ABODE July 2021 by HAA Publishing

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LEADERSHIP • NEXT FAMILY REUNION & HAAPAC PHOTOS

Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd. Houston, Texas 77041

ABODE THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

www.haaonline.org

July 2021

ABODE • JULY 2021 • VOLUME 44, ISSUE 7

Take Lead

Learn to provide a path for others through great leadership.

the

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CONTENTS July 2021

ON THE COVER

FEATURES & PHOTOS

28 On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Family Reunion.

Take the Lead – Learn to provide a path for others through great leadership. Also, HAA members are back on the scene for in-person events as Texas reopens for business Cover Image © NiseriN | iStock by Getty Images

32 Leading By Example – HAA Vice President at Large Tracie Yoder shares a timeless approach to leadership.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES 7 President’s Corner – More advice from an HAA past president. 8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Apartments.com.

36 Building Resiliency – Resiliency is the key to one of the biggest problems companies and their leadership face today: successful change.

9 Legislative Update – The failure of many bills is a win for the apartment industry.

40 The Right Leadership Solves Staffing Struggles – By stengthening your leadership skills, you may be able to hire, retain and develop your ideal team.

14 Resident Relations – A resident is wrongly accused of application fraud.

44 Finding the Potential in People and Processes – Be courageous. 48 15 Leadership Practices to Help You Stand Out – You can be a leader no matter your role or paygrade.

11 It’s The Law – The good, the bad and the ugly of the 2021 legislative session.

20 Calendar – HAA’s schedule of events for the coming months. 26 NAA Update – We can improve rental assistance distribution. 62 Welcome Mat – Find out about the newest HAA members.

52 On the Scene – Photos from the May IROC Breakfast.

64 Go-Getters – Cheers to membership!

54 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at another HAA member property.

66 The Ambassador ONE Society – The Ambassadors make connections.

56 Take the Lead – Learn about the Leadership Lyceum from three HAA Product Service Council members. 58 On the Scene – Photos from the Supplier Education Program. 60 On the Scene – Photos from the HAAPAC Luncheon.

70 Portfolio Changes and In the News – Property updates and 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 CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ President-Elect JOHN BORIACK President

SCOTT DOUGLAS Vice President at Large

DAVID LINDLEY, CAS President FSI Construction

GINA ERWIN Vice President at Large

DEREK DEVRIES, CAS Vice President, Camp Construction Services

SHELLEY WATSON Vice President at Large

CANDIS MOHR, CAS Secretary, AAA Plumbers

TRACIE YODER Vice President at Large

JOSEPH RODRIGUEZ, CAS Treasurer, The Urban Foresters

CLAY HICKS Immediate Past President

LAURA LESTUS, CAS Immediate Past President, The Liberty Group

STEPHANIE GRAVES Secretary/Treasurer

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS John Boriack President Clay Hicks 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 Derek DeVries, CAS Ian Douglas Scott Douglas, CAM, CAPS Gina Erwin Tamara Foster Israel Garza, CAS Diane Gilbert Monica Gracia Stephanie Graves, CAM, CAPS 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 Velissa Parmer Michelle Pawelek Loyal Proffitt Jackie Rhone Christy Rodriguez Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Corri Smith Kelley Suess Debbie Sulzer

Ryan Terrell Dana Tucker 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 Tim Myers P David Onanian 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 Billy Griffin, CAS Amanda Kelly, CAS Cesar Lima Mary Lawler Bruce McClenny Angelee Kumar Parikh Penny Sprang Theri Tinelli 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 Amanda Kelly, CAS, Angie Aversa, CAM, Brandt Electrical A/C CAPS, CAS, & Heating Services The Liberty Group Debra Knight, CAS, Chris Bell, CAS, Fidus Construction Cotton Commercial Services Marivel Bownds, Stephanie Krop, CAS, Valet Living CASE, Poolsure Dixie Caldwell, Liz Levins, CAS, Apartments.com Rasa Floors Shaun Callaway, CAS, Tracey Moore, CAS, Earthworks Flooring Warehouse Neal Conant, CAS, Karen Nelsen, CAS Gemstar ALN Apartment Construction Data Development Matthew Nunn, CAS, Sean Cunningham, Capital Construction CAS, Flooring Doug Oehl, CAS. Warehouse Flooring Warehouse Deborah DeRouen, Nikki Sekunda, CAS, CAS, OneApp The Liberty Group Guarantee Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Juana Estrada, CAS, Gemstar First OnSite Construction Giovanna Gone, CAS, Development Century A/C Supply Blake Subinsky, CAS, Clark Gregg, CASE, HD Supply Fidus Construction Mat Tilley, CAS, Jimmie Hotz, CASE, WeDoTrash Chadwell Supply Amber Whitaker, CAS Dan James, CAS, FSI Construction Redevelopment Services

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ABODE JULY 2021 I VOLUME 44, ISSUE 7

CEO and Publisher CASEY WATTS MORGAN cmorgan@haaonline.org EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org Managing Editor MORGAN TAYLOR mtaylor@haaonline.org ADVERTISING Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY, CAE asherbondy@haaonline.org CONTRIBUTING STAFF Vice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP, CAE. ehilton@haaonline.org Vice President of Public Affairs ANDY TEAS, CAE. ateas@haaonline.org Vice President of Finance NANCY LI LO, CPA. nlo@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 Membership and Marketing Manager KAYLON NEWCOMB knewcomb@haaonline.org Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org PRINTER TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES COMMITTEE CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR Executive John Boriack Casey Morgan Program & Budget Christy Rodriguez Casey Morgan Nominating Clay Hicks Casey Morgan Fair Housing Mack Armstrong Casey Morgan Ethics Michelle Pawelek Casey Morgan Investment Stephanie Graves Casey Morgan ByLaws Kyle Brown Casey Morgan Past Presidents Council Kathy Clem Casey Morgan Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Elizabeth Castro-Gray Andy Teas Developers Todd Triggs Andy Teas Legislative Christy Rodriguez Andy Teas Political Action Stacy Hunt Andy Teas PAC Fundraising Gary Blumberg Alpa Patel Century Club Joseph Rodriguez Alpa Patel Golf Mark Park Alpa Patel Strategic Outreach Stephanie Graves Lauren Turner Leadership Development Alison Hall Susan Hinkley Community Outreach Jackie Aguirre Susan Hinkley Product Service Council David Lindley Susan Hinkley Expo Exhibitor Derek DeVries Amanda Sherbondy Membership Melissa Friend Amanda Sherbondy Doug Oehl Ambassador ONE Society Ryan Weis Amanda Sherbondy Marivel Bownds Independent Owners Connection Ramon Nunez Amanda Sherbondy Education Advisory Council Betsy Marshall Emily Hilton Monica Gracia Emily Hilton Career & Community Development Penny Sprang Emily Hilton Resident Relations A Beverly Norris Matti Luna Resident Relations B Kevin Hartman Matti Luna Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry Matti Luna HAF Fundraiser Mark Park Lauren Ragin Debbie Andreozzi NEXT Ruha Vohra Lauren Ragin Amanda Kelley Property Awards Susan Dear Tina DeFiore Crystal Jackson 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, JULY 2021, VOLUME 44, ISSUE 7 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 © 2021 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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July 2021

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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 A + Infinity Blue Outdoors LLC A-Affordable Roofing Co AAA Staffing Ltd AAdvantage Laundry Systems ACM Contractors of Texas ACT Security Group Action Window Coverings Inc ACTIV Answer by Audio Images ACUTRAQ Background Screening Inc Adobe Floors Inc Adventure Playground Systems Inc Affinity Hot Water Technoogy Inc Aftermath Services Alcaraz Lawn Care All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc Allegion Allied Powder Coating The Allshouse Group LLC ALN Apartment Data Inc AlphaGraphics of Central Houston 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 Asphalt Maintenance Inc Atom4 Security Camera AZPartsmaster B&G Construction Belfor Property Restoration Bell’s Laundries Benefits 4 Rent BenefitU Bentley, Bratcher & Associates - PC Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC BGE Inc/aka Brown & Gay Engineers Inc Big Star Development LLC Bio-One Houston South BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning Blue Eye Defense Blue Heron Technologies LLC BluSky Restoration Contractor's Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc Brannan Designs LLC Architecture & Interior Design BrightView Landscape LLC BSI Building Professionals of Texas CAD Restoration Services LLC Cameras Onsite Cano Electric Inc Cantrell McCulloch Inc Carradine Valet CashFlow Pros LLC

Centex Construction CFI Group Chadwell Supply Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete Classic Same Day Blinds Classic Touch Painting Comcast Contractors Inc ControlByNet Cloud and Managed Video Surveillance Solutions CORT Furniture CRE Business Solutions LLC Crowned Eagle Construction CSI LED & Hardware Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc DeNyse Companies Designs by Holmes Diamond Services LLC DNM Contracting Inc DoodyCalls Dooley Tackaberry Inc Door Clearance Center DreamCoat Cloud Services Ecolo Environmental Inc Embark Services Emersyn Electrical Services LLC EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions Epic Air Conditioning Fantastic Floors FAST Security, LLC Featherston Sign Partners Fiat Construction LLC Fidus Construction Services Finish Factory Inc Flavor Finish Resurfacing Frontier Waste Solutions fun abounds Furniture Refinishing Services Gambit Construction Garan Commercial Construction Inc Gasof United Remodeling Gateman Inc Giordano Construction Inc Go-Staff Inc Great American Business Products Green City Security LLC Green Garbology GT Security Solutions LLC Guardian Gutters Halo Doors Inc HARCO Insurance Services Hard Works Valet Trash & Recycling Higginbotham Hillco Building Service Hive Technology The Home Team Roofing & A/C Hoover Slovacek LLP Hut Services LLC IGD Plumbing LLC Industrial Disposal Supply Infinity Power Partners J and B Carpet Services J Guzman General Remodeling J National Johnstone Supply Jonah Digital Agency

Kathy Andrews Interiors Keylo Painting & Construction King’s Granite and Marble KONE Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting The Liberty Group Lights Out Production Company Lincoln Jacob Construction Lithotech Printed Products/ Forms Center LJL DESIGN, LLC Lopez Carpet Care & Painting Love’s Plumbing Company Inc LP Building Solutions: LouisianaPacific Corporation LSR Multifamily Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc Marathon Solutions Group LLC Marvin F Poer & Company Masonry Solutions Inc Matrix Construction Services McKenzie Drake Corporate Housing McMahan's Flooring Inc Moveforfree.com Inc MPS Direct Mueller Water Conditioning Inc MV Electric Inc MX2 Commercial Paving Nations Roof Houston LLC Nationwide Eviction Nettles & Co Property Tax Consulting Norman Construction Notifii LLC O’Connor & AssociatesCommercial Property Tax Division O’Conor Mason & Bone PC On Duty Tree and Landscape On Site Towing LLC Onesource Moving Outdoor Elements P.A.I. Restoration Pace Mechanical Services LLC Parking Management Company/PMC Towing Pathfinder Insurance Group Paul Davis Restoration North Houston PCS Creative Surface LLC Perma-Pier Pool Knights Precision Hydro Pros Priority Protection & Investigations Inc Pro Turf Landscaping Professional Resurface LLC Pura Flo Corporation 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 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 Security Reconnaissance Team Sherwin Williams Company Sign-Ups & Banners Signal 88 Security SOS-ASAP Softwashing South Central Electric LLC Southern Shingles State Patrol Services LLC Storm Maintenance & Monitoring Stormwater Professionals Group Strata Roofing and Construction LLC Structural Concrete Systems LLC Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management Texas Apartment Pool Services The Texas Bee Yard LLC DBA 3BeeGuys Bee Removal 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 Text Services LLC The Lane Law Firm Three Amigos Texas LLC Tidal Renovations LLC Top Brass Services Group Total Safety Security Services LLC Tpo Pros Roofing & Restoration Triangle DJ Contractors Two Brothers Foundation Repair United Protective Services Urban Design Constructors LLC USA Patrol Division Valet Living Veteran Supply Services LLC Vima Decor WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems Wayfinder Tax Relief LLC Webb Pest Control Westco Grounds Maintenance LLC Whitmans Contracting and Roofing Willbanks & Associates Inc

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Letter from the President

By JOHN BORIACK, 2021 HAA President

LEARN FROM THE LEADERS Advice from the Houston Apartment Association’s rich legacy of past presidents.

THIS HOUSTON APARTMENT Association past president has a lifetime of experience in property management. Jerry Winograd is the second generation of Judwin Realty Group and the second generation to have served as president of the Houston Apartment Association. Jerry started working for the family business when he was only a child. His parents, Eugene and Judith Winograd, built their very first property in 1963. They continued to build and manage rental properties, and in 1982, they renamed their company to Judwin Properties. Eventually, Jerry and his brother Marc Winograd took over the family business. Today, Judwin Realty Group is a successful company that values slow growth, and more importantly, a company that has a strong culture with a very low turnover rate. Not even Jerry remembers exactly how old he was when he started working. He’s practically been in the business since he was born! At the age of 10, though, Jerry was officially put on company payroll. At that age, Jerry was in charge of cutting and maintaining keys and locks. Every few months, Jerry worked in a different area of property management, learning more and more about the business. And, as each year passed, Jerry’s passion for property management only increased. He worked for his family’s business four to five days a week after school and most summers. Even throughout his teenage years, Jerry remained committed to the family business. When it was time to go to college, Jerry stopped working onsite to pursue a degree in finance from the University of Texas. Don’t worry, he was back to work two days after graduation with a promotion to assistant manager. Jerry’s father served as president of HAA in 1975. That was the same year Jerry first started attending HAA events, such as the gala and the family retreat, where he received two awards for catching the most fish and the largest fish. In 1994, Jerry began serving on HAA’s board of directors. Then, in 2006, Jerry served HAA as president. Jerry is someone who is so extremely successful yet so down to earth and personable. He’s a leader who I value a lot for his commonsense approach to business and his wealth of practical wisdom and advice. Judwin’s practice of operating without a traditional budget was my inspiration to investigate alternatives to the traditional and restrictive budget practices common in our industry. Let’s read what Jerry has to say:

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John: What are some things you wish you knew when you started your career? Jerry: Choose your resources carefully. The power of knowing others in the business is very valuable. I wish I knew how powerful being involved in the Houston Apartment Association could be. The first eight years of my career, I had very little involvement in the HAA. After I became more involved, I gained immediate access to the extensive resources of knowledge of many members. John: What skill do you believe is the most important to perfect for someone who does what you do? Jerry: The most important skills are learning how to read people and developing compassion for what may be going on in their lives. Also, absolutely make sure you put the right people in the correct roles. John: What is the hardest leadership lesson that keeps being presented to you that you either have to learn or relearn? Jerry: Although we have a lot more technology to work with today, the basics of our business have not changed. We need to continue to embrace technology, because that trend will continue. Another thing, remember that not everything you see is a must-have for your properties. You can always add it later if it is good technology. John: What was either the best leadership advice you’ve ever received or the worst leadership advice you’ve ever received? Jerry: Just be honest and surround yourself with an amazing team is the best advice I ever received. The worst advice was to figure out how to cut operating costs as much as you can. That is a short-term perspective and a shortsighted view for proper operations. Luckily, I did not follow that advice. John: Describe either a challenge, accomplishment or decision that catapulted you to your success. Jerry: Starting my full-time career in the mid 1980s was a huge challenge. The economy was really bad in Houston, and operating apartments was very difficult. I learned that if I wanted to operate the same way in a good or bad economy, that requires having sufficient reserves to carry the property through the tough times. John: Do you have a morning or daily habit that you feel makes you a more productive or successful person? Jerry: I plan out my day while driving to work, although, plans seem to change on the fly most days. A cup of coffee is required when I arrive at work. My advice is to remain flexible. July 2021

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These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their patron membership. Please give them careful consideration, whenever possible, in your business.

Houston Planned Energy Systems

HAA Member since 1997

Cotton Commercial USA Inc.

Gemstar Construction Development Inc.

HAA Member since 1982

Lowe’s Pro Supply

HAA Member since 1985

CSC ServiceWorks

HAA Member since 1984

HAA Member since 2006

HAA Member since 1961

Craven Carpet

HAA Member since 1986

Camp Construction Services

HAA Member since 1994

July Patron of the Month

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July 2021

Apartments.com

HAA Member since 1978

AAA Plumbers

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 CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ, HAA Legislative Chair, with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs

THE ONE WHERE IT DIDN’T HAPPEN The failure of many bills is a win for the apartment industry.

THE 2021 SESSION of the Texas Legislature was a tremendous victory for the apartment business because almost every apartment business-related bill died. This was an extraordinary legislative session for many reasons, but from an apartment industry perspective, it was an extraordinarily risky one. We have never seen a session with so many bad bills – bills aimed at making it more expensive and difficult to provide rental housing. Why is this happening? Much more than the U.S. Congress, the Texas Legislature has historically had a bias toward moderation. The rules, especially in the Texas Senate, were designed to force compromise. For decades, the “two-thirds rule” required the vote of 21 of the 31 senators to bring a bill up for floor debate. For most of the Senate’s history, partisanship wasn’t a factor – there weren’t enough Republicans for partisanship to matter. Other things that separated members did matter, though. It was hard to pass a bill with just rural members or just urban members. It was hard to pass a bill with only liberal Democrats or only conserva-

Your Vote Matters

tive Democrats. (Yes, there used to be conservative Democrats.) In recent years, though, the legislature has grown much more partisan, and the parties have been pulled farther apart by redistricting, social media and other forces that would take more than this column to explore. Republicans are more conservative while Democrats are more liberal with each passing election. Democrats expected significant gains in the 2020 election, which saw the national defeat of Donald Trump by Joe Biden. President Biden’s national win didn’t help Texas Democrats seeking legislative seats, though, and the 2021 session saw both chambers with significant Republican majorities. The Senate’s “two-thirds rule” has been watered down to a “five-ninths” rule that requires only 19 senators – the precise number of Republican senators – to bring a bill up for debate. Democratic legislators in seats where Republican challengers are unlikely to be competitive have little to lose from filing anti-business legislation – even when they know it won’t pass. An unsuccessful anti-business bill is something they can show their base

as evidence they fought the good fight. Before the 1990s, pro-business Republicans would do the same with lawsuit reform legislation they knew could never break through the plaintiffs’ lawyers’ grip on the state senate. Additionally, the pandemic created a new political concept, buoyed by the CARES Act and the CDC Eviction Moratorium, that it simply isn’t fair for people to have to pay for housing in difficult times – that housing providers should be required to provide apartments free of charge. Remember that the CDC Moratorium came from Republican President Trump’s administration and that the CARES Act was adopted by a majority Republican U.S. Senate. The concept of the government requiring property owners to provide housing for free has been found unconstitutional by court after court, but with rulings that haven’t applied beyond the parties to each case while endless appeals have continued to creep through the court system. In this environment, anti-apartment bills are not surprising, and are likely to increase in number and severity in future legislative sessions. / See Legislative Update, Page 53

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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It’s the Law

By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel

2021 LEGISLATIVE SESSION The good, the bad and the ugly! (Part 1)

FROM JANUARY 12, 2021, through May 31, 2021, the Texas legislators went to work in Austin. There were 6,927 bills filed. Of those, 1,070 bills were sent to the governor. The governor can sign a bill, veto a bill or allow a bill to become law without his signature. For bills sent to the governor at the end of the session, the governor has until June 20, 2021 to act. If the governor does not act, the bill will become law. In an effort to provide you with as timely information as possible, this article is being written prior to the June 20 deadline. The bills discussed below that have been passed by the House of Representatives and Senate will become law unless the governor vetoes them. This is part one of a two-part series of articles addressing legislation that has passed. Right to Vacate and Avoid Liability Following Certain Sex Offenses or Stalking Modifies Section 92.0161 of the Property Code Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 375) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: The prevalence of sexual abuse of persons with disabilities is deeply problematic. According to the federal Bureau of Justice Statistics, the rate of sexual assault against persons with disabilities is three and a half times higher compared to persons without disabilities and more than seven times higher against persons with intellectual disabilities. Current protections from continuous sexual assault in place for children also are appropriate for adults who are unable to consent. The offense of continuous sexual abuse of a child is a firstdegree felony punishable by imprisonment for life or for a minimum of 25 years or maximum of 99 years. www.haaonline.org

2. The Change: In an effort to provide you with as timely inforPursuant to Section 92.0161 of mation as possible, this article is being written the Property Code, a resident has certain rights to terminate a lease prior to the June 20 deadline. The bills discussed if the resident was the victim of below that have been passed by the House of Repcertain sex offenses or stalking. resentatives and Senate will become law unless the Section 92.0161(c) was modified to governor vetoes them. change the reference to one of the types of offenses that could trigger dwelling has sustained flood damage in the a resident’s rights under this statute. If the proceeding five-year period. resident was the victim of continuous sexual abuse of a young child or disabled individual 2. The Change: under Section 21.02 of the Penal Code, the resAn apartment owner is required to provide a ident would have rights under this Property renter a written notice substantially equivalent Code section. This change reflects a correto the following: sponding change in the Penal Code regarding The landlord (___) is or The landlord (___) is this offense. not aware that the dwelling you are renting is Notice for a Dwelling Located located in a 100-year floodplain. If neither box in a Floodplain is checked, you should assume the dwelling is Adds Section 92.0135 in a 100-year floodplain. Even if the dwelling is to the Property Code not in a 100-year floodplain, the dwelling may Effective for leases entered into or still be susceptible to flooding. The Federal renewed on or after January 1, 2022 Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) (HB 531) maintains a flood map on its internet website that is searchable by address, at no cost, to de1. Background: termine if a dwelling is located in a flood hazAccording to the bill analysis: ard area. Most tenant insurance policies do not There are concerns that renters in areas suscover damages or loss incurred in a flood. You ceptible to flooding may be unaware of that should seek insurance coverage that would risk. Although state law requires a person sellcover losses caused by a flood. ing real property to disclose to prospective Exception: An apartment owner is not rehomeowners whether the property is located quired to disclose on the notice that the owner in a floodplain, there is no similar requirement is aware that a dwelling is located in a 100-year with respect to notice of the potential for floodplain if the elevation of the dwelling is flooding by an apartment owner to their raised above the 100-year floodplain flood levrenters. This bill seeks to ensure that apartels in accordance with federal regulations. ment residents are equipped with the informaIf an apartment owner knows that flooding tion necessary to make informed decisions has damaged any portion of a dwelling at regarding the safest place for them to rent by least once during the five-year period immerequiring an apartment owner to provide to a diately preceding the effective date of the renter a written notice indicating whether the lease, the owner shall provide a written notice owner is aware that the leased dwelling is loto a resident that is substantially equivalent to cated in a 100-year floodplain and whether the the following: July 2021

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Landlord (__) is or Landlord (__) is not aware that the dwelling you are renting has flooded at least once within the last 5 years. The notice required by this statute must be included in a separate written document given to the resident at or before execution of the lease. Notes: • A “100-year floodplain” means any area of land designated as a flood hazard area with 1% or greater chance of flooding each year by FEMA under the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. • “Flooding” means a general or temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of dwelling caused by: a. the overflow of inland or tidal waters; b. the unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff or surface waters from any established water source such as a river, stream, or drainage ditch; or c. excessive rainfall.

Penalty: If an apartment owner violates this section and a renter suffers a substantial loss or damage to their personal property as a result of flooding, the renter may terminate the lease by giving a written notice of termination to the owner not later than the 30th day after the date the loss or damage occurred. For the purposes of this subsection, a renter suffers a substantial loss or damage to personal property if the total cost of repairs to or replacement of the personal property is 50% or more of the personal property’s market value on the date the flooding occurred. Termination of the lease under this subsection is effective when the resident surrenders possession of the dwelling. No later than the 30th day after the effective date of the termination of a lease under this statute, the owner shall refund to the resident all rent or other amounts paid in advance under the lease for any period after the effective date of the termination of the lease. This section does not affect a renter’s liability for delinquent, unpaid rent or other sums owed

to the owner before the date the lease was terminated by the resident under this section. Access to a Residence or Former Residence to Retrieve Certain Personal Property Modifies Section 24A.002 of the Property Code Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 1012) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: Justice courts have broad jurisdiction to issue decrees granting persons access to a residence or former residence to retrieve personal property. When the person seeking such a decree, however, is a party in an ongoing divorce proceeding, a justice court is not the appropriate venue. The court in which a suit relating to the marriage relationship is pending or the court having jurisdiction of a divorce or annulment / See Law, Page 72

Want to read more legal newsfrom Howard? Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

ABODE

July 2021

www.haaonline.org

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Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

FALSELY ACCUSED

An applicant was wrongfully accused of application fraud due to an administrative error. A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with the Houston Apartment Association to receive a refund on her security deposit after her application was denied. Management denied the applicant due to an alleged falsified application. During management’s rental history verification process, the applicant’s previous apartment community provided documentation for a different resident with a different unit number than what the applicant provided on the application form. Management denied the resident for application fraud, therefore denying the applicant a refund on the security deposit. The applicant’s previous apartment com-

munity informed management The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide that this was not application an impartial review of resident complaints using fraud, but instead an administhe documentation provided by both the resident trative error on their end. and management. According to the previous apartment, the wrong documentation was uploaded for the applicant’s profile. The apartment The committee ruled in favor of the could not provide proof of when the applicant applicant because management could not in question actually lived at this apartment prove the applicant falsified her application. community for that reason. It was determined by the committee that Management responded to HAA and management was provided with incorrect that response was forwarded to the applicant. rental verification. Management felt the resident was charged Management is to refund the applicant accordingly. the $200 security deposit. Enclosed was a copy of the application. 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!”

ABODE

July 2021

www.haaonline.org

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2021

HALL OF 2021 Hall of Fame Luncheon

FAME honoring

Beth Van Winkle

Highmark Residential Thursday, August 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Omni Houston 4 Riverway Houston, TX 77056 Table of 10 - $600 Individual Seat - $60

All proceeds benefit the Houston Apartment Foundation 501 (c) (3) and its educational programs. See www.haaonline.org for more details and to register.

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State Industry of the

Breakfast Fall Edition

Join HAA and industry leaders as we assess the current and future state of Houston’s multifamily market mid-year. Topics will include the latest pandemic-related issues, eviction moratoriums, 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, August 26 7:30 a.m. to 8;30 a.m. – Breakfast and networking 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. - Program The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 Program cost: $99/person See www.haaonline.org for more information.

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The Honors are back November 11! T

T T

Online property nominations are open! Deadline for property nominations is Friday, August 13 Visit https://custom.haaonline.org/Honors/HonorsForm.aspx Watch your email, ABODE and www.haaonline.org for more details on individual nominations.

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It’s not golf – it’s TOPGOLF! Give it a shot “fore” a cause Thanks to our sponsors: Top Sponsors Contractors Inc Outdoor Elements

Hole-in-One Sponsor Green Mountain Energy Best Team Spirit Sponsors Camp Construction Services Fidus Construction Services Last Place Award Sponsor Gemstar Construction Welcome Sponsor ApartmentData.com

It’s back for the PAC! Join us at Houston’s premiere golf entertainment complex for a fun-filled afternoon with the favorite twist to a traditional game, all while supporting the Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee – your local PAC for the apartment industry. Awards: Team Awards – 1st, 2nd, 3rd Best Male Best Female Last Place Best Team Spirit

Show us your team spirit for a chance to win!

Beverage Sponsors Century A/C Supply Cotton Commercial USA Lunch Sponsors American Fire Systems CORT Furniture Team Awards Sponsors Apartments.com Lowe's Pro Supply Texas Southwest Floors Best Male & Female Award Sponsors SafeRent Solutions Valet Living

Payment must be made by personal credit card or personal check payable to HAAPAC. Payment must accompany registration. HAA is prohibited from accepting corporate contributions for PAC events. Name __________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________ Phone (_________)________________________________________ MC____ Visa____ AmEx____ Discv_______ Credit Card #______________________________________________ CC Security Code____________ Expiration Date_______________ Name on Card_____________________________________________

FEES (include three hours of TopGolf, heavy appetizers, first drink and dessert) Please select: o Teams of up toHisixgh – High Top: $550 per team/Includes high top table and chairs; Tops SOLD OUT! located in center of each floor. o Teams of up to six – Lounge: $650 per team/Includes cushioned lounged seating; located on sides of each floor. Name__________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________

Thursday, July 29 TopGolf Houston - Katy

Name__________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________ Name__________________________________________________

1030 Memorial Brook Blvd. Houston, TX 77084

Company________________________________________________

11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Name__________________________________________________

*Please note this event is open to sponsors and players only, no spectators.

Company________________________________________________ Name__________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________ Name__________________________________________________ Company________________________________________________ Mail completed form and payment to: HAAPAC, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Credit card registrations may be emailed to events@haaonline.org; payment must accompany registration.

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Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE

JULY S M

W T 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24 31

AUGUST S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

JULY The calendar does not reflect some sponsorship information as the HAA Sponsorship Auction was held after the July 2021 ABODE went to press. See www.haaonline.org for sponsorship details.

Legal Lowdown Thursday, July 1 3 p.m. Via Zoom See Page 23 for details. Sponsored by Texas Southwest Floors

Avenues: Main Street 2 – “Crucial Techniques for Virtual Leasing in 2021” with Wesley Aleshire Tuesday, July 13 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Best Plumbing

Introduction to Excel Wednesday, July 21 8:30 a.m. to noon

Steering Committee Meeting Tuesday, July 13 Noon

Independence Day Observed The HAA Offices will be closed in observance of the July 4 holiday.

7 New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, July 7 10 a.m. Via Zoom All new supplier members welcome. Contact members@haaonline.org for more information. Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, July 7 3:30 to 5 p.m. Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

8 Honors Awards Property Awards Committee Meeting Thursday, July 8 9:30 a.m. NEXT Committee Meeting Thursday, July 8 6 p.m.

14-15 Certified Pool Operator (CPO) Wednesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 15 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

14 Resident Relations Committee A Meeting Wednesday, July 14 2 p.m. Via Zoom

15 Membership 101 Webinar Thursday, July 15 12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Via Zoom. Contact members@haaonline.org for more information. Sponsored by Texas Southwest Floors

20 Avenues: Marketing 2 Creative Concessions with Rick Ellis Tuesday, July 20 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data

Expert Exchange: Staffing and Compensation Struggles Wednesday, July 21 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Via Zoom, Facebook Live and YouTube (subscribe to HAATV) Every third Wednesday of each month. During HAA’s micro webinar series, we will discuss how to deescalate confrontations and developing problem resolution skills, as well as how to build resiliency in order to face these residents without fear or stress.

22 Expo Committee Meeting Thursday, July 22 3 p.m. Go-Getters Meting Thursday, July 22 4 p.m. Cadillac Bar 1802 Shepherd Drive, 77007 See Page 64 for more information. Sponsored by American Fire Systems and Hire Priority

27-28 Leasing 101 Tuesday, July 27 and Wednesday, July 28 8:30 a.m. to noon

29 TopGolf HAAPAC Fundraiser Thursday, July 29 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. TopGolf 1030 Memorial Brook Blvd., 77084 It’s not golf – it’s TOPGOLF! Give it a shot “fore” a cause, the Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee. Thank you to the many sponsors for this event. See Page 19 for details.

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. 20

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July 2021

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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:

www.haaonline.org

AUGUST 4

New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, August 4 10 a.m. Via Zoom All new supplier members are welcome. Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, August 4 3:30 to 5 p.m. Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

Avenues: Leadership 2 – “Leadership vs. Management” with Katie Rigsby Thursday, August 5 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Texas Southwest Floors Legal Lowdown Thursday, August 5 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. See Page 23 for details. NEXT Spelling Bee Thursday, August 5 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. See Page 31 for details.

11-13

IROP Wednesday, August 11 to Friday, August 13 8:30 a.m.

Avenues: Marketing 3 – “Hustle, Work Smarter and Other Top Habits of Successful Leasing Superstars” with Amy Kosnikowski Tuesday, August 17 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data

IROC Breakfast Friday, August 6 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Resident Relations Committee B Meeting Wednesday, August 11 2 p.m. Via Zoom Chili Fest Committee Meeting Wednesday, August 11 3:30 p.m.

Hall of Fame Luncheon Honoring Beth Van Winkle Thursday, August 12 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Omni Houston Hotel 4 Riverway, 77056 See Page 16 for details.

Legislative Committee Meeting Tuesday, August 24 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

State of the Industry Breakfast Thursday, August 26 8 a.m. to 10;30 a.m. The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 See Page 17 for details.

Honors Awards Property Awards Committee Meeting Wednesday, August 18 9 a.m. Expert Exchange: A Conversation with HAA’s Andy Teas and Matilde Luna Wednesday, August 18 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. Via Zoom, Facebook Live and YouTube (subscribe to HAATV) Every third Wednesday of each month.

HAAPAC Luncheon Thursday, August 19 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

24-25

Leasing 101 Tuesday, August 24 to Wednesday, August 25 8:30 a.m.

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.

www.haaonline.org

July 2021

ABODE

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Sponsored by

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.

Main

BLVD

Leadership

Maintenance Blvd Mainenancet I September 28 Mark Cukro Intermediate Electrical

Leadership II August 5 Katie Rigsby Leadership vs Management

Maintenance

Main II July 13 Wesley Aleshire Crucial Techniques for Virtual Leasing in 2021 Main III October 27 Teri Norvell The Mental Makeover

Maintenance II October 6 Chad Moulin Maintenance Manners Maintenance III November 17 Mark Cukro Intermediate HVAC

ing Livestream View ersg forodentails. or Inao-P nline.or

Leadership III December 14 Amy Kosnikowski Dilisio Play To Your Team’s Strengths: Adapt Your Leadership Style To Bring Out The Best in All

Marketing

Marketing II July 20 Rick Ellis Creative Concessions Marketing III August 17 Amy Kosnikowski Dilisio Hustle, Work Smarter and Other Top Habits of Successful Leasing Superstars

We’re on the road

See www.ha

minar? Need sejusssiotnos arneepsrieced at only $50

tion! Individual l for quality educa ea st al re a , n so per per

again!

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Mark your calendars!

July 1 August 5 September 2 October 7 November 4 December 2

Get the lowdown, virtually! 2021 is sure to be another bumpy ride, with many legal implications for the multifamily industry. Stay up to date and in the know via this new monthly series. Join Howard Bookstaff virtually for an update on all things legal, from eviction procedures to local, state and federal law changes.

First Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. Program fee: $45 per person Annual Property Subscription available: $500 per property

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Join Conference and Expo Chairs Derek DeVries, Camp Construction Services, and Monica Gracia, DayRise Residential, right here in Houston, Texas and find new opportunities at the best multifamily expo in the country!

HAA 2021 Education Conference & Expo Wednesday, September 22 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. NRG Center, Hall A

Education Conference with David Rendall $175/person Early Bird pricing available by September 15: $135 Special pricing for NAA Credential holders (must be current): $105

Expo! Over 250 Exhibitors!

$3,000 in Cash Prizes! Expo only is FREE for all management personnel. Registration is required. Non-exhibiting suppliers are not admitted.

See next month’s ABODE for more information and visit www.haaexpo.org

It’s a new dawn for the multifamily industry as we get back to business and networking!

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Save the Date: Wednesday, September 22

Don’t miss our Education Conference Double-header with David Rendall! First up – The Freak Factor: Discovering Uniqueness by Flaunting Weakness Do you want more happiness, fulfillment, and energy? Do you want better relationships at work and at home? Do you want to dramatically improve teamwork and increase productivity? Our parents, teachers, and managers have told us that, if we want to succeed, we should find and fix our weaknesses. But what if our biggest weaknesses were also our biggest strengths? What if we could create outrageous personal and professional success by amplifying flaws, instead of denying them? How would that change the way we parent, teach, and manage people?

Double the Education – Pink Goldfish: Defy Normal and Exploit Imperfection Do you want more innovation and creativity? Do you want to improve your marketing and strategy? Do you want to captivate your customers? Companies need to stand out in a crowded marketplace, but true differentiation is increasingly rare. Based on over 200 case studies, Pink Goldfish provides an unconventional eight-part framework for achieving competitive distinction by embracing flaws, instead of fixing them. Learning Objectives: * Clarify organizational strengths and weaknesses * Capture consumer attention * Improve customer retention * Maximize differentiation * Increase word of mouth advocacy * Enhance customer loyalty

For more information and to register, visit www.haaexpo.org.

During the last fifteen years, David Rendall has spoken to audiences on every inhabited continent. His clients include the US Air Force, Australian Department of Education, and Fortune 50 companies such as Microsoft, AT&T, United Health Group, Fannie Mae, and State Farm Insurance. Prior to becoming a speaker, he was a leadership professor and standup comedian. He also managed nonprofit enterprises that provided employment for people with disabilities. In between presentations, David competes in ultramarathons and Ironman triathlons. David has a doctorate in organizational leadership, as well as a graduate degree in psychology.

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Industry Update from the NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATION and the NATIONAL MULTIHOUSING COUNCIL

WE CAN IMPROVE RENTAL ASSISTANCE DISTRIBUTION Here’s how.

OVER A YEAR into the pandemic, housing providers and residents continue to grapple with the devastating financial effects of COVID19, with an estimated 7 million renters across the country owing approximately $57.3 billion in back rent, utilities and fees just as of January, Moody’s Analytics estimates. While the National Apartment Association (NAA) appreciates the Biden Administration and Congress’ bipartisan work to allocate $46 billion in Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds, the rollout of rental assistance programs that benefitted from federal aid continues to fall short, largely due to the requirements that state and local grantees (e.g. housing agencies or nonprofits) voluntarily put into place. The myriad of requirements is causing major distribution delays and are difficult for housing provider and renter applicants to navigate. Differences can be so drastic that, in some areas around the country, hardly one program is the same as another – even in the same state. The U.S. Department of Treasury (USDT), charged with administering ERAP funds, has provided guidance and technical assistance to state and local grantees. While programmatic challenges remain a concern for many of the programs receiving ERAP dollars across the country, two state programs exemplify efficiency and effectiveness: Virginia and Colorado. These programs have clear eligibility and application processes that apply statewide and allow a seamless process for housing providers to

ABODE

July 2021

work on behalf of their residents en masse to obtain relief. While programmatic challenges remain a concern Virginia’s Rent Relief Profor many of the programs receiving ERAP dollars gram (RRP) has shown early across the country, two state programs exemplify success, largely due to heavy efficiency and effectiveness: Virginia and advocacy from the Virginia Colorado. These programs have clear eligibility Apartment Management Assoand application processes that apply statewide ciation (VAMA) and the Apartment and Office Building and allow a seamless process for housing providers Association of Metropolitan to work on behalf of their residents en masse to Washington (AOBA). Tami Fosobtain relief. sum, Executive Director of GEM Management shared: One key procedure of Virginia’s RRP is allowAlso contributing to the program’s success is ing management companies to remit on behalf that the RRP is a centralized program rather than a patchwork of locally administered proof residents with consent. The program apgrams, allowing companies to apply easily on proval process takes approximately 45 days behalf of eligible residents altogether and acwith payment received within 15 days resulting cording to one unified set of rules. While the apin an approximate 60 day turn around. plication process is an important factor of the The program was not always successful, program’s easy rollout, Fossum shared that the however, and benefitted from lessons learned communication with Virginia Housing has in 2020. Previously, before the specific federal been a key part in ensuring the smooth applicaallocation for rental assistance, Virginia’s Detion process for housing providers and applipartment of Housing and Community Developcants alike: ment (DHCD) put together a program in the VHDA has shown that they are here to assure summer of 2020 which had a very long applicathe residents of Virginia who are in need are retion process and required housing providers to ceiving the designated emergency rental assisdiscount the rent owed to receive assistance. tance funding. We have had some residents Due to successful advocacy of VAMA and AOBA, apply on their own and Virginia Housing has the RRP is now a housing provider-led process taken our calls on these applications and proadministered through the Virginia Housing vided feedback so management can assist resiagency (formerly Virginia Housing Developdent in getting their application finalized. ment Authority (VHDA), rather than DHCD.

www.haaonline.org

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Open communication channels and opportunities for coordination on applications have been essential to the Virginia program’s success as certification and documentation requirements have been barriers to entry for renters who are seeking relief in other jurisdictions. Housing providers prefer to submit sensitive information, such as tax ID and bank information for online payments, directly to program administrators. As of March 24, 2021, the RRP had helped 28,960 households, to the tune of $138.7 million, with an average payment of $4,789. Similarly, Colorado’s program allows housing providers to begin the application process. Once the owner or operator submits their portion of the application, program administrators then send an email to the resident for the individual to complete the rest of the application. Housing provider-led submissions speed up the application process significantly, as many rental assistance programs require tax documents, rent legers and lease agreements. Prior to the current ERAP program, newly minted to meet federal guidelines, Colorado’s previous rental assistance program saw success as well. Due to the successful advocacy of the Colorado Apartment Association, Colorado distributed approximately $72 million to housing providers for delinquent rent under the Colorado Emergency Housing Assistance Program and Property Owner Preservation programs between August 2020 and February 2021. These programs were initially funded by the CARES Act and later supplemented with state funds. During this period of time, Colorado experienced high collection rates in the mid 90 percentiles (about 1.5 percentage points below normal) and evictions remained at a 30-year low (about 50% of normal eviction filing levels). While Virginia and Colorado’s programs may serve as a model for other ERAP grantees, more work must be done to support the industry and ensure that federal rental assistance dollars are distributed quickly and efficiently to housing providers and renters across the income spectrum who have been financially impacted by COVID-19. NAA continues to track the progress of rental assistance programs across the country and educate Administration officials and members of Congress about new developments, as the nation’s housing providers and their residents are depending on the ERAP program’s success. For questions about emergency rental assistance programs, please reach out to Jodie Applewhite, Manager of Public Policy. Visit www.haahq.org for more information. www.haaonline.org

July 2021

ABODE

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On the Scene with the HAA NEXT NEXT Family Reunion Sponsored by 1 AAA Plumbers, Brandt Electrical, A/C & Heating and One Source Realty Advisors Thursday, May 27 at Little Woodrow’s – Midtown The HAA young professionals group were reunited with their peers for their first Mix N Mingle event of 2021.

MEET 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. 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. 28

ABODE

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www.haaonline.org

July 2021

ABODE

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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

Upcoming NEXT Events: August 5 NEXT Spelling Bee: HAAPAC Fundraiser October 8 Professional Development Breakfast: Master Panel featuring HAA Past Presidents December 2 Holiday Mix-N-Mingle

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G N I L SPEL BEE! W-I-N-N-E-R!

ndraiser HAAPAC Fu members! Open to all HAA t5•

Thursday, Augus

10 Westway Park

nter, 48 HAF Education Ce

Blvd.

g from the audience by biddin n tio ac e th on in t ge n ca able Spectators and teams th easy/difficult words avail wi , ge sta on ers ell sp !) ge to save (or sabota al political action nefit the HAAPAC– your loc be ll wi s ed ce pro All . ase for purch nt industry. committee for the apartme

ins r ion beg r and Cash Ba t a r t s i g e e n R n – Di Bee m. – 5:30 p. to 6:30 p.m. Live Spelling eller . – sp m 5:30 p. to 8:30 p.m. include one les m. 6:30 p. 8 – $500, tab ny on stage f pa o Table our com y t n e s e to repr l Seat – $65 ua d i Payment must be made by personal credit card Visa, MasterCard, American Express v Indi

or Discover or personal check payable to HAAPAC. Payment must accompany registration. HAA is prohibited from accepting corporate contributions for PAC events. Name _______________________________________________ Company_____________________________________________ Phone (____________)__________________________________ MC____ Visa____ AmEx____ Discv_______ Credit Card #___________________________________________ CCS Code____________ Exp Date__________ Name on Card___________________________________________ ___________ Table of 8 @ $500 per table with one designated speller on stage ___________ Individual Seat @ $65 each Mail completed form and payment to: HAA NEXT Spelling Bee, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Credit card registrations may be emailed to events@haaonline.org; payment must accompany registration.

Produced by

Image © fizkes | iStock by Getty Images

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ABODE

July 2021

www.haaonline.org

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Houston Apartment Association Vice President at Large, Tracie Yoder, shares a timeless approach to leadership. By

TRACIE YODER, Barvin

Leading By Example Energy and enthusiasm are contagious. Anytime you can increase trust, confidence, accountability and purpose, you are also going to see an increase in productivity and loyalty in your associates, which can spread through the entire organization.

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hen I started in this industry 32 years ago as a part-time leasing associate, I never thought it would take me where I am today. I never thought I could be so passionate about this industry and the responsibility of providing homes to so many residents, whether it be a short-term or long-term situation. We have this amazing responsibility to provide a nice, clean, living environment to apartment renters, while providing a level of customer service that, in the minds of our associates and residents, can have a huge, long-term impact. In the different positions I have held, I have learned a lot over the last three decades. I have had the extreme privilege of working with so many amazing companies and leaders along this journey. As in any industry, we are all influenced by those who lead us, those who we lead, and even colleagues who may or may not work within our specific organization. One of the most important things I have learned in my career is that leading by example is certainly a timeless approach to leadership, despite the vast advancement in technology and the way our industry and the needs of our associates, residents and clients may evolve.

My definition of leading by example is guiding others through your behaviors and inspiring them to achieve a common goal. As a leader, your team is looking to you for inspiration, encouragement and direction. Leaders must be able to exemplify the behaviors they want to see their teams emulate. When you lead by example, you provide a path for others that aligns everyone to common goals and a shared purpose. Naturally, whether they are aware of it or not, leaders are always leading by example. A true leader, though, inspires people to feel like they can do the best they can for the company. When you lead by example, you can accomplish that for your team and create a positive company culture full of important components such as trust, confidence, accountability and purpose. Energy and enthusiasm are contagious. Anytime you can increase trust, confidence, accountability and purpose, you are also going to see an increase in productivity and loyalty in your associates, which can spread through the entire organization. If you want to gain trust and confidence of your associates, you must set an example for them. But not only do you have to set the example, your actions must be consistent. There are many ways to lead by example and

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The core philosophy of leading by example is actually quite simple. Never take people for granted, as people are our most important asset in this industry. Give your associates the attention and consideration they deserve, and never, ever, expect anyone on your team to do something that you would not do yourself, regardless of your position.

the many attributes of leaders who lead by example possess. Here are a few examples: Core Components of Leadership: Honesty and Transparency – Being honest and transparent with your associates are some of the most important things you can do for them. Why? Because it builds trust. If you cannot be honest and transparent with your associates, they will lose trust in you. An open workplace makes your associates feel supported and cared for by the company. It’s much easier to work efficiently when you feel supported. Trust that is broken is almost impossible to regain. Be honest, be transparent, do what you say you’re going to do and follow through on your promises. Having Respect for Others – We should never forget the golden rule. Treat others as you would want to be treated. This will apply to how you treat literally every position within your organization. It is also important that you are cognizant of your team member’s feelings and even their own personal challenges. Always support them instead of tearing them down. Although you will always have to have tough conversations with your team, you can always do it with respect for the associate. Thoughtful Decision Making – Not every decision you make as a leader will be perfect or popular, however, being thoughtful and listening to your associates for their feedback will go far. It will help them understand how you came to your decision(s) and because their feedback was considered, they will more likely support and respect the decisions you make. You must be careful not to be defensive when receiving negative feedback when it is given. If you’re building a true team and cultivating a strong culture that includes

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honesty and transparency, everyone on your team must respect differences in opinion. Everyone on your team will bring a unique perspective. Consistency – As a leader, it is vital that we are consistent when leading by example. Although our industry can have challenging days, it’s during challenging situations that our associates look to us for guidance the most. Consistency and poise in how you react to adverse situations and conversations are very important. You always want to demonstrate to your team that you will not turn away from challenges that may seem too tough. There are so many ways to effectively lead by example and these are just a few. The core philosophy of leading by example is actually quite simple. Never take people for granted, as people are our most important asset in this industry. Give your associates the attention and consideration they deserve, and never, ever, expect anyone on your team to do something that you would not do yourself, regardless of your position. As a leader, you are always being watched, so it is important to remember, actions certainly speak louder than words. Tracie Yoder is the senior vice president of operations for Barvin. She is also a 2021 vice president at large for the Houston Apartment Association. Prior to joining Barvin, Tracie held operations leadership roles for Avenue5, US Residential and Greystar, just to name a few, where she specialized in predevelopment and lease-ups. Tracie has served on the HAA board of directors since 2012.

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It’s so much more than a buzzword. Resiliency is the key to one of the biggest problems companies and their leadership face today: successful change. By

LAURA LESTUS, CAS, The Liberty Group

Building Resiliency If we have learned anything in the past year and a half, it is that working on the resiliency muscle is not a one-time training session but should be a large part of our company culture. The ability to be able to bounce back, persevere and finish a task, no matter how difficult it is, facing the situation head-on and come out a winner is the ultimate goal.

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ow confident are you feeling today? How confident do you think each member of your team is feeling today? I often ask myself “Am I doing everything I can to lead my team competitively into the future?” That is a heavy load to carry for those of us who thrive on the success and development of others. More recently, consistent training and continuing education often get pushed down the list of priorities because let’s face it, in our industry, so much is out of our control, so this is why we need to dominate what we can control! Our world throws curveballs at us every day. It's ever-changing and often leaves us feeling defeated at times. If we want to survive, scratch that, I mean to thrive in our personal and professional lives, we have to intentionally focus on what will help our teams develop the skills to not just adapt and manage change but drive the change! Developing a Resilient Team My brother and I grew up in a single-parent household where my mother never worked less than two jobs at a time to support us. My brother was special needs and required quite a bit of additional care, as he was in a wheelchair from the age of 8. I truly believe I developed my own resiliency by seeing what a resilient person looks like firsthand. I feel like resiliency is something that should be a major focus for the development of leaders and their teams. If we have learned anything in the past year and a half, it is that working on the resiliency muscle is not a one-time training session but should be a large part of our company culture. The ability to be able to bounce back, persevere and finish a task, no matter how difficult it is, facing the situation head-on and come out a winner is the ultimate goal. That is not an easy task if you are not a naturally resilient person.

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In navigating change, resiliency is required because it helps people handle the inherent pressure that change brings, uncertainty and setbacks. Leaders need to build their own reserves and resiliency in support of their mental and physical health.

So, what can we do to help develop a resilient team? The good news is, resilience is not something that you either have or don’t have, it can be taught. As a leader of your team, you can start by gaining greater self-awareness. Identify your own gaps in resilience. To start, employers can recommend individuals take the proper steps to take care of themselves. Developing a resilient mindset starts with taking care of your mind and body. When we commit to getting adequate sleep, exercise or movement, spending time on activities that bring us joy, and practicing gratitude, we’re better able to cope with challenges or roadblocks in life and at work. In navigating change, resiliency is required because it helps people handle the inherent pressure that change brings, uncertainty and setbacks. Leaders need to build their own reserves and resiliency in support of their mental and physical health. Now that we have begun the work to remain resilient as leaders, we can help our team on a path of resiliency by consistently providing the following: Team Support. Effective leaders facilitate change and devote a considerable effort to engaging everyone involved in the change effort. Assistant Vice President for Training and Organization Development at Eton Properties Philippines, Alvin Abrantes, wrote in an article published on LinkedIn titled “How to Be a Successful Change Leader,” successful “change projects” are characterized by leaders removing barriers to employee success. These include personal barriers such as wounded egos and a

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sense of loss, as well as professional barriers such as the time and resources necessary to carry out a change plan. Leaders of unsuccessful change focused exclusively on results, so employees didn’t get the support they needed for the change. Learn. Abrantes also said that successful change leaders never assumed they had all the answers. They ask lots of questions of their team, peers and even family members and gathered formal and informal feedback. The input and feedback allowed them to make continual adjustments during the change. Asking many questions to gather accurate information will give your companies leaders the knowledge they need to make appropriate adjustments along the way to ensure your team feels supported and strengthen their resiliency muscle. Professional Development. I believe some of this is individually driven. If you require professional development that isn’t in alignment with each individuals’ values, goals or purpose, it will be a waste of time and money for your employee and your company. However, if you challenge the individual to find something they want to learn, that will have an impact in their dayto-day life, you now have an opportunity to build a training program around that. A very important question to ask them is, "What are the things that you're drawn to?" Or "What are the things that excite you?" It is important to make them clearly define what growth and development mean for them. These conversations will foster an atmosphere of collaboration, team growth and a sense of ownership in the organization’s vision. Help others. Whether you volunteer with a local homeless shelter, or simply support

a friend in their own time of need, you can garner a sense of purpose, foster self-worth, connect with other people, and tangibly help others, all of which can empower you to grow in resilience. Be proactive. It’s helpful to acknowledge and accept your emotions during hard times, but it’s also important to help you foster self-discovery by asking yourself, “What can I do about a problem in my life?” If the problems seem too big to tackle, break them down into manageable pieces. Even though different groups within your company may look at change management differently, it is extremely important to always address the human side of change within your organization. Change is inevitable, but the resiliency of our team will determine if we survive or thrive. Let’s thrive! Laura Lestus, CAS, is a regional manager for The Liberty Group. She is the immediate past president for the Houston Apartment Association’s Product Service Council. Laura has 10 years of experience in apartment staffing and about 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry working onsite and as a supplier partner. For 40 years, The Liberty Group has been a trusted partner in real estate nationwide, connecting companies with top talent. For more information, you can visit The Liberty Group’s website www.thelibertygroup.com. To connect with Laura, email her at laural@thelibertygroup.com.

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Finding qualified employees is an industry-wide issue right now, but by strengthening your leadership skills, you may be able to hire, retain and develop your ideal team. By

ROBERT COTE, Hire Priority Staffing and Executive Search

The Right Leadership

Solves Staffing Struggles As unemployment decreases, it’s imperative to avoid falling back into old, outdated trends, as it may risk employee longevity.

How Outdated Leadership Styles May Be the Cause of Your Staffing Struggles he COVID-19 pandemic interrupted normal operations, especially within the multifamily industry. Because of this, companies were forced to innovate and adapt. Although top leaders have been shifting management models for quite some time, the need for leadership reform became more apparent than ever. As unemployment decreases, it’s imperative to avoid falling back into old, outdated trends, as it may risk employee longevity.

In With the New Traditionally, companies are built on a “leadership ladder.” Essentially, the higher you climb the more power and control you are given, however, as the saying goes, with great power comes great responsibility. And

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not all management styles result in lifting up your team. In fact, several can ultimately alienate great employees. Diving in and evaluating whether your leadership styles are hurting your company may be the ticket to attracting, retaining and developing your ideal staff. Here are a few popular but outdated management styles and guidance on how you can be a better leader. ● Micro-management Micro-management is one of the most common damaging leadership styles. The need to control every aspect of your employees’ tasks isn’t productive, as it usually involves a great deal of handholding. Not only does this give your employees a feeling of incompetence, but it also causes you to lose focus on the bigger picture, causing you to waste a great deal of time.

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Taking an interest in your employees’ professional growth will go a long way. It not only excites your staff, but it helps to grow their knowledge, which will help your company in the long run. It shows that you care about their future and that you listen to their struggles and goals.

Instead of micromanaging, give your team members a greater sense of empowerment. Give your property managers the freedom to use their own ideas within their communities. Include your maintenance team in decisions that affect how they complete their work. Loosening the reins will allow your employees to feel a sense of responsibility, making them better able to take pride in their work. It will also give you a clearer view of what is working and what isn’t. ● Too Much Pressure on the Process There was a time when the most important aspect of leadership was ensuring that processes were being perfectly followed. Employers set strict hours and unrealistic expectations with very little room for error. This is yet another way to shift a leader’s focus away from the big picture, choosing instead to nitpick everything their employees do. While we can all agree that business process flows are important, a company’s success is ultimately determined by the end result. Having the ability to remain flexible and involve your team are essential. It will also assist you in evaluating efficiency, allowing you to improve processes going forward. ● Traditional Performance Reviews Very little productivity stems from holding regular performance reviews. The opposite is actually true, as these have been found to offer very little productive feedback. These reviews happen each year, at predictable times of the year, without offering the value needed for continual growth. Employee improvement can best be achieved by offering regular feedback. Providing suggestions or compliments immediately after employee performance will hold a much higher value. This also offers employees a greater desire to progress and better their results. Addressing issues as they arise will also provide much better outcomes for everyone. After all, who remembers every mistake made months ago?

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Of course, formal progress meetings are still necessary for any business. But, instead, try to focus on the goals they’re working towards. Share the potential you see in them. Create a more positive environment and give your employees something to look forward to, especially if it also coincides with a raise. You can even offer development programs that will help them advance their career and grow professionally. Professional Development Programs Taking an interest in your employees’ professional growth will go a long way. It not only excites your staff, but it helps to grow their knowledge, which will help your company in the long run. It shows that you care about their future and that you listen to their struggles and goals. These are the ones who keep your communities running smoothly, and they represent you for your tenants. Development programs are especially helpful when targeting employees from younger generations. In a time where traditional trade schools aren’t as popular, this offers them the opportunity to grow into a career. Not sure what to offer? Here are some online resources to help! ● Udemy https://www.udemy.com/ Udemy offers thousands of courses, including property management, business development, and personal growth. With the ability to order courses one by one or through a membership, Udemy is a great resource for your company. ● Visto https://store.gowithvisto.org/ Visto was created by The National Apartment Association, offering a wide variety of courses. Its offerings include online credential and training programs covering the entire multifamily industry. Looking for something for your maintenance staff? They have that, too.

● HAA Credential Programs https://haaonline.org/credentials HAA offers webinars and classes specific to the Houston housing market. Through the National Apartment Association, local trade associations, such as the Houston Apartment Association, offer credential programs to encourage professional development and prepare all industry personnel, from maintenance technicians and property managers to suppliers and even property owners. This is the perfect option for helping your team stay up to date with the latest local practices. Adopting an empathetic and open-minded leadership style can exponentially carry your staff's growth. Don’t be afraid to advertise these characteristics in your job listings either. When potential employees know that you support and encourage professional and personal growth, you will attract more talented candidates. Make sure to remain sincere and remember, you’re building a team: make it feel like a family. Looking for more ideas for successfully building your team? Subscribe to Hire Priority’s monthly newsletter here: https://hirepriority.com/managementadvice/. We offer the latest tips and trends to help you find your ideal candidates. Robert Cote is the chief operating officer at Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search with over 20 years of staffing and search experience, and more than 15 years of executive oversight. Founded in Houston, Hire Priority has been a leader in multifamily job placement since 1990, providing temporary, temp-to-hire, payroll hire, permanent placement, training and career coaching. Robert can be reached at rcote@hirepriority.com.

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A concept coined by author of five New York Times bestsellers, Brené Brown, calls for leaders to be courageous. By

MOLLIE WITT, Mollie Witt

Finding the Potential in People and Processes Taking responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and developing that potential, are two things that if not synced can cause someone to miss the mark of being a true leader.

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“A

leader is anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes and who has the courage to develop that potential,” is a famous quote by the New York Times bestselling author, viral TED talk presenter and fellow Houstonian, Brené Brown. This quote personally resonates, as it serves as a reminder of experiences with leaders who have helped me become a better version of myself, both personally and professionally. Breaking down the quote from Brown, there are two independent thoughts or concepts that work together to create the idea of what she considers a leader. Taking responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, and developing that potential, are two things that if not synced can cause someone to miss the mark of being a true leader. Leaving out one part of the leadership piece can be compared to showing an apartment but failing to close the sale. It doesn’t lead to consistent results. It may work once or twice, but it is nothing that anyone should bank on for the long-term. In order to successfully take responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes, there has to be a level of

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Having the courage to have the conversation with team members and identifying where they would like to grow is the first step. But, then really owning their growth and helping them gain the skills needed to grow while still encouraging them to be their true selves is where you will start to see team members flourish.

accountability. The accountability within this concept is not about holding others accountable, but it is about the leader holding themself accountable to consistently find the potential in people and processes. This is also not about finding accountability within the results – it is about the potential. The results will come. Reports hold the results accountable, the leader holds him or herself accountable for looking for the potential. Finding the potential is where the magic starts to happen. So how does one hold themselves accountable to look for the potential? This has to be a conscious decision and must become a habit. This requires work. It is not always the easiest thing to do, but it is always going to be worth it. The first thing to do is to consider the strengths of those around you. Look at the whole person, and think through what they bring to the team. Now that the potential has been identified, it becomes the responsibility of the leader to have the courage to develop that potential. There are several ways that one can develop potential, a leader can suggest learning activities, books or podcasts, ask for assistance with special projects or anything else that will build on the strengths and help the team member. As their strengths are building, so is the potential for them to notice their growth, resulting in increased confidence. Having the courage to have the conversation with team members and identifying where they would like to grow is the first step. But, then really owning their growth and helping them gain the skills needed to grow while still encouraging them to be their true selves is where you will start to see team members flourish. Choosing to focus on their potential rather than focusing on what is not perfect

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takes dedication and self-discipline, as it is human nature to focus on what is going wrong instead of what is going right. But when someone steps up to the challenge and embodies the quote from Brown, this is when they set themselves on the path to become a legendary leader. I have been fortunate enough to have had many great leaders throughout my career, and I surely would not be where I am without each of them. However, my first manager, Shawna, really taught me how to be open to receiving the lessons other leaders taught me throughout the years. Almost 12 years ago, I began in this industry with zero sales experience. I was timid. And I was terrified of asking for the deposit or closing the sale, because it required me to get out of my shell. I liked it in my shell. It was safe there. I did not know if it was safe to step out of my shell, so I liked to stay in there. Instead of focusing on how timid I was, she focused on the things that I was doing right. She let me feel safe and empowered to slowly come out of that shell. She let me know that she had my back. When she saw a spark of potential, instead of looking the other way, she noticed and helped me build on what she thought I could be. While she may have redirected me as I was learning, she never let me think that I couldn’t do it. She considered my job history prior to joining the multifamily community and really met me where I was. I remember a growth opportunity conversation vividly, and even though I was being told that I was not doing something right, I was actually being led to be bigger and better than I ever thought that I could be. I was provided action items and ways to resolve the concern that was happening, but then was also shown how improving this area could lead to future growth that could set

me up for success. I was provided actionable and immediate feedback when growth opportunities were observed. What happened when she did this is that I felt empowered and encouraged. What did not happen was I did not feel like I could not do anything right, she never let me feel that I did not have potential. I never felt like I could not do something. I left feeling that if I could not get it right now, I knew it would come. I knew I was safe to make a mistake. I knew she had my back. I knew she saw more in me than I saw in myself. Before the quote from Brown was published, this was the model my manager followed. Finding the potential and then having the courage to develop that potential is what should set the bar for leadership models. Following this leadership outline can really make the difference between a team member feeling comfortable and safe to grow and a team member not being engaged enough to make it. Not only does encouraging the growth that supports the potential of the employee build the foundation of trust that can support a strong and successful leadership relationship that can last for years or even a lifetime, it also breeds the environment for employees to grow into leadership positions where they can do the same. Mollie Witt, CAM, CAPS, is an employee experience manager for Venterra Realty. Mollie has been with Venterra Realty for almost 12 years, where she started onsite before working her way up as a trainer. Mollie has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Houston in human resources management and personnel administration.

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You can be a leader no matter your role or paygrade. By

KATIE RIGSBY, CAPS, Katie Rigsby Inspires

15 Leadership Practices to Help You

Stand Out Leadership does not come with title. Anyone can be a leader at any level. Leadership is a skill that is acquired, and therefore, should be constantly nurtured.

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re you looking for a promotion with no opportunities in sight? Do you want more responsibility but keep being overlooked? Is there a position available but the competition is pretty tough? Proving yourself as an effective leader will help set you apart from the pack while establishing you as a valuable company asset. Leadership does not come with title. Anyone can be a leader at any level. Leadership is a skill that is acquired, and therefore, should be constantly nurtured. If you are looking to stand out as leader among your peers, these 15 easy practices will help get you noticed. 1. Be reliable. A great leader says what she means and means what she says. Being reliable is not just about keeping your word, it is also about fulfilling your commitment as an employee. Your commitment to be at work on time. Your commitment to customer service. Your commitment to uphold the company mission and do the job you were hired to do. Your word is your bond and every time you accept a paycheck you are giving your word that you

have fulfilled your duty as a company ambassador. If you want more responsibility, you must first prove you are reliable. 2. Know your strengths and play them up. We are more productive and engaged when we are able to utilize our strengths and natural abilities. As a result, when seeking new challenges or asking for more responsibility, choose areas that will make you shine. Effective leaders know their strengths and utilize their team members in areas where they themselves are lacking. If you are a marketing genius and your supervisor seems to struggle creatively, ask if you can help by taking it off his plate. This gives you an opportunity to show off your talents and increase your unique value, while demonstrating you are a team player. 3. Seek education. If you want to be seen as an emerging leader, you must continue to gain knowledge and generate new ideas. Being educated in the industry through obtaining credentials, attending local educational sessions or taking an active role with your local apartment association board will help establish July 2021

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yourself as an industry expert and it will keep you in touch with industry professionals outside of your organization. 4. Refine your emotional intelligence. As our communication has become more digitized, emotional intelligence has taken a hit. The need for leaders to be aware and in control of their own emotions and the emotions of others while having strong interpersonal communication skills is vital to the success of an organization. Developing your own emotional intelligence occurs through practice, effective listening and requesting feedback from peers and supervisors. Join social groups or volunteer for a non-profit where you can practice these skills freely. Offer to take the lead on a project or team with the intention of practicing this specific skill. 5. Recognize others. Showing humility and being truly excited when you see others succeed will help prepare you for a leadership role. Great leaders surround themselves with successful people and being able to recognize and reward the efforts of others will help keep them motivated and wanting to work hard for you. When you see someone doing something well, let them know that you noticed. It’s important to make recognition of others a part of your daily habits regardless of your position or pay grade. 6. Show appreciation. Being grateful for every opportunity that comes your way and recognizing that even challenging situations and difficult people are character development opportunities. Be thankful when someone puts you in a challenging situation, be grateful when you are given more work, these are opportunities for you to learn and grow. Thank your supervisor for sending you to training or delegating a task to you. Thank your customers for bringing issues to your attention. Thank your coworker for giving you the opportunity to exhibit leadership skills when they drop the ball. The way you handle these small hiccups has a direct impact on how you are viewed as a leader. 7. Recognize that relationships are important. You cannot be great at everything and you are never going to know it all, that’s why it is important to have good relationships with individuals both inside and outside of your organization. Building business relationships with others will help keep

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you in the forefront of people’s minds when an opportunity arises. 8.Shadow a leader you respect. Surround yourself with leaders you admire. In the words of Jim Rohn, “We are the average of the five people we spend the most time with.” Find someone who is in the role that you aspire to have and begin spending time with them. Observe how they interact with others and ask them for advice regarding your own career path. Think about the five people you surround yourself with at work, the people you choose to be around when you attend meetings or networking events, company parties or industry training. Are the five people you choose to spend work time with persons you would want to emulate? 9. Request regular feedback. This one is hard because sometimes the feedback may be difficult to hear. However, let your boss know what your career goals are and ask for feedback on what you could do to improve. Say something like, “I would like to be in a [enter your goal here] role, can you tell me what areas I need to improve upon to ensure I am considered the next time the position becomes available?” 10. Remain enthusiastic and positive. I read posts, emails and hear conversations daily where team members are jaded, unappreciative and have bad attitudes, many of them in leadership roles. Teams feed off of the leader’s morale and an important part of a leader’s role is to help keep their team motivated. Remember that attitude reflects leadership, if you aren’t getting what you want from your team, start by looking in the mirror. 11. Become a solution provider. Stop walking into your supervisor’s office with problems! Start walking in with challenges and offering your own solution. If he decides your solution is not one that is viable, rather than plopping yet another file on his desk for him to follow up with, discuss an alternative and ask if you can handle the issue. This will provide you with insight on how the situation should be handled in the future and help establish you as a pro-active leader. 12. Be supportive of the team. Being supportive means you are genuinely happy for the successes of others. It means you avoid gossiping or talking poorly of others and you

never ever speak negatively of a team member to a customer. A great leader knows that you always praise in public and correct in private. 13. Add value and take initiative. Leaders do not sit around and wait for someone to tell them what to do, great leaders take initiative. When they see a need, they fill it. When they identify a problem, they solve it. Successful leaders contribute ideas and are constantly looking for ways to improve and be more efficient. 14. Mentor a team member. Mentoring is seeing the potential in another person and providing guidance from your own experiences and skills to help someone else achieve their personal goals. Mentoring is a selfless and rewarding act and one that the mentor can learn just as much from as the mentee. Training a new hire does not count as mentoring, mentoring is not training. 15. Ask for more responsibility (without expecting more money or anything in return). Start by asking to take on one of your supervisor’s tasks. Perhaps something that you know you would really enjoy and that you see they struggle with or do not have the time to give it their full attention. Then ask to take the lead on a special project or oversee a small team. Don’t expect a pat on the back, a bonus or a raise. As you begin to add value, others will begin to see your worth and more opportunities will present themselves. As opportunities and responsibilities increase so will your pocket book. Just remember practice number six! Looking for more information on leadership? Katie suggests these three books: • Dare to Lead by Brené Brown • People Follow You by Jeb Blount • The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Subscribe to Katie’s YouTube channel for more free tips and ideas! https://www.youtube.com/c/KatieRigsby. Katie is teaching a leadership class as part of HAA’s Avenues series. Join her for her session on “Leadership vs. Management” on Thursday, August 5. Register at www.haaonline.org/events

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On the Scene with HAA Education May IROC Breakfast Sponsored by 1 fun abounds Friday, May 21 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center

During the Independent Rental Owners Connection May breakfast meeting, members learned the latest on fire and safety equipment, backflow and fire hydrant requirements, personal protection equipment and more.

BREAKFAST FOR CHAMPIONS. The IROC Breakfast programs are offered every other month and are complimentary for current HAA independent owner members. Non-members interested in attending may do so for a fee of $25. Offered on Friday mornings, topics range from regulatory and compliance concerns to leasing and marketing strategies for smaller communities on a limited budget. See www.haaonline.org for details.

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July 2021

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Legislative Update, continued from Page 9 With a lot of hard work by the Texas Apartment Association and its members, bills defeated in the Texas Legislature this year included: • H.B. 279 to prohibit pet deposits and pet rent • H.B. 886 to allow cities to mandate Section 8 participation • H.B. 1099 to restrict property tax protests • H.B. 1101, H.B. 3939 to require mandatory sales price disclosure to appraisal districts • H.B. 1470, S.B. 265 to mandate Section 8 participation statewide • H.B. 1532, H.B. 3036 to prohibit evictions during a pandemic • H.B. 2801 to allow residents to evade eviction by paying rent up to 30 days late • H.B. 1647, S.B. 558, H.B. 3903 to restrict access to eviction records • S.B. 1288, H.B. 4410 to restrict the use of criminal history information • H.B. 3882 to make landlords always responsible for bedbugs • H.B. 4104 to allow the termination of student housing leases after a disaster • H.B. 4039 (the omnibus anti-apartment bill) • H.B. 4444 to allow counties to enact eviction moratoria One bill that did pass is H.B. 531, which will require an owner to disclose if a unit is in a floodplain or if the landlord has actual knowledge of flooding. Violation may allow the resident to terminate the lease. This was a compromise to which the industry agreed, and TAA will have language in the next edition of its standard lease to make this easier. We are also happy to report the passage of S.B. 237, which will give police officers the option of writing a ticket or making an arrest for criminal trespass – a proposal we think will make it more likely that trespassers on our properties will be cited, rather than simply shooed away. The industry owes thanks to Steve Moore, owner of Villa Serena Communities, who has advocated tirelessly for this bill for the past six years and traveled to Austin to testify in numerous committee hearings.

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

Want to help choose the officials who make water and sewer rate decisions for your property? Contribute to the HAA Political Action Committee and get involved! Find more information at www.haaonline.org/haapac. If you have a regulatory problem or question, call the HAA main line at 713-595-0300 and ask for Public Affairs.

www.haaonline.org

July 2021

ABODE

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Gables Residential

CRIMSON A new level of luxury.

Property: Crimson Owner/Management: Gables Residential Location: 2220 Westcreek Units: 295 Built: 2020 Web: www.crimsonliving.com Interesting features: Crimson stepped on the scene last year, completely elevating luxury apartments in Houston. This Gables property includes a heated rooftop swimming pool, a bar and observatory, a library and dining room with a catering kitchen and a yoga studio. The 24-hour concierge service assists residents with their everyday needs. In addition, Crimson offers its residents electric car charging, valet and automated package lockers. This 14-story property offers three types of homes for renters to choose from: penthouses, townhomes and apartment homes. Renters can choose from one-, two- and three-bedroom apartment homes with terraces and two color palette options. Each apartment home spans 1,008 to 2,130 square feet. Townhomes offer a private, rooftop terrace, complete with a fireplace and a grilling area. The penthouses tout Wolf and Fisher & Paykel appliances, 14-foot ceilings and scenic views of downtown.

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TA K E T H E

Font © pialhovik | iStock by Getty Images

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SUPPLIER PARTNERS SERVING TO FACILITATE GROWTH AND STRENGTHEN THE INDUSTRY. The Product Service Council is a group of active supplier members whose objectives are to promote the active involvement and participation of supplier members. For more information on the council and how you can make your membership work for you, see online at www.haaonline.org/psc or contact Susan Hinkley at shinkley@haaonline.org.

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The Houston Apartment Association’s Product Service Council is here to help supplier partners navigate the association. Learn how you can get the most out of your membership.

eadership Lyceum is a one-year leadership development program designed to identify, empower and educate a body of high-caliber, effective and well-informed association volunteers who want to take their volunteer leadership service to the next level. By teaching each class the mission and strategic objectives of the association and its affiliated associations, the Houston Apartment Association is able to continuously create the next generation of leaders. This program is also offered by the Texas Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association. This month, PSC members Shaun Callaway with Earthworks, Debra Knight with Fidus Construction Services and Mat Tilley with WeDoTrash share their experiences in the Leadership Lyceum program and why they enrolled. What year did you graduate from the HAA Leadership Lyceum program? Shaun Callaway: 2020, the year of COVID-19. Debra Knight: I believe I graduated from the program in 2014, which seems so long ago! Mat Tilley: I graduated in June of 2019.

What did you learn during this year-long program? Shaun: One of the main things I learned is how much I enjoy this industry and all of the people who are a part of making it successful. Debra: I had no idea all the things I would learn during Lyceum. There is so much I never knew about HAA and how our association is set up. I was still new to being a part of the HAAPAC (HAA’s Political Action Committee), so there was a lot to learn in that regard. I became very interested in politics once joining the association. Being a part of the Leadership Lyceum program taught me how our association works with our local, state and national leaders. It was also nice going through the program with other supplier partners and management leaders to hear their different perspectives. Mat: I really got to see a behind the scenes view of just how impactful HAA is for our industry and our city. We had the opportunity to hear from people in every facet of HAA. They painted the picture of just how vital our association is.

committees I was not exposed to yet. Learning about how to deal with the media fascinated me as well. It was also interesting to attend a board meeting and see what all happens in that realm. Mat: I didn’t know the amount of time and energy that went into advocating for local legislature and building the strategic relationships with local government officials and representatives. The role that Andy (Teas, HAA’s vice president of public affairs) and his team are spearheading for our industry is impressive. Why did you enroll in the program? What was your big picture goal? Shaun: I’m always looking for ways to continue to grow and improve my leadership skills. I enjoy teaching and mentoring others to help them become successful within the association. Debra: I enrolled because I wanted to soak up as much information about how our industry works. Mat: I wanted the opportunity to give back to our association that has given me so much. I felt having a grander understanding of how HAA operates and how it gives back to the industry and its members would make me a better leader and member. If you are interested in enrolling in HAA’s Leadership Lyceum program, prepare by first getting involved and seek progressively higher roles with those organizations over time. With that experience under your belt, reach out to HAA’s Vice President and General Manager Susan Hinkley to express your interest in being considered.

Callaway

Knight

Tilley

What was the most surprising thing you learned about HAA during the process? Shaun: How much HAA actively advocates on behalf of apartment properties and owners. Debra: How our association is set up and the different

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On the Scene with the HAA PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL Supplier Education Program Tuesday, May 11 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center The Product Service Council sponsored Supplier Education Program was a hybrid event featuring in-person networking with virtual instruction and advice from top industry leaders. Thanks to our panelists: Ryan Weis, Crestmark Construction Services Ruha Vohra, CAM, NALP, Veritas Equity Management Darlene Hunter, CAM, Greystar Oscar Fiallos, CAMT, Bohannon Development Shelley Watson, The Morgan Group Jordan Brooks, ALN Apartment Data If you are a new supplier to HAA, visit www.haaonline.org for more information, contact Susan Hinkley at shinkley@haaonline.org and see Page 56 for our monthly PSC feature.

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On the Scene with the HAAPAC HAAPAC Luncheon Thursday, June 10 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by 1 Texscape Services It was great to be back in person for the June HAAPAC luncheon. Special guest, State Rep. Jim Murphy from House District 133 gave our members a lively recap of the legislative session and talked about what he thinks could be discussed during the special session.

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. 60

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July 2021

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Welcome Mat

Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS

8915 Broadway Mia Chavez 8915 Broadway Houston, TX 77061 832-649-7689 8915 Broadway LLC - Property

Springhill Apartments Connor Shin 4200 W. 34th St. Houston, TX 77092-6866 713-688-1446 Spring Hill Apartments

Ascentia Real Estate Holding Company Jodi Scales 2 W. Dry Creek Circle Littleton, CO 80120 281-678-1068 Fountainhead Apts

SUPPLIERS

CORE Realty Holdings Management Brooke Jentzen 1600 Dove St. Ste. 450 Newport Beach, CA 92660 949-863-1031 CUE Luxury Apartments

CNS Painting Carlos H. Solis P.O. Box 721020 Houston, TX 77272 281-409-6203 Painting Contractors, Remodeling & Repair-Building Contractors

Eduardo Correa Eduardo Correa 1950 Lexington Woods Drive Spring, TX 77373 303-913-1900 Herron Property Management Shelbie Hill 920 N. Shadeland Ave. #G-4 Indianapolis, IN 46219 317-792-8226 Clifton Oaks

Lantana Apartments Jason Ford 11307 Oak Spring Drive Houston, TX 77043 832-623-8430 Lantana Apartments Shoregate Management Leah Westbrook

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Hacienda Landscaping Malissa Alvarado 14722 Banner Ridge Lane Humble, TX 77396 832-876-0825 Lawn Maintenance, Tree Services Referred by Ruha Vohra, NALP, CAM

100% Tree & Lawn Care Kevin Franco 9618 S. Rice Ave. Houston, TX 77096 832-785-2750 Landscape Contractors, Tree Services Alamo Title Company Mike Rozell 1800 Bering Drive #150 Houston, TX 77057 832-794-2090 Title Companies, Real Estate Referred by Melissa Friend Banana Landscaping Leudy Martinez 1415 Eldridge Pkwy Apt. 521 Houston, TX 77077 713-909-9068 Landscape Contractors, Landscape Designers Referred by Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS

Blackhawk Equity Chris Lesak 1650 Hwy 6 #350 Sugar Land, TX 77478 281-701-5569 Referred by Del Walmsley Chasity Harris Property Management Chasity Harris 16706 Hasina Knoll Drive Cypress, TX 77429 832-533-0121

KKR Realty Ramona A 14402 W. Belfort St Sugar Land, TX 77498 281-202-3197 KKR Realty - Properties

Security Systems Consultant, Electrical Gates & Doors, Home Health Care Services, Home Theater Systems, Landscape - Lighting, Make Ready, Turnkey-Complete Referred by Liz Levins, CAS

P.O. Box 771767 Houston, TX 77215 832-708-2137 Galleria Parc

OWNERS

Copperhead Construction Services Emilio Canales San Antonio, TX 78215 281-705-5780 General Contractors EyeSite Surveillance Makinze Hotaling 6614 Bourgeois Road Houston, TX 77066-3103 832-705-8237 Alarm Systems, Security Consulting Service Greenlogic Lighting & Electric Tim Newton 4000 Airline Dr. #D Houston, TX 77022 713-489-2252 Electric Vehicle-charging docks, Lighting Consultants, Lighting Fixtures & Supplies, Light Bulbs & Tubes, Lighting - Outdoor, Security Control Equipment/Systems,

High Speed Restoration Jorge Herrera 2475 W. Cheyenne Ave. #200 North Las Vegas, NV 89032 702-417-3898 Fire/Water Damage Restoration 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!”

Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service

Pro Turf Landscaping Margarita Vega P.O. Box 814 Cypress, TX 77410 832-330-1829 Landscape Contractors, Lawn Maintenance Referred by Diane Gilbert, CPM Red Frog Promotions/ScentAir Sherry Cousins 619 Val Lena Dr. Houston, TX 77024 281-382-7727 Promotional Products, Scent Marketing

Industrial Disposal Supply Dan Tobin 4703 Chapman St. Houston, TX 77009 313-418-8466 Waste Reduction/Disposal/Recycling

Stormwater Professionals Group Nicholas Schultz 21175 Tomball Pkwy #227 Houston, TX 77070 281-723-1015 Storm Water Permit, Storm Water Services, Drainage Contractors, Excavating Contractors

KVNG Construction Services Marlen Gonzalez 6114 S. Greenpark Drive Houston, TX 77072 281-857-6425 General Contractors, Painting Contractors

T&C Integrity and Reliable Trash Services Don Collins 2318 Leonetti Lane Rosenberg, TX 77471 979-358-0316 Trash Service - Valet

MHC Datacomm Bobby Payne 11424 Spring Cypress Drive #D1 Tomball, TX 77377 281-408-4868 Alarm Systems, Fire Alarm Systems, Security Consulting Service, Security Control Equipment/Systems, Security Systems Consultant, Wiring Installation, Home Theater Systems - CCTV

Three Amigos Texas Mirko Colic P.O. Box 451587 Houston, TX 77244-1025 281-988-6683 General Contractors, Remodeling & Repair-Building Contractors Referred by Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS

Performance Junk & Debris Removal John Whorrall 1234 Bergman Ct. Conroe, TX 77384 281-713-0078 Waste Reduction/Disposal/Recycling, Trash Hauling Referred by Maria Lunn PHR A/C & Heating Erick Portillo 3606 Morning View Dr. Houston, TX 77080 713-960-3354 A/C Contractors, A/C Systems Cleaning Referred by Ruha Vohra, NALP, CAM Precision Hydro Pros Dana Evans-Dovell 370 S. Rush Haven Cir. The Woodlands, TX 77381 832-871-7314

Top Brass Services Group Samuel Reyna 3890 N. Fwy Houston, TX 77022 832-821-8271 Roofing Contractors, Make Ready, Fences, Painting Contractors, Building Maintenance, Carpet Cleaning, Carpet Installation, Concrete Contractors, Drywall Contractors, Gutters & Downspouts, Handyman Services, Screens - Door & Window, Tile - Ceramic Contractors Referred by Jennifer Reyna Trash Xpress Valet Jamie Rutherford 281-766-7133 Trash Service - Valet, Waste Reduction/Disposal/Recycling Referred by Amber McCoy, CAM, CAPS 281-705-5780 General Contractors 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 surprised that they nomin said, laughing. “ I’ve been business for 15 years. I nev anything. For me, if I get m or get it right, I’m satisfied don’t need recognition. As resident and my managem owner are happy, I’m happ good experience, though, f way. I didn’t know that som watching!”

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Unmute Yourself

Join ABODE and turn on your message! Zoom straight to your customers with ABODE magazine, the multifamily industry’s resource for what’s happening in the Houston-area apartment market. Reach your potential customers even when you can’t meet them in person. We are there, online and in their mailbox. Every month, our members-only publication highlights industry news and trends. ABODE is your resource for industry-specific legal and legislative news as well. Share your promotions and new hires in our “In The News” column, or the latest development in your area of expertise by writing an article. And get your name out there by advertising. Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org to advertise and contact the Communications Department at comm@haaonline.org for details on editorial.

ABODE is there even when you can’t be! Look for ABODE in the mail the first week of each month, or read online at issuu.com/haa_abode.

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The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS

CHEERS TO MEMBERSHIP! Join the Go-Getters so everyone knows your name and they’ll be glad you came!

2021 Chairs:

Join our Quarterly Meetings! Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win $500 cash! Plus, for each new member you recruit, you’ll earn a chance to win gift cards ranging from $25 to $250!

Melissa Friend Greystar

JOIN A TEAM and build relationships with like-minded members. Get involved with Go-Getters and make lasting industry connections. Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters to get all the information you need.

Doug Oehl, CAS Flooring Warehouse

er top First quartRuha Vohra, r produce quity Management Veritas E

Don’t miss the next meeting: July 22 4 p.m. Cadillac Bar! Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for more information.

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. 64

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Do you really know your applicant? Comprehensive applicant screening tools available today can uncover financial and criminal background information. Proper screening can also reveal identity fraud issues, including stolen and fabricated identities, which may result in costly problems. Comprehensive screening using Rental Credit Reporting can also tell you who hasn’t paid rent, who has broken leases and who has received their deposit refund. RCR provides Houston’s apartment industry with the most effective rental credit reporting tool available. RCR was established in 1977 to solve screening problems HAA founders felt plagued the local apartment industry. RCR has unsurpassed data on resident rental histories in the Houston region and gives your leasing staff immediate access to information about which prospects have fulfilled their leases and who have been residents in good standing. The Houston Apartment Association’s Rental Credit Reporting and SafeRent Solutions have partnered to offer numerous searches in one bundled report with immediate and unlimited inquiry access.

a service of

in partnership with

To subscribe or to learn more, call RCR at 713-595-0300, email rcr@haaonline.org or visit www.haaonline.org.

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The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE

THE ART OF NETWORKING With Texas reopening, the Ambassadors were back to business for their June meeting, as the teams collected art supplies for The Alliance Youth Mentoring Program.

Mark your calendars and join us! Ambassador ONE Society meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month: July 7, August 4, September 1, October 6, November 3 The current meeting spot is Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, 77055 Visit www.haaonline.org/ ambassadors for details.

Ambassador ONE Society members with at least 10 points, ranked by points earned: Susan Alvarado Century A/C Supply Giovanna Gone Century A/C Supply Janell Richter-Cornelius JMI Contractors Dimas Turcios Platinum Copier Solutions LLC Amanda Kelly Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Stephane Leveque Onesource Moving Xochitl Flores BG Multifamily Tracey Leach-Moore Flooring Warehouse Blake Subinsky HD Supply Austin Lawley Furniture Refinishing Services Tammy Broadway American Fire Systems, Inc. Danyell Wilkerson ApartmentData.com Karen Nelsen ALN Apartment Data, Inc Blaise Spitaleri Gemstar Construction Tiffany Torres Johnstone Supply James Gregory Fidus Construction Marcy Holmes Designs by Holmes Interior Design Alex (Marquez) Fanning Johnstone Supply Eddie Maher Redi Carpet Ryan Carson Gemstar Construction Tim Broxson Dixie Carpet Installations Inc Kevin Thomas Waste Consolidators, Inc Brian Clayton Outdoor Elements Jennifer Fisher WeDoTrash Lindsey Veliz Matrix Construction Services Candis Mohr AAA Plumbers Phillip Price HD Supply Brian Alvarado Done Deal Consign Grace Medley Restoration 1 of Central Houston Andrew Middleton Behr Paint Company Mario Erazo Contractors Inc Bo Hang Redi Carpet Chris Bell Cotton Commercial

175 126 115 66 57 51 27 24 23 22 20 20 19 19 16 16 15 15 15 14 14 13 13 13 12 12 11 11 11 10 10 10 10

Ambassadors earn points by sharing leads, making introductions and visiting communities to promote HAA events and news.

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 on how to join and for meeting dates, visit www.haaonline.org/ambassadors or contact Amanda in the Membership Department at 713-595-0316, or email asherbondy@haaonline.org. 66

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Team photos at left, from top: First place team Green Machine with 489 points for March. Second place team The Bomb Squad with 464 points. Third place team Stay Classy with 441 points.

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Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • 8915 Broadway: 8915 Broadway, 408 units at 8915 Broadway. • American Communities: The Grand on Memorial Apartments, 228 units at 15135 Memorial Drive. • American Landmark: Stone Creek at The Woodlands, 240 units at 3600 College Park Drive, Conroe. Waterford Trails, 340 units at 21201 Emerald Mist Parkway, Spring. • Arcturus Income Property Management: Oaks at Mustang, 125 units at 2101 Mustang Road, Alvin. • Avenue: La Casita Homes, 84 units at 2635 Tim St. • Balfour Beatty Communities: City Lake, 319 units at 8877 Lakes at 610 Drive. • Bellrock Real Estate Partners: Bellrock Market Station, 328 units at 24002 Colonial Parkway, Katy. • Bourne Properties: Reserve at Richards, 494 units at 23286 Richards Road Prairie View. • BSR REIT: Alleia Long Meadow, 400 units at 5600 Berkley Knoll Circle, Richmond. • Center for Civic and Public Policy Improvement (CCPPI): St. Charles Place Apartments, 20 units at 3113 St. Charles St. • City Gate Property Group: Cambria Cove, 240 units at 16350 Ella Blvd. • Creative Property Management: Northlake Manor Apartments, 126 units at 6910 Old North Belt Drive, Humble. • Cushman & Wakefield: Banyan at Kingsland Heights, 97 units at 4104 Scarlet Oak Lane, Brookshire and Bend at Oak Forest, 392 units at 4000 Watonga Blvd.

• Davis Development: Hue on Greenhouse, 390 units at 2411 Greenhouse Road. • Francis Property Management: Savannah Oaks in Spring, 330 units at 21000 Gosling Road, Spring. • Gatesco: Fiesta Plaza, 108 units at 6711 Mullins Drive and Villa Contento, 125 units at 5800 Dashwood Drive. • Greystar: Tate Tanglewood, 431 units at 5880 Inwood Drive, Greenwood at Katy; Greenwood at Katy, 324 units at 1700 Katy Fort Bend Road, Katy; and 2929 Weslayan, 254 units at 2929 Weslayan St. • Herron Property Management: Clifton Oaks, 94 units at 9800 S. Kirkwood Road. • La Monterra Apartments: La Monterra Apartments - Property, 560 units at 310 Parramatta Lane. • Lantana Apartments: Lantana Apartments, 48 units at 4408 Hiram Brandon Bay City. • Lincoln Property Company: Drewery Place, 357 units at 2850 Fannin St. and Plantation Park, 238 units at 100 Cactus St., Lake Jackson. • The Mitchell Company: Cambridge Village Apartments, 303 units at 12945 S. Post Oak Road. • Monument Property Management: Banyan Plams, 324 units at 1855 Wirt Road. • The Morgan Group: 2727 Brazos, 25 units at 2727 Brazos St.; The Parker, 264 units at 160 Birdsall St.; and City Place Midtown, 306 units at 306 McGowen St. • Partin Properties: The Retreat at Sealy, 196 units at 1500 Highway 90, Sealy. • Quantum Estate Properties: Quantum Estate Properties - Properties, 5 units at various locations.

www.haabuyersguide.com

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• Real Century Equity Management: Kelkind Manor Apartments, 72 units at 2257 Milstone Drive; Oak Trails, 24 units at 810 Dunson Glenn drive; and Memorial Hills Townhomes, 44 units at 1819 C Briarcreek Blvd. • REEP Management: Rise at Elmside, 171 units at 2727 Elmside Drive. • Roscoe Properties: Roundhill Townhomes, 131 units at 601 Cypress Station Drive. • S2 Residential: The Aubrey PH 2, 218 units at 11755 Southlake Drive. • Sentinel Peak/Summit Properties: The Legacy at Clear Lake, 164 units at 270 El Dorado Blvd., Webster and The Landing at Clear Lake, 244 units at 240 El Dorado Blvd., Webster. • Southhampton Management: Boardwalk Lofts, 319 units at 122 Lakeview Way, Katy. • Tarantino Properties: Fairway Square Apartments, 120 units at 2301 Fairway Drive, Alvin. • Te-Enterprise: Gia @ Memorial, 104 units at 7429 Long Point Road. • Wehner Multifamily: Newport at Clear Lake, 144 units at 15900 Spae Center Blvd. • ZRS Management: Grove East, 324 units at 9300 N. Sam Houston Parkway East, Humble. • S2 Residential: The Aubrey PH 2, 218 units at 11755 Southlake Drive.

In the News Valet Living is excited to announce the promotion of Katie Hite to market director of sales for the Houston market. The Houston Apartment Association congratulates the following HAA-member companies as the winners of the 2021 National Apartment Association’s Best Places to Work Awards: • American Landmark • Atlantic Pacific Companies/Management • Berkshire • Better NOI • BH Management Services • Bridge Property Management • CARROLL • Chadwell Supply • Dasmen Residential • G5 Marketing • Gables Residential • Grace Hill • Marquette Management • Mission Rock Residential • MORGAN • Resman • Sentinel Peak/Summit Properties • Topaz Asset Management • Veritas Equity Management Congratulations! Hite

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Law, continued from Page 12 action should have the authority to grant an individual access to a residence to retrieve specific items of personal property while accompanied by a peace officer. H.B. 1012 would grant courts hearing a dissolution of marriage case exclusive jurisdiction to grant a party in the case access to a residence or former residence to retrieve personal property. 2. The Change: The change in the law relates to the court that can issue the writ and the type of personal property that can be retrieved. The current law provides that the application is made to, and the writ is issued by, a justice court. The new law specifies that if the person and the current occupant are parties to a pending suit under the family code, the application would be made to the court in which the suit is pending. If the person’s right of possession is subject to a divorce decree or annulment action, the application should be made to the court having jurisdiction over the divorce or annulment. An application made for any other persons are still required to be made to the justice court. The personal items that can be retrieved have been extended to: (i) assistance animals; (ii) wireless communication devices; and (iii) tools, equipment, books, and apparatuses used by the applicant in the applicant’s trade or profession. If you are served with a writ authorizing a resident or former resident to enter into a unit accompanied by a peace officer, no matter what court issued the writ, you should comply with it and allow the peace officer to accom-

1. Background: According to the bill analysis: The court system is overburdened with hearings and other proceedings regarding certain minor criminal offenses that would be better resolved outside the court system. SB 237 will provide a peace officer the discretion of issuing a citation to a person charged with committing a Class B misdemeanor offense of criminal trespass instead of taking the person before a magistrate. It will allow the peace officer discretion as to how to handle criminal trespassing calls more effectively and more efficiently. It will allow a responding peace officer to make a decision as to when an arrest is appropriate. In domestic dispute situations, for example, peace officers maintain the authority to arrest the offender. The point of the bill is to help speed up the process of dealing with those relatively minor offenses to free up the officer’s time so that they can deal with more serious public safety concerns. SB 237 gives officers another “tool in their toolbelts” to deal with low-level crime.

sides in the county where the offense occurred, a peace officer who is charging a person with committing an offense that is a Class A or Class B misdemeanor may, instead of taking the person in front of a magistrate, issue a citation to the person that contains written notice of the time and place the person must appear before a magistrate, the name and address of the person charged, and the offense charged. The new law revises Article 14.06(d), which lists the types of offenses that allow the peace officer to issue a citation, rather than taking the person before a magistrate. The new law adds to this list an offense under Section 30.05 of the Penal Code if the offense is punishable under Subsection (d)(1) of that section. Section 30.05 of the Penal Code provides that a person commits an offense if the person enters or remains on or in property of another, including residential land, agricultural land, a recreational vehicle parked, a building, or an aircraft or other vehicle, without the effective consent and the person had noticed that the entry was forbidden and received notice to depart but failed to do so. The result of this new law is that the person trespassing an apartment property can be cited by the police, rather than being arrested by the police. The desired consequence of the new law is that police will be more likely to confront a trespasser because they only have to give a citation rather than take the time to arrest and take custody of the person.

2. The Change: Article 14.06(a) of the Code of Criminal Procedure provides that a person arrested under this article must be taken before a magistrate. Article 14.06(c) provides that if the person re-

Hopefully, this gives you a head start on some of the new laws that will affect the operation of your apartment communities. I look forward to presenting part two of this series in next month’s ABODE magazine.

pany the resident to retrieve the items of personal property authorized by the writ. Trespass on Apartment Properties Amends Article 14.06(d) of the Code of Criminal Procedure Effective September 1, 2021 (SB 237)

Want to read more legal news from Howard? There’s more “It’s the Law” available in the ABODE archives online. Visit http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

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If you haven’t been by the HAA website lately, come check us out! While you will recognize some of the same great features such as event registration, job postings, advocacy information and more, we’ve got a whole new look and feel and much more! We will introduce even more innovative features of the new site in the coming weeks and months. So come check us out and please let us know if you have any suggestions for a better member experience.

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ad index pg 74.qxp_Ad Index pg 74 6/18/21 10:50 AM Page 1

Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY

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Screens Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

General Contractors Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . .Back Cover 713-413-2267 . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottongds.com FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com Gemstar Construction & Development . . . . . .35 281-821-1195 . . . . . .www.gemstarconstruction.com Guardian Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 832-672-4196 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardianconst.com MultiFamily Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 713-266-9100 RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com

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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, tablet or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_july2021.

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Marketline pg 75.qxp_Layout 1 6/18/21 10:50 AM Page 1

MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • 1050 – • • • •

HOUSTON Snapshot 90.1% $1,092/mo. $1.23/sq.ft./mo. 886 sq.ft.

Recently Opened (12 months): 87 communities 23,572 units

1000 –

– 90.0

975 – – 89.0

– 88.0

Under Construction: 55 communities 14,849 units Apr 21

Mar 21

Jan 21

Feb 21

Dec 20

Nov 20

Oct 20

Sep 20

Aug 20

Jul 20

Jun 20

Apr 20

May 20

Mar 20

Feb 20

Jan 20

Nov 19

Dec 19

Oct 19

Sep 19

Jul 19

Aug 19

Jun 19

May 19

– 87.0

Proposed Construction: 97 communities 27,942 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: 2,935 communities 692,191 units

Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)

Past 12 Months: 2.6% rental rate growth 23,055 units absorbed

1025 –

•

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

•

Submarket Heights/Washington Ave Montrose/Museum/Midtown Katy/Cinco Ranch/Waterside Woodlands/Conroe South Lake Houston/Kingwood

% of Market Absorbed 32.2% 32.8% 25.6% 27.0% 21.6%

Rental Rate Growth % 4.3% 3.1% 3.6% 3.2% 4.1%

Total Units Class w/Concessions All 289,882 A 90,357 B 104,470 C 81,055 D 14,000

% of Total Units 42% 52% 40% 41% 23%

Average Special -2.9% -4.5% -2.1% -2.0% -1.6%

Citywide Effect -6.5% -8.2% -5.2% -5.0% -6.4%

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:

91.6% $1,242/mo. $1.42/sq.ft./mo. 878 sq.ft.

90.8% $1,034/mo. $1.21/sq.ft./mo. 856 sq.ft.

90.7% $1,371/mo. $1.56¢/sq.ft./mo. 876 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 5.2 % rental rate growth 29,785 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 4.1% rental rate growth 9,385 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 4.8% rental rate growth 13,318 units absorbed

Operating Supply: 3,285 communities 784,806 units

Operating Supply: 965 communities 207,103 units

Operating Supply: 1,079 communities 255,231 units

www.haaonline.org

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. © 2021 ApartmentData.com July 2021

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Back Page

with News from around the COMMUNITY

HAA partners with Houston Welcomes Refugees for a “welcome kit” drive. Many refugees arrive to the United States with next to nothing and must begin their lives over again. HAA partnered with Houston Welcomes Refugees to collect items that provide refugees the household essentials needed in their new homes. Donators: Andee Beltran, Texas Southwest Floors John and Katelin Boriack, Veritas Equity Management Jackie Aguirre, Veritas Equity Management Veritas Equity Management Team Christopher Merrill, Greystar Michelle Croasmun, DayRise Residential Kristin McLaughlin, Dixie Carpet Installations Judson Webre, Greystar Diana Moreno, Jansen Adjusters International Jen Piccotti, Swift Bunny Diana Boswell, Zumper Sunny Haines, Houston Waste Solutions Stephanie Elliott Richard, Greystar Austin Lawley, Furniture Refinishing Shannon Latil, Furniture Refinishing Megan Stone, The Liberty Group Valerie Lacy, Cushman and Wakefield Jake Lightfoot, Lightfoot Enterprises Inc Cosey Rozell, Rozell Holdings Carmen Andrews Smith, Waterstone Apartments Stephane Leveque, One Source Moving Kevin Fenn, Pavement Services Corp. Chadwell Supply The Life Properties Westchase Creek Apartments Sorting and Delivering Volunteers: Clark Gregg, Fidus Construction Phillip Price, HD Supply Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply Tammy Broadway, American Fire Systems Gina Erwin, GWR Management Liz Levins, Rasa Floors Monica Morales, Whitney Management Blaise Spitaleri, Gemstar Construction Jackie Aguirre, Veritas Equity Management Elvia Bustos, Veritas Equity Management Cherie Cruz, Greystar

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LEADERSHIP • NEXT FAMILY REUNION & HAAPAC PHOTOS

Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd. Houston, Texas 77041

ABODE THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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July 2021

ABODE • JULY 2021 • VOLUME 44, ISSUE 7

Take Lead

Learn to provide a path for others through great leadership.

the

ABODE July 2021

Articles inside

The Ambassador ONE Society

Finding the Potential in People and Processes

15 Leadership Practices to Help You Stand Out

The Right Leadership Solves Staffing Struggles

Building Resiliency

Leading By Example

On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Family Reunion.

It’s The Law – The good, the bad and the ugly of the 2021 legislative session.

Legislative Update