP Course Wednesday, February 16 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Independent Rental Owner Professional designation program is offered to the rental owner who manages their personally-held multifamily property or properties. Contact Emily at ehilton@haaonlnine.org for details. Sponsored by First Onsite Restoration and Steward Trash Valet Service Certified Apartment Leasing Professional Course Wednesday, February 16 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To enhance the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better-informed, highly professional individuals with increased lease activity and improved resident relations. Schedule consists of four consecutive Wednesdays. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by Blue Ox Moving & Storage
T 3 10 17 24
F 4 11 18 25
S 5 12 19 26
MARCH S M T 1 6 7 8 13 14 15 20 21 22 27 28 29
W 2 9 16 23 30
T 3 10 17 24 31
F 4 11 18 25
S 5 12 19 26
17 Avenues: Main Street 1 – Beyond the Guest Card: How to Build Rapport Through Conversation with Charlotte Pisciotta, Full House Marketing Thursday, February 17 8:30 a.m. to noon Today’s renter wants to be heard and understood. Going beyond the date, size and price questions allows us as professionals to become the trusted advisor who understands their needs and can find the perfect home for them. See Page 22 for more information. Sponsored by Best Plumbing Product Service Council Meeting Thursday, February 17 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Location TBA
22 Avenues: Maintenance Blvd 1 – As the Apartment Turns: Preventing Soap Opera Drama in your Redec Program with Chris King-Dye, Full House Marketing Tuesday, February 22 8:30 a.m. to noon Prioritize the turn processes and consider consequences of repair vs. replacement. Set turn standards that meet company expectations resulting in successful move ins and renewals. See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Texas Apartment Floors
23 Certified Apartment Leasing Professional Course Wednesday, February 23 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. To enhance the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better-informed, highly professional individuals with increased lease activity and improved resident relations. Schedule consists of four consecutive Wednesdays. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by Blue Ox Moving & Storage
www.haaonline.org
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Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Check the calendars at www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date information.
For the most up-to-date information, see the calendar on the HAA website:
MARCH 1
ACES Golf Workshop Tuesday, March 1 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Quail Valley Golf Course & City Centre Open to ACES members only. See Page 16 for details and sponsors.
2
New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, March 2 10 a.m. Via Zoom All new supplier members are welcome. Contact members@haaonline.org for the link to join. Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, March 2 3:30 to 5 p.m. Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Ambassador members only. Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.
4
ACES Luncheon Friday, March 4 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: TBA ACES is open to supervisors and executive-level multifamily professionals. Contact Emily at ehilton@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by Guardian Construction and Texscape Services
8-9
NAA Advocate Tuesday, March 8 and Wednesday, March 9 Visit www.naahq.org for details.
9
Resident Relations Committee A Meeting Wednesday, March 9 Via Zoom 2 p.m.
15
Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Orientation and Industry Math Tuesday, March 15 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Students will learn all about the process and best practices for success as a CAM candidate. They will also receive a math refresher and start preparing to calculate industry formulas that are on the exam. See Page 25 for details. Sponsored by EPICHTX Construction
16
Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Resident Experience Wedneday, March 16 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This session covers industry essentials and the resident experience. See Page 25 for details. Sponsored by Restoration 1 of Central Houston Expert Exchange Wednesday, March 16 Noon to 12:30 p.m. HAA’s Micro Webinar series made available to you via Zoom and YouTube (subscribe to HAATV). Every third Wednesday of the month. Sponsored by Flooring Warehouse
17
Avenues: Marketing 1 – Resident Retention: Dollars and Rents with Rommel Anacan Thursday, March 17 8:30 a.m. to noon Navigating your residents through changing rental markets, with rising rental rates, can be a challenge! How do you encourage residents who are used to concessions, discounts and incentives to renew their leases without them? You’ll discover how in this informative session. See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data
www.haaonline.org
22
29
23
30
HAA Redbook Seminar Tuesday, March 22 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about the New Lease 2.0 and the 2022 Redbook. Sharpen your knowledge of your legal rights and responsibilities as a rental housing owner or manager by participating in one of the REDBOOK seminars.See Page 23 for details. Sponsored by Cinema Anywhere and The Liberty Group HAAPAC Luncheon Wednesday, March 23 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Join HAA’s Political Action Committee for an informative lunch session. For more information, contact Madison at mpolston@haaonline.org. Sponsored by Guardian Construction
24
HAA Redbook Seminar Thursday, March 24 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Learn about the New Lease 2.0 and the 2022 Redbook. Sharpen your knowledge of your legal rights and responsibilities as a rental housing owner or manager by participating in one of the REDBOOK seminars. See Page 23 for details. Sponsored by Cinema Anywhere and The Liberty Group
25
FEATURED EVENT HAA Volleyball Tournament Friday, March 25 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dust of your skills, grab your coworkers and get ready to bump, set and spike your way to the top! Festivities include lunch and snacks, networking opportunities and checking out the HAA athletes. See Page 17 for details and sponsors..
Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Finance Tuesday, March 29 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This session covers the manager’s responsibilities to the financial performance of a property, including income statements, budgeting, debt and property valuation. See Page 25 for details. Sponsored by Steward Trash Valet Service State of the Submarket – Brazoria County Wednesday, March 30 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Join HAA in Brazoria County to learn the state of the area’s economy and apartment market. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonlne.org for details. Sponsored by American Fire Systems and Century A/C Supply Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Marketing Wedneday, March 30 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. This session covers how to understand, create and implment an effective marketing plan. See Page 25 for details. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data Expo Committee Meeting Wednesday, March 30 3:30 p.m.
31
HAA Board Meeting Thursday, March 31 4 p.m. Sponsored by Earthworks.
NEXT Committee Meeting Wednesday, March 9 6 p.m.
UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, all events meet at our Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., second floor, in either the Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search or the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room. Meetings located at the HAA Offices, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., first floor, will be held in the Redi Carpet and Winograd Families/Judwin Properties Conference Room. See www.haaonline.org for an interactive calendar. www.haaonline.org
February 2022
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Sponsored by
All new content for 20e.2org2fo!r details. See www.haaonlin
Main
ST
Maintenance
BLVD
Leadership
LN
Avenues: Main Street - 1 February 17 Beyond the Guest Card: How to Build Rapport Through Conversation with Charlotte Pisciotta, Full House Marketing
Avenues: Maintenance Blvd - 1 February 22 As the Apartment Turns: Preventing Soap Opera Drama in your Redec Program with Chris King-Dye, Full House Marketing
Avenues: Leadership Lane - 1 April 7 The Love Languages of Employee Engagement with Charlotte, Pisciotta, Full House Marketing
Avenues: Main Street - 2 April 12 Fair Housing = Happy Housing with Megan Orser, Smart Apartment Solutions
Avenues: Maintenance Blvd - 2 October 6 Creeped Out by Bids and Scopes of Work? Top Tips to Produce Successful
Avenues: Leadership Lane - 2 July 26th The Middle Child of the Multifamily Industry: Specialized Training for Assistant Manager with Vicki Sharp
Avenues: Main Street - 3 June 9 Bringing Humanity to Your Insanity with Steve Wunch
Contracts with Chris King-Dye, Full House Marketing Avenues: Maintenance Blvd - 3 November 3 Dude, where’s my caulk? Inventory Management and Shop Organization with Chris King-Dye, Full House Marketing
Follow a road that fits you career journey with Avenues. The Avenues series of seminars feature some of the best nationally-acclaimed speakers in the industry with learning sessions for every level of multifamily professional. Annual Property Subscriptions are available with unlimited attendance for all on-site property staff to all sessions at discounted prices: • Only $199 per year per property for properties with fewer than 200 units • Only $399 per year per property for properties with 200 to 350 units. • Only $450 per year per property for properties with more than 350 units. If you need a single workshop, individual sessions are priced at only $50 per person, a real steal for quality education.
Look for the class schedule and online at www.haaonline.org for details. Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or register online at www.haaonline.org.
Avenues: Leadership Lane - 3 September 21 Feedback Is A Gift Successful Leaders Give with Steve Wunch
Marketing
PL
Avenues: Marketing Place - 1 March 17 Resident Retention: Dollars and Rents with Rommel Anacan Avenues: Marketing Place - 2 July 7 Connecting The Dot: Your Blueprint to TikTok & Instagram with Megan Orser, Smart Apartment Marketing Avenues: Marketing Place - 3 September 8 Getting “HITCHed!” How to Help Your Clients Fall in Love with Your Community! with Rommel Anacan
Need j
Individual s ust one semina per person, essions are priced at r? o a real steal for quality e nly $50 ducation!
Look for the class schedule and online at www.haaonline.org for details. Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or register online at www.haaonline.org.
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Learn about the New Lease 2.0 and the 2022 Redbook
REDBOOK SEMINAR
Choose your day. Choose your location.
March 22 or March 24 in Houston Location – HAF Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. (off Clay Road and the Beltway) Sponsored by Cinema Anywhere and The Liberty Group
April 7 in Pearland Location – Hilton Garden Inn Pearland - 12101 Shadow Creek Pkwy, Pearland, TX 77584 Sponsored by Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search and Ideal Towing
April 12 in The Woodlands Location – The Woodlands Country Club - 100 Grand Fairway, The Woodlands, TX 77381 Sponsored by Ideal Towing and Fetch Package
April 21 in Baytown, location to be announced Sponsored by The Liberty Group and EPICHTX Construction Registration – 8:30 a.m. Program – 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Program Fee (includes lunch) – $145 prepay; $180 invoice Sharpen your knowledge of your legal rights and responsibilities as a rental housing owner or manager by participating in one of the REDBOOK seminars being offered around the city.
Presented by Howard Bookstaff, HAA General Counsel
For more information and to register, see online at www.haaonline.org.
Seminars emphasize changes in management practices required by new laws passed during the last legislative session as well as updates on key regulatory issues that affect property management. Each section will include an interactive exercise to help you learn how to apply the law to your job. Full of videos and interactive tools, the 2022 REDBOOK seminar will deliver the quality legal instruction you expect from HAA. Here’s your chance to hear from the experts and get answers to your questions. Learn the major changes to TAA’s Lease and other major forms. Understand major operational issues and get comfortable with the newly updated REDBOOK.
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reat G e Sam , e am N w Ne
n! o i t a Educ
Education is your key to a great future
Distinguish yourself amongst a field of “tour guides” – learn to be a real salesperson and attain your CALP credential this year.
The Certified Apartment Leasing Professional Program enhances the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better informed, highly professional individuals with increased lease activity and improved resident relations. Course Location and Schedule: Courses are held at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., off the beltway at Clay Road. Morning Sessions: 8:30 a.m. – Check-in and registration 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. – Program Afternoon Sessions: 12:30 p.m. – Check-in and registration 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Program
Sponsored by Blue Ox Moving & Storage
Total Program Cost: $425 CALP I: Morning Session – February 2 Bringing in New Residents: Be Prepared – This course focuses on the skills needed to deliver exceptional leasing support. From personal organization and time management to teamwork and technology, the Leasing Professional applies these talents to a successful outcome for the prospective residents. CALP II: Afternoon Session – February 2 Marketing and Maintaining your Community – These chapters underscore the importance of image, reputation and brand in well-maintained communities. A detailed list of what keeps an entire community in peak showable condition is taught, along with the importance of a robust and varied marketing approach for maximum exposure. CALP III: Morning Session – February 9 Why Your Competition Matters – A loyal and satisfied resident is at the basis of this course on competition. The Leasing Professional is a critical component in inspiring and maintaining loyalty but also understanding the role of competitors and their offerings. This knowledge must be complete, accurate and timely. CALP IV: Afternoon Session – February 9 Relevant Laws and How to Apply Them – This course teaches a full spectrum of fair housing and ADA compliance for both prospective and current residents. In addition, laws applying to prospect screening, application verification, the lease and lease addenda make up the curriculum for this key component to the Leasing professional’s role. CALP V: Morning Session – February 16 The Sales Process and Building Relationships – The CALP candidate learns the foundations of relationship selling and the importance of problem-solving for both the prospective and current resident. Learning to listen and respond specifically to the customer, handling objections and meaningful ways to close the sale are the essential duties learned. The course closes with a personal assessment of sales readiness. CALP VI: Afternoon Session – February 16 Effectively Meeting the Needs of Current Residents – Once the prospective resident moves in, the relationship and responsibilities continue. The Leasing Professional learns the importance of handling maintenance and resident issues and continuing to be the positive brand for the community. Lease renewals and a focus on the all-important resident’s sense of community are pivotal skills for the successful Leasing Professional. CALP VII: Morning Session from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – February 23 Market Analysis for Leasing Professionals
Visit www.haaonline.org for more information and to register.
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Apartment Managers – Write it down: CAM is the best way to advance your multifamily career! What are you waiting for?
Credential Qualifications: • Minimum of 12 months of on-site property management experience in a management role or position (assistant managers do qualify) • Classroom attendance in at least six of the seven scheduled class days • A passing score on the CAM exam within six (6) months of enrollment Course Schedule and Fees: • The CAM curriculum is comprised of eight modules and is administered by HAA in seven days over the course of six weeks • Check-in and registration begins at 8:30 a.m., except for the Orientation Luncheon beginning at noon. • Modules vary in length; classes generally will conclude by 4 p.m. or earlier • Lunch is provided • Total Program Cost: $1,300 • All electronic material, exam fees and meals are included in the course fee • New CAM Candidates must begin the program with the first course on March 15
CAM Course Schedule and Descriptions: March 15: Program and Orientation Luncheon/Industry Math Learn all about the process and best practices for success as a CAM candidate, PLUS receive a math refresher and start preparing to calculate industry formulas you’ll need to know for the exam. This first course begins at 12 p.m. March 16: Industry Essentials & the Resident Experience • Summarize the global state of the apartment industry • View property as an investment • Identify the roles of people a CAM will interact with • Describe the value of the CAM role as an investor advocate and resident advocate • Identify characteristics of different types of housing • How to build relationships with residents • Explain the Resident Cycle including: - Lease & Application - Screening - New Resident Education - Ongoing Resident Communication - Resident Retention/Renewal - Move Out Procedures March 29: Financial Management • Relate CAM responsibilities to the financial performance of a property • Analyze an income statement • Develop and manage a stabilized budget • Prevent and solve for bad debt • Perform a property valuation
Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data Inc., American Fire Systems, Earthworks, EPICHTX Construction, First Onsite Restoration, Restoration 1 of Central Houston, Steward Trash Valet and Texscape Services For a more detailed synopsis of individual course content and to register, please visit the education page of our website at www.haaonline.org.
March 30: Marketing • Identify the components of an effective Marketing Plan • Use resources to effectively gather and calculate data needed in a Marketing Plan • Develop a Marketing Plan - Analyze a market including competitors - Identify the internal market readiness of a property - Perform an economic analysis of a property - Analyze and draw conclusions from a Market Plan using the SWOT methodology • Add value to a property through use of rental income, rates, and/or adjustments • Add value to a property through managing occupancy • Select and write an effective recommendation - Identify types of promotion - Identify types of advertising media • Develop a budget for a Marketing Plan • Measure the success of a Marketing Plan April 5: Property Maintenance • Relate CAM responsibilities to the maintenance of a property • Oversee service requests - Ensure employees in all roles receive the appropriate training to ensure service requests are completed accurately • Manage inventory • Identify the need for a contractor or vendor - Complete the bid process and signing of a contract • Use inspection results to prioritize maintenance and repairs • Develop a preventative maintenance program • Identify maintenance needs for green properties April 6: Legal • Describe reasonable accommodations and modifications for persons with disabilities • Explain compliance with laws that govern applicant screening • Explain the purpose and impact of fair housing laws • Explain how to remain in compliance with fair housing laws • Identify a CAM’s responsibilities in providing safe living conditions with adherence to residence rights • Summarize the bid process requirements • Explain compliance with laws that govern employment practices April 19: Risk Management • Relate risk management to a CAM’s role • Propose a solution to an issue of fraud, theft, embezzlement, etc. to minimize financial risk • Identify necessary preventative maintenance to minimize risk to physical plant • Create a resident education/orientation message to minimize risk to residents • Practice preparing for an OSHA inspection • Create sample guidelines for entering homes to minimize risk to staff/vendors • Create emergency plan for a common regional emergency • Provide the best course of action for various crime emergencies • Prevent and control loss April 20: Human Resources • Identify laws that affect employment procedures • Understand how to manage payroll including benefits, overtime, and rent-free employee housing • Summarize the employment process - Recruit potential employees - Interview applicants - Evaluate candidates - Complete new employee orientation • Maintain employees’ records appropriately • Address employees’ needs throughout the lifecycle of their employment - Identify training needs - Manage performance - Perform an employee evaluation - Execute disciplinary action - Terminate employment
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Industry Update from the NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATION and the NATIONAL MULTIHOUSING COUNCIL
ON THE TABLE AGAIN NAA research bolsters testimony against rent control in Boston.
ON JANUARY 11, 2022, the National Apartment Association (NAA) joined the Greater Boston Real Estate Board (GBREB) to testify before the Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee on Housing. The Committee holds public hearings every other year organized by topic. The semi-annual hearing on landlord-tenant issues included twenty bills on various issues including legislation to reinstitute rent control in Massachusetts. Paula Munger, NAA’s Assistant Vice President, Industry Research and Analysis, testified before the Committee to underscore the damaging economic consequences of rent regulation on communities. Kathleen Franco, Chair-Elect of GBREB, and GBREB CEO Greg Vasil joined Munger before the Committee. In her remarks, Munger highlighted new NAA modeling that reveals the repercussions that a three percent rent cap would have in Boston. Among the key findings were that: • Apartment supply would drop by more than 700 units per year
• Apartment property values would drop by more than $260 million • Property tax revenue to the City of Boston would drop by more than $2 million annually Further, the research revealed that should the same rent cap be enacted statewide: • Apartment property values would drop by more than $820 million • Property tax revenue to cities and towns would drop by more than $7 million annually The stark findings of this report underscore what economists have reiterated for decades: rent control ultimately does the opposite of what it intended to. Instead of addressing housing affordability, rent regulation decreases already-limited supply, plummets property values and significantly reduces tax revenue that benefits local communities. As NAA President and CEO Bob Pinnegar stated in testimony submitted to the Committee, "imposing artificial and arbitrary limitations on rents interferes with the market’s ability to naturally respond to
changing economic forces. Rent control destabilizes the rental market and decreases affordability." For an industry whose apartments and residents contribute $61 billion to Massachusetts’ economy annually and support more than 268,000 jobs, the impacts of rent regulation would be detrimental for both residents and housing providers alike. As recently as July of 2020, rent control was defeated in the Massachusetts House of Representatives, with 136 of the 160 members in recorded opposition and only 23 supporting. The members who voted in opposition to that measure are still in office as members of the 192nd General Court and there is no indication they plan to change their votes. As lawmakers in Boston and around the country increasingly consider short-term solutions like rent regulation, NAA, alongside its affiliate partners like GBREB, is committed to advocating against these measures and rather for responsible remedies that ultimately address the nation’s housing affordability crisis. / See NAA Update, Page 45
Did they pay their rent? Rental Credit Reporting (RCR) was established in 1977 to solve screening problems the Houston Apartment Association founders felt plagued the local apartment industry. RCR has unsurpassed data on resident rental histories in the Houston region. The Houston Apartment Association and CoreLogic are partnered to expand RCR and include numerous searches in one bundled report with immediate and unlimited inquiry access.
To learn more and subscribe, call RCR at 713-595-0300, email rcr@haaonline.org or visit www.haaonline.org.
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HAA 2022 EVENT CALENDAR FOR THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MARK YOUR CALENDARS for these fabulous networking and professional development events in 2022. Please note that dates and prices are subject to change. Check the calendar pages at www.haaonline.org/events for the most up-to-date information and registration links, or contact members@haaonline.org for more information.
FEBRUARY
MAY
SEPTEMBER
State of the Industry Breakfast – February 3 at the Westin Memorial City #HAASOI $99
HAA Education Conference & Expo – May 19 at NRG Center #HAAExpo Expo only is FREE to attend for owner/management members. Non-exhibiting suppliers not admitted. Education Conference $175 | $135 early bird Booth prices for supplier members start at $1,065 *Exhibitors only
40 Under 40 – September 15 Location TBA #HAA40Under40 $65 early | $75 regular
JUNE
Go-Getters Happy Hour – September 29 Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters
State of the Submarket-Fort Bend County – February 10 Location TBA #HAASOSFBCO $80 prepaid | $110 invoiced or at door State of the Submarket-Montgomery County – February 15 Location TBA #HAASOSMOCO $80 prepaid | $110 invoiced or at door Maintenance Mania – February 16 at the Bayou City Event Center #MaintMania $70 competitor | $60 spectator
MARCH Volleyball Tournament – March 25 at District 249 #HAAVBall $300 team | $35 spectator
Go-Getters Happy Hour – June 9 Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters Honors Awards – June 16 at the Hilton Americas #HAAHonors $100 early/$120 regular | $1,100/$1,300 table of 10 Sponsorship Auction – June 30 #HAAAuction Free for supplier members
JULY
Fall State of the Industry Breakfast – September 28 Locaton TBA #HAASOI $99
OCTOBER Dinerstein Golf Tournament – October 3 Location TBA #HAAGolf $800 per foursome. Two owner/management and two suppliers per team. Chili Fest – October 22 at Humble Civic Center #HAAChili Prepaid: $12/person | $8 children under 12 | Free children under 5 On site: $15/person | $10 children under 12 | Free children under 5
State of the Submarket-Brazoria County – March 30 Location TBA #HAASOSBRCO $80 prepaid | $110 invoiced or at door
Bowling Tournament – July 8 at Copperfield Bowl #HAABowl $320 team | $30 spectator
APRIL
Annual Open House – July 12 #HAAOpenHouse Free for all members
Annual Business Meeting – November 10 Location TBA #HAAHonors $65 early/$85regular | $700/$900 table of 10
AUGUST
DECEMBER
Business Exchange – August 11 at Ayva Center #HAABizX For Suppliers: Up to three representative per company Registration opens June 1
Go-Getters Happy Hour – December 7 Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters
Go-Getters Happy Hour – April 6 Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters Spring HAA Political Action Committee Fundraiser – April 14 at Top Golf Katy #HAAPAC $550 to $650 per team Sports Challenge – April 22 Location TBA #HAAAllStars $20/spectator | $400 team
NOVEMBER
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The Best of the Best
in
Multifamily The HAA Honors Awards recognizes members for their commitment to their communities and the apartment industry. Last month we recognized four of our honorees. Here are more of the 2021 Houston Apartment Association Honors Awards recipients.
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Onsite Manager (1 to 150 units) of the Year
Regina Carr, Kensington Crossings, Mosaic Residential What do you do? As a property manager, I have the ability to provide prospects and residents the opportunity to love and enjoy their (new) home and community. With the help of my team, we have created an inviting atmosphere through friendly customer service. We work hard to get to know each resident as a person and not a unit number. How did you get to where you are within your career? I worked hard and I’ve always wanted to know and learn more. I started in the apartment industry 33 years ago as a housekeeper and worked my way through becoming a maintenance coordinator, leasing agent, assistant property manager, manager, assistant regional and regional, but my favorite role has definitely been property manager. I am so thankful I went through this process as it not only taught me the importance of every role but to appreciate what each team member brings to the table. Without my team I am not a leader, a trainer or a motivator. I treat each team member with respect and always remind them that without all none of us would be successful. Success is accomplished through teamwork, respect for each other and of course having and achieving the same goals. All of this is to be the best we can be today. How were you able to increase revenue and operating income during a financially challenging year? In short, by working together. We increased revenue because we showed the value of our property to those that live and work there. My team takes pride in their work, which allowed us to continue to increase occupancy and increase rents. We worked with residents
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during the challenging times on payment agreements, being consistent and helping them apply for assistance when needed. We made it a point to show we cared. Small acts of kindness from the team made the resident fight just as hard to keep their home as we did in keeping them in their homes. We got through it together. I believe that most of the time, we allow the circumstances around us to dictate what we do instead of using that same opportunity to push forward and stand out. This, of course, is not possible without having a regional and owners who trust your judgement and allow you to push forward in an unfamiliar territory.
What makes teams successful? It starts with one’s own self. I believe that each of us must have the desire to achieve and learn and have the feeling of obligation and commitment to always try to do the best we can. To work as a team and to motivate each other and help each other, be better and to learn new things. How do you encourage your teams? I strive to find a positive in every situation. I also believe that a pat on the back, great job and a thank you go along away. Positive reinforcement is key with my team. We all have a job to do but it is important that we recognize a job well done. Positive reinforcement and respect from a supervisor make us want to do better. I like to remember that finding fault is easy but does not motivate us. I pride myself on my ability to, teach, motivate, inspire and even challenge each member of my team in order to make tomorrow a better day.
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Onsite Manager (151 to 349 units) of the Year
“Our residents should be our main priority. They chose to make our community their home and I always want them to be happy in their home.” – Erika Eubanks
Erika Eubanks, CAM, NALP The Woodlands Lodge, Francis Property Management What do you do? I guess my official tile is Residential Business Manager, what I actually do goes way beyond that. I love leasing and helping someone find their new home! I love numbers so the bookkeeping aspect of our community is one of my favorites! I really enjoy being involved with training our new team members and am never more than a call away to help. There really isn’t anything too small or to big that I won’t do. How did you get your first job in the apartment industry? My mom, who has been in the industry for years, told me about an open sales associate position with Francis Property Management close to where I lived at the time. At the time, I was working as a waitress at Texas Roadhouse and I was looking for a change. The apartment industry was something I was always around growing up and it made the decision to apply with Francis that much easier. I started a sales associate in 2011, worked my way to an assistant business manager in 2013 and I was promoted to residential business manager in 2017. I am now going into my 11th year with Francis.
How were you able to create a sense of community at The Woodlands Lodge in 2020? Our residents we so accustomed to weekly events and community interaction. All of a sudden, we had to hit the pause button. Thankfully our company took the time to invest in a program that offered daily virtual events and virtual fitness classes for our residents. Our team would take turns also participating in these virtual events to interact with the residents. On top of that, we would host virtual bingo and trivia on Facebook Live. Above all, our company went above and beyond to make sure our residents were updated via email every step of the way as we navigated through 2020. Why is it important to take the time to help the renters of our apartment communities? Our residents should be our main priority. They chose to make our community their home and I always want them to be happy in their home. The residents are one of the most important parts of our communities. If they weren’t here, we wouldn’t be here.
What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? I believe you truly have to have a passion for what you are doing to be successful. If you are passionate about what you are doing, it will never actually feel like work. I look forward to coming to work every day and getting to do something I love.
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Leasing Professional of the Year
Melissa Merritt, NALP, The Abbey at Enclave, Abbey Residential What do you do? I am the leasing manager for the Abbey at Enclave for Abbey Residential. I am the creative mind behind resident events, our TikTok videos and all other social media platforms. I am my team’s biggest fan and cheerleader. Being with Abbey Residential for over four years as both a leasing consultant and now a leasing manager, I am very familiar with the “Abbey Way.” I have worked at multiple properties and I have a good understanding of Abbey’s portfolio, especially the 15 Houston properties. I take pride in being a company advocate. What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? I have found that one of the best qualities to have to be successful is to be able to navigate all different types of conversations. I can make residents, prospects and my team feel seen, heard and not to feel like any question or idea is dumb. My ability to de-escalate situations from a heated conversation to a calm conversation has really served me well in my role as a leasing manager.
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What makes a property successful? What make a property successful in my opinion is being proactive and not reactive. One example of that is making sure that my team walks units ahead of time to give maintenance time to do their work and making sure that the unit looks 100% ready for prospects to view. Another is making sure we hold ourselves accountable as well as each other. Accountability is key. Celebrating our successes, as well as understanding where we can improve upon for the next day.
“I have found that one of the best qualities to have to be successful is to be able to navigate all different types of conversations.” – Melissa Merritt
What is the best way to motivate teams, especially when times get tough? During the pandemic, we had to keep up the energy and I had to make sure my team was thriving. We had several TikTok and other social medias contests, daily check ins and a lot of food and sugar. I motivate my teams by showing appreciation. Everyone wants to feel appreciated. I make sure to say thank you at the end of each day to everyone for all the hard work they put in for the day. I think that really makes a difference.
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Maintenance Supervisor (Multiple Properties) of the Year
Carlos Garcia, Pearl CityCentre and Pearl Residences, MORGAN What do you do? I am the senior maintenance supervisor for Pearl CityCentre and Pearl Residences with the Morgan Group. My role is to supervise a team of six maintenance staff and all vendor partners. I oversee maintenance and repairs of electrical, plumbing, heating, ventilation, HVAC, carpentry and painting. However, I believe that beyond my responsibilities listed above, I create a solid foundation of trust between the residents and the maintenance team. It is important that the residents know that our properties are a place where we take pride in caring for their homes. Our duty is to ensure that every single resident knows that they are living in a quality community, where we work to make sure that everyone has a pleasant stay.
excel. If you are looking for an entry level position or to further your understanding of HVAC, the multifamily industry is a great place to hone your skills. The Houston Apartment Association is a great place to start! Their goal is to give you the necessary knowledge to build one’s confidence and understanding on how to perform masterfully as a maintenance technician. The pace of training and ability to elevate up through the ranks is determined by your own resiliency and work ethic. The opportunities are limitless. The only requirements for entry level is to be receptive to coaching, training and growth. There are currently available positions within the industry and there are not enough people willing to take the leap. The multifamily industry continues to increase wages and offers exceptional benefits.
How did you get to where you are within your career? I started my career as a painter in 1988. After a few years I began HVAC courses. Upon graduating in 1994, I was promoted to porter. I was the only porter on my team who took calls for HVAC. I quickly made it through the ranks, being promoted to assistant, lead and now I manage multiple flagship properties.
What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? The Golden Rule is timeless. If you treat others the way you would like to be treated, you will find that most communication with your internal and external customers will go smoothly. When responding to requests from my team or residents, I engage by sympathizing with their problems. Timely responses, follow up and honest communication will always lead to a successful resolution. Mindset it critical to a long and successful career in multifamily.
What advice do you have for someone who is thinking about getting any maintenance-related certification such as HVAC and refrigeration? There is a lot of success to be had in the apartment industry. There are countless opportunities for training for the various skills required to
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Portfolio Supervisor of the Year
Courtney Vitek, CAM, MLDC Management Through multifamily, I believe we are afforded the opportunity to reach people, residents, clients and team members alike.” – Courtney Vitek
What do you do? My title has changed from regional to vice president. Because our company is in its young infancy, we do not have standard titles within our infrastructure. I would say my day-to-day job is really revolved around supporting my teams. Including assisting the president with anything she needs, training all team members regardless of position or title, jumping in on operations to ensure our teams maintain a work-life balance, acting as a liaison for clients and working to acquire new business through meaningful relationships. How did you get to where you are within your career? I grew up in the multifamily industry. I was always attracted to the passion my mom had for the communities and residents she served. She has always had this way about her in being able to connect with people and bring such a light to everyone she meets. I have always aspired to have that kind of impact one day. Through multifamily, I believe we are afforded the opportunity to reach people, residents, clients and team members alike. I have been blessed to have amazing leadership. Having worked for some of the largest and smallest firms, I was able to gain industry perspectives on multiple asset types. My mother’s example to get it done and work hard led me never to shy away from a project, from lease ups to distressed property takeovers. All these experiences nurtured my passion. It has all come full circle now that I’m working alongside my mom, bringing that vision forward. You can serve with love, kindness and care and still be profitable and successful. What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? Loyalty to your organization, clients, team members and above all else your own reputation. Be authentic to what makes you, you! What are you working on right now? Enhancing our brand through detailed focus on consistent operations, culture development and transparent business practices. Through these enhancements, I’m working on client services and new business development. What makes teams successful? Leadership and a workplace that inspires individual authenticity, positive collaboration and development within a workplace culture that is inspired by constant change and evolution.
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Onsite Assistant Manager of the Year
James Whitaker, Greystar
What do you do? Some days I feel more like a detective. The issue of fraud has been out of control the past couple of years. It comes and goes in waves, but we have almost all become experts and we can spot it pretty quickly. How did you get to where you are within your career? I started working part time in leasing when I was in college. After I finished, I stuck with it and have been here ever since.
“Some days I feel more like a detective. The issue of fraud has been out of control the past couple of years. It comes and goes in waves, but we have almost all become experts and we can spot it pretty quickly.” – James Whitaker
What did you learn from 2020 that is positive? Like many others in 2020, I lost a parent. I learned to live every day like it’s my last because you aren’t guaranteed tomorrow. Obviously, it’s easier said than done and the last two years have exhausted us all, but doing something different or changing your routine a few times per week can do wonders for your mental health. How have you able to set yourself apart as a leader within Greystar? I like to consider myself innovative when it comes to finding new ways to do the same repetitive work. If there is a faster, more efficient way to complete a project, I’m going to figure it out.
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Maintenance Supervisor (Single Property) of the Year
“Love what you do. We are a special kind of breed and love the enjoyment of helping people with a smile.” – Jorge Castillo
Jorge Castillo, Holly Hall, Mosaic Residential
What do you do? I am a problem solver, leader and a motivational speaker (to my team). I just get it done. How did you get to where you are within your career? I started working at a high-rise property in Downtown Houston. I did basic maintenance, however, I wanted to learn more. I watched any contractor who came by or I just tried myself to figure it out. What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? Love what you do. We are a special kind of breed and love the enjoyment of helping people with a smile. In 2020, I organized my team, separated all work orders by category and we worked as a team. I motivated my team in our daily meetings, set goals and made sure they knew I was always there if they needed me. What advice do you have for someone who is considering a career in multifamily maintenance? I’ve loved my job since the first day I started in this industry. I enjoy coming to work every day and helping people. You have to love it at all the time – the good and the bad days. Don’t look at it as just a job. When you love what you do, you go home at the end of the day knowing that you made someone happy by making their home a better place.
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Maintenance Technician of the Year
Jose Torres, The Amelia, Jacquelyn Place and Johana Court, Bravo Capital Management What do you do? I think we, as maintenance professionals, are the eyes and ears of the properties. We are an important part of the operations that keeps the residents’ apartment homes functional. By us doing our job right, residents live a better life and our company gets the job done successfully. How did you get your start in the apartment industry? In 2016, the property management company where I lived was looking for a part-time maintenance technician to help with the properties. I decided to help them, and the job turned into a full-time position. We kept learning and growing as a team. I took a chance in life and worked hard to be successful.
What do you like the most about working as a maintenance professional in the apartment industry? What I like most is the challenge of accomplishing my task and doing it right the first time on budget. Also, I have a good team that helps me to be successful, including my community manager and upper management. They want me to succeed and to keep learning to be the best person I can be at my job and life.
What is an important quality or skill for people to have who do what you do? Having patience, courage, an open mind and taking the time to do the job right the first time. Asking for help when we don’t know how to do something saves time and resources in the long run. We must learn the skills we don’t know. We must admit to ourselves when we are wrong and fix the problem. We must tell the truth when something is not right so we can all succeed at the end of the day. I take pride in my work and knowing it got done right means a lot to me. My work is a reflection of me.
“I think we, as maintenance professionals, are the eyes and ears of the properties. We are an important part of the operations that keeps the residents’ apartment homes functional. By us doing our job right, residents live a better life and our company gets the job done successfully.” – Jose Torres 40
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State Industry of the
Join HAA and industry leaders as we assess the current and future state of Houston’s multifamily market. Topics will include the latest issues, recent economic trends, job growth, forecasts, rental rate and occupancy trends, new construction developments, technology, marketing trends and much more.
State of the Industry Breakfast Thursday, February 3 Breakfast and Registration: 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. Program: 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Location Westin Memorial City, 945 Gessner Road Program cost: $99/person if prepaid with a credit card; $125/person if invoiced See www.haaonline.org for more information.
Panelists, from top right: Moderator Christy Rodriguez, Judwin Properties Jesse Thompson, Senior Business Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas, Houston Branch Ric Campo, Camden Suan Tinsley, DayRise Residential Quintina Willis, Venterra Realty Manu Gupta, Indus Management Bruce McClenny, ApartmentData.com Ryan Terrell, Greystar
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Supplier of the Year
David Lindley, CAS, Vice President, FSI Construction “Be forthright when dealing with challenges and opportunities. And be proactive in communication. Providing customers with information before hearing from their direct reports and/or partners are keys to success. Take calculated risks based on known factors and your company’s ability to deliver and scale. The Golden Rule still stands.” – David Lindley
What do you do? I pursue sales goals and market targets throughout the day by establishing, building and maintaining relationships. My job is fun, adventurous and there is never a dull moment. Our locations are in fun cities across the country, so I like to take advantage of what each city has to offer to balance things out. In a nutshell, I work hard and play hard. How did you get to where you are within your career? I started out at the ground level. Once I moved to a company where I wanted to be, FSI Construction, I practiced patience and trial and error. I prepared myself within FSI and volunteered for leadership positions within HAA. Both paid off and now I find myself serving others in ways that produce win-win results. Patience, persistence and purpose are the keys to your future. Patience being the toughest. What are you working on right now? Much of what I’m working on is part of our ongoing multiyear growth and “best practices” models. Being on our leadership team definitely has its benefits and keeps me attuned to pivotal swings in the marketplace. We are constantly working on market driven initiatives at FSI and to see them come to fruition is gratifying and rewarding. Continuous improvement is the order of the day. What is the most important quality for a supplier partner to have to be successful in this industry? Integrity. Be forthright when dealing with challenges and opportunities. And be proactive in communication. Providing customers with information before hearing from their direct reports and/or partners are keys to success. Take calculated risks based on known factors and your company’s ability to deliver and scale. The Golden Rule still stands.
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Rising Star Supplier of the Year
Blake Subinsky, CAS, HD Supply Selected by the Product Service Council officers, the Houston Apartment Association Honors Awards Rising Star Supplier goes to a supplier partner who has displayed great enthusiasm and dedication volunteering their time and energy to the organization. It goes to a person who has exceptional leadership qualities and helps other suppliers succeed. The PSC officers wanted to honor Blake Subinsky posthumously to recognize the impact he had on HAA and so many members. This award is our way of saying thank you for all that you did in the years you served. Thank you for spending time outside of work and your family serving and volunteering for HAA and its members. If you were friends with Blake, worked with him or volunteered alongside him through HAA, you know what made him special. He was a natural leader, he was kind to everyone and he was friends with everyone. If you didn’t know Blake, he made you feel like he was your friend instantly. He showed up and gave it his all, he was competitive in the best way, he was humble, he was fun and lighthearted. You knew you could count on him. Blake left a mark on HAA. His legacy will live on in so many ways including through us, his HAA family.
On Site Manager (350 units or more) of the Year
Linda Dominguez, Asset Living
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Did you know HAA has a YouTube Channel?
Just Click
on HAATV
The Houston Apartment Association’s YouTube Channel features a wealth of information on legislation, education, HAA history and much more! Don’t miss our “Expert Exchange”micro-webinar series featuring industry experts who answer the top questions concerning current and pressing topics. Catch up with HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff for The Legal Lowdown featuring guidance on hot legal topics affecting the multifamily industry. See lots of educational videos and seminars recorded to watch at your convenience. Check out our videos of members networking at past events and historic moments. Subscribe to our YouTube channel HAATV to get notices of new content. Subscribe today at https://www.youtube.com/HAATV
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NAA Update, continued from Page 26 To learn more about rent regulation, please contact Ben Harrold, NAA's Manager of Public Policy or visit our rent regulation policy issue page at https://www.naahq.org/ advocacy/policy-issues/rent-regulation. For information on the newest research tools on rent regulation, please contact Leah Cuffy, NAA’s Research Analyst. New Reg F Clarifies Debtor Contact Processes for Property Operators and their Agents Here’s what you need to know about the new regulation, which is now in effect. November 30 was the effective date for Regulation F, a new rule from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) interpreting the Fair Debt Collections Practices Act (FDCPA). Released after several years of preparation, the complex rule largely governs third-party debt collections agencies and covered attorneys collecting past due rental obligations, with limited impact on their property manager clients. However, the rule is worth reviewing to ensure that agency and property manager are properly aligned on processes for debt documentation, itemization and dispute handling. Regulation F: • Clarifies the process for text and email message disclosure, opt-out and contact preferences in relation to debtor contacts, bringing the 1977 statute in line with contemporary consumer contact technology. As a result, agencies may look to property managers to confirm lease language authorizing tenant contacts, as well as tenant contact history. • Requires that collections agencies provide new detailed disclosures in the initial validation notice sent to the debtor, including an itemization of the debt as of a specific date, a more detailed consumer rights description, and an easy-to-use tear-off form for debtors. Debtors and their counsel frequently use debt validation requests, requiring property managers and other creditors to prove the amount and detail of the debt are legally supported with compliant, signed documentation. To ensure compliance, property operators may wish to review their debt itemization and dispute reinvestigation processes. • Requires that an attempt be made to contact the debtor before credit reporting begins. The CFPB has taken increasing interest during the Biden Administration in the accuracy / See NAA Update, Page 69 www.haaonline.org
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On the Scene with HAA COMMUNITY OUTREACH HAA Food Drive With the help of Marlo Simmons, HAAmember management companies were challenged to get as many of their properties as possible to collect food for people and pets. Thanks to all of the volunteers, properties, managers and supervisors who got behind this year’s effort. Property Collection Contest Winners Collection Area Decoration 1st Place – The Grove at Renwick Grove, Texas Capital 2nd Place – Westchase Creek Apartments, Veritas Equity Management 3rd place – Estancia, Francis Property Management 4th place – Riverwood Apartments, Francis Property Management Property with the highest collected per number of units 1st Place - Riviere on MacGregor, Better World Properties 2nd Place - The Grove at Renwick Grove, Texas Capital Property with highest total number collected 1st Place – Woodlands Lodge, Francis Property Management 2nd Place – Michelle Wade, Riverwood, Francis Property Management 3rd Place - San Brisa, Francis Property Management
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Top Management Company Total Items Collected 1st Place – Francis Property Management 2nd Place – Q10 Property Advisors 3rd Place – Abbey Residential 4th Place – Better World Properties 5th Place – Centra Partners Regional with Highest Portfolio collected Michelle Woodard, Francis Property Management, with 9133 items collected Heart Awards Stephanie Graves, Q10 Property Advisors Debbie Sulzer, Francis Property Management
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Volunteers
Felicia Cruz, Better World Properties Maricella Quinones, Better World Properties Wanda Dominguez, Better World Properties Monica Morales, Whitney Management Amber Adkins, Fairfield Residential Nena Gonzales, Fairfield Residential Rachel Munoz, Fairfield Residential Richard Campos, Fairfield Residential Victoria Gonzales, Fairfield Residential Jamon Jones, Fairfield Residential Tiffany Watson, Fairfield Residential Edwin Perez, Fairfield Residential Karen Garcia, Allied Orion Juvenal Sanchez, Allied Orion Chelsea Gronemeyer, RentPath Julia Kesterson, RentPath Kristin Buck, RentPath Kimberly Scott, RWS/Marketing Doer Theresa Lamar, AZ Partsmaster Jim Martensen, Camp Construction Services Kyle Turney, Camp Construction Services Derek DeVries, Camp Construction Services Amanda Kelly, Brandt Electrical, A/C & Heating Larissa Potiomkin, Cotton Commercial USA Amber Whitaker, FSI Construction Marivel Bownds, Valet Living Jennifer Devine, Valet Living Jackie Aguirre, Veritas Equity Management Leo Garcia, Veritas Equity Management Mallory Hess, Century A/C Supply Crystal Varela, Century A/C Supply Giovanna Gone, Century A/C Supply Susan Alvarado, Century A/C Supply Erica Janke, Marlo Simmons, Jetty Megan Stone, The Liberty Group Anita Alberger, The Liberty Group Krista Morton, Delmy Rivera, Greystar Austin Snyder, Impact Floors Rollin Ahmann, Kings III Emergency Communications Valerie Radla, HD Supply Nick Arrellano, InterSolutions Jennifer Fisher, Blackmon Mooring/BMS Cat Gabby Kimball, Francis Property Management Julie Brogdon, Francis Property Management Lorie Stafford, Texas Southwest Floors
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On the Scene with HAA COMMUNITY OUTREACH HAA Food Drive
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On the Scene with ACES
1
2
ACES Holiday Luncheon Sponsored by 1 Lowe’s Pro Supply and 2 Texas Southwest Floors Friday, December 6 at Brennan’s The Apartment Community Executives & Supervisors returned to Brennan’s for their annual holiday program, with a festive lunch and pop-up shopping for all to enjoy.
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On the Scene with the HAAPAC 1
HAAPAC Recap Tuesday, December 14 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by. 1 ALN Apartment Data Inc. Tte Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee hosted an afternoon reception featuring an update from Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher and interviews of State Representative HD-133 candidates Greg Travis and Shelley Barineau.
WE’RE ALL ABOUT BETTER GOVERNMENT Threats from government are coming at the apartment industry at a rapid pace. The HAAPAC, the political action committee of the Houston Apartment Association, needs your help to fight bad legislation. HAA members can participate in the PAC on several levels. Committee application forms are available. To join, renew or learn how to become involved with the PAC, see online at www.haaonline.org/haapac or contact govaffairs@haaonline.org. 52
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Your Vote Matters
The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the area apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry would not be as successful in representing you or your clients’ interests, and thus, your financial well-being. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels.
For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org/haapac www.haaonline.org
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On the Scene with HAA PAC Harris County JP and Constables Appreciation Luncheon Friday, December 10 at Maggiano’s Little Italy The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee hosted more than 40 judges, constables and staff members at the annual Justice of the Peace and Constable Appreciation Luncheon. A big thank you to the elected officials and members who took the time out of their schedules to join us for lunch.
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HAAPAC Endorsements Visit https://www.harrisvotes.com/ for information about voting times and locations in Harris County. Visit https://www.fortbendcountytx.gov/government/departments/county-services/elections-voter-registration/ for Fort Bend County. Visit https://elections.mctx.org/ for Montgomery County. Visit https://www.brazoriacountyclerktx.gov/departments/elections for Brazoria County.
The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee has endorsed the following candidates (as of press time on January 15) in several key contested races in the upcoming Republican and Democratic Primary Elections. Please consider these candidates when you vote. Early voting begins February 14 and election day is Tuesday, March 1. Texans can vote in either the Republican or Democratic Primary, but not both, and voting in a primary does not keep you from voting for candidates of any party in the November general election. Keep an eye out for endorsements in other races from HAAPAC and from the Texas Apartment Association in the coming weeks. If you’re not already a member, make 2022 the year your join HAAPAC! For as little as $100, you can become part of the group that keeps your industry’s voice strong.
Democratic Primary Harris County q County Civil Court at Law No. 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . David M. Patronella q County Commissioner Precinct 2. . . . . . . . . . . . Adrian Garcia q Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 2 . . . . . Ron Campana q Justice of the Peace Precinct 2, Place 2 . . . . . Blair McClure q Justice of the Peace Precinct 3, Place 2 . . . . Lucia Bates q Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, Place 2 . . . . . Roderick D. Rodgers q Justice of the Peace Precinct 6, Place 2 . . . . . Angela D. Rodriguez Fort Bend County q County Judge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . KP George q County Commissioner Precinct 2 . . . . . . . . . Grady Prestage q Justice of the Peace Precinct 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Gibson
Republican Primary Harris County q State Representative, District 133. . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Travis q Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, Place 2 . . . . . Bret S. Kisluk Montgomery County . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mark Keough q County Commissioner Precinct 2 . . . . . . . . . . . Charlie Riley q County Commissioner Precinct 4. . . . . . . . . . . . James Metts q County Judge
Fort Bend County q Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1 . . . . . . Kelly N. Crow
Brazoria County q Justice of the Peace Precinct 4, Place 2 . . . . Sherry Kersh
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Your Vote Matters The HAAPAC is our industry’s voice in government. We need your participation and dollars to keep that voice strong. Past Advocacy Wins • Saved you $5.5 million in mandatory carbon monoxide alarm retrofitting requirements • Blocked annual signed fire self-inspection requirements • Protected properties from being forced into participating in Section 8 program • Ensure new City of Houston code contained revisions sought by HAA members Elections Affecting Multifamily • Presidential Elections • Congressional Seats • Texas Legislature Races • City of Houston Mayoral and City Council Elections • Harris County Justice of the Peace & Constables • Other County Officials and Surrounding City Elections
The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the area apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry would not be as successful in representing you or your clients’ interests, and thus, your financial well-being. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels: Non-Voting Century Club Members • $100 • Attend all regular HAAPAC functions at member pricing, but has no voting privileges. • Members are recognized in the October issue of ABODE magazine. Century Club Members • $125 • Benefits listed above, and • Group voting rights, though their Century Club Representative. Trustees • $500 • Benefits listed above, and • An individual vote on HAAPAC decisions. • Invitations to special events and meetings with legislators, including elected officials receptions. Steering Committee • $1,500 • Receives all of the above, and • One vote for every $500 contributed. • Sets the agenda for the HAAPAC. • Acts as the PAC Board of Directors. • Invitations to Steering Committee Meetings held three to four times per year.
Skip the line and FAST TRACK! Guarantee your place at the table and save time too. You will automatically be pre-registered and paid for a minimum of eight luncheons, with your badge waiting for you at the door. For an additional $150, be prepaid for all 2022 lunches with a savings of more than $80! You must also join the PAC at a minimum of $100 to participate in Fast Track. The $150 Fast Track payment can be made with corporate funds.
For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org.
HAAPAC is Now Online! Please sign up for the 2022 HAAPAC at https://www.haaonline.org/haapac/
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Get the lowdown, virtually! 2021 was another bumpy ride, with many legal implications for the multifamily industry. Stay up to date and in the know via this monthly series. Join Howard Bookstaff virtually for an update on all things legal, from eviction procedures to local, state and federal law changes. Program fee: $45 per person Annual Property Subscription available: $500 per property
Free bonus registration to 2022 Redbook Seminar with your annual subscription
Mark your calendars! January 6 February 3 May 5 June 2 July 7 August 4 September 1 October 6 November 3 December 1
First Thursday of every month at 3 p.m.
Watch your email and visit www.haaonline.org for the latest topics to be discussed.
Register online today at www.haaonline.org or call 713-595-0300 for details.
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Legislative, continued from Page 9 A note from HAA Secretary Stephanie Graves: This month, we are bringing you some important information that directly affects the safety of our residents, liabilities and evictions. It is imperative that HAA members – each of you reading this column – understand how what may seem like a minor change in a fire code can affect each property. For example, a new requirement to install a simple $15 smoke detector in each apartment could turn into a $10,000 expense. While you think this may not affect you, think about the implications of an additional $10,000 expense on your financials. Where does that money come from? This is where HAA’s advocacy work comes into play – to represent our interests when these decisions are being considered by city officials. Judges and justices of the peace play an important role in our operations. This is why you should care who gets elected and why you should be involved and vote! When a judge delays the eviction process or gives a resident a third or even fourth chance to pay rent, it is frustrating, and it costs money and time. We’ve all had this experience at least once. Ensuring our elected officials recognize the laws we use to operate our business(es) is imperative to the success of our business(es). Through the Houston Apartment Political Action Committee, you get to help choose the candidates our industry supports. Then, you get to use your voice again at the polls. I challenge you this month to get to know the candidates in your court and to support those that support the laws as they were written. Be informed for the success of your property and the success of our democracy! A way to do this is to get involved with the HAAPAC Visit www.haaonline.org/HAAPAC to join! This gives you a voice in what and who HAA supports. Choose 2022 to get educated, get involved and get active in the process and future of our organization and profession!
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portable cooking equipment” from being stored or used in apartment units or on balconies or patios. What is probably an even more important issue is public education. HAA will be working with the Harris County Fire Marshal on messaging you can distribute to your residents reminding them about carbon monoxide safety – especially with respect to generators. People don’t always use the best common sense when they’re cold and without power, so an extra dose of pubic education is never a bad idea. March 1 Primary Elections Most elected officials in the United States are elected from districts, drawn purposely to elect a Republican or a Democrat. Accordingly, most of the decisions about important offices that impact the apartment industry are effectively made by voters in party primary elections – not in the November general election. Texas has an open primary system. Meaning, we only register as voters, not as Republicans or Democrats. On primary election day, any registered voter can vote in either the Republican or Democratic primary. Your choice of primary / See Legislative, Page 61
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Welcome Mat
Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS
OWNERS Oldham Goodwin Group LLC Holly Gonzales 2800 S. Texas Ave. Bryan, TX 77802 979-268-2000 Pont Alba Apartments
Exponential Property Group Natasha Austin 2545 E. Southlake Blvd. Southlake, TX 76092 817-305-0610 Arium Wildwood Apts The Reserve at Fall Creek Voyager At Space Center
Rao Properties Bhaskar R. Rao 4202 Maily Meadow Lane Katy, TX 77450 281-686-7304 Crestdale Homes Referred by Randa Dick
JSR Apartments Inc. Lalit Bhambhani P.O. Box 2474 Sugar Land, TX 77487 713-271-1700 Santa Barbara Apts Michaelson Real Estate Page Beal 4710 State Road 13 N. Jacksonville, FL 32259 904-880-0000 Aurora Flats
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at www.haabuyersguide.com, searchable by product/service category or company name.
SUPPLIERS
Broad Management Group Mordy Shiffman 1 Paragon Drive #260 Montvale, NJ 07654 845-354-6800 Big Bass Resort
Grace Garden Oaks LLC Chen Rujiao 500 W. Crosstimbers St. Houston, TX 77018 832-203-7491 Residence at Garden Oaks
ALL SUPPLIER MEMBERS are listed online
Sutherland One Properties Shawn Carter 1211 Magnolia Lane Kingwood, TX 77339 346-372-1836 Westminster Management LLC Joel Fox 30 Columbia Turnpike 3rd Floor Florham Park, NJ 07932 212-675-3307 Alys Crossing The Rosemary Stone Loch Your Way Management Team Emerald Sims 147 3rd Ave. N. Safety Harbor, FL 34695 727-268-0194 The Crawford at Grand Morton Radius West Tessa at Katy Boardwalk Lofts
City Wide Building Services Jason Tillman 8841 Knight Road Houston, TX 77054 832-721-7077 Window Cleaning, Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service Fire and Life Safety America Joe Schell 6650 Roxburgh Drive #100 Houston, TX 77041 713-937-3332 Fire Alarm Systems, Sprinklers - Automatic - Fire Referred by Donna Farthing Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents Javier Fernandez 10800 Northwest Fwy. Houston, TX 77092 713-533-9059 Landscape Designers, Lawn Maintenance, Swimming Pool Contractors, Sprinklers Garden & Lawn Referred by Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS Innovative Model Interiors Sharon Sauer 18414 Tranquility Drive Humble, TX 77346 281-739-7997 Interior & Decorator Service, Interior Decorators-Designers
NGC Renovation LLC Nisan Cohen 17423 Energy Lane Dallas, TX 75252 972-996-6696 General Contractors, Roofing Contractors Oasis Eco Services Ben Pitts 565 S. Mason Road #150 Katy, TX 77450 832-264-4452 Carpet & Rug Distr & Mfg, Janitorial Services TACT Houston Biohazard Remediation Wes Sagendorph 7601 FM 1960 Road E. #309 Atascocita, TX 77346 346-370-3130 Cleaning Specialists Bio-Hazardous Material, Cleaning Specialists - Trauma The Susan Weston Company Susan Weston 6000 W. Rayford Road #2302 Spring, TX 77389 972-415-6299 Educational Consultants, Training Consultant Trash Roundup LLC Donna Ramsey 7858 Country Lane Santa Fe, TX 77517 409-978-9090 Trash Service - Valet Referred by Kristin McLaughlin, CASe
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Legislative, continued from Page 59 doesn’t commit you to vote for anybody in the November election. The only thing you can’t do is vote in one party’s primary, then in the other party’s runoff election if one is required where no candidate receives a majority in a particular race. This year, the Republican and Democratic parties in Texas are holding primary elections on March 1. At press time, the HAA Political Action Committee was still working on endorsements for the upcoming primary elections, so check haaonline.org for the latest updates, but here are a few early recommendations in some key races. We also have a handy list of our endorsed candidates as of presstime (Jan. 15) on Page 56 of this issue. Republican Primary The HAAPAC works closely with the Texas Apartment Association on endorsements for state representatives and senators, and some of those are still in the works, but we did want to get out in front of one key House race. State Representative Jim Murphy, an important business ally for many years, is not seeking reelection in the heavily Republican West Houston District 133. Out of a strong field of candidates, the HAAPAC is endorsing Greg Travis, a key voice for business on the Houston City Council. We see him as a natural fit for this district, which almost exactly overlaps his city council district. Another critical race in the Republican Primary is in Justice of the Peace Precinct 5, where Judge Jeff Williams is not seeking reelection. This precinct is almost evenly divided between Republican and Democratic voters. In the Republican Primary, we strongly recommend Bret Kisluk, a seasoned attorney and experienced municipal court judge. Judge Kisluk has an ambitious plan to increase the efficiency of the court – currently the busiest court in Texas, which has struggled to keep up with the caseload given the additional requirments imposed on courts as a result of the pandemic. In the Republican Primary in Montgomery County, HAAPAC recommends the reelection of County Judge Mark Keough, along with county commissioners Charlie Riley and James Metts. In northern Fort Bend County, we recommend reelecting Justice of the Peace Kelly Crow – a good incumbent judge who is having to run in a different precinct (Precinct 1) because of the county’s new redistricting map. In Brazoria County, we recommend reelecting Justice of the Peace Sherry Kersh to her Precinct 4 court in West Columbia. Democratic Primary While we will miss David Patronella as a longtime justice of the peace in Harris County’s flagship downtown court, we are excited to endorse him for Harris County Civil Court at Law Number 4. Judge Patronella faces a crowded field of candidates, so we may be looking for additional support for him in a runoff election after the March 1 primary. For Judge Patronella’s former court, HAAPAC endorses Ron Campana to serve this important court in the Democratic-leaning Precinct 1. Campana is an experienced attorney who impressed HAAPAC trustees with his knowledge of the law and understanding of the court process. In Precinct 2, longtime judge George Risner is not seeking reelection. Between two candidates running in this Democratic-leaning precinct, HAAPAC suggests Blair McClure, who would bring a common-sense approach to the court. In the bipartisan West Houston Precinct 5, between the two Democratic candidates, HAAPAC recommends Roderick Rodgers, an experienced attorney. / See Legislative, Page 72 www.haaonline.org
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The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS
REIGNITE! RECRUIT FOR HAA! Join the Go-Getters and help grow your association.
What is the Go-Getter Club?
Club Guidelines
The Go-Getter Club is a year round membership recruitment team made up of individuals who work for both Owner/Management Companies and Supplier Associates. The Membership Department can help your efforts to recruit for HAA by providing you with the names of companies who have contacted the HAA office and expressed interest in joining the association or past members who have let their membership lapse.
The Go-Getter Club was established by the Houston Apartment Association to recognize those individuals who recruit new members. Based on the story by Peter Kynd, we recognize that these select volunteers are true GoGetters. The guidelines for the club are:
Why participate in the Go Getter Club? The reason is simple. Joining the Go-Getters will give you additional exposure with the HAA membership through the special recognition of the lapel pin, blue jackets and patches that are awarded to recruiters. You are helping to strengthen your association with the addition of new members and new involvement. Finally, the meetings are an opportunity to talk with your peers and develop lasting personal and business relationships.
Honorary Life Members
1. An HAA volunteer who recruits one member will be eligible to attend the club meetings. The Membership Department can provide individuals with the leads of names of companies interested in membership. 2. After recruiting ten members, verified by HAA, an individual is officially a Go Getter. The recruiter receives a club pin and will have their name added to the Go-Getter Club. 3. When a Go Getter recruits 15 members, verified by HAA, the Go Getter will receive a blue blazer with the a club patch and be recognized at the Annual Business Meeting each year. 4. When a Go-Getter recruits 25, 50, 75 and 100 members, verified by HAA, the Go Getter will receive a new patch for each level to attach to their blue blazer. 5. At 100 members recruited, the individual will also have the distinction of being listed as an Honorary Life Member in the HAA.
Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Kevin Fenn Diane Gilbert Anita Harrison Dwayne Henson Mike Koch Merry Mount
Monette Reynolds Sherry Stevenson Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley Sonny Unverzagt Del Walmsley Nancé Wells H.P. Paul Young Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks
6. Each year, one individual from the club is selected as the HAA Go-Getter of the Year and is recognized at the Honors Awards program for the previous year’s work. 7. All rules, additions or changes will be the responsibility of the Membership Committee with the final responsibility for any actions subject to approval by the HAA Board of Directors.
THE GO-GETTERS ARE THE BACKBONE of the Houston Apartment Association. By recruiting new members, the Go-Getter Club helps both new management and supplier companies and the association grow for the future. To join the club and get going on recruitment, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact Amanda and Kaylon in the Membership Department at members@haaonline.org. 62
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2022 Chairs:
Go-Getter Recruitment Levels Aspiring Go Getter
1
Official Go Getter
10
Elite Go Getter
15
TAA Winner’s Circle
25
Royal Go Getter
50
TAA Triple Crown Club
75
Honorary Life Member
100
TAA Shining Star
125
Richard Wall Westdale Asset Managememt
Ryan Wies Crestmark Construction Services
Check the Go-Getters Corner for more information on the upcoming quarterly meeting dates: April 6 June 9 September 29 December 7 Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for more information.
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The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE
COME MEET YOUR PEERS! Suppliers: Join the Ambassador One Society and make your networking count.
What is an Ambassador ONE committee member? The "Organized Network Exchange" is composed of product/service company volunteers. Ambassador ONE society members are representatives of the Houston Apartment Association to place focus on networking to bring supplier members together to reinforce relationships and to promote professionalism in the multifamily industry. They are tasked with sharing industry leads and news, and to contact new and current members to inform them of upcoming events and promoting membership benefits and services. How does my involvement in the Ambassador One Society help me promote my product or service? You can increase your customer base as you contact HAA members to promote membership benefits. The initial contact is not the time for a hard sell, but it’s a good opportunity to make your presence known. When introducing yourself, use your company name feel free to mention what your company does and say that you are a volunteer for HAA. Be sure to give contacts your business card so they
can readily identify you with your company. After tending to HAA business, follow up with a thank-you note and brochure on your company. Plus, networking with fellow supplier partners is a great way to build professional connections. How do Ambassadors know whom to contact? Each month, HAA supplies the club volunteers with a list of members with contact information to reach out to on behalf of HAA and promote member benefits and events. What kind of valuable information does an Ambassador exchange? When changes occur at a property, whether it’s a new owner, management company or staff, new business opportunities may become available. Ambassador Club volunteers working together can find out more information about owner member changes and the product or service needs associated with those changes. Sharing this type of information can be very beneficial Information that is not useful to one volunteer may prove useful to another.
How to Join the Club! The Ambassador One Society is a perfect way to grow your network, establish a referral system, gain exposure in the industry and get involved in the association. To join, email members@haaonline.org to register for the HAA 101 Orientation held on the first Wednesday of every month at 10 am via Zoom. Then attend at least two official Ambassador meetings and a Property Survey Orientation to become a full ONE member. The 2022 meeting dates are listed at right, (the first Wednesday of the month unless noted otherwise.) Location: Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, Houston 77055 Time: 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.p. To RSVP for the next meeting or with questions, contact the HAA Staff Liaison, Amanda Sherbondy, at 713-595-0316 or email asherbondy@haaonline.org
E 2021 ONar! of the Ye The Ambassador “ONE of the Year” Janell Richter-Cornelius, JMI Contractors.
THE AMBASSADOR ONE SOCIETY is an organized network exchange that helps supplier partners build their business contacts within HAA. It’s the perfect way for new suppliers to get started with the association. Group members share leads, make introductions and support HAA and its members. For details, attend an orientation and one of the meetings listed here, or contact Amanda in the Membership Department at 713-595-0316, or email members@haaonline.org. 64
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The Ambassador ONE Society 2022 Leadership Ambassador Aces
2022 Ambassador Chairs
Liz Levins, CAS Rasa Floors
Blaise Spitaleri, CAS Gemstar Construction
Tito Estrada, CAS One Source Realty Advisors
Karen Nelsen, CAS ALN Apartment Data Inc.
2022 Team Captains
Amanda Kelly, CAS Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC
Grace Medley Restoration 1 of Central Houston Team Super Suppliers
Ryan Carson, CAS Gemstar Construction
Xochitl Flores Zumper
Team Super Suppliers
Team Bee HAApy
Austin Lawley Furniture Refinishing Services
Shaun Callaway, CAS Earthworks
Team You Already Know
Team You Already Know
Team Super Suppliers
Team Super Suppliers
Giovanna Gone, CAS Century A/C Supply
Matthew Nunn, CAS Capital Construction
Marcus Wheatfall Triple Seal Insulation Team Bee HAApy
Team Bee HAApy
Tracey LeachMoore, CAS Flooring Warehouse Team Bee HAApy
Mark your calendars and join us! Ambassador ONE Society meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month:
Susan Alvarado, CAS Century A/C Supply Team You Already Know
Tammy Broadway, CAS American Fire Systems
February 2, March 2, April 6, May 4 Crawfish Boil Event, June 1, July 6, August 3, September 7, October 5, November 2 The first quarter meeting spot is Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, Houston, Texas 77055.
Team You Already Know
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On Site with ABODE
Photos provided by Greystar
BROADSTONE LOFTS AT HERMANN PARK The 2021 HAA Honors Awards recipient for a property built before 1980.
Property: Broadstone Lofts at Hermann Park Owner/Management: Greystar Location: ONE Hermann Park Court Units: 380 Built: 2005 Web: www.hermannparklofts.com Interesting features: Please note, Broadstone Lofts at Hermann Park is now managed by Winn Residential. During this transition, the property was renamed to Hermann Park Lofts. The 2021 HAA Honors Awards property winners were recognized for their 2020 performance. Located in the Houston Medical Center, this property and its team were in the center of the COVID-19 surge. In January 2020, Broadstone Lofts at Hermann Park was 90.5% occupied. By the end of the year, despite the pandemic-related challenges, the property reached 94.2% occupancy. The team banded together to help keep their residents safe and informed through proper cleaning and sanitation protocols, constant communication, appointment-based scheduling for amenities, and staying up to date on the state of the pandemic to best serve their residents. Also in 2020, Broadstone Lofts at Hermann Park raised money for an animal rescue service that found fosters for animals before finding their forever homes. Congratulations, Broadstone Lofts at Hermann Park!
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I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
www.haaonline.org
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a
On Site with ABODE
Photos provided by Veritas Equity Management
WESTCHASE CREEK The HAA Honors Awards recipient for a property built between 1980 and 1989.
Property: Westchase Creek Apartments Owner/Management: Veritas Equity Management Location: 3000 Woodland Park Drive Units: 456 Built: 2014 Web: www.westchasecreekapts.com Interesting features: Please note, 2021 HAA Honors Awards property winners were recognized for their 2020 performance. The HAA Property Awards Committee also takes improvements made to the property by the nominating owners into consideration. What makes all Veritas Equity Management properties outstanding examples of proper property management is the company’s organizational values. Its second organizational value is integrity and that’s exactly what the team displayed when it purchased the property. When the Veritas team took over ownership of the property, their priority was to fulfill the overwhelming amount of maintenance work orders. They worked tirelessly to gain the confidence and trust of their residents. The team also takes great pride in the appearance of Westchase Creek and its renovated pool, pet park and fitness center, as well as its resident events. With 456 units, Westchase Creek has a diverse resident base, and the team finds great joy in being able to facilitate connections among its residents through resident events. Congratulations, Westchase Creek Apartments! www.haaonline.org
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a
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On Site with ABODE
Photos provided by Camden
CAMDEN SUGAR GROVE
The HAA Honors Awards recipient for a garden-style property built between 1990 and 1999.
Property: Camden Sugar Grove Owner/Management: Camden Property Trust Location: 12250 South Kirkwood, Stafford Units: 380 Built: 1996 Web: www.camdenliving.com Interesting features: Please note, the 2021 HAA Honors Awards property winners were recognized for their 2020 performance. Camden Sugar Grove’s residents speak for its success. A resident on Facebook posted a review that reads “During the COVID(-19) shutdown, I had both office and maintenance staff to inquire as to how I was doing.” In addition to checking in on the emotional well-being of residents, the maintenance team at Camden Sugar Grove created YouTube videos for their residents to learn how to address any maintenance issue. The leasing team also adjusted to offer virtual tours, self-guided tours and team member led tours. Also in 2020, the Camden Sugar Grove team rolled new technology that allows residents to access amenities and lock and unlock their front doors with a simple touch on their mobile devices. During the height of the pandemic, Camden contributed $10 million to apartment residents who were in need. The Camden Sugar Grove team then assisted with the communication and distribution of these funds to their residents. Congratulations, Camden Sugar Grove!
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I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”
www.haaonline.org
I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the
naa update pg 26,45,69.qxp_Layout 1 1/19/22 3:01 PM Page 3
NAA Update, continued from Page 45 of credit reporting and the sufficiency of reinvestigations conducted by property managers and other creditors where a consumer disputes a debt. • Clarifies limits on permitted frequency of debtor contact to ensure debtor outreach does not constitute harassment. Potentially, the call frequency limits may be used as a standard of reference when assessing first-party collection activities too. The National Apartment Association (NAA) encourages members to consult with their collections agency or attorney to ensure they are fully prepared for consumer disputes and documentation requirements under the new rule. The rule comes from an agency that has ramped up its public attention to rental housing. In 2021 alone, the CFPB: • promulgated new CDC eviction protection notice requirements for certain rental housing collections, • issued an enforcement bulletin reminding rental housing providers of their dispute reinvestigation and accuracy obligations in credit reporting COVID-impacted renter payment history, and • sent reminder letters to rental housing providers about military servicemembers’ tenant protections under the Servicemembers’ Civil Relief Act. NAA will continue to voice the concerns of apartment owners and operators to ensure that new federal consumer protection regulations do not overreach and create expensive new liability and compliance obligations that harm rental housing availability. For more information, please contact Jay Harris, Esq. at jharris@fco.com or at (240) 374-5440.
www.haaonline.org
Do you need to find a product or service for your property on the go? The Buyer’s Guide is online! Simply search for a member by name or category to find the most up-to-date HAA supplier member listings. You can contact the companies directly or use our “Request for Information” tool. It's quick and easy!
www.haabuyersguide.com
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Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • 3CM Multifamily: Riverway Apartments, 152 units at 1909 Hamman Road in Bay City. • 8601 Broadway Management Co LLC: 8601 Broadway, 382 units at 8601 Broadway Houston, TX 77061 • Advenir Real Estate Management: LEO at Westfork, 197 units at 2490 S Loop 336 W in Conroe. • Allied Orion Group: Smart Living Heights, 240 units at 3530 W 12th St. • AOV Investments LLC: Johnson Apartments, 19 units at 1301 S Hood St. in Alvin. • Asset Living: Valencia Grove, 460 units at 11810 Algonquin Drive; The Ranch at Shadow Lake, 624 units at 2920 Shadowbriar Drive; Shenandoah Woods, 232 units at 4250 W 34th St.; La Serena, 324 units at 1855 Wirt Road; The Block at Montrose, 62 units at 1508 California St.; Aspenwood, 208 units at 2121 Pech Road; The Augusta North Houston, 212 units at 12655 Kuykendahl Road; and The Henry at Deerbrook, 360 units at 9494 Humble Westfield Road in Humble. • Avan Property Management: Trails of Woodlake, 267 units at 2222 Westerland Drive. • Bell Partners: Royal Sienna, 340 units at 5222 Avalon Point in Missouri City. • Bellrock Real Estate Partners LLC: Bellrock Sawyer, 327 units at 1215 Sawyer St. • BH Management Services LLC: Everly, 387 units at 2827 Dunvale Road; and Discovery at Mandolin, 260 units at 19401 Tomball Pkwy. • Blue Magma Residential: The Park at Veracruz, 106 units at 3499 Evergreen Drive. • CAF Management LLC: The Huxley at Medical Center, 284 unitsat 8410 W Bartell Drive.
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• CALCAP Properties: The Graham Apartments, 446 units at 250 Uvalde Road. • Carroll Organization: Rosemont at Clear Creek By ARIUM, 776 units at 2702 W Bay Area Blvd in Webster. • Centra Partners LLC: Dawson at Stratford, 63 units at 419 Stratford St #4. • Cornerstone Income Properties: Kempwood Place Townhomes, 36 units at 8810 Kempwood Drive. • DayRise Residential: Kingsland Park, 198 units at 23420 Kingsland Blvd. in Katy. • Devonshire Real Estate & Asset Management: Bella Vista Apartments, 84 units at 14340 Wallisville Road. • Exponential Property Group: Voyager at Space Center, 313 units at 18101 Point Lookout Drive. • Fairfield Properties LP: Hollow Creek, 120 units at 500 Hickerson St. and Fairfield Park Village, 144 units at 1400 S Frazier St. in Conroe. • First Choice Management Group: Alta Verde, 1430 units at 8751 Broadway St. • Greenline Apartment Management LLC: Casa Verde Apartments, 384 units at 2 Goodson Drive. • Greystar: The Pines of Woodforest, 266 units at 90 Uvalde Road; The Caroline, 351 units at 1235 E Nasa Pkwy; Bellfort Apartments, 552 units at 7950 Bellfort St.; Ascot Court Apartments, 149 units at 10910 West Road; 9900 on Memorial Apartments, 706 units at 722 International Blvd.; 500 Crawford, 400 units at 500 Crawford St.; 1900 Yorktown Apartments, 262 units at 1900 Yorktown St.; Las Palmas, 360 units at 1400 El Camino Village Drive; Grove at Wilcrest, 360 units at 11070 Katy Fwy.; 2900 West Dallas Apartments, 430 units at 2900 W Dallas St,; The Creole on Yorktown, 540 units at 2400 Yorktown St.;Jackson Hill Apartments, 316 units at 320 Jackson Hill St.; Sabo Village Aparrments, 320 units at 10701 Sabo Road; Park at Armand Bayou Apartments, 401 units at 4300 Bay Area Blvd.; The Park at River Oaks Apartments, 299 units at 3121 Buffalo Speedway; Park on Memorial Apartments, 334 units at 14855 Memorial Drive; Post Oak at Woodway Apartments, 216 units at 99 N Post Oak Lane; The Village at West University Apartments, 419 units at 5151 Edloe St.; Village on the Lake, 612 units at 19200 Space Center Blvd.; Prose Hardy Yards, 384 units at 1550 Burnett St.; Westmount at Mason Creek, 291 units at 21500 Park Row in Katy; and Ivy Point Cypress, 136 units at 14928 Mueschke Road in Cypress. • Hazel Management: Cranbrook Forest, 261 units at 13875 Ella Blvd. • Herron Property Management: Louetta Creek, 20 units at 18620 Louetta Creek Drive in Spring and Sydney's Park, 41 units at 1010 Tomball Pkwy in Tombal. • Highmark Residential LLC: The Villas at Shaver, 240 units at 3271 S Shaver St. in Pasadena. • Hilltop Residential Management: Woodland Landings, 360 units at 5402 FM 1488 Road in Magnolia. • Indus Management Group LLC: The Alora Apartments, 400 units at 5500 El Camino Del Rey St. and The Ellis, 290 units at 5900 Bissonnet St. • Internacional Realty Inc.: Seville at Clay Crossing, 351 units at 21919 Clay Road in Katy. • Lincoln Property Company: Cypress Ridge Apartments, 252 units at 2331 Bammelwood Drive. • MC Residential of Texas: The Place at Barker Cypress, 384 units at 1822 Barker Cypress Road. • Michaelson Real Estate: Aurora Flats, 150 units at 17700 El Camino Real. • Mill Creek Residential Trust: Modera Washington, 341 units at 2520 Washington Ave. • The Mitchell Company LLC: The Aubrey, 436 units at 2310 Crescent Park Drive. • The Morgan Group: 91 Fifty, 210 units at 9150 Highway 6 N Houston. • Mosaic Residential Inc.: Cambridge Place, 336 units at 10901 Meadowglen Lane. • New Hope Housing Inc.: Avenue J, 100 units at 5220 Avenue J. • Plaza Azul Group Investment LLC: The Ludington Apartments, 126 units at 6655 Ludington Drive. • Q10 Property Advisors: Galleria Flats, 161 units at 3001 Hillcroft St. and Mainstream Apartments, 324 units at 3000 Murworth Drive. • NSP Management Group: Mainstream Apartments, 324 units at 3000 Murworth Drive.
www.haaonline.org
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• Radiance Living LLC: Encore on the Bay Apartments, 296 units at 4601 E Nasa Pkwy in Seabrook. • Rao Properties: Crestdale Homes, 9 units at 1736 Crestdale. • Rockwell Management Corp.: Landing at Westchase Apartments, 304 units at 9797 Meadowglen Lane. • Royal American Management Inc.: 900 Winston Enclave, 114 units at 900 Winston St. • RPM Living: The Brodie at Cinco Ranch, 260 units at 5303 S Mason Road in Katy. • Silverstone Management: Maison De Ville Apartments, 120 units at 707 Greens Raod. • SPCP/Summit Property Management: Waterside Apartments, 259 units at 10121 Windmill Lakes Blvd.; The Preston at Ellington, 244 units at 12801 Roydon Drive; The Beverly at Clear Lake, 214 units at 16100 Space Center Blvd.; and The Pines on Spring Rain, 232 units at 2400 Spring Rain Drive in Spring. • Spry Property Management LLC: Silver Club Apartments, 45 units at 5160 Silver Creek Drive. • Stonemark Management Company: The Spencer Park Row, 390 units at 15335 Park Row Drive; and Tranquility Lakeside, 212 units at 2800 Tranquility Lake Blvd in Pearland. • Tarantino Properties Inc.: Green Arbor Apartments, 252 units at 10601 Sabo Road. • The Life Property Management: The Life at Jackson Square, 1326 units at 5410 N Braeswood. • Trinity Multifamily: Timber Run Apartment, 120 units at 13000 Woodforest Blvd. • Trinity Property Consultants: Arrive Upper Kirby, 199 units at 3333 Lake St. • United Apartment Group Inc.: Laurelwoode Apartments, 324 units at 10333 Research Forest Drive in Magnolia; The Park at Tour 18, 241 units at 18110 Hunters Terrace Drive in Humble. • Valiant Residential: Artisan at Lake Wyndemere, 320 units at 2109 Sawdust Road in The Woodlands. • VSC Management LLC: New Haven, 190 units, 5001 Avenue F in Bay City. • Waterton Residential: Sladestone Shadow Creek, 360 units at 12400 Shadow Creek Pkwy in Pearland. • Wehner Multifamily LLC: The Redford Apartments, 856 units at 1221 Redford St. • Westminster Management LLC: The Rosemary, 328 units at 17401 W Lake Houston Pkwy in Humble; Stone Loch, 384 units at 10921 Boudreaux Road in Tomball; and Alys Crossing, 360 units at 20510 Cypress Plaza Pkwy in Cypress. • Your Way Management Team: Radius West, 361 units at 1721 Greenhouse Road and Boardwalk Lofts, 319 units at 122 Lakeview Way in Katy. • ZRS Management LLC: 2411 Washington, 222 units at 2411 Washington Ave. and The Wildwood, 300 units at 24500 Wildwood Park Road in Richmond.
In the News Rainey Property Management promotes Chad Christian to president from CAO. Congratulations, Chad! Congratulations to Margie Fielder for being promoted to vice president property management at The Morgan Group. www.haaonline.org
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Legislative, continued from Page 61 Two incumbent Harris County justices of the peace are seeking reelection against Democratic Primary opponents. HAAPAC recommends reelecting both Angela Rodriguez (Precinct 6) and Lucia Bates (Precinct 3). These experienced judges deserve another term serving the courts in these two Democratic-leaning precincts. Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia is also seeking reelection. Commissioner Garcia has been an apartment industry ally going back to his days as county sheriff, Houston City Council member and as a Houston police officer. HAAPAC recommends a vote for him in this Democratic Primary race. In Fort Bend County, HAAPAC supports the renomination of County Judge KP George and County Commissioner Grady Prestage in the Democratic Primary. In Precinct 2, HAAPAC supports the reelection of Justice of the Peace Mark Gibson, an experienced judge, who presides over an important court in Missouri City. Support HAAPAC If you’re not already involved in the HAAPAC, 2022 is the year to add your voice to ours. Few organizations engage in the justice of the peace races that are so critical to our industry, and your support can mean the difference between a judge who follows the law and one who does not. Visit haaonline.org/HAAPAC for more information. For as little as $100, you can be a part of this important effort to keep our industry strong.
If you have a regulatory problem or question, call the HAA main line at 713-595-0300 and ask for Government Affairs. If a particular code requirement or issue concerns you, let us know by emailing Bradley at bpepper@haaonline.org.
Your Vote Matters The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the area apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry would not be as successful in representing you or your clients’ interests, and thus, your financial well-being. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels.
For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org/haapac
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Get Involved
Volunteer HAA The Houston Apartment Association’s committees and clubs are some of the most productive tools we have to ensure that we remain the nation’s largest and most effective apartment association. Members of the association dedicate their time to lead and serve on the various clubs and committees. Some general responsibilities of committee and club members include a commitment to attend all meetings and help develop marketing strategies (i.e. telemarketing, developing handouts, fliers, articles). To serve on any of these committees and clubs, please contact the HAA office at 713-595-0300, online at www.haaonline.org or email the departments listed below. Education education@haaonline.org Education Advisory Council HAF Fundraiser Committee* Career and Community Development Committee Government Affairs govaffairs@haaonline.org HAA Political Action Committee* Century Club* Media Relations Committee Fair Housing Committee Strategic Outreach Committee Membership members@haaonline.org Ambassador ONE Society Go-Getter Membership Recruitment Club Expo Exhibitor Committee* Street Team* Community Outreach shinkley@haaonline.org Community Outreach Committee Product Service Council* Resident Relations resrel@haaonline.org Resident Relations Committee *Note: These committees have specific requirements. Contact HAA for details.
www.haaonline.org
www.haaonline.org
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ad index pg 74.qxp_Ad Index pg 74 1/19/22 3:47 PM Page 1
Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY
A/C Supplies
Insurance Adjusters
Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com
L.A. Public Insurance Adjusters . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 713-592-2482 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.la-pia.com
Amenities
Landscape Contractors
Urban Value Corner Store . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 info@urbanvaluestore.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-955-0990 . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 281-846-3779 . . . . . . . . . .www.texscapeservices.com
Carpet Installation Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com
Laundry Equipment & Supplies
Texas Southwest Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59 800-719-4321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.texasswfloors.com
Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com
Collection Agencies
Locks & Locksmiths
Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-644-4441 . . . . . . . . . . .www.alexanderrose-inc.com
CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com Maintenance Supplies
Electric Contractors Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services . . . . .2 281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com
Lowe’s Pro Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.lowesprosupply.com
Personnel Agency ASAP Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 972-432-6667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.asapdo.com
Foundation Repair Church Foundation Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 713-468-8400 . . .www.churchfoundationrepair.com
Plumbing Contractors
General Contractors
AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com
Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . .Back Cover 713-413-2267 . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com
Resident Screening Service
Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottongds.com
SafeRent Solutions . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover 888-297-8821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.corelogic.com
Crestmark Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . .35 713-426-6161 . . . . . . . . . . .www.crestmarkservices.com FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com
TARGET QUALIFIED LEADS With HAA’s job board, you’ll discover a professional community that’s committed to helping you find the right candidate or your next job opportunity in the greater Houston and surrounding areas.
www.haaonline.org jobs@haaonline.org 713-595-0300
Screens Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com
Gemstar Construction & Development . . . . . . . .1 281-821-1195 . . . . . .www.gemstarconstruction.com Guardian Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 832-672-4196 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardianconst.com MultiFamily Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 713-266-9100 RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com
Swimming Pool Service Poolsure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 800-858-POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.poolsure.com
HAA Products & Services Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org/rcr
Glass – Plate, Window, Etc. Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com
Insurance Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com
HAA reserves the right to reject any advertising if its content is inappropriate or inconsistent with HAA’s standards for publication or HAA’s business interests, in HAA’s sole opinion.
Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode. Or view this issue on your computer, iPad or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_feb2022.
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MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com •
•
• • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1050 – • • •
HOUSTON Snapshot 91.8% $1,184/mo. $1.33/sq.ft./mo. 888 sq.ft.
Recently Opened (12 months): 81 communities 21,583 units
1000 –
– 90.0
975 – – 89.0
– 88.0
Under Construction: 50 communities 13,478 units Dec 21
Nov 21
Oct 21
Sep 21
Aug 21
Jul 21
Jun 21
Apr 21
May 21
Mar 21
Feb 21
Jan 21
Dec 20
Nov 20
Oct 20
Sep 20
Jul 20
Aug 20
Jun 20
May 20
Apr 20
Mar 20
Feb 20
Jan 20
– 87.0
Proposed Construction: 102 communities 30,481 units
History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units
Hottest Submarkets Over the Past Three Months
Concessions
Annualized Rank 1 2 3 4 5
Occupancy (%)
Operating Supply: 2,982 communities 704,812 units
Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)
Past 12 Months: 16.0% rental rate growth 37,308 units absorbed
– 91.0 1025 –
•
Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:
•
Submarket Lake Houston/Kingwood Westchase Heights/Washington Ave Alvin/Angleton/Lake Jackson Friendswood/Pearland East
% of Market Absorbed 12.7% 10.7% 9.4% 11.9% 9.4%
Rental Rate Growth % 2.3% 1.0% 2.1% 0.7% 0.8%
Total Units Class w/Concessions All 176,376 A 64,460 B 47,502 C 54,311 D 10,103
% of Total Units 25% 33% 21% 26% 13%
Average Special -1.6% -2.4% -0.9% -1.3% -0.8%
Citywide Effect -5.7% -6.6% -4.4% -4.9% -5.8%
One Month Free = -8.33%
THE FIRST TABLE ABOVE GIVES A SNAPSHOT of the current market conditions. The graph displays the overall occupancy and effective rental rates over the past 24 months. These statistics are derived from a continuous survey of all apartment communities in the Houston region. The effective rental rates are the calculated net of concessions and utility adjustments. The second table lists the five hottest submarkets in the Greater Houston area. There are a total of 42 submarkets, and the ranking is based on the best combination of rental rate growth and absorption over the past three months. The third table distributes and analyzes concessions (specials) by classification. Concessions generally are represented by three types of specials: move-in, months free or floor plans. The effect of these specials is captured and prorated over a lease term to arrive at a percentage reduction in market or street rents.
TEXAS
Dallas/Ft. Worth
San Antonio
Austin
Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:
Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:
Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:
93.4% $1,385/mo. $1.58/sq.ft./mo. 879 sq.ft.
93.3% $1,140/mo. $1.33/sq.ft./mo. 857 sq.ft.
92.5% $1,560/mo. $1.78¢/sq.ft./mo. 875 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months: 21.6% rental rate growth 45,027 units absorbed
Past 12 Months: 18.2% rental rate growth 11,492 units absorbed
Past 12 Months: 30.0% rental rate growth 22,281 units absorbed
Operating Supply: 3,338 communities 800,906 units
Operating Supply: 972 communities 209,699 units
Operating Supply: 1,119 communities 265,812 units
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ApartmentData.com has been providing apartment data and marketing products since 1986. ApartmentData.com provides real-time access for property specific information, market surveys and historic submarket data for more than 3.5 million apartment units in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, North Carolina and Tennessee. For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730. © 2022 ApartmentData.com February 2022
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with News from around the COMMUNITY
“Elf Squad” to the Rescue Multifamily industry members tip big to help hospitality workers.
Property management members and supplier partners held their third annual holiday “Elfing.” Created in 2019 by HAA members Michelle Croasmun, Joe Slaughter, Diane Gilbert, Kevin Fenn and Lisa Kennedy, this year’s Elf Squad focused on supporting hospitality workers in restaurants around the Houston area, including Katy, Kingwood, the Woodlands and more. Groups of “elves” visited numerous local establishments and gave large tips for the waitstaff. This year, the giving was to honor Blake Subinsky. More than $12,520 was raised and distributed helping a lot of workers get through the holiday season.
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HONORS AWARDS RECIPIENTS
Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd. Houston, Texas 77041
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February 2022
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