ABODE October 2018 by HAA Publishing

cover oct for print.qxp_Layout 1 9/25/18 8:20 AM Page 1

THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

www.haaonline.org

ABODE October 2018

ReBuild Houston â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Again

Houston voters will revisit controversial drainage fee program.

YOUR We See You at the Business Exchange, NEXT Karaoke and much more!

VOTE COUNTS Vote to support your industry and community during the November Midterm Elections

corelogic IFC.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 8:58 AM Page 1

gemstar pg 1.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 8:59 AM Page 1

sentriforce pg 2.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 8:59 AM Page 1

CONTENTS October 2018

ON THE COVER

FEATURES & PHOTOS

30 On the Scene – Photos from the Business Exchange.

Your Vote Counts – Vote on Nov. 6 to support your industry and community during the 2018 midterm elections. This issue includes Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee Endorsements and Contributors, along with editorial on relevant races, the firefighter proposition and more. Cover Image © 2121fisher | Dreamstime.com

36 On the Scene – Photos from the HAAPAC August Luncheon. 38 HAAPAC Endorsements – View the candidates HAA is supporting for the Nov. 6 midterm elections. 40 Thanks, HAAPAC Contributors – HAA thanks its members who support the HAAPAC - Just because you don’t take an interest in politics, doesn’t mean politics don’t take an interest in you. 42 Midterm Election Preview – What you need to know about key races and issues on the November ballot. 44 Pay Proposition – Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner urges Houston to vote against the firefighter pay proposition. 48 Do You Dare? – A successful leader must have the discipline to commit to a lifestyle change. 52 Social Savvy – Four steps to developing a strong social media marketing strategy. 58 On Site with ABODE – In continuation of our Honors Property Awards coverage, here is a closer look at four award-winning properties. 62 On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Krazy Karaoke Night. 64 On the Scene – Photos from the Supplier Education Program.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES 7 President’s Corner – The HAAPAC is keeping an eye on local legislative issues that will impact the vast Houston area. 8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support FSI Construction. 9 Legislative Update – Houston voters will revisit controversial drainage fee program. 11 It’s The Law – Is the credit card surcharge law unconstitutional? 14 Resident Relations – A resident asks disputes cleaning. 19 Upcoming Education – Find out what education courses the Houston Apartment Foundation is offering in October and November. 20 Calendar – HAA’s schedule of events for the next coming months. 26 NAA Update – How hurricane preparation helped Houston owners. 28 On the Road with HAA – Photos from the Katy Region Meeting. 54 Meet Who’s NEXT – Here is our monthly 40 questions for a NEXTer. 56 On the Road with HAA – Photos from The Woodlands Onsite-GoesOffsite happy hour. 67 Welcome Mat – Meet the newest HAA members. 68 The Ambassador ONE Society – News from the HAA welcome wagon. 70 Portfolio Changes and In the News – Industry news clips from our members. 74 Index of Advertisers – See the supplier members who support this publication. 75 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers. 79 BackPage – News from around the community.

We welcome your comments. Email us at comm@haaonline.org.

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

Officers pg 4.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:02 AM Page 1

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP STARLA TURNBO President-Elect

JOHN BORIACK Vice President at Large

MICHELLE PAWELEK President

DIANE GILBERT Vice President at Large

BARBY LAKE Vice President at Large CLAY HICKS Secretary/Treasurer

CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ Vice President at Large

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

JEFF HALL Executive VP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kyle Brown, Immediate Past President Josh Allen Mack Armstrong Cyrus Bahrami Jeff Blevins John Boriack Kyle Brown Joe Bryson Tina Cavaco Grant Crowell Scott Douglas Ian Douglas Gina Erwin John Fedorko Israel Garza Diane Gilbert Stephanie Graves Ira Gross Alison Hall Bryan Head Clay Hicks Deborah Holcombe Jacob Kunath Barby Lake Laura Lestus David Lindley Robert Lopes Sonia Lopez Kristin McLaughlin Carlos Neto Dean O’Kelley Michelle Pahl Velissa Parmer Jenifer Paneral Mark Park Michelle Pawelek Jackie Rhone Christy Rodriguez Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Kim Small Debbie Sulzer Starla Turnbo Shelley Watson Quintina Willis Tracie Yoder

DIRECTORS EMERITUS Ken Bohan Gary Blumberg Kathy Clem Jack Dinerstein Darlene Guidry Jenard Gross David Hargrove Larry Hill Stacy Hunt Hap Hunnicutt David Jones Mike Koch Dick LaMarche Tim Myers P. David Onanian John Ridgway Eileen Subinsky Steve Sweet Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley H.J. Tollett Pat Tollett Vic Vacek Jr. Beth Van Winkle Jerry Winograd ADVISORY DIRECTORS Terri Clifton Brenda Crawford Tamara Foster Billy Griffin Mary Lawler Cesar Lima Karen Nelsen Lindsay Torres Laura Van Dyck Tony Whitaker GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Joe Bax HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco 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 PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS Grant Crowell, CAS, President The Urban Foresters Jacob Kunath, CAS, Vice President Century A/C Supply Laura Lestus, CAS, Secretary The Liberty Group David Lindley, CAS, Treasurer FSI Construction Inc. Israel Garza, CAS, Immediate Past President Maintenance Supply Headquarters MEMBERS Marivel Bownds, CAS, Valet Living Dixie Caldwell-Greer, CAS, The Liberty Group Peggy Charles, CASE, Fidus Construction Services Dylan Coleman, CAS Camp Construction Services Deborah DeRouen, CAS, Zumper Derek DeVries, CAS, Camp Construction Services Brian Febbo, CAS FSI Construction

Dan James, CAS Redevelopment Services Debra Knight, CAS, Valet Living Stephanie Krop, CASE, Poolsure Liz Levins, CAS, Rasa Floors Candis Mohr, CAS, AAA Plumbers Doug Oehl, CAS Power Express Joseph Rodriguez, CAS, The Urban Foresters Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Rasa Floors Mat Tilley, CAS, WeDoTrash PATRON MEMBERS 1961 CSC ServiceWorks 1986 Craven Carpet 1994 AAA Plumbers Presto Maintenance Supply 1996 Houston Planned Energy Systems 1997 RentPath 1999 FSI Construction Inc. 2003 Cotton Commercial USA Inc. Dixie Carpet Installations 2009 Camp Construction Services 2013 Interior Logic Group Property Services 2018 Apartments.com

SPONSOR MEMBERS 1968 Century A/C Supply Hoover Slovacek LLP Reliant 1973 Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales 1974 Mueller Water Conditioning Inc 1976 Great American Business Products 1977 Webb Pest Control 1978 Houston Metro Electrical Corp The Liberty Group 1981 AmRent Marvin F Poer & Company 1983 Namco Mfg Co Inc Sherwin Williams Company 1984 RENCON 1985 Gemstar Construction Development Inc 1986 ApartmentData.com 1988 W Partnership 1992 Alexander-Rose Associates Inc Saint Clair & Sons Inc 1998 AAA Staffing Ltd CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions 2000 Moveforfree.com Inc Pura Flo Corporation 2001 Apartment Life Inc 2002 American Fire Systems Direct Energy LP Southwest Painting Contractors Inc 2003 Sign-Ups & Banners 2005 LSR Multifamily Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management United Protective Services 2006 Bell's Laundries CAD Restoration Services LLC DoodyCalls Lopez Carpet Care & Painting Masonry Solutions Inc Roto-Rooter Services Co TXU Energy Multifamily Services Valet Living 2008 ARE Business Solutions LLC Flavor Finish Resurfacing HARCO Insurance Services Texas Turf Management 2009 Contractors Inc Moen Inc Redevelopment Services Storm Maintenance & Monitoring 2010 ALN Apartment Data Inc BAC Products Belfor Property Restoration Certified Termite and Pest Control FTK Construction Services 2011 DNM Contracting Inc Fantastic Floors Greenway Environmental Services Infinite Energy Inc Parking Management Company/PMC Towing 2012 ABC Supply Co Inc Accent Sign & Awning Co BGE/Brown & Gay Engineers Inc Cantrell McCulloch Inc EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions Giordano Construction Inc Go-Staff, Inc Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc Nationwide Eviction Texas Concrete Professional Company 2013 ACTIV Answer by Audio Images Arbor Contract Carpet Inc ASAP Steamers Carpet Cleaning Comcast Gambit Construction Outdoor Elements Pool Works LLC StoveTop FireStop Tidal Renovations LLC

2014 Adventure Playground Systems Inc Chadwell Supply Classic Same Day Blinds J National Jonah Systems LLC MX2 Commercial Paving Pathfinder Insurance Group Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas Ram Jack Foundation Solutions Texas Apartment Pool Services The Katy Plumbing Company WCA Waste Corporation Zillow Group 2015 Air Pro Systems America Outdoor Furniture ASAP Personnel Inc BSI Cameras Onsite Competitive Choice Inc CSILED.com DeNyse Companies Division-9 Inc Fix My Slab Foundation Repair Gateman Inc Greater Houston Pool Management Holder's Pest Solutions Infinity Power Partners Kathy Andrews Interiors Notifii LLC Pace Mechanical Services, LLC Power Express The Allshouse Group LLC The Lane Law Firm Wilsonart 2016 Action Window Coverings Inc Allied Fire Protection Lp Bath Fitter BH Fitness North America Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete E-Systems Pest Management Inc Ecolo Environmental, Inc Embark Services Fidus Construction Services Fun Abounds Green City Recycler Green City Security LLC Guardian Chimney Sweep Halo Doors Inc Hive JLL Johnstone Supply Kastle Systems KONE Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting Liquid Waste Solutions McCann Total Security Solutions Murrah & Killough PLLC Paul Davis Restoration North Houston Quantum Fitness RAM Construction Sparkle Wash Pressure Washing Texas Southwest Floors Inc The Home Depot ValencePM WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems WellKept Whitmans Contracting and Roofing 2017 911 Security Cameras, Inc ACT Security Group Action Gypsum Supply All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc Allegion American Fire Protection Group Anderson Restoration Apartment Total Services APTexx Inc Aquatic Training Institute ARK Appliances BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning South Houston Brooklet Energy Distribution Buddy's Roofing & Construction Co Cano Electric, Inc City Supply Co Inc Classic Towing Continental Adjusters Inc Creative Surface Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation, Inc D&C Painting Designs by Holmes Disaster Restore 365 Energy Ogre Ernie Smith and Sons Roofing LLC Fast Forward Services LLC Finishes Etc LLC Frost Insurance Agency Gage Multifamily Services General Recon, LLC

Griddy Energy Henley & Henley PC Houston SEAL Patrol Division LLC Lithotech Printed Products/Forms Center McMahan's Flooring Inc MPS Direct Norman Construction NorthMarq Capital On Site Towing LLC Pack-It Movers Paragon Roofing Inc Paul Ryan Windows Quick Relief Restoration Re-Mark Technologies Group LLC RealState Investments LLC Rent Accelerator Residential Waste Service LLC Roof Top Innovations Rutherford Services Inc SEAL Security Solutions LLC Secure Insurance Securecomm, Inc Special Touch Landscaping Student Movers Inc Swiff-Train Company Symmons Industries Texas Engineered Roofing & General Contracting Texas Eviction LLC Top Notch Fitness & Events USA Patrol Division Vima Decor WBI General Contractor LLC Willbanks & Associates Inc 2018 A Homestead Specialist LLC A Quick Restoration Inc AAdvantage Laundry Systems AirAide LLC Apartment Lines Apex Lighting LLC Archcon Arizona Tile Assa Abloy Astros Carpet & Painting Inc Bank Financial BBO Professional Carpet Cleaning Belvoir Real Estate Group LLC Benjamin Moore Galveston Bay Paint & Decorating Brannan Designs LLC Architecture & Interior Design CashFlow Pros LLC Centex Construction ClearView Landscape Management Core 24/7 Restoration Services Durastone Corporation EDR Construction Finish Factory Inc Globus Management Group Good Guys of Texas Green Garbology Guardian Gutters H&H Fire and Security Homeland Protective Services Jet Wrecker Service Justice Patrol Services LLC K-Simon Construction Ledge Lounger Lone Star General Matrix Construction Services Merricks Company MirrorMate Frames Mosquito Scott Pest Control NGC Renovation O'Conor, Mason & Bone PC Penco Access Control PERQ LLC Phoenix Roofing & Construction Platinum Enterprises, LLC Poolworx Preventive Pest Control Red Dog Dumpsters Rent Debt Automated Collections RG Miller Engineers Royalty Landscape Smart Shield Security Spray and Play Strickland Law Firm PLLC Surface Designers Remodeling Inc Tanza Granite Inc TDECU Insurance Agency Technogym Texas Premier Builders/Designs Texas Steam - Laars Heating Systems TNCPA Turn2 Solutions LLC USI Southwest Vistex Graphics LLC Wellman Exteriors Westlake Home & Commercial Services Wholewood Cabinets Wildlife Removal Experts LLC Windstorm Restoration Wonder Wall Wraps Inc WS National Construction Services LLC

Mast pg 5.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:02 AM Page 1

ABODE OCTOBER 2018 I VOLUME 41, ISSUE 10 Executive Vice President and Publisher

JEFF HALL, CAE jhall@haaonline.org EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF

Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org Writer/Editor MORGAN TAYLOR mtaylor@haaonline.org ADVERTISING

Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY asherbondy@haaonline.org CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Vice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP 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 Information Technology ART EIDMAN aeidman@haaonline.org Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org Director of Events and Meetings LAUREN WOLFSON lwolfson@haaonline.org Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org Public Affairs Specialist ALPA PATEL apatel@haaonline.org Strategic Growth Manager LAUREN TURNER, CMP lturner@haaonline.org Education and Meetings Coordinator KAREN MITCHELL kmitchell@haaonline.org Membership and Marketing Coordinator KAYLON NICHOLS knichols@haaonline.org Membership Engagement Assist. MONSERRAT BUFFINGTON mbuffington@haaonline.org Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org PRINTER

TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com HOUSTON COMMITTEE Executive Program & Budget Nominating Ethics Investment Fair Housing By-Laws Past Presidents Council Strategic Outreach Legislative HAA Political Action Committee Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Developers Century Club PAC Fundraising Media Relations Golf Leadership Development Product Service Council Community Outreach Resident Relations Appeals Resident Relations A Resident Relations B Membership Ambassador ONE Society 2018 Expo IROC Education Advisory Council Career/Community Development NEXT HAF Fundraiser HAA Street Team Property Awards

APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR MICHELLE PAWELEK JEFF HALL STARLA TURNBO JEFF HALL KYLE BROWN JEFF HALL BETH VAN WINKLE JEFF HALL CLAY HICKS JEFF HALL KAREN NELSON JEFF HALL ALISON HALL JEFF HALL JENIFER PANERAL JEFF HALL CLAY HICKS LAUREN TURNER STARLA TURNBO ANDY TEAS STACY HUNT/JOHN RIDGWAY ANDY TEAS JOHN FEDORKO ANDY TEAS CYRUS BAHRAMI ANDY TEAS DAVID LINDLEY ALPA PATEL DAVID JONES ALPA PATEL DEBORAH HOLCOMBE ALPA PATEL KIM SMALL ALPA PATEL JACKIE RHONE SUSAN HINKLEY GRANT CROWELL SUSAN HINKLEY QUINTINA WILLIS SUSAN HINKLEY DARLENE GUIDRY MATILDE LUNA ELAINE LEEPER MATILDE LUNA KATHY MOTIS MATILDE LUNA TINA CAVACO AMANDA SHERBONDY DEBORAH DEROUEN/DEREK DEVRIES AMANDA SHERBONDY JACOB KUNATH AMANDA SHERBONDY STEPHANIE BRYSON EMILY HILTON STEPHANIE GRAVES/MONICA GRACIA EMILY HILTON KELLY SUESS EMILY HILTON LINDSAY TORRES/DAVID LINDLEY EMILY HILTON MICHELLE PAHL/DAN JAMES LAUREN WOLFSON BRANDON THOMAS LAUREN WOLFSON RICHARD WALL/PENNY SPRANG TINA DEFIORE

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.

Visit HAA Online at www.haaonline.org 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, OCTOBER 2018 VOLUME 41, ISSUE 10 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 Â© 2018 by HAA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABODE, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041.

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

chili pg 6.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:03 AM Page 1

e r ’ e W g n i g n i Br

I L I CH ! k c a B

Mark your calendars for Chili Fest 2018! Join us as we bring back the heat at the 28th Annual HAF Chili Fest! There will be teams serving up their best chili and all kinds of activities and games for kids and adults: • Video GameTruck • Velcro Wall • HTC Vive Virtual Reality Experience • Inflatable moonwalks and slides for all ages • Carnival games • Face painting • Balloon artists and more! And it's all included in the price of your wristband!

Interested in entering the Chili Cook-oﬀ Contest? Contact events@haaonline.org for details on how you can get cooking!

CHILI FEST 2018 Saturday, October 20 Noon to 5 p.m.

Wristbands: Adult - $7 prepaid; $10 on-site Child (5-12) - $3 prepaid, $5 on-site Kids 4 and under - Free!

www.haaonline.org/chilifest 6

ABODE

October 2018

Thankyou t o our sponsors ! Habanero Sponsors Camp Construction Services HD Supply Hire Priority Staﬃng & Executive Search Multifamily Ancillary Group Jalapeno Sponsors American Technologies Inc. Church Foundation Repair CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales Crestmark Construction Services Earthworks Inc. Fidus Construction Services Ideal Towing The Liberty Group McMahan's Flooring Inc. Poolsure PPG Paints Redevelopment Services RK Builders Inc. Valet Living

! n o i t a oc L w e N

Little Chilis Fest Sponsors Century A/C Supply PPG Paints Over 21 Wristband Sponsor AAA Plumbers & Mike Koch Trophy Sponsor TPI Construction & Painting Inc. Chili-tizer Station Sponsors Brook Furniture Rental Inc. Ideal Towing

www.haaonline.org

pres pg 7.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:08 AM Page 1

President’s Corner

By MICHELLE PAWELEK, CPM, CAPS, 2018 HAA President

HOT ISSUES

HAAPAC is keeping an eye on local legislative issues that will impact the vast Houston area. WITH NEITHER A presidential election nor a local election this year, ABODE is focusing on a few legislative matters for this year’s October issue. The HAA public affairs staff has been busy working on Harris County fire code requirements, Hurricane Harvey housing funding, the firefighter salary issue and so much more. President-elect Starla Turnbo and HAA Vice President of Public Affairs Andy Teas have touched on these issues in recent ABODE “Legislative Updates.” You can read past columns in previous issues of ABODE through the HAA website. In November, Houston residents will choose whether or not to grant firefighters consistent pay with police of corresponding rank and seniority. The City of Houston spent weeks wrestling over the issue, but ultimately the city council voted to place the proposal on the ballot Nov. 6. Mayor Sylvester Turner has repeatedly voiced his concerns on the issue, saying it will cost the city $98 million a year and force layoffs. Readers can turn to Page 42 for an article written by Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner to learn more about how this proposal would impact Houston. Also happening in November is the midterm election in which voters in each of the 36 congressional districts in Texas will vote to elect

e r ’ e W ging Brin

I L I CH ! Back

www.haaonline.org

candidates to serve in the U.S. House. Texas has not elected a Democrat statewide since 1994, however, Democrats this year believe they may be able to break that streak. HAA Vice President of Public Affairs Andy Teas wrote a “midterm election preview” beginning on Page 46 to highlight all we need to know come November. Another relevant and rather recent legislative movement is the bond election for the Harris County Flood Control District, which Harris County voters voted “yes” on in response to the vast destruction by Hurricane Harvey. You can find a list of potential projects at www.hcfcd.org/bond-program/potential-project-types/. HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff highlighted how this will impact our industry in his August “It’s the Law” column. Fire Safety The fatal fire that struck a San Marcos apartment community in July has prompted TAA to release a couple of videos focusing on fire safety for students living on and off campus. You can visit HAA’s Instagram account for the link to one of those videos. HAA’s handle is @haaonline. I encourage you all to share the video on your personal social media accounts.

HAA Members Who Give Back HAA members continuously give back to their local apartment association and to their community. As always, we will highlight the good things our members do throughout the year in the December issue of ABODE. Let ABODE know about your community service and be recognized. Email ABODE Writer/Editor Morgan Taylor at comm@haaonline.org by Nov. 1 with details and photos of your efforts in order to be included in our annual “Good Works” feature. October and November always bring a number of great networking and education opportunities, so make sure to check the calendars starting on Page 19. Sign up for the events and classes of interest and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself. If you are an active or veteran member, watch for new faces, say hello and try out a leadership position within HAA. Remember, our annual Chili Fest is back! Everyone is welcome to bring friends and family to help us support industry education and the Red Cross on Saturday, October 20 at the Humble Civic Center located at 8233 Will Clayton Parkway in Humble. See Page 6 (at left) for details. Chili Fest has discontinued themes, so decorate your booth however you please or don’t at all – it is up to you!

See Pages 34-35 for all the details!

New L ocatio n! S aturday, O Noon to ctober 20 5 .m.

Humble

Civic Cen

ter

October 2018

ABODE

Patron pg 8 fsi.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:08 AM Page 1

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

Apartments.com

HAA Member since 1978

HAA Member since 1997

Cotton Commercial USA Inc.

Interior Logic Group Property Services

HAA Member since 1982

Presto Maintenance Supply HAA Member since 1983

CSC ServiceWorks HAA Member since 1961

Craven Carpet HAA Member since 1986

Camp Construction Services HAA Member since 1994

October Patron of the Month

ABODE

October 2018

HAA Member since 1985

AAA Plumbers HAA Member since 1984

FSI Construction Inc. HAA Member since 1999

Dixie Carpet Installations HAA Member since 1987

RentPath HAA Member since 1979

www.haaonline.org

leg update pg 9.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:08 AM Page 1

Legislative Update

By STARLA TURNBO, HAA Legislative Chair, with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs

REBUILD HOUSTON – AGAIN Houston voters will revisit controversial drainage fee program.

EIGHT YEARS AGO, Houston voters narrowly approved a new program to address the city’s long-neglected drainage infrastructure. Dubbed “Renew Houston,” the program created a new source of revenue that could only be used to pay existing debt on drainage projects and finance new ones. The idea made a lot of sense. We pay dedicated fees for water and sewer service that are tied to the amount we use. If you use a lot of water, you pay a big water bill. Use less, pay less. Meanwhile, services that benefit everybody equally, like fire and police protection, are paid for with general fund tax money. Drainage projects, however, can be postponed when budgets are tight, and Houston kept finding that money was tight every year. Renew Houston – renamed ReBuild Houston after it passed – charged property owners based on how much it costed the city to deal with the runoff their properties produced. A big piece of land covered with concrete would pay a lot. A grassy field the same size would pay less. The additional benefit would be that future debt for roads and drainage would be prohibited, since the new revenue source could pay down existing debt and convert the city to a payas-you-go system for financing infrastructure – saving taxpayers millions in debt service. While some property owners griped about the new fee, it was actually a pretty good deal for the multifamily industry for a couple of reasons. First, many cities charge a drainage fee based on water consumption, hitting apartment communities much harder than a fee like Houston’s, which is based on impermeable surface. Second, because the fee is charged on the property’s water bill, it can be allocated to residents as part of the water bill by the many properties that bill residents separately for water and sewer service. Paying for drainage infrastructure entirely from property tax revenue is a

charge less easily passed on. While some property owners griped about the new The other revenue source for fee, it was actually a pretty good deal for the multiReBuild Houston was developer family industry for a couple of reasons. First, many impact fees. This certainly drives up the cost of new apartcities charge a drainage fee based on water conment construction, but there sumption, hitting apartment communities much are few cities in Texas or elseharder than a fee like Houston’s, which is based on where that did not already colimpermeable surface. Second, because the fee is lect such fees when Houston’s charged on the property’s water bill, it can be alloprogram was approved in 2010. cated to residents as part of the water bill by the Further, the charter change required the city to collect at least many properties that bill residents separately for $125 million from property water and sewer service. Paying for drainage inowner drainage fees each year. frastructure entirely from property tax This was done specifically to revenue is a charge less easily passed on. help elected officials avoid the temptation to lowball drainage fees by hiking developer impact fees to pay for funds for other purposes. the program. Even as the court battles have raged, about In 2015, however, the Texas Supreme Court $1.8 billion has been collected under the Reruled that the original 2010 ballot language was Build Houston program, already paying off $1 misleading to voters by failing to make it clear billion in city debt. that drainage fees would be paid by property Whether the proposition passes next month owners. Since cities have the power to collect or not, the city faces tough questions about how drainage fees without voter approval, however, to prioritize ReBuild Houston spending. The the only impact was that the “lockbox” provision city’s “worst first” formula has focused a lot of limiting the use of the funds to debt service and money on local street and drainage projects, new infrastructure became unenforceable. As a even as somewhat less damaged, but more result, what does next month’s referendum reheavily used major thoroughfares have been left ally mean? waiting in line. “The only thing that we are doing with this When you cast your ballot in the November vote is reinserting that lockbox,” said Houston election, you’ll find the ReBuild Houston propoMayor Sylvester Turner. He stressed that a vote sition near the end of the ballot. Make sure you against the proposition will not repeal the take the time to cast an informed vote on the fudrainage fee. “Voters are not being asked to inture of Houston’s drainage infrastructure. crease the fee or create another fee, just to reafIf you have a regulatory problem or firm what already is.” question, call the HAA main line at 713He intends to continue operating the 595-0300 and ask for Public Affairs. If a program as it is being run today regardless of particular code requirement or issue conthe outcome of the election. If the proposition cerns you, let us know by emailing Andy fails, however, future mayors and councils at ateas@haaonline.org. could be tempted to raid ReBuild Houston

TARGETQUALIFIEDLEADS www.haaonline.org

www.haaonline.org jobline@haaonline.org 713-595-0300 October 2018

ABODE

cotton ad pg 10.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:09 AM Page 1

law pg 11,12, 72.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:10 AM Page 1

It’s the Law

By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel

THE COURT SAYS YES Is the credit card surcharge law unconstitutional?

WHAT DO CREDIT card surcharges have in common with protest marches? The First Amendment right to freedom of speech. Really? Yes, says the United States Supreme Court. For several years, the apartment industry has been prohibited under Texas law from charging a surcharge when rent is paid by a credit card. It has been a struggle to find a way to allow residents to pay rent as conveniently as possible while still recovering the fees a transaction might cost. The history on the Texas credit card antisurcharge law is interesting. The Texas Legislature, a couple of state agencies and the federal courts have all weighed in on the interpretation and validity of the law. The saga continues. On Aug. 16, the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas (Austin Division) issued a Permanent Injunction and Final Judgment in a case styled Lynn Rowell et al v. Ken Paxton, in his official capacity as Attorney General of the State of Texas determining that the Texas Anti-Surcharge Law violates the First Amendment to the United States Constitution. The rationale used by the court that concluded the law is unconstitutional, together with a prior attorney general’s interpretation of the law, can be instructive to property owners and managers when determining how to set up a program to recover swipe fees charged by credit card companies. The Texas Anti-Surcharge Law Section 604A. 0021 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code provides that in a sale of goods or services, a seller may not impose a surcharge on a buyer who uses a credit card for an extension of credit instead of cash, a check or a similar means of payment. Section 604A. 0021 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code was recodified as Section 339.001 of the Texas Finance Code. The switch occurred in 2017 and changed the www.haaonline.org

Texas agency responsible for enforcement of this section. The attorney general is the agency that now is responsible for enforcement.

On Aug. 16, the United States District Court determined the Texas Anti-Surcharge Law (§ 604A.0021 Tex. Bus. & Com. Code) violates the First Amendment to the United States Constitution and enjoined the attorney general from enforcing this section against the merchants who were the plaintiffs in the case.

Attorney General’s Interpretation of the Anti-Surcharge Law. On June 16, 2016, the attorney general issued an opinion regarding Section 339.001 of the Texas Finance Code. Although the change to Section 604A.0021 of the Texas Business and Commerce Code did not occur yet, the attorney general gave an opinion based upon a legislator’s request. In this opinion, the attorney general reiterated some ways in which the credit card surcharge would not be prohibited by the anti-surcharge law. The attorney general stated that, although credit transactions could not be more than the “regular price” for the transaction, the law did not prohibit cash discounts from the “regular price.” In other words, you could have one rent amount that would be the amount a resident would pay if paying by credit card, but a discounted amount if the resident pays by some other means. Of course, the problem with this approach would be to prove that one price is your “regular price” and the other is your “discounted price.” The attorney general also stated the plain language of the statute prohibits a “seller” or “merchant” from imposing a surcharge on a buyer paying by credit card. The statute defines a “merchant” as “a person in the business of selling or leasing goods or services.” The attorney general stated it would not be a violation of the law if the charge was imposed by a third-party processor instead of by the property owner or operator (who is arguably the seller or lessor of goods or services). However, the attorney general stated this approach would only be acceptable if

there was a truly arms-length arrangement that would not involve the property owner imposing an additional fee. The attorney general also indicated if a resident could pay with a credit card in person without a surcharge, an online surcharge for credit card payment would be acceptable (since the surcharge was not because of a credit card payment, but because of an online payment). The attorney general also indicated a surcharge would be acceptable if assessed against all types of payments (since, again, the “surcharge” would not be solely related to a credit card transaction). The Rowell Case On Aug. 16, the United States District Court determined the Texas Anti-Surcharge Law (§ 604A.0021 Tex. Bus. & Com. Code) violates the First Amendment to the United States Constitution and enjoined the attorney general from enforcing this section against the merchants who were the plaintiffs in the case. In making this decision, the court followed the instructions of the United States Supreme Court in a New York case construing a similar New York anti-surcharge law in finding that the law should be analyzed as restricting a merchant’s rights to free speech, since the law regulates the communication of prices, not the prices charged. The Texas court found no substantive difference between the New York anti-surcharge law and the Texas law. Further, the court found the October 2018

ABODE

law pg 11,12, 72.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:10 AM Page 2

anti-surcharge law restricts only commercial speech, which is an expression related solely to the economic interest of the speaker and its audience. The court reasoned that a state seeking to uphold a commercial restriction on speech carries the burden of justifying its law. Courts evaluate four questions to determine whether a state has met its burden to justify commercial speech regulation; (1) whether the speech concerns lawful activity and is not misleading; (2) whether the asserted governmental interests justifying the regulation is substantial; (3) whether the regulation directly advances the governmental interests asserted; and (4) whether the regulation is more extensive than necessary to serve that interest. The state contends that each of the merchants in the case intended to impose a blanket surcharge on all credit card purchases. The blanket-surcharge system would thereby provide the merchants with additional profit on certain credit card purchasers when the fee actually paid to the credit card issuer is not as large as the surcharge imposed for a particular transaction. Further, the state argued that the customer would not be truthfully informed on what is actually occurring. The customer would be led to believe the

ABODE

October 2018

merchants are merely passing Since the state was unable to establish that the along swipe fees when, in reality, they would be pocketing the addianti-surcharge law advanced a substantial govtional money collected in excess of ernmental interest and was not more extensive the swipe fee charged. than necessary to serve that interest, the court The court did not agree with the concluded the anti-surcharge law in Texas, as apstate’s argument since the merplied in this case, violated the merchant’s chants made it clear that the commercial rights to free speech under the amount of the surcharge would not exceed the amount of the fees. First Amendment. The merchants argued that they only desired to prominently and conspicuously display the exact amount of limiting the amount of the surcharge to the the surcharge expressed as a percentage of swipe fees associated with the particular the total price and to limit the amount of surtransaction. charge to swipe fees incurred. The court Since the state was unable to establish that found no deceptive or misleading speech at the anti-surcharge law advanced a substanissue. The court also concluded that the state tial governmental interest and was not more failed to demonstrate that protecting conextensive than necessary to serve that intersumer welfare and promoting commerce est, the court concluded the anti-surcharge were actual interests served by promoting law in Texas, as applied in this case, violated the restriction. the merchant’s commercial rights to free The court concluded the anti-surcharge speech under the First Amendment. law unduly restricted a commercial merchant’s right to free speech because it reWhat can you do? stricted the merchant’s ability to Although this district court case is still subcommunicate with its customers. However, ject to being appealed, and consequently subwhat was important in the court’s decision ject to further interpretation, the United States / See Law, Page 72 was the analysis that relied on a merchant

www.haaonline.org

Afford Quality Electric pg 13.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:11 AM Page 1

Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

TRASH FOR DAYS A resident disputes cleaning charges.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with

HAA to dispute charges. The resident felt he should pay for the discounted cable service provided by the management company, sewer charges, pest control and the damages to a wall in his apartment home. In the resident’s opinion, all other charges were unwarrantable. Management responded to HAA and that response was forwarded to the resident. Enclosed were copies of the lease, application, move-in condition form, move-out statement, resident ledger and pictures of the apartment home after move-out. At move-out, the resident’s final bill was $572.76, covering rent for 17 days, cable, pest control, trash services over the course of a

The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide month and water/sewer charges an impartial review of resident complaints using In addition, the resithe documentation provided by both the resident dent failed to clean the and management. stove, oven, refrigerator, bathtub, toilet and cabinets. There were also damage to the walls, as the resident previously After reviewing the case, including the phomentioned, and one light bulb replacement. tos and invoices provided by management, the As shown in the images provided by mancommittee decided in favor of management. agement, the resident left the apartment Charges were justified. The resident owes the home with a large amount of trash dispersed property $613.77. throughout the home, filling up a total of eight industrial trash bags. After management If you are a manager with a resident cleaned the apartment, the resident owed a relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 total of $613.77. for direct assistance. I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

fsi pg 15.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:12 AM Page 1

ann bus meet pg 16.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:14 AM Page 1

Who are your new leaders?

HAA Annual Business Meeting Thursday, November 8 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, Houston, TX 77024 Cost: $45 (before November 2); $65 (after November 2) $450 for a table of 10 (before November 2); $650 (after November 2) Reserved tables of 10 with company name are available when paid in full by one company.

Reception and Seated Dinner

Join us as we elect our leadership for 2019 and celebrate the achievements of 2018. Nomination and Election of 2019 Officers and Board of Directors Recognition of 2018 Committee Members Recognition of 2018 NAA Credential Holders Presentation of 2018 Appreciation Awards

ABODE

October 2018

Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales and Gemstar Construction Development Inc. Requests for refunds must be received in writing by end of business day on November 2, and will be subject to a $50 cancellation fee. No refunds will be granted after November 2 or for no shows. No refunds will be given for individual tickets, but tickets are fully transferrable. For reservations and information, contact the Meetings and Events Department at 713-595-0323, email events@haaonline.org or online at www.haaonline.org.

www.haaonline.org

ameritex movers pg 17.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:14 AM Page 1

law lunch pg 18.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:15 AM Page 1

On the Scene with HAA It’s the Law Lunch Friday, August 3 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by 1 ApartmentData.com HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff presented an “It’s the Law” luncheon covering new rules affecting water allocation and sub-metering.

Free for job hunters:

• Find the right job to fit your skills and experience, TARGET or QUALIFIED • Post an anonymous resume so recruiters can find you. LEADS www.haaonline.org jobline@haaonline.org 713-595-0300

ABODE

October 2018

Inexpensive and specific for employers/recruiters: • Specific to the multifamily industry, narrowing your search. • Pinpoints your audience with qualified, quality leads. www.haaonline.org

Educ pg 19, 25.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:17 AM Page 1

Upcoming Education

OCTOBER NALP I: Bringing in New Residents – Be Prepared Tuesday, October 9 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. NALP II: Marketing and Maintaining Your Community Tuesday, October 9 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. Industry Math Wednesday, October 10 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $99 A new curriculum authored by the NAA, this half-day workshop is an excellent opportunity to sharpen your mathematical skills. From calculating percentages, to converting fractions and understanding averages and more, this is your chance to "go back to school" in a relaxed and low-stakes environment. Learn how various mathematical calculations influence operations and get introduced to the more advanced concepts you'll need to know to advance your career. Leasing 101 – Lake Jackson (One day) Thursday, October 11 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

SCHEDULE AND FEES

From the HAA EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

Program fee: $65 prior to October 11;; $75 at the door Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data An in-depth introduction to the apartment industry for new leasing professionals as well as those individuals looking to learn more about the industry as a career. If you are not working for a member company of HAA, download the registration form at http://www.haaonline.org/ images/programs/pdf/leasing101_ 2018.pdf. APPLE: Core Session 6 – Sales Isn’t for Sissies with Katie Rigsby Thursday, October 11 9 a.m. to noon Program fee: $50 Sponsored by Best Plumbing See Page 22 for details. HAA NEXT: Professional Development Breakfast Friday, October 12 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Program fee: $10 Sponsored by Earthworks This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA young professionals CAMT HVAC Maintenance & Repair (2 days) Tuesday and Wednesday, October 16 and 17 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Program fee: $795 for the full course; $165 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by Brandt Electric A/C Heating & Services See Page 23 for details. NALP III: Why Your Competition Matters Tuesday, October 16 8:30 a.m. to noon

are subject to change without prior notification. Notice of cancellation is required two days in advance to receive a refund, less a $25 administrative fee. Seats are guaranteed on a first-come, first-served basis when payment and registration are received in advance of the program. Unless otherwise indicated, courses are held in either the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room or the Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Room at the Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. on the second floor of the HAA Office www.haaonline.org

Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. NALP IV: Relevant Laws and How to Apply Them Tuesday, October 16 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. CAMT Appliances Maintenance & Repair (2 days) Thursday and Friday, October 18 and 19 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Program fee: $795 for the full course; $165 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by Ferguson Facility Supply See Page 23 for details. NALP V: The Sales Process and Building Relationships Tuesday, October 23 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. NALP VI: Effectively Meeting the Needs of Current Residents Tuesday, October 23 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; $65 as a standalone seminar

Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details. APPLE: Leadership Session 3 – The Spin Cycle with Mindy McCorkle Wednesday, October 24 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $50 Sponsored by Redevelopment Services See Page 22 for details. It’s the Law Luncheon Friday, October 26 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Program fee: $25 Sponsored by Texas Apartment Pool Services Join HAA's Legal Counsel, Howard Bookstaff, for lunch and a legal discussion in a casual environment. NALP Market Survey Presentation & Exam Tuesday, October 30 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales Visit www.haaonline.org for details.

NOVEMBER IROP (three days) Thursday, November 1 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Program fee: $399 per member; $455 per non-member Sponsored by Chadwell Supply and Power Express A three-day course authored by the National Apartment Association specially designed to provide the knowledge and skills necessary for new, independent / See Education, Page 25

Building. Seating is limited. You must pre-register. For more information and to register, go online at www.haaonline.org. Notice to Attendees: All pre-registered no-shows will be billed. For admittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will be required at the door if not received prior to the event. Start times listed above include a 30-minute registration period. Notice of cancellation is required two days prior to the event for a refund, less a $15 administrative fee. October 2018

ABODE

calendar pg 20,21.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:24 AM Page 1

OCTOBER S M T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

NOVEMBER S M T 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

OCTOBER 1

18-19

Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, October 1 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sugar Creek Country Club 420 Sugar Creek Blvd., 77478

Industry Math Wednesday, October 10 8:30 a.m. to noon Resident Relations Committee A Meeting Wednesday, October 10 2 p.m.

CAMT Appliances Maintenance & Repair (2 days) Thursday and Friday, October 18 and 19 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See Page 23 for details. Sponsored by Ferguson Facility Supply

APPLE: Leadership Session 3 – The Spin Cycle: Managing Employee Turnover with Mindy McCorkle Wednesday, October 24 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Redevelopment Services

Leasing 101 – Lake Jackson (One day) Thursday, October 11 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data

29th Annual Chili Fest Saturday, October 20 Noon to 5 p.m. NEW LOCATION: Humble Civic Center 8233 Will Clayton Parkway, 77338 We’re bringing Chili back! Mark your calendars for the 2018 Chili Fest. See Pages 6, 34 and 35 for details.

Onsite-Goes-Offsite: Baytown Wednesday, October 24 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Calling all Baytown and surrounding area onsite personnel. Please join us for a little networking and fun. No suppliers, please. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by Apartments.com

NALP V: The Sales Process and Building Relationships Tuesday, October 23 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales

HAAPAC Luncheon Thursday, October 25 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Program fee: $30 per PAC member; $40 per non-PAC member Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org for registration and details.

3 New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, October 3 3 p.m. Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill 2820 White Oak Drive, 77007 All new supplier members welcome. Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details. Ambassador ONE Society Meeting Wednesday, October 3 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill 2820 White Oak Drive, 77007 Contact Amanda at asherbondy@ haaonline.org for details.

9 NALP I: Bringing in New Residents – Be Prepared Tuesday, October 9 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales NALP II: Marketing and Maintaining Your Community Tuesday, October 9 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales Onsite-Goes-Offsite: Fort Bend Tuesday, October 9 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Calling all Fort Bend and surrounding area onsite personnel. Please join us for a little networking and fun. No suppliers, please. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by Apartments.com

APPLE: Core Session 6 – Sales Isn’t for Sissies with Katie Rigsby Thursday, October 11 9 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Best Plumbing

12 HAA NEXT: Professional Development Breakfast Friday, October 12 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sponsored by Earthworks Inc.

16-17 CAMT HVAC Maintenance & Repair (2 days) Tuesday and Wednesday, October 16 and 17 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See Page 23 for details. Sponsored by Brandt Electric A/C Heating & Services

16 NALP III: Why Your Competition Matters Tuesday, October 16 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales

NALP VI: Effectively Meeting the Needs of Current Residents Tuesday, October 23 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales

26 It’s the Law Luncheon Friday, October 26 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sponsored by Texas Apartment Pool Services

30 NALP Market Survey Presentation & Exam Tuesday, October 30 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales

NALP IV: Relevant Laws and How to Apply Them Tuesday, October 16 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Sponsored by CORT Furniture & Retail Sales

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

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

calendar pg 20,21.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:24 AM Page 2

Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Check the calendars at www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date information.

NOVEMBER 1

National Apartment Association PAC Wine Tasting Thursday, November 1 More information to come. Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org for details.

Onsite-Goes-Offsite: Webster Wednesday, November 7 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Calling all Webster and surroundingarea apartment and management personnel. Join us for happy hour, filled with networking and fun. No suppliers, please. More information to come. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by Apartments.com

Annual Business Meeting Thursday, November 8 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 Join us as we honor recent National Apartment Association credential graduates and elect our association’s leadership for 2019. See Page 16 for details. Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales and Gemstar Construction Development

Leasing 101 (day and a half) Tuesday, November 27 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

IROP (three days) Thursday, November 1 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sponsored by Chadwell Supply and Power Express

5-9 Extreme CAM (five days) Monday, November 5 through Friday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. See Page 24 for details. Sponsored by AAA Plumbers, All About Doody, ALN Apartment Data, CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales, Earthworks, Ferguson Facility Supply, Flooring Warehouse, Presto Maintenance Supply, Texas Southwest Floors and TXU Energy Multifamily Services. Extreme CAS Course Monday, November 5 through Friday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

7 New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, November 7 3 p.m. Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill 1010 Highway 6, 77079 All new supplier members welcome. Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details. Ambassador ONE Society Meeting Wednesday, November 7 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill 1010 Highway 6, 77079Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

www.haaonline.org

8 Blue Star Program Thursday, November 8 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Blue Star Certification Program is a joint effort by the Houston Police Department and the Houston Apartment Association. Created for rental properties of all sizes, the program's goal is to help law enforcement officials and the multifamily housing industry work together to effectively reduce criminal activity in rental properties. Register online at: www.houstontx.gov/police/ multi_family. Please direct questions to Officer Clark at: donna.clark@houstonpolice.org. Sponsored by The Lane Law Firm and Presto Maintenance Supply Legislative Committee Meeting Thursday, November 8 3:30 p.m. The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 Board Meeting Thursday, November 8 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 Sponsored by Poolsure

13 HAAPAC Luncheon Tuesday, November 13 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by Texscape Services

14 APPLE: Maintenance Session 3 – OSHA Compliance with Don Willard Wednesday, November 14 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by The Liberty Group

29 Fair Housing Seminar Thursday, November 29 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by Best Plumbing and The Liberty Group Holiday Luncheon: Fort Bend Thursday, November 29 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information to come. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

30 ACES Holiday Luncheon Friday, November 30 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Brennan’s Houston 3300 Smith Street, 77006 Sponsored by Camp Construction Services and Texas Southwest Floors

Resident Relations Committee B Meeting Wednesday, November 14 2 p.m.

16 Holiday Luncheon: Brazoria County Friday, November 16 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. More information to come. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

22-23 Thanksgiving Holiday Thursday and Friday, November 22-23 The HAA Offices will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving holiday.

October 2018

ABODE

apple pg 22.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:25 AM Page 1

Professional Development: APPLE Workshop Series

Grow your career with the right ideas, the best advice and go to the head of the class – Grab an APPLE! APPLE features some of the best nationallyacclaimed speakers in the industry. Annual Property Subscriptions are also 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.

Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or see more and register online at www.haaonline.org.

APPLE is sponsored by

? r a n i m e s a d e Ne 50 $ ly n o t a d e ic r p are

ns Individual sessio eal for quality education! st l a e r a , n o s r e p r pe CORE APPLE: Core - Session 6 October 11 Sales Isn’t for Sissies with Katie Rigsby This three-part, interactive program uses the acronym SISSY to highlight what it takes to be successful in sales. Learn the do’s and don’ts of social media marketing and what you can do to market your community for free. Participants will be challenged to share common customer objections and work together to create thoughtful and understanding responses in order to overcome the objection and bring the sale to a close. Attendees will learn how important a positive customer experience is to reducing turnover, increasing occupancy and maintaining a positive reputation. Key Takeaways: • Learn how to become a more effective sales person and increase occupancy • Master the art of overcoming objections to seal the deal • Understand how effectively using social media can reduce turnover and increase traffic • Recognize the key role you play in successfully marketing and selling your property • Establish a plan to increase customer satisfaction and build a positive reputation • Obtain valuable knowledge about today’s renter

LEADERSHIP APPLE : Leadership - Session 3 October 24 The Spin Cycle – Managing Employee Turnover with Mindy McCorkle Employee turnover is one of the most expensive challenges we deal with. And let’s face it, some turnover is inevitable and needed. Hear how to manage the turnover while maintaining morale and momentum.

ABODE

October 2018

MAINTENANCE APPLE: Maintenance Session 3 November 14 OSHA Compliance with Don Willard The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has rules and regulations that must be followed in the multifamily industry. This informative session will cover both employer and employee responsibilities when it comes to federal OSHA regulations. This session will cover: • The required OSHA blood borne pathogen training • Lock-out/tag-out standards for technicians • Job safety and health facts • OSHA required emergency preparedness for the workplace • Workplace hazards assessment and our responsibilities • Chemical hazards, storage, labeling and training requirements • Discontinued Material Safety Data Sheets and the new SDS training requirements • Hepatitis-B standard for kitchens, bathrooms and laundry rooms • Required emergency preparedness at the workplace • Hazard communications, recordkeeping and responsibilities • All the In-house training required by OSHA federal regulations • Personal Protection Equipment, federal requirements and training • OSHA Inspection procedures, priorities, our rights and responsibilities • Required OSHA recordkeeping, death or accident reporting procedures • Fire extinguishers, first aid kits, eyewash stations • Digging, ladders, electrical, torch requirements • OSHA electrical regulations

www.haaonline.org

camt pg 23.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:25 AM Page 1

Spend a few days with HAA building your future! Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician Program’s objective is to further the technical, business and personal development skills of today’s multifamily maintenance technician, resulting in improved on-the-job performance and a heightened awareness of customer service and responsibility. Course Schedule: 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Total Program Cost: $795 Tuition can be paid per module: $165 per module for five modules.

CAMT Course Required Modules: Technical Courses: The five technical courses take place in the classroom with an instructor presenting core concepts and procedures, as well as leading course participants through reinforcing learning activities. These activities will range from discussions to solving “what if” scenarios to hands-on activities. After each course, learners will go online to go through practice scenarios for that course. These scenarios let learners play the role of a maintenance technician in a realistic and safe environment. They will make decisions to prioritize, diagnose and repair problems, just as they would on the job.

Interior and Exterior Maintenance and Repair Tuesday, September 11 Electrical Maintenance and Repair Wednesday, September 12 Plumbing Maintenance and Repair Thursday and Friday, September 13-14 Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning Maintenance and Repair Tuesday and Wednesday, October 16-17 Appliances Maintenance and Repair Thursday and Friday, October 18-19 Comprehensive Exam TBA

Programs sponsored by AAA Plumbers Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC Ferguson Facility Supply Presto Maintenance Supply

October 2018

ABODE

legal lowdown extreme cam pg 24.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:26 AM Page 1

GO EXTREME with the Extreme CAM Program The Certified Apartment Manager designation is already exceptional. Presented in a supercharged format, Extreme CAM accelerates the education process and allows you to attain the Certified Apartment Manager designation on a schedule that works best for you. (Recommended for experienced managers only.)

Extreme CAM Course Schedule Fall Schedule: Classes are held during the work week only: November 5-9 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Program Cost: $1,050, pre-registration required Classes sell out â&#x20AC;&#x201C; register early! Proctored exam dates to be announced throughout 2017

Need the info? Get the LOWDOWN A new video series featuring HAA legal counsel, Howard Bookstaff, The Legal Lowdown is legal education on demand! Check out these short two- to four-minute videos on a wide range of timely legal topics anytime via our website at www.haaonline.org/legallowdown.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

Educ pg 19, 25.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:22 AM Page 2

Education, continued from Page 19 owners and/or managers of rental properties with typically 200 units or less. Please note: Notice of cancellation is required two days prior to the event for a refund, less a $25 administrative fee. See www.haaonline.org for details. Extreme CAM (five days) Monday, November 5 through Friday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sponsored by AAA Plumbers, All About Doody, ALN Apartment Data, CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales, Earthworks, Ferguson Facility Supply, Flooring Warehouse, Presto Maintenance Supply, Texas Southwest Floors and TXU Energy Multifamily Services. A super-charged and accelerated five-day format designed for those experienced managers hoping to attain the CAM with less time away from the property. See Page 24 for details. Extreme CAS Course Monday, November 5 through Friday, November 9 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Extreme CAS candidates attend four of the CAM modules beginning on November 5. Additional dates are to be determined. Visit www.haaonline.org for details. Annual Business Meeting Thursday, November 8 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. The Westin Memorial City Sponsored by CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales and Gemstar Construction Development See Page 16 for details. APPLE: Maintenance Session 3 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; OSHA Compliance with Don Willard Wednesday, November 14 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by The Liberty Group See Page 22 for details. Leasing 101 (day and a half) Tuesday, November 27 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Program fee: $65 prior to November 27; $75 See the October 11 listing for details. Fair Housing Seminar Thursday, November 29 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $89; $99 if invoiced Sponsored by Best Plumbing and The Liberty Group

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

naa update pg 26, 27, 57.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:26 AM Page 1

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

ARE YOU PREPARED? How hurricane prep helped Houston owners.

PEAK HURRICANE SEASON is here. After a historic disaster at this time last year, Houston’s apartment industry has some perspective on preparation that could pay big dividends if a disastrous storm descends onto your area. On August 27, 2017, Hurricane Harvey rained 27 trillion gallons of water on Texas, with much of that total falling on Houston. Some parts of the city received more than 50 inches of rainfall during the course of just a few days. The destruction was unimaginable; 203,000 homes were damaged and 88 people lost their lives. Throughout that storm and its aftermath, rental housing owners and operators in Houston were often literally up to their necks protecting their residents and protecting their homes. “It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, I hope,” says Caroline Kane, the CEO of CKR Property management, a local property management company. Kane’s and her fellow owners and operators’ experiences during the storm offer valuable examples to follow when natural disasters threaten homes and livelihoods. Resource allocation in and after the storm was critical, says Kane. “In some places, the

ABODE

October 2018

aftermath could be handled by a wet-vac and a dehumidifier. In others, we had entire first floors under water.” The rainfall also affected communities in Houston managed by Fogelman Properties. Justin Marshall, Fogelman’s COO, recounts how his own company’s practices that began years ago had a huge impact when the emergency finally came. As he recounts, adhering to simple advice can make a massive difference. “The biggest thing is communication with and through our managers,” he said. “We have a preparedness memo that we get out to all affected areas detailing our policies and procedures. Everything from making sure the emergency contact list is updated and proper phone numbers are disseminated for our internal emergency contact, to inventorying office computers and office equipment, to securing things on the ground.” Small things like constant updates can truly save the day. Diligence to best practices and creative problem-solving made a huge difference in protecting residents and their homes. At Kane’s properties, leases were re-leased, and in cases where remediation was an option, it was undertaken as fast as possible. Refunded deposits became lifelines for relo-

cation as the waters receded and damage was investigated in the area. “Not only was it the right thing to do, it was a pressure release on both the business and the residents,” said Kane. “We were able to allocate our resources more smartly and able to get immediate help to people who needed it.” That triage makes a massive difference in the smarter deployment of both money and people. Even in the absence of a central office, such mundane but efficient practices as file-sharing made a difference so that all the company’s employees could have the proper resources at their fingertips. “It really helped us stay on the same page, so to speak,” said Kane. Marshall’s team made similar preparations at their properties; steps which yielded large dividends. “From a communications standpoint, one of the things we did several years ago was to establish national and regional dedicated relationships with emergency response groups,” said Marshall. “We made introductions and everybody knew who to call and contact at emergency companies. “We also try to concentrate as much as we can on having cell phone numbers of residents, so they can opt-in to text message

www.haaonline.org

naa update pg 26, 27, 57.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:26 AM Page 2

alerts. We have a system through which we can send alerts and let them know about emergency situations.” Those existing relationships, leveraged by wise tech and communications policies, ensured that a clear and concise recovery plan was ready and was quickly communicated to residents. All the technology in the world, however, is no substitute for a dedicated and professional staff and strong supplier support. Dan Gladden, President of the East Region for AMLI Management Company, says it is very important to have reliable contractors lined up ahead of time that make your communities as a priority in their response for work needed. “Prior to last year’s storm we met with our landscape vendor at each site and walked through plan of action for each community, which allowed the vendor to begin work immediately and lead to a quicker clean-up for our residents,” he says. There is little substitute for having site-level staff nearby to help through. “Having a maintenance individual on-site or nearby who can address technical issues such as elevators and generators quickly is a big plus,” Gladden says. “Planning ahead for who is able to respond or be stationed at each community will save significant time and avoid unnecessary confusion.” Kane details an emotional story of one of her property managers who went above and beyond the call of duty for her residents. “One of my best managers, her home flooded,” she says. “She had extended family living with her, and she was still able to find a way to help us and our residents. She was at the property while her home was completely flooded. “We made sure to let her know that we supported her. But even any time that we asked about her situation, we would break out into tears. It was a truly emotional situation. “People don’t realize that property managers are 24/7, and that your job comes before your life so often. She is a shining example of what the true duty of being a property manager really costs, and what it means to be a good one. She made a huge commitment to us. She’s truly extraordinary, and she doesn’t have any idea how extraordinary that she is. She’s amazing.” The spirit of service that so many members of the industry showed in the face of Hurricane Harvey is truly admirable. It provides us an example to live up to and to learn from. Prepare as much as you can, be flexible, be humane and, above all, communicate clearly and frequently. / See NAA Update, Page 57 www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

outreach pg 28,56.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:29 AM Page 1

On the Road with HAA Katy Region Meeting Tuesday, August 14 at the Regalia Bella Terra, Katy Sponsored by 1 Ferguson Facility Supply The Katy Region Meeting was a popular event that covered apartment application fraud and safety in the work place â&#x20AC;&#x201C; important topics for apartment communities. Thank you to our speakers Randy Patton and Detective Matthew Carl. A big thank you to Property Manager Karen Bullock and her amazing team for hosting our event.

HAA IS REACHING OUT to better serve our members by bringing targeted networking and educational events to different parts of our 12-county service area. Contact Outreach Manager Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org to sign up for these FREE, management-only events where you can learn about issues affecting your area and network with your fellow managers. Want to host an event? We are looking for member properties to host a Region Meeting. Contact lturner@haaonline.org. 28

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

gambit construction pg 29.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:30 AM Page 1

business exchange pg 30,31,32,33.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:32 AM Page 1

On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography HAA Take 5 Business Exchange Thursday, August 2 at Ayva Center Thanks to our supplier partners and property managment leaders who attended the exchange and raised $56,900 for education grants to help industry professionals earn their CAMT and CAM credentials. Thank you to our supplier participants: AAA Plumbers AAdvantage Laundry Systems Advanced Concrete Designs Inc. Advanced Exercise Advant Solutions ALN Apartment Data Inc. Apartment List Arbor Contract Carpet Inc. Belfor Property Restoration Bio-One Houston South BioSweep of West Houston Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT BSI Building EngineeringConsultants Inc. Buyers Access Camp Construction Services Century A/C Supply Chadwell Supply Church Foundation Repair Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Classic Towing Coastal Valet Trash Services LLC ConService Energy Conversion Logix CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions Crestmark Construction Services Dixie Carpet Installations Inc. Dog Paws-DNA Pest Solutions Double Oak Storm-Tex Durastone Corporation Earthworks Inc. Entrata® Envirotrol Pest Solutions Fetch Package Fidus Construction Services Flooring Warehouse Forthea Interactive Marketing FSI Construction G5 Marketing Gage Multifamily Services Gambit Construction Gateman Inc. Gemstar Construction Development Inc. Genesis Credit Management GreenTech Roofing Inc. HandyTrac Key Control Hardman Signs HD Supply Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search Hoffer Furniture Rental & Sales Home Turf Texas Houston Seal Hygienitech Solutions LLC Impact Floors Incite Energy LLC JMI Contractors/ Jim’s Maintenance Inc. LeaseTerm Solutions LSR Multifamily Maintenance Supply Headquarters Major League Gutter Cleaning Marathon Fitness Massey Services Inc. Matrix Construction Services McMahan's Flooring Inc. Metropolitan Staffing Solutions Minol USA Mobile Doorman Multifamily Ancillary Group

ABODE

October 2018

MultiFamily Services Inc. National Credit Systems Inc. Norman Construction Office Party Outdoor Elements Paragon Roofing Inc. Penn Apartment Staffing Perfect Surface LLC PERQ LLC Point Central Poolsure Power Express Presto Maintenance Supply Rasa Floors RDM Contracting Red Hawk Fire & Security LLC Redi Carpet Sales of Houston Ltd. RentPath Reliant Revenue Edge Richmond & Associates Landscaping Secure Insurance SentriForce Southwest Utility Solutions Texas Apartment Pool Services Texas Southwest Floors Inc. Texscape Services TF Harper & Associates LP The Container Store The Lane Law Firm The Liberty Group The Urban Foresters LLC Triple Seal Insulation LLC Valet Living Vima Decor Wash Multifamily WaterLogic Inc. WeDoTrash Wholewood Cabinets Willbanks & Associates Inc. Wilmar Industries Inc. Yardi Systems Inc.

www.haaonline.org

business exchange pg 30,31,32,33.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:32 AM Page 2

Thank you to our owner/management company participants: Abbey Residential Allied Orion Group AMLI Residential Asset Plus Axiom Residential Better World Properties Centra Partners Central Management Creative Property Management City Gate Properties Dayrise Residential The Dinerstein Companies Francis Property Management Gables Residential Greystar GWR Management HM Equity Management Hanover Company Hettig Management Judwin Properties Kaplan Management Linebacker Equity Management Lincoln Property Company Milestone Management MORGAN Mosaic Residential Pinnacle Q10 Property Advisors Radco Residential Rockstar Capital Management SMI Realty Scenic Property Group Southhampton Management Stellar Equity Management Tarantino Properties Texas Inter-Faith US Residential Veritas Equity Management Venterra Realty

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

business exchange pg 30,31,32,33.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:33 AM Page 3

On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography HAA Take 5 Business Exchange

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

business exchange pg 30,31,32,33.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:34 AM Page 4

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

chili pg 34,35.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:34 AM Page 1

e r ’ We ing g n i Br

I L I H C ! k c a B

Interested in entering the Chili Cook-oﬀ Contest? Contact events@haaonline.org for details on how you can get cooking!

! n o i t a c o L New

chili pg 34,35.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:35 AM Page 2

to u o y k Than ! s r o s n our spo Habanero Sponsors Camp Construction Services HD Supply Hire Priority StaďŹ&#x192;ng & Executive Search Multifamily Ancillary Group Jalapeno Sponsors American Technologies Inc. hurch Foundation Repair CORT Furniture Rental & Retail Sales Crestmark Construction Services Earthworks Inc. Fidus Construction Services Ideal Towing The Liberty Group McMahan's Flooring Inc. Poolsure PPG Paints Redevelopment Services RK Builders Inc. Valet Living Little Chilis Fest Sponsors Century A/C Supply PPG Paints Over 21 Wristband Sponsor AAA Plumbers & Mike Koch Trophy Sponsor TPI Construction & Painting Inc. Chili-tizer Station Sponsors Brook Furniture Rental Inc. Ideal Towing

CHILI FEST 2018 Saturday, October 20 Noon to 5 p.m.

NEW LOCATION! Humble Civic Center 8233 Will Clayton Pkwy., Humble, TX 77338 Take Hwy. 59 North toward Kingwood, exit Will Clayton Pkwy. and turn right. Turn left on South Houston Avenue and the Humble Civic Center Arena is on the right. Wristbands: Adult - $7 prepaid; $10 on-site Child (5-12) - $3 prepaid, $5 on-site Kids 4 and under - Free!

www.haaonline.org/chilifest

pac pg 36.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:35 AM Page 1

On the Scene with the HAAPAC HAA Political Action Committee August Luncheon Thursday, August 23 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by 1 ApartmentData.com The HAAPAC luncheon featured a panel with Council Member Martha Castex-Tatum and a candidate screening with Jim Kovach, Harris County Civil Court at Law #2; Lucia Bates, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3, Place 2; Angela Rodriguez, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 6, Place 2; Jeremy Brown Justice of the Peace, Precinct 7, Place 1; and Sharon Burney, Justice of the Peace, Precinct 7, Place 2. 1

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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. 2018 registration forms are available! To join, renew or learn how to become involved with the PAC, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact apatel@haaonline.org. 36

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

brandt pg 37.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:36 AM Page 1

endorsements pg 38,39.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:37 AM Page 1

HAAPAC Endorsements Texans will head to the polls on November 6 to decide who will represent us for a variety of offices, ranging from Justice of the Peace to Congress. The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee supports the candidates below. Early voting will begin on Monday, October 22. Make an effort to get your employees and associates to join you. Visit www.harrisvotes.org for a sample ballot, polling locations and more election information. Be sure to consider these candidates when you vote on Tuesday, November 6. United States: q U.S. Senate – Ted Cruz q U.S. Representatives, District 2 – Dan Crenshaw (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 7 – John Culberson (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 8 – Kevin Brady (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 9 – Al Green (D) q U.S. Representatives, District 10 – Michael McCaul (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 14 – Randy Weber (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 18 – Sheila Jackson Lee (D) q U.S. Representatives, District 22 – Pete Olson (R) q U.S. Representatives, District 29 – Sylvia Garcia (D) q U.S. Representatives, District 36 – Brian Babin (R) State of Texas: q State Senator, District 4 – Brandon Creighton (R) q State Senator, District 7 - Paul Bettencourt (R) q State Senator, District 13 – Borris Miles (D) q State Senator, District 15 – John Whitmire (D) q State Senator, District 17 – Joan Huffman (R) q State Senator, District 18 – Lois Kolkhorst (R) q State Representative, House District 3 – Cecil Bell Jr. (R) q State Representative, House District 15 – Steve Toth (R) q State Representative, House District 16 – Will Metcalf (R) q State Representative, House District 24 – Greg Bonnen (R) q State Representative, House District 25 – Dennis Bonnen (R) q State Representative, House District 26 – Rick Miller (R) q State Representative, House District 27 - Ron Reynolds (D) q State Representative, House District 28 – John Zerwas (R) q State Representative, House District 29 – Ed Thompson (R) q State Representative, House District 126 – Sam Harless (R) q State Representative, House District 127 – Dan Huberty (R) q State Representative, House District 128 – Briscoe Cain (R) q State Representative, House District 129 – Dennis Paul (R) q State Representative, House District 130 – Tom Oliverson (R) q State Representative, House District 131 – Alma A. Allen (D) q State Representative, House District 132 – Mike Schofield (R) q State Representative, House District 133 – Jim Murphy (R) q State Representative, House District 134 – Sarah Davis (R) q State Representative, House District 135 – Gary Elkins (R) q State Representative, House District 137 – Gene Wu (D) q State Representative, House District 138 – Dwayne Bohac (R) q State Representative, House District 139 – Jarvis Johnson (D) q State Representative, House District 140 – Armando Walle (D) q State Representative, House District 141 – Senfronia Thompson (D) q State Representative, House District 142 – Harold V. Dutton Jr. (D) q State Representative, House District 143 – Ana Hernandez (D) q State Representative, House District 144 – Mary Ann Perez (D) q State Representative, House District 145 – Carol Alvarado (D) q State Representative, House District 146 – Shawn Thierry (D) q State Representative, House District 147 – Grant Coleman (D) q State Representative, House District 148 – Jessica Cristina Farrar (D) q State Representative, House District 149 – Hubert Vo (D) q State Representative, House District 150 – Valoree Swanson (R)

ABODE

October 2018

Harris County: q Harris County Judge – Ed Emmett (R) q Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2 – Jack Morman (R) q Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 4 – Jack Cagle (R) q Harris County District Clerk – Chris Daniel (R) q Harris County County Clerk – Stan Stanart (R) q Harris County Treasurer – Orlando Sanchez (D) q Harris County Civil Court-at-Law, No. 1 – Clyde Leuchtag (D) q Harris County Civil Court-at-Law, No. 2 – Jim Kovach (D) q Harris County Civil Court-at-Law, No. 3 – Linda Storey (R) q Harris County Civil Court-at-Law, No. 4 – Sophia Mafrige (R) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 1. Place 2 – David Patronella (R) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 2. Place 2 – George Risner (R) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 3. Place 2 – Lucia Bates (D) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 4. Place 2 – Laryssa Korduba (R) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 5. Place 2 – Jeff Williams (R) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 6. Place 2 - Angela Rodriguez (D) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 7. Place 1 – Jeremy Brown (D) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 7. Place 2 – Sharon Burney (D) q Harris County Justice of the Peace. Precinct 8. Place 2 – Louie Ditta (R)

Brazoria County: q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 1. Place 2 – Robin Rape (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 3. Place 2 – Roy Castillo (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 4. Place 2 – Sherry Kersh (R)

Fort Bend County: q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 1. Place 2 – Mary S. Ward (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 2 – Joel C. Clouser Sr. (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 3 – Kelly Nicole Crow (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 4 – Justin M. Joyce (R)

Montgomery County: q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 1 – Wayne L. Mack (R) q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 3 – Matt Beasley (R)

Waller County: q Justice of the Peace. Precinct 4 – Ted Krenek (R)

www.haaonline.org

endorsements pg 38,39.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:37 AM Page 2

Take a seat at the table to support your business and our industry TThe HAAPAC is our industry’s voice in government. We need your participation and dollars to keep that voice strong. Past Advocacy Wins • Saved you $5.5 million in mandatory carbon monoxide alarm retrofitting requirements • Blocked annual signed fire self-inspection requirements • Protected properties from being forced into participating in Section 8 program • Ensure new City of Houston code contained revisions sought by HAA members Elections Affecting Multifamily • Presidential Elections • Congressional Seats • Texas Legislature Races • Harris County Justice of the Peace & Constables • Other County Officials and Surrounding City Elections

The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of the Houston Apartment Association, a nonprofit trade association representing the area apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry would not be as successful in representing you or your clients’ interests, and thus, your financial well-being. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels: Non-Voting Century Club Members • $100 • Attend all regular HAAPAC functions at member pricing, but has no voting privileges. • Members are recognized in the October issue of ABODE magazine.

Century Club Members • $125 • Benefits listed above, and • Group voting rights, though their Century Club Representative. Trustees • $500 • Benefits listed above, and • An individual vote on HAAPAC decisions. • Invitations to special events and meetings with legislators, including elected officials receptions. Steering Committee • $1,500 • Receives all of the above, and • One vote for every $500 contributed. • Sets the agenda for the HAAPAC. • Acts as the PAC Board of Directors. • Invitations to Steering Committee Meetings held three to four times per year.

And don’t forget to add FAST TRACK!

Guarantee your place at the table and save time too. You will automatically be pre-registered and paid for a minimum of eight luncheons, with your badge waiting for you at the door. For an additional $150, be prepaid for all 2018 lunches with a savings of more than $80! You must also join the PAC at a minimum of $100 to participate in Fast Track. The $150 Fast Track payment can be made with corporate funds.

For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org. www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

PAC list info pg 40,41.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:39 AM Page 1

Thanks, PAC Contributors The HAAPAC is the Political Action Committee of the Houston Apartment Association, a nonprofit trade association representing the Houston apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry could not be as successful in representing your interests. Thanks to these contributing individual members:

Steering Committee Members – $1,500+ PAC Treasurer Stacy Hunt, Greystar . . . . . .$22,045.50 Grant Almquist, Texas Apartment Pool Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Mack Armstrong, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Joseph Batdorf Jr., J Turner Research . . . . .$1,500.00 Jeff Blevins, Camp Construction Services .$1,500.00 Kenneth Bohan, The Liberty Group . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Howard Bookstaff, Hoover Slovacek LLP . .$1,500.00 John Boriack, Veritas Equity Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Michelle Bridges, Century A/C Supply . . . . .$1,500.00 Kyle Brown, Milestone Management . . . . .$1,500.00 KC Carmody, Pathfinder Insurance Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Chris Church, Church Foundation Repair .$1,500.00 Terri Clifton, Better World Properties LLC - Sumar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Neal Conant, Gemstar Construction Development Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Grant Crowell, The Urban Foresters LLC . . .$1,500.00 Brian Cweren, The Cweren Law Firm . . . . .$1,500.00 Scot Davis, Trammell Crow Residential . . .$1,500.00 Brandt Dillon, Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Scott Douglas, Creative Property Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Brian Febbo, FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 John Fedorko, C & F Interests Inc. . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Sharon Fortmeyer-Selan, Kalitera Assets LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Kevin Goodnight, Redi Carpet Sales of Houston Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Billy Griffin, Camp Construction Services .$1,500.00 Ira Gross, Integrity Asset Management LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Darlene Guidry, Hettig Management Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Sheri Harrison, Landmark Management Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$3,008.00 Clay Hicks, The Dinerstein Companies/ TDC Management Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 David Hodge, Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Dan James, Redevelopment Services . . . . .$1,500.00 David Jones, Southhampton Management Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Caroline Kane, CKR Property Management LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Theresa Lamar, Maintenance Supply Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Ross Love, Scott Equipment Inc. . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Kristin McLaughlin, Mohawk Industries . . .$1,500.00 Steve Moore, Villa Serena Communities . .$1,500.00 Carlos Neto, Grove Texas Capital LLC . . . . . .$1,500.00 David Onanian, PAS Online Marketplace .$1,500.00 Jenifer Paneral, DayRise Residential . . . . . .$1,500.00 Mark Park, AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Michelle Pawelek, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,501.75

ABODE

October 2018

Ayo Phillips, Perfect Surface LLC . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Mindy Price, J Turner Research . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Jennifer Ramos, Outdoor Elements . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Jackie Rhone, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 John Ridgway, Celtic Realty Advisors LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Beth Rohani, Ameritex Movers Inc. . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Glen Ruffner, Falls Apartment Group . . . . .$6,540.00 Kyle Smith, Guardian Construction . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Debbie Sulzer, Francis Property Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Mat Tilley, WeDoTrash . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Suan Tinsley, DayRise Residential . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Patrick Tollett, Oak Leaf Management Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Starla Turnbo, SMI Realty Management . .$1,500.00 Victor Vacek, Central Management Inc. . . .$1,827.00 Beth Van Winkle, Milestone Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Neal Verma, Nova Property Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Christy Wheeler, Richfield Real Estate Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,533.00 Tony Whitaker, FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . .$1,500.00 Jerold Winograd, Judwin Properties . . . . . .$1,500.00 Anthony Wonderly, Olympus Property . . .$2,608.00

Trustees – $500+ Joshua Allen, J Allen Management Co. Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Nick Altman, Infinity Power Partners . . . . . . .$500.00 Mike Clark, Alpha Barnes Real Estate Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$1,121.00 Kory Davis, Maintenance Supply Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Derek DeVries, Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Ian Douglas, Allied Orion Group . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Paul Faulkner, Advaloremtax.net . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Garrett Graham, Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Clark Gregg, Fidus Construction Services . .$500.00 Christopher Hilton, National Credit Systems Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Mike Koch, Camp Construction Services . . .$500.00 Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Barby Lake, Westdale Asset Mgmt Ltd. . . . . .$500.00 Dick LaMarche, Creative Property Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Cesar Lima, AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Sonia Lopez, Southhampton Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Robert Martinez, Rockstar Capital Management LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Claus Nielsen, Nielsen Real Estate LLC . . . . .$500.00

Dean O’Kelley, The Liberty Group . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 MJ Reddy, Reddy Partnership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$739.00 Kim Small, Wood Residential Services . . . . .$500.00 Kelley Suess, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Wesley Thwing, WT Ventures LLC . . . . . . . . . .$500.00 Richard Wood, Ameristar Screen & Glass . .$500.00 Michelle Ybarra, AON Wakeforest Inc. . . . . . .$876.00

Voting Century Club Members – $125+ Johnny Atkinson, ACT Security Group . . . . . . .$125.00 Jason Bartlein, Grandbridge Real Estate Capital LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Liz Berglund, Pavecon Ltd. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Ginger Bernstein, Q10 Property Advisors . . . .$125.00 Marivel Bownds, Valet Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Debbie Brueckner, Dixie Carpet Installations Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Alisha Cain, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Elizabeth Castro Gray, Lamppost Capital Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$350.00 Matthew Cire, Hoover Slovacek LLP . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Sean Cunningham, Flooring Warehouse . . .$125.00 Mark DaRonch, Linebacker Equity Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Randall Davis, Randall Davis Company . . . . .$157.00 Deborah DeRouen, Zumper . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Sam Ebenezer, Green City Recycler . . . . . . . . . .$151.07 Melissa Friend, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Israel Garza, Maintenance Supply Headquarters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Diane Gilbert, Asset Plus Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Mandy Gonzales, Behr Process Corp. . . . . . . . .$125.00 Monica Gracia, Michael Stevens Interests . . .$125.00 Stephanie Graves, Q10 Property Advisors . . .$125.00 Ronnie Harris, BGE/Brown & Gay Engineers Inc. $125.00 Richard Hester, Southhampton Management Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Deborah Holcombe, Radco Residential . . . .$125.00 Cornelis Hoogendam, Cornelis Hoogendam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$150.00 Jimmie Hotz, HD Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Shannon Huskey, Southhampton Management Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Gerald Kolbo, GHKT LP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$168.00 Jacob Leatham, Linebacker Equity Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Liz Levins, Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 David Lindley, FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Marc Littell, Littell Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$166.00 Tom Loughridge, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$126.00 Patrick Magnuson, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Anthony Marks, Texas Apartment Pool Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Candis Mohr, AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Tracey Moore, Flooring Warehouse . . . . . . . . . .$125.00

www.haaonline.org

PAC list info pg 40,41.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:39 AM Page 2

Debra Moore, ApartmentData.com . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Karen Nelsen, ALN Apartment Data Inc. . . . .$125.00 Brenda Nite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Doug Oehl, Power Express . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Randy Patton, CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Sarah Rivera, American Wrecker Service . . . .$125.00 Christy Rodriguez, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 David Rodriguez, Mohawk Industries . . . . . . .$125.00 Breton Rycroft, Hoover Slovacek LLP . . . . . . . .$125.00 Jackie Schuley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Kurt Seidel, Lincoln Property Company . . . . .$125.00 Blaise Spitaleri, Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Perry Stringfellow, Certified Computer Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Carlos Taboada, Carlos Taboada & Company PC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Jerry Turner, T4-HIM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$126.00 Sonny Unverzagt, Best Plumbing LLC . . . . . . .$125.00 Courtney Vitek, City Gate Property Group . . .$125.00 Erwin Ward, Ward Real Estate Inc. . . . . . . . . . .$236.00 Mark Webster, RentPath . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Glenn Wilson, Jet Waste Services . . . . . . . . . . . .$125.00 Christina Zimmerman, Greystar . . . . . . . . . . . . .$126.00

Non-voting Century Club Members – $100+ Michelle Baxter, AMLI Residential . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Crystal Cadriel, Scenic Property Group . . . . .$100.00 Dixie Caldwell-Greer, The Liberty Group . . . .$100.00 Peggy Charles, Fidus Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 David Gilkeson, Westchase District . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Jeff Gray, Lamppost Capital Management .$100.00 Lorena Guillen, Cowgirl Investments LLC . . .$124.00 Michael Knight . . . . . . . . . . . . .Better World Properties LLC - Sumar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Angie Lavrack, The Liberty Group . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Nathalie Lima, All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Chris McCombs, Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Wang Pei, Profico Investment Inc. . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Immanuel Prasad, Sahay Management Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Melissa Roberts, Dixie Carpet Installations Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..$100.00 Ed Schultheis, Embark Services . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Amber Sechrist, Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Reagan Singer, Russ and Company Real Estate Investment LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00

Steve Tennison, Verve Assets LLC . . . . . . . . . . .$100.00 Lindsey Wentzel, MVP Executives LLC . . . . . .$100.00 Alan Young, Dixie Carpet Installations Inc. .$100.00

Contributors Rivka Borentstein, 10 Cooper St LP . . . . . . . . . . .$62.75 Alvin Cheung, GC Cheung Fountain Spring Apartments LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$40.00 Sam Ebenezer, Green City Recycler . . . . . . . . . .$151.07 Howard Lang, Lang Property Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . .$87.00 George Lin, Captain Investment Corp. . . . . . . . .$85.50

Answer the Call We need a hero, and your contribution to the Houston Apartment Association PAC can make you one. Join the HAA PAC today and see what a difference you can make as an industry advocate. You don’t have to have super-human strength to save your business from over-regulation, just the willingness to help. www.haaonline.org/haapac govaffairs@haaonline.org

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

Image Â© Bearsky23 | Dreamstime.com

andy midterms pg 42,43.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:40 AM Page 1

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

andy midterms pg 42,43.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:40 AM Page 2

Midterm Election Preview Here is what you need to know about key races and issues on the November ballot. By

s America approaches the first midterm election under President Donald Trump, the national media is understandably obsessed with national issues. Will Democrats win a majority of the seats in the U.S. House of Representatives? (Very possibly.) Can they take the few seats necessary to become the majority party in the U.S. Senate? (Highly unlikely.) As we learned from former House Speaker Tip O’Neill, though, all politics is local. Here are some midterm election questions puzzling political observers closer to home. Ted Cruz versus Beto O’Rourke The junior senator from Texas, Ted Cruz, should be coasting to an easy victory next month. Texas has not elected a Democrat to a statewide office since 1994, and Cruz is well-known and well-financed. In reality, though, this is a race that could go either way. At press time, O’Rourke had raised over $23 million dollars to Cruz’ $15.6 million, and trailed Cruz in polls of likely voters by less than 5 points. A relentless campaigner, O’Rourke has visited all 254 Texas counties and has proven popular not only with Democrats, but with Republicans who are skeptical of President Trump. If you don’t believe me, take a drive through Houston’s high-income inner suburbs like Bellaire or West University. Beto yard signs are everywhere. Cruz signs are hard to find. This U.S. Senate race will be the first race at the top of every election ballot in Texas. A strong showing by O’Rourke could spell trouble for Republicans farther down the ballot – a possibility Democrats are counting on.

www.haaonline.org

ANDY TEAS, CAE, HAA Vice President of Public Affairs

John Culberson versus Lizzie Fletcher Texas’ 7th Congressional District was once known as the most Republican district in the entire U.S. Congress. Voters of the 7th District first elected future President George Bush in 1966, then chose future Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Archer in 1970. Archer served 15 terms before retiring at the end of the millennium. John Culberson has represented the district since 2000. A number of things have changed, however. First, 7th District voters are Republicans, but they’re not “Trump Republicans.” A majority voted for Hillary Clinton in 2016, even as they reelected Culberson over a serious Democratic challenger. Secondly, Hurricane Harvey hit the part of the district east of the Barker Reservoir especially hard, and voters want somebody to blame. Many feel the Corps of Engineers’ decision to open floodgates to release pressure on the dam could have been avoided with more timely maintenance – a federal government responsibility. Third, the part of the district north of the Katy Freeway is less affluent and growing much more quickly than the Memorial Village/Tanglewood area that has long dominated the 7th District’s electorate. Harris County Countywide Races In recent elections, Harris County has fallen into an interesting pattern. In presidential election years, straight-ticket Democratic voting has carried the day. In 2016, every single county-wide Republican candidate lost. In gubernatorial years, however, county-wide Republicans have prevailed. Could this gubernatorial year be differ-

ent? Many observers think it could. First, the margin by which down-ballot Democrats won two years ago far exceeded previous years. In district judge races where few voters knew either name, most Democrats won by margins of between four and nine percentage points. Second, for the first time in many years, more Harris County voters participated in this year’s Democratic Primary than the Republican Primary – even as primary voters statewide chose the Republican contest by a wide margin. If the down-ballot Democratic edge holds, how wide would the margin need to be before popular well-known county-wide Republican officials like County Judge Ed Emmett are in trouble? Known names like Emmett, County Treasurer Orlando Sanchez and County Clerk Stan Stanart should out-perform relatively unknown probate court judges, but only by so much. Straight-ticket voting doesn’t play favorites. Vote! If you think next month’s election isn’t that important because there’s no race for president on the ballot, think again. The success of the apartment industry depends on many of the “down-ballot” candidates – especially justices of the peace and county constables – who need your vote in this crucial election. Whether you’re a Democrat or a Republican, liberal or conservative or none of the above, take time to cast an informed vote. If you’re not registered, make sure your application is postmarked by October 9. Early voting starts October 22, and Election Day is November 6.

October 2018

ABODE

Images Â© Bearsky23 and Owensmith | Dreamstime.com

mayor turner fire pg 44,45,46.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:41 AM Page 1

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

mayor turner fire pg 44,45,46.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:41 AM Page 2

Mayor Turner Urges Houston to Vote Against Pay Proposition The firefighter pay petition is on the Nov. 6 ballot. How will you vote? By

he hundreds of thousands of property owners and renters who live in Houston have common expectations from our city government, as they should. Like me, they want a local government that uses its resources in the most efficient ways to provide public safety and reliable, basic services such as trash pickup and access to public parks. Like me, they want a city that believes in “equal pay for equal work.” But the constant efforts by city elected officials and city workers to meet those expectations would be undermined if voters approve Proposition B, a charter amendment proposal placed on the Nov. 6 election ballot as a result of a petition drive by the firefighters’ union. Proposition B would trigger a firefighter pay hike of at least 25 percent, costing the city $98 million each year. On top of that, firefighters would get an extra raise next year if police officers get one.

www.haaonline.org

MAYOR SYLVESTER TURNER, City of Houston

Because the city has hit a revenue cap imposed by the voters in 2004, it would have to cut other spending to pay for the salary increase. The cuts would mean layoffs of nearly 1,000 municipal employees – including police officers and firefighters – and cutbacks to vital city services such as trash pickup, library hours and swimming pool hours. This would be bad for our city and unfair for everyone. It certainly wouldn’t maintain or enhance the business environment and quality-of-life environment sought by the Houston Apartment Association. “Pay parity” may have been the goal of the petition, but because of the serious mistakes made in drafting the measure, unequal pay is really what we are voting on in November. It would lead to a system that pays firefighters substantially more than police officers. If Proposition B passes, firefighters will receive the same equipment pay as police

officers. Yet police officers are required to buy their equipment, including guns and ammunition, while firefighters are not. Firefighters would receive extra pay for earning college degrees. Yet, police officers are required to earn degrees to be promoted to lieutenant and higher ranks while firefighters are not. Firefighters would still receive lucrative special retirement benefits given to them in the historic pension reform that voters approved overwhelmingly last year. Yet, because Proposition B fails to equalize retirement pay among police officers and firefighters, firefighters will get much more than police officers. Already, firefighters can swap days off with each other, allowing some to be away from their jobs for several weeks, if not an entire month. Police officers lack these scheduling privileges. When a firefighter is unable to work due to illness or another case, another firefighter is activated and

October 2018

ABODE

mayor turner fire pg 44,45,46.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:41 AM Page 3

You won’t find the looming financial crisis mentioned in the ballot language because the law says it has to be based on the petition wording. Nevertheless, the situation is patently clear. paid overtime to cover the shift. Not so at the Houston Police Department. Also, nothing in the referendum would fund the continuation of the much-needed replacement of firefighting vehicles, or fire station modernizations or health and safety program improvements. Keep in mind that more than 80 percent of fire department costs are for providing emergency medical services rather than fighting fires. What is needed is a restructuring of the department to meet these demands. Proposition B makes none of the changes. If Proposition B passes, one well-grounded scenario for finding the money to pay for the salary hike requires laying off 336 police officers, 231 firefighters and 248 municipal employees; cutting hours at community centers, swimming pools and libraries; reducing parks maintenance; delaying municipal court cases and permitting services; interrupting garbage service; and more.

ABODE

October 2018

Another scenario shifts more of the layoffs to the Houston Fire Department. Layoffs are inevitable because salary and other costs for first responders and other public safety employees already make up 57 percent of the city’s entire annual budget. You won’t find the looming financial crisis mentioned in the ballot language because the law says it has to be based on the petition wording. Nevertheless, the situation is patently clear. Do firefighters deserve a raise? Absolutely. The previous mayor offered a 4 percent increase. It was rejected. I have offered a 9.5 percent raise over three years. It was rejected but remains on the table. I have negotiated successfully with municipal workers and police officers on pensions and pay raises. I know the city cannot afford a 25 percent raise for any employee group. No matter what the outcome, I will continue to make sure that our city public servants

will do their best to keep our city safe with the resources at hand. I also urge every Houstonian to join me in voting against Proposition B. In agreement with me is an unprecedented coalition of Republicans, Democrats and non-partisan voters, business and labor leaders, community groups and public safety leaders. They share my concern that the proposition would create an unaffordable mandate requiring cutbacks to vital public services. After Nov. 6, let’s go back to the drawing board and collaborate on a solution that is fair to firefighters, police officers and all Houstonians. ABODE Magazine reached out to the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association (IAFF Local 341) for an article on their position and they declined.

www.haaonline.org

guardian construct pg 47.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:42 AM Page 1

Image Â© Homofaber | Dreamstime.com

shannon greystar pg 48,49,50.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:43 AM Page 1

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

shannon greystar pg 48,49,50.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:43 AM Page 2

Do You

Dare?

Leadership is no different than trying to lose weight. We all understand it from a theoretical perspective, but where we fall short is in discipline. Dare to live a leadership lifestyle. By

s we head into fall and look forward to the holidays, there is usually one thing we all try to avoid inviting along the way, unwanted weight gain. On the upside, the new year ahead provides us with yet another opportunity to commit to losing weight, getting fit, eating right and creating new habits that form a healthy lifestyle. We all know what it takes to lose weight. It’s not complicated. Yet, why do so many of us fail at it within the first 30 days of trying? It’s not that we don’t have the knowledge. It is that we don’t have the discipline to take what we know and put it into practice consistently. Leadership is much the same way. When I ask people to define leadership or what leadership means to them, there are several phrases that are generally provided, “taking responsibility,” or “getting results,” and “doing the right thing,” “having vision,” or “growing others.” When I follow up the conversation by asking how consistent they are in putting their definition of leadership into practice on a daily basis, the majority of people look down, chuckle out of embarrassment or give a look of defiance. Leadership is no different than trying to lose weight. We all understand it from a theoretical perspective. We all know what leadership takes and what it requires. That’s not the problem. The problem is we aren’t disciplined enough to make the hard, and sometimes uncomfortable, choice to choose a leadership mindset every day and put into practice, also every day, our under-

www.haaonline.org

SHANNON LITTLEJOHN-SMITH, Greystar Real Estate Partners

standing of leadership. Is your focus to serve yourself or serve others? Is your desire to accumulate things or help grow and lift up others? Are you more concerned about what others think and limiting your potential, or are you living out your purpose by leveraging your talents, strengths and gifts to better the world around you? Living a leadership lifestyle requires us to let go of fear and our limiting beliefs, exercise a positive mindset, feed ourselves daily by reading or listening to leadership books or podcasts, lean into a mentor or coach and network with a community of likeminded individuals. Let’s go back to the weight loss example. Successful weight loss programs are successful because they offer a holistic, systematic approach to a healthy lifestyle. They help you make better meal choices, help you define a measurement system to track your progress, and connect you with like-minded individuals so you have a community to lean on for support and encouragement. Every influential leader I have reported to, been led by or was mentored under all showed me how to live a leadership lifestyle. They focused on choosing a positive mindset every day. They aspired each day to serve others in the way they needed to grow, and they leaned on others to help keep things in perspective and measure their progress. They did uncommon things for the common good of people. They were guided by their belief that their purpose was to serve for a cause bigger than themselves. They consistently demonstrated

endurance, perseverance, integrity, grace and humility for themselves and others. That is living a leadership lifestyle. Abraham Lincoln once said about attitude, “Most people are about as happy as they make their minds up to be.” Listen to how people talk around you. Do you hear people say, “If I only had a different property to manage for a different client …,” “If I only made $10,000 more a year…,” or “If only I reported to a different manager.” People who spend time placing blame or hanging onto their fear through the “If only I” stories are giving up on living a leadership lifestyle before they even get started. The first step to a leadership lifestyle is to change your mindset by changing the stories you are telling yourself. If you allow your fears to write your stories you are creating limiting belief self-talk. I remember hearing the story about a guy named Bob. Bob was in his 30s when he decided to start taking steps toward creating a better life for himself when he found a mentor. During his first meeting with his mentor, his mentor asked Bob how much time he invests in reading. Bob replied that he just started reading his first book on leadership called “How to Win Friends and Influence People.” The mentor asked Bob to explain what he had learned so far in the book. Bob said, “How to win friends and influence people.” The mentor said, “Bob, I understand the title of the book. I am asking what you have learned from the book.” Bob went on to explain that he actually couldn’t read. The mentor, confused, asked, “Bob,

October 2018

ABODE

shannon greystar pg 48,49,50.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:44 AM Page 3

The first step to a leadership lifestyle is to change your mindset by changing the stories you are telling yourself. If you allow your fears to write your stories you are creating limiting belief self-talk.

what do you mean you can’t read?” Bob explained that in the fourth grade his teacher told him that he would never be able to read, so don’t bother trying because he had dyslexia. Bob shared that since that day he never invested in trying to improve his reading skills. The mentor was in disbelief. The mentor looked at Bob and asked, “Bob, have you understood our conversation up to this point?” Bob replied, “Yes.” The mentor said, “So you understand words and their meaning.” Then the mentor asked, “Bob, can you read these words …” and the mentor wrote out the words: “because, the, people.” Bob read the words correctly. The mentor said, “Bob, you can read just fine. Read me a paragraph like you are telling me a story.” Bob read the paragraph out loud to the mentor, stumbling over some of the words, but building confidence with each sentence. The mentor exclaimed, “See Bob, I told you that you could read!” The mentor then explained, “From now on I want you to read out loud like you are having a conversation with yourself. The words you don’t understand write them down and we’ll discuss them.” Over time, Bob’s ability to read improved and his confidence grew, helping him to improve in all aspects of his life and leading him to become a best-selling author. The mentor helped Bob change his story and eliminate his limiting belief, showing Bob he had a choice to exercise a positive mindset. I challenge you, if you have not already done so, to begin to challenge your stories and limiting beliefs. Choose to live each day by exercising a positive mindset. Feed yourself daily by investing time to read or listen to books, podcasts or TED Talks on leadership. Ask someone who demonstrates leadership values and is living the life you want to live if they will mentor you and help you achieve your dreams. Know your purpose in life and don’t let fear stop you from creating opportunities to leverage your talents, strengths and experience to serve others and contribute toward something bigger than yourself. Start now. Don’t wait around until the beginning of the year to set another New Year’s resolution. Dare to be different. Dare to live a leadership lifestyle! Shannon Littlejohn-Smith is the senior director of team member development at Greystar. Littlejohn-Smith has over 16 years of experience in talent development and management. She has a passion for challenging and guiding individuals, teams and organizations towards growth, long-term success and sustainability. She will be continuing to write articles bimonthly throughout 2018. Her next article will be featured in the December issue of ABDOE. Littlejohn-Smith can be reached at slittlejohnsmith@greystar.com.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

aaa ad pg 51.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:45 AM Page 1

ashley criterion social pg 52,53.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:45 AM Page 1

Savvy 52

ABODE

October 2018

Image Â© Paulus Rusyanto | Dreamstime.com

Social www.haaonline.org

ashley criterion social pg 52,53.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:46 AM Page 2

Here are four steps to develop a strong social media marketing strategy By

s we head into fall and look forward to the holidays, there is usually one thing we all try to avoid inviting along the way, unwanted weight gain. On the upside, the new year ahead provides us with yet another opportunity to commit to losing weight, getting fit, eating right and creating new habits that form a healthy lifestyle. We all know what it takes to lose weight. It’s not complicated. Yet, why do so many of us fail at it within the first 30 days of trying? It’s not that we don’t have the knowledge. It is that we don’t have the discipline to take what we know and put it into practice consistently. By 2019, Facebook advertising revenue is expected to outpace print advertising spending. The amount of money spent on advertising on social media platforms is also on pace to outgrow television advertising spend for the first time. With more and more businesses shifting their marketing budgets and ad dollars to social media, developing a social media strategy is more important than ever. Chances are, most multifamily professionals understand they should be using social media, but they often do not know why or how. Social media is key to attracting and engaging with residents, but it’s not enough to set up your accounts and schedule a few haphazard posts a couple of times per month. How can you leverage today’s powerful platforms and online communities to achieve your property goals? It all starts with developing a strategy. Step 1: Identify Your Goals In our experience, many multifamily professionals are on social media because they think they should be, but they likely do not have set goals around their activity or track any Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) on a regular basis. For most property managers, KPIs like occupancy rate and resident turnover are crucial, but it’s important to dive deeper into how your online platforms impact those KPIs to determine campaign goals. For example, if your biggest priority is to increase occupancy, I recommend leveraging social media advertising to boost blog content, social promotions and apartment

www.haaonline.org

advertising to the right audience. Facebook advertising offers detailed targeting capabilities to get in front of a specific group down to the zip code, job position, salary, lifestyle and even recently moved. If you are looking to drive engagement, one of the biggest perks of social media as a marketing channel is the ability to create an engaged, online community of the individuals who build up your target audience. For example, a “Mark the Moment” campaign for a mixed-use development community centered around sparking engagement among customers and retailers. The campaign encouraged patrons to share their moments with the hashtag #MarkTheMoment at any of the apartment community’s retailers. This campaign not only resulted in more engaged residents and locals but also a 50 percent increase in website traffic. Step 2: Determine Where Social Fits into Your Strategy Each part of your marketing strategy should fit together into one cohesive piece. Your website, social media presence, user experience, customer experience, etc., should operate in harmony. After all, you do not want to create a content sharing calendar only to realize your blog has not been updated in three years. Start by thinking about your prospective residents’ wants, needs, careers, lifestyles and what they look for in an apartment community. The reason businesses and apartment communities join conversations on social media is to get to know our prospective residents. With this approach, we are building relationships, building trust and identifying key marketing insights. When you know what is important to your residents, you can serve them better than anyone else. Step 3: Create a Memorable, Distinct Brand Does your online presence elevate your brand? The most distinct online presences are the ones that adhere to a visual style and brand. For example, with mixed-use apartment

ASHLEY TYNDALL, Criterion.B

communities, to separate the apartment community from its surrounding retail competitors, try establishing a distinct, visual style to be colorful, vibrant, and dynamic. And although today’s smartphones have powerful cameras, professional photography also helps elevate a brand to a new level. Step 4: Look Beyond Your Marketing Budget While social media is certainly a viable marketing strategy, it is also part of your customer service strategy. The internet allows word-of-mouth communication to spread easier than ever, both positive and negative. For the multifamily industry, negative commentary from residents today is found online via Yelp, Twitter and Google business pages. Residents who are frustrated with a property’s maintenance issues or poor customer service often express those feelings publicly online. The way a multifamily property responds will determine how a negative comment affects your business. In short, make sure you are allocating various parts of your budget accordingly. And if you plan to take out ads on social media, make sure you are tracking cost per click and cost per lead to determine if social advertising offers you a cost-effective Return On Ad Spend (ROAS). Developing a Strategy When it comes to developing a social media strategy, determining what to post is one of the easiest aspects of the equation. I encourage you to take a data-driven approach and think holistically about where social media fits into your overall online strategy. Who is your buyer persona? What goals are you trying to accomplish? How can your online platforms help you accomplish these goals? Once your strategy and team are aligned, you can position your property for digital marketing success. Ashley Tyndall is the director of client services for Criterion.B, an agency focused on branding and inbound marketing for the commercial real estate industry. You can contact Tyndall at ashley@criterionb.com.

October 2018

ABODE

next profile pg 54.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:47 AM Page 1

Meet Who’s NEXT

40 Questions T

o promote HAA NEXT, ABODE will ask a different NEXT Steering Committee member a set of 40 questions to learn more about who they are. This month, we interviewed NEXT Steering Committee member Shaun Callaway, Earthworks Inc. How did you start your day today? By hitting the snooze button. How do you typically end each day? Exhausted! Who was your celebrity childhood crush? Jennifer Love Hewitt. If you could be any fictional character from any current TV show or movie who would it be? Mr. Incredible. What do you miss the most about San Diego? The weather. What do you miss the least about San Diego? The earthquakes.

What is one current song people would be surprised you like? I Like It, Cardi B.

What is one thing you have to have with you at all times while on the job? My cell phone.

What is a song from the 90s that you still listen to? Ice, Ice Baby.

Who is your biggest role model? My dad.

What is one thing you still have from your childhood? My Hot Wheels collection.

What is one thing you love about your job the most? Doing design work.

What is your spirit animal? An elk.

What is one thing you love the least about your job? Working in the heat.

What is one professional sport you would play? Golf. What is your all-time favorite sports team? The Aggies!

If you were not in operations for a landscape company, what would you be? A chef. If you could have lunch with anyone living or dead who would it be? Dwayne Johnson.

What is the best thing about working in landscape for multifamily? Making properties beautiful.

What was your first job? Bus boy.

What is the worst thing about working in landscape for multifamily? Rain days.

If you could go back in time, what advice would you give to yourself during your first year of working in landscape? Wear sunscreen.

When you aren’t working, what is one thing you love to do? Going fishing. What is one cause that is close to your heart? Water conservation.

What is your current go-to song to get you ready for the day? Anything by Cody Johnson.

What is your favorite HAA event? Chili Fest.

What were your first thoughts arriving to Texas A&M? This place is huge.

What is your favorite brewery in Houston? No Label Brewery.

What were your last thoughts leaving Texas A&M? I’m going to miss this place.

What is the best thing about Houston? The food!

Johnny Manziel or Ryan Tannehill? Johnny Manziel.

What is the worst thing about Houston? The traffic and humidity.

What is the best advice you could give to a new supplier member who wants to get involved with HAA? Prepare your liver. What is the most worn item in your closet? My boots. What is your favorite food? Bacon. What is your least favorite food? Tomatoes. Best place in Houston to get a burger? Bernie’s Burger Bus. What is your favorite quote? “From the outside looking in, you can’t understand it. And from the inside looking out, you can’t explain it.”

BE A PART OF THE NEXT GENERATION OF HAA LEADERSHIP. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking

What is your nerdiest quality? Getting excited for free samples at Costco.

and professional development needs of HAA’s young professionals and 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.

What is the most terrifying thing you’ve ever done? Drank the water in Mexico.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

rk builders pg 55.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:48 AM Page 1

outreach pg 28,56.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:30 AM Page 2

On the Road with HAA Woodlands Region Onsite-Goes-Offsite Thursday, August 30 at Local Pour in The Woodlands Sponsored by 1 McMahanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Flooring This was a great happy hour event with lots of mixing, mingling and getting to know one another. We hope to see you at our next outreach event. Contact the Outreach Department at outreach@haaonline.org to be added to the email list.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

naa update pg 26, 27, 57.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:27 AM Page 3

NAA Update, continued from Page 27 “Keeping up communication with our people is key, and it shows our residents that we are here and we care,” says Kane. “Even if there is nothing that we can do, being there and listening shows that you care.” The best time to make these plans is before you need them. It could come back to save a company or to haunt it. Kane and Marshall’s smart preparations made a huge difference for them in facing the historic wrath of this storm. They will be just as crucial in responding to the next one. – Tommy Herbert NMHC/NAA Testify Before Congress Statement from the NMHC and NAA on the September 5 Congressional testimony before the Housing and Insurance Subcommittee by Sue Ansel, president and chief executive officer, Gables Residential and Jim Schloemer, chief executive officer, Continental Properties Company Inc. Government regulation accounts for an average of 32.1 percent of multifamily development costs, according to research by NMHC and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB). In fact, in a quarter of cases, that number can reach as high as 42.6 percent. Today’s hearing was an important opportunity to highlight the significant costs driven by rules and regulations and explain to lawmakers how such barriers lead to higher rents and can even forestall development of affordable housing altogether. “It’s not easy to build apartments,” explained Ansel. “It can take up to a decade to just break ground. Outdated zoning laws, unnecessary land use restrictions, arbitrary permitting requirements, inflated parking requirements, environmental site assessments, and more, discourage housing construction and raise the cost of those properties that do get built.” “During my career I have experienced widespread and recurrent impediments to costconscious apartment development and am all-too-familiar with the consequences of needless delay and regulation,” said Schloemer. “It is important to note that some commonplace hurdles are deliberately intended to deter multifamily development and further NIMBY (“Not In My Back Yard”) policies, which explicitly oppose new apartment development in many communities.” The National Multifamily Housing Council and National Apartment Association estimate that we need to build 4.6 million new apartments by 2030 to meet demand. Meeting that demand will require both revamping how we build apartments and the courage of policymakers at the federal, state and local levels to implement inventive policy ideas, provide incentives and reduce impediments. www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Oaks of Timbergrove

MORE THAN 300 UNITS Built before 1980

Property: Oaks of Timbergrove Owner/Management: Arel Capital/Allied Orion Group Location: 1700 Seaspray Court Units: 372 Built: 1972 Web: www.oaksoftimbergrove.com Interesting features: The team at Oaks of Timbergrove has worked diligently to revitalize this community by properly managing the asset’s financials, addressing deferred maintenance issues, executing community and apartment home renovations, focusing on customer service and more. The staff at this community cares about its residents and their well-being, and it shows in the property’s online reviews, which have been increasingly positive since the takeover. In addition to an upgraded staff and customer service experience, Oaks of Timbergrove underwent a number of physical renovations, including a full upgraded clubhouse, an up-to-date fitness center and a 24-hour, 6,500 square foot dog park with a washing station. The decision to build a fully equipped dog park of this size was based off the number of pets living at this community, which equals about 125 pets. The staff at Oaks of Timbergrove was honored by the Houston Apartment Association as a Hurricane Harvey’s Hero.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Piper’s Cove

151-300 UNITS Built 1980-1989

Property: Piper’s Cove Owner/Management: Luma Corp Inc. Location: 270 El Dorado Blvd., Webster Units: 164 Built: 1981 Web: www.piperscove411.com Interesting features: Piper’s Cove is conveniently located between Houston and Galveston, just minutes from NASA and The University of Houston-Clear Lake. This community boasts lush landscape, two swimming pools, a business center, a cardio fitness, a clubhouse and more. Upgraded apartment homes come equipped with black appliances, washer and dryers, ceiling fans, upgraded light fixtures, new plumbing hardware and cherry wood cabinets. Piper’s Cove is a contemporary apartment home in its class for this location, but that alone is not what makes this community an Honors Awards winner. Piper’s Cove made the decision to freeze rent prices the day following Hurricane Harvey in order to cater to prospect residents who were displaced by the storm. On ApartmentRatings.com, residents have left raving reviews about Piper’s Cove, giving it a score of 96 percent. This community has receieved several awards other than HAA’s Honors Awards for customer service, make-readies, maintenance and more. 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

October 2018

ABODE

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by The Lexington

MORE THAN 150 UNITS Built 1990-1999

Property: The Lexington Owner/Management: FDC Equities/FDC Management Location: 12750 Briar Forest Drive Units: 244 Built: 1996 Web: www.fdcmanagement.com/communities/lexingtonapartments.com Interesting features: The Lexington is located in the Energy Corridor of Houston, one of the hardest hit areas during Hurricane Harvey. After the storm hit, the management company filled a U-Haul truck full of supplies, including boots, cleaning supplies, water, mops, brooms, gloves, medicine, food, toiletries and more. Two maintenance technicians drove the truck from California to Houston, spending two weeks in Houston to assist. The Lexington’s owners deicded to alleviate the financial and emotional distress of their residents by offering concessions to each apartment home. The concessions combined with the amount of supplies donated to The Lexington’s residents, its neighbors and local charities by FDC Management equaled $100,000. The Lexington was set to undergo a full rehab, but because of this generous donation, the rehab was pushed to 2019. It was worth it, says the staff. There is so much more to be said about what makes this property an Honors Awards winner. In an area that averages 86 percent occupancy, The Lexington’s occupancy for 2017 was 98.4 percent, which is evidence to their customer service.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

I wasn’t expecting it at surprised that they nomi said, laughing. “ I’ve bee business for 15 years. I n anything. For me, if I get or get it right, I’m satisfie don’t need recognition. A resident and my manage owner are happy, I’m ha good experience, though way. I didn’t know that s watching!”

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Stonewood Apartments

151-300 UNITS Garden, Built 2000-2009

Property: Stonewood Apartments Owner/Management: GF Properties/MORGAN Location: 701 TC Jester Blvd. Units: 252 Built: 2002 Web: www.stonewoodapartmenthomes.com Interesting features: This apartment community is located in the eclectic Heights neighborhood of Houston. Stonewood Apartments sits close to many city highlights, yet remains tucked away in a quiet residential area, giving residents the ultimate apartment living experience. Stonewood Apartments consistently meets or exceeds its budgeted Net Operating Income and physical occupancy of 95 percent. From 2016 to 2017, Stonewood Apartments increased physical occupancy by 1.56 percent and increased rent by 2 to 5 percent. Both the property manager and maintenance supervisor have been with Stonewood Apartments for more than 12 years. They, along with the rest of the on-site staff, take pride in their community. In 2017, the average online reputation score through J Turner Research was 96 percent. At Stonewood Apartments, staff members have the option to donate a portion of their paychecks to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and/or Camp Hope, raising a sizeable donation for each organization annually. www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

next karaoke pg 62,63.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 11:09 AM Page 1

On the Scene with the HAA NEXT NEXT “Krazy Karaoke” Sponsored by 1 Crestmark Construction Services Thursday, August 23 at Spotlight Karaoke The HAA young professionals group sang their hearts out for a special karaoke networking event. Thanks to judges John Boriak, Diane Gilbert, Starla Turnbo and Ryan Weis.

MEET THE NEXT GENERATION OF HAA LEADERSHIP. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA members 35 and younger. 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. 62

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

next karaoke pg 62,63.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:54 AM Page 2

supplier educ photos pg 64,65.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:55 AM Page 1

On the Scene with the HAA PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL Supplier Education Program Thursday, August 30 at the HAF Education Center The Product Service Council sponsored a supplier education program featuring Kelly Scott, Capstone Real Estate Services; Kelsey Eggleston, Valet Living; Betsy Marshall, Allied-Orion Group; Jennifer Ramos, Outdoor Elements; and Freddie Rodriguez, Impact Floors. Presented by the PSC twice a year, this program helps new supplier companies and new company representatives gain a better understanding of the opportunities available in the multifamily industry and HAA. If you are a new supplier to HAA, visit the Product Service Council Page at www.haaonline.org/psc and find a mentor.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

supplier educ photos pg 64,65.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:55 AM Page 2

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

Go-gets pg 66.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:56 AM Page 1

The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS

CELEBRATING GO-GETTERS! Recruit throughout the year and become part of the “Elite” Go-Getter Club.

Recruit for fabulous prizes! Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win one of four fabulous prizes! 1st Quarter: Echo Show 2nd Quarter: Samsung Smart TV 3rd Quarter: iRobot Roomba/Braava Jet Bundle 4th Quarter: $500 Holiday Cash Plus, for each new member you recruit, you’ll earn a chance to win gift cards ranging from $25 to $250! JOIN A TEAM and build relationships with like-minded members. Get involved with Go-Getters and make lasting industry connections. Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetterscorner to get all the information you need. HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Members who have recruited more than 100 companies Claude Arnold Monette Reynolds Kenn Brown Sherry Stevenson Tina Cavaco Kirk Tate Kevin Fenn Suan Tinsley Diane Gilbert Sonny Unverzagt Anita Harrison Del Walmsley Dwayne Henson Nancé Wells Mike Koch H.P. Paul Young Merry Mount Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks

Recruit all year long!

Go-Getter meetings are quarterly. Invite new and potential members to our next meeting:

December 5 Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for details

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 Lauren in the Membership Department at members@haaonline.org. 66

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

Welcome Mat OWNERS Birdwood Houston Investments LLC Hamzah Yasen 5430 Birdwood Road Houston, TX 77096 713-432-9800 Braeswood Plaza Apartments DJN Ventures LLC David Neuenschwander 7 Switchbud Place #192-402 The Woodlands, TX 77380-3700 396-520-6982 DTB Enterprises LLC David Stevens P.O. Box 7146 Houston, TX 77248 713-819-5173 Shady Oaks Apartments Firmus Management Lindsey Mahilo 5600 S. Quebec St. #110A Greenwood Village, CO 80111 512-551-8626 Mirabella at the Galleria Apartments Gyler Management Inc Zack Gyler 613 Rivercove Garland, TX 75044 225-445-3661 Park Houston Hilltop Residential Management Alex Rafieha 9 Greenway Plaza #2050 Houston, TX 77046 713-335-3304 Mason Park Apartments Referred by Jimmie Hotz, CASE Lake Bank Properties Amy Ellison 415 W. Chelsea Place El Lago, TX 77586 713-851-0333 Lake Bank Country Place Referred by Chris O’Rourke Manuel Schoenhuber Manuel Schoenhuber 1900 Yorktown St. #722 Houston, TX 77056 832-977-7233 Sharp Property Management Lindsay Sharp 5103 Dripping Spring Ave. Baytwn, TX 77523 832-598-1060 226 White Park Road 8003 Distant Harbor 5511 Snapping Turtle Terri Morgan Terri Morgan 2450 Louisiana St. #400-134 Houston, TX 77006 713-859-1815

www.haaonline.org

Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS

Tzadik Managment Kerrie Richardson 11098 Biscayne Blvd Miami, FL 33161 509-218-9001 Cranbrook Forest Apartments William Dalton William Dalton 283 West Pines Drive Montgomery, TX 77356 713-302-3434 Holly Estates Apartments

SUPPLIERS

A1-Installations Inc Chris Rankin P.O. Box 131373 Woodlands, TX 77393 832-283-2012 Home Theater Systems, Telecommunications Services Referred by Rema Awwad Aire-Master Steve Darrah 10 Green Field Place Spring, TX 77380 281-614-9358 Air Purifying & Cleaning Equipment, Odor Control Referred by Melissa Friend Astros Carpet & Painting Inc Albert E. Lopez 11020 Old Katy Road #118 Houston, TX 77043 713-973-1540 Painting Contractors, Maid Services, Carpenters, Carpet Cleaning Referred by Melissa Friend Brannan Designs LLC Architecture & Interior Design Elizabeth Miller Brannan P.O. Box 590670 Houston, TX 77259 281-488-2003 Architects, Interior & Decorator Service Distinct Courtesy Solutions LLC Benjamin Torres P.O. Box 751531 Houston, TX 77275 832-646-2114 Trash Service - Valet, Janitorial Services Referred by Jaime Castillo EnergyLink Robert Porras 2150 S. Central Expressway #200 McKinney, TX 75070 713-416-2677 Energy Conservation/ Management, Utility Consultants

Guardian Gutters Kyle Smith 25702 Aldine Westfield Road #1103 Spring, TX 77373 832-672-4196 Siding Contractors, Gutters & Downspouts

Point Central Debbie Kimball 4740 Edenwood Drive Fort Worth, TX 76123 817-800-8082 SMART Technology, Application Software Referred by Bryan Head, CAM

Smart City Apartment Locating Kendall Simpson 13 Vine St. #239 Houston, TX 77002 713-482-1323 Marketing Consultants & Services, Advertising-Internet

HROI Susanne Parker 3031 Barton Drive Pearland, TX 77584 832-372-9994 Employee Benefits, Employee Leasing, Payroll Services Referred by Terri Clifton J N S Painting Contractor Juan Villegas 6322 Ana Mills Lane Richmond, TX 77469 713-539-0574 Painting Contractors Jet Wrecker Service Karl Plehn P.O. Box 571763 Houston, TX 77257 713-995-9540 Wrecker Service, Towing Service

Premier Carpet & Services Norma Valdespino 2710 Fallen Oak Road Houston, TX 77038 832-875-3133 Carpet Dealers, Maid Services Referred by Tamara Kilgore, CAM

Smart Shield Security Maria E. Davilla 2600 Gessner Road #282A Houston, TX 77080 832-266-5646 Security Guard/Patrol Service, Courtesy Patrol

Jose Painting & Cleaning Services Jose Alfaro P.O. Box 840222 Houston, TX 77084 832-593-4521 Fences, Maid Services, Make Ready, Painting Contractors, Resurfacing, Vinyl Flooring Launch Toolbox Brian Mees 2100 West Loop South Houston, TX 77027 281-501-3199 Maintenance Supplies, Mobile Applications & Software Ledge Lounger Alexis Buffamante-Nino 31203 Highway 90 Brookshire, TX 77423 888-749-5336 Furniture - Outdoor, Pool Furniture - Repair & Restoration Luxer One-Locker Solutions Ken Watson P.O. Box 98351 Raleigh, NC 27615 866-378-8157 Package Management, Amenities Referred by Shelley Watson Marsh & McLennan Agency LLC Sarah Vallette Johnson 2500 City West Blvd. #2400 Houston, TX 77042 713-780-6195 Insurance, Insurance Consultants, Risk Management

Pro Carpet Services Ruben Hernandez 2614 Fallen Oak Road Houston, TX 77038 832-593-1684 Carpet Cleaning, Fire/Water Damage Restoration Referred by Sky Usher Professional Resurface LLC Nelly Gonzales P.O. Box 450736 Houston, TX 77245-0736 832-571-0754 Paint, Resurfacing R & L Bulding Group Laura Romero 3527 Mansfield St. Houston, TX 77091 713-686-8899 Red Hawk Fire & Security LLC Roy Freeman 7700 Gulf Freeway Houston, TX 77017 832-649-6836 Fire Alarm Systems, Fire Protection Consultants, Security Control Equipment/ Systems, Security Systems Consultant Rentler Barton Strawn 111 E. Sego Lily Drive #100 Sandy, UT 84070 801-677-8587 Computers - Software & Service, Payment Services - Electronic Rent, Resident Screening Service RG Miller Engineers Bilal Aizal 16340 Park Ten Place #350 Houston, TX 77084 713-461-9600 Engineers-Civil, Surveyors Land Scorpions Soft Wash LLC Adam Wiley 1406 Killdeer Drive Seabrook, TX 77586 832-689-1445 Carpet Cleaning, Grout/Tile Cleaning & Sealing, Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service, Exterior Surface Protectant

Tanza Granite Inc Jay Garza 2510 E. Division St. Edna, TX 77957 361-290-1966 Counter Tops, Granite Referred by Meg Belmontes Trophy Point Contracting Scott Glaser 1316 Crockett Street Houston, TX 77007 571-264-8217 Roofing Contractors, Roofing Consultants Referred by Terri Clifton Vistex Graphics LLC David Stone 13014 Brittmoore Park Drive Houston, TX 77041 281-971-9529 Graphic Designers, Signs Referred by Melissa Friend Westlake Home & Commercial Services Zach Brown 8810 Cullen Lane Austin, TX 78748 979-864-7575 Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service, Window Cleaning Referred by Lauren Wolfson Wholewood Cabinets Allen Xu 2808 Highway 6 S. #3 Houston, TX 77082 (832) 784-8880 Cabinets, Counter Tops, Kitchen Cabinets, Plumbing Fixtures/Parts/Supply WS National Construction Services LLC Ariana Reed 9803 S Kirkwood Road Houston, TX 77099 281-617-7225 General Contractors, Maid Services

October 2018

ABODE

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” h said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job don or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. don’t need recognition. As long as m resident and my management and th owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling tha way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

ambassadors pg 68,69.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:57 AM Page 1

The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE

GET INVOLVED! Ambassadors network and build relationships.

Our meetings have moved! Join us in our new space: Christian’s Tailgate, 2820 White Oak Drive, Houston, 77007

1. July “ONE of the Month” April Shane, Presto-X

Ambassador ONE Society members with at least 10 points, ranked by points earned: Arely Pena April Shane Jennifer Devine Diamela Bravo Marivel Bownds Chelsea Quinteros Angie Lavrack Jennifer Ramos Liz Levins Angel Lopez Dylan Coleman Marcy Holmes Debra Knight Lisa Bradley Rhonda Fowles Ryan Weis Blake Subinsky Mikka Hoppe Zamara Nitcholas Marcus Wheatfall Michael Edwards Phillip Price Shera Lehman Will McGinnis Tracey Leach-Moore Claribel Rodriguez Nikki Sekunda Blaise Spitaleri Doug Oehl

The Liberty Group Presto-X Valet Living Green City Security Valet Living Gail Construction The Liberty Group Outdoor Elements Rasa Floors Metropolitan Staffing Solutions Camp Construction Services Designs by Holmes Interior Design Valet Living Brand Junkie AdvantaClean Crestmark Construction Services HD Supply Metropolitan Staffing Solutions Greenlogic Lighting & Electric Triple Seal Insulation Ideal Towing HD Supply Texscape Incite Energy LLC Flooring Warehouse The Liberty Group The Liberty Group Rasa Floors Power Express

71 58 45 43 36 34 33 30 30 27 24 19 17 16 16 15 15 14 14 13 13 12 12 12 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. 68

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

ambassadors pg 68,69.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:58 AM Page 2

2. First Place “Ambassador Strong” with 51 points 3. Second Place Team “The Cool Kids Corner” with 40 points 4. Third Place Team “Cash ME Onsite” with 38 points

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

prop news pg 70,71.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:59 AM Page 1

Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • Allied Orion Group: Bella Palazzo Apartments, 242 units at 13098 Westheimer Road. • Alpor Properties Inc.: Lawndale Village Apartments, 90 units at 1500 Lawndale Plaza. • Anterra Management Corp.: Cypress Village Apartments, 273 units at 25222 Northwest Freeway in Cypress. • Ashford Communities: Ashford Glens LP, 68 units at 1502 Pech Road. • Banyan Equity Management LLC: Shor on Clearlake, 216 units at 3010 E. Nasa Parkway in Seabrook and Banyan Tree at Memorial, 85 units at 1501 Ojeman St. • Carroll Organization: Arium Spring Crossing, 307 units at 21525 Spring Plaza Drive in Spring. • CBMJ Investments & Development LLC: 2212 Dunlavy, 20 units at 2212 Dunlavy St.; 2301 Commonwealth, 24 units at 2301 Commonwealth St.; 219 Marshall, 72 units at 219 Marshall St. • City Gate Property Group: Oaks at Mustang Apartments, 125 units at 2101 Mustang Road in Alvin. • Capstone Real Estate Services Inc.: Tomball Ranch Apartments, 48 units at 327 W. Hufsmith Road in Tomball. • CKR Property Management LLC: Bayou Village Apartments, 108 units at 110 Deats Road in West Dickinson; Merwin Apartments, 38 units at 4748, 4708, 4822 Merwin St.; Mittlestedt Champions Apartments, 56 units at 14827 Mittlestedt Champions Drive. • CLEAR Property Management: Olympia Flats, 368 units at 2201 Hayes Road and Westside Flats Apartments, 368 units at 2201 Hayes Road and

ABODE

October 2018

Westside Flats Apartments, 368 units at 2101 Hayes Road. • Cortland Partners: Club at Copperleaf Apartments, 240 units at 14811 West Road; Villas at Coronado Apartments, 344 units at 9111 Lakes at 610 Drive; The Lighthouse at Willowbrook Apartments, 336 units at 12330 N. Gessner Road. • Fimus Management: Mirabella at the Galleria Apartments, 160 units at 3001 Hillcroft St. • Gatesco: The Oaks at Nassau Bay, 162 units at 18100 Nassau Bay Drive. • Greystar: Residences at Hardy Yards, 350 units at 1550 Leona St.; The McAdams, 328 units at 12000 Barryknoll Lane; Enclave at Mary’s Creek Apartments, 240 2900 Pearland Parkway in Pearland. • Gyler Management Inc.: Park Houston, 444 units at 12000 Martin Luther King Blvd. • Internacional Realty Inc.: Cambria Cove, 240 units at 16350 Ella Blvd. • LNC Houston Properties: Mayfair Apartments, 41 units at 2200 Avenue L in Bay City. • Milestone Management: Terra at Piney Point Apartments, 246 units at 8787 Woodway Drive. • MLDC Management LLC: Bellestone Villas Apartments, 60 units at 8271 Stone St. • Moody National Management LP: The Village at Bellaire, 580 units at 5454 Newcastle St. • Mosiac Residential Inc.: Queenstone Manor Apartments, 216 units at 6700 Queenstone Blvd. • Myan Management Group: Texas Angleton Ranch, 152 units at 1400 E. Henderson St. in Angleton and Palms at Baytown, 89 units at 1000 Northwood Drive in Baytown.

www.haaonline.org

prop news pg 70,71.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:59 AM Page 2

• Olympus Property: Olympus Grand Crossing, 351 units at 302 Cobia Drive in Katy. • PGR Property Management: Spring Garden Apartments, 18 units at 6403 Sloan St. • Portico Property Management: Westmount at Hollow Tree, 380 units at 101 Hollow Tree Lane. • Relik Realty LLC: Spring Pine Apartments, 136 units at 1554 N. Gessner Road. • RN Apartments: Orion Apartments, 14 units at 6323 Sloan; Plum Apartments, 10 units at 4904 Plum Drive; Scarborough Lane Apartments, 32 units at 1710 Scarborough Lane in Pasadena; Golfcrest Gardens Apartments, 33 units at 3043 Golfcrest Blvd. • Rockstar Capital Management LLC: Westport Apartments, 152 units at 121 Clements Drive in Angleton. • Roscoe Properties: Sola Uptown River Oaks Apartments, 317 units at 70 E. Briar Hollow Lane. • Sandalwood Management Inc.: Dwell at Clearlake Apartments, 199 units at 4101 Nasa Road 1 in Seabrook. • Sentinel Real Estate Corp.: Everlee Apartments, 332 units at 23902 Kuykendahl Road in Tomball. • SKRN Investments LLC: Laurel Place, 20 units at 525 Laurel St. in La Marque. • Tarantino Financial Manager LLC: 5128 Silver Creek LLC, 16 units at 5128 Silver Creek Drive. • Trinity Property Consultants: Arrive River Oaks, 397 units at 2800 Kirby Drive. • Veritas Equity Management: Westchase Creek Apartments, 456 units at 3000 Woodland Park Drive. • William Dalton: Holly Estates Apartments, 16 units at 16957 Rabon Chapel Road in Montgomery.

In the News Deb DeRouen has recently accepted a position with Zumper as regional account executive.

DeRouen

DayRise Residential welcomes Darlene Donovan to its team.

The Brandt family, of Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services, is deeply saddened to announce the loss of Taylor Ryan Brandt, loving son, brother, uncle, and friend. Taylor passed away on Brandt Tuesday, Aug. 28 at the age of 28. The Houston Apartment Association offers its deepest condolences to the Brandt family.

www.haaonline.org

October 2018

ABODE

law pg 11,12, 72.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:10 AM Page 3

Law, continued from Page 12 Although this district court case is still subject to being appealed, and consequently subject to further interpretation, the United States Supreme Court has ruled that these types of statutes should be analyzed under a First Amendment freedom of speech analysis.

Supreme Court has ruled that these types of statutes should be analyzed under a First Amendment freedom of speech analysis. According to the United States District Court in Texas, the Texas anti-surcharge law is unconstitutional, at least as far as it is currently written. However, even before the law was declared unconstitutional by the Texas federal court, the attorney general (the state agency that now enforces the law) already indicated a third-party payment processor could impose the additional fee without running afoul of the law because the third-party processor was not a person in the business of selling or leasing goods or services. However, both the attorney general and the Texas federal court based their interpretations on the assumption that the amount of any surcharge would not be more than the swipe fee of the particular transaction in which the surcharge is assessed. Also note that there is a similar anti-surcharge law on debit card charges, which was not the subject of the Rowell case. However, since the debit card anti-surcharge law is similar to the credit card anti-surcharge law, the same interpretation might be applied. As always keep abreast of this everchanging area of the law. Hopefully by the time this article is published, we’ll know whether the case has been appealed or is the final word from the court.

Want more “It’s the Law”? See current and previous issues of ABODE online at http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

rcr pg 73.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 9:59 AM Page 1

Rental Credit Reporting provides Houston’s

apartment industry with the most eﬀective rental credit reporting tool available. RCR gives your leasing staﬀ immediate access to information about which prospects have fulfilled their leases and who have been residents in good standing. RCR also tells you who hasn’t paid rent, who has broken leases and who has received their deposit refund.

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 the following searches in one bundled report with immediate and unlimited inquiry access. National Landlord-Tenant Data – Searches more than 34 million landlord-tenant court records including filings, judgments and liens. Local resident rental history including evictions, amount owed at move-out, broken lease information, NSF checks, deposit disposition. Texas Criminal Data – Instant delivery of available felony and misdemeanor records from Texas statewide and 18+ supplemental counties including Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend. Terrorist Check – Automated search tool that identifies known or suspected terrorists and fugitives from various data sources, including the FBI, other federal agencies as well as state and local law enforcement agencies. Sex Offender Search – Instantly informs your staff if a prospective or current resident is a registered sex offender. Move-in/Move-out Entry – Submit your property’s rental history data online through RCR's familiar and easy-to-use tools. Eviction Entry – Protect yourself and other properties by registering your evictions with RCR. Inquiry History – Know where else your applicant is applying. Quick and Easy – Information is entered into an easy-to-use Web application and a decision is delivered instantly. Cost Effective – Automated decisions save your staff time. Immediate Access – Inquiries concerning prospective residents can be made online, 24/7. Monthly Activity Report – No need to guess if you’re getting what you are paying for – each owner/management company can access a monthly report showing their properties system use. Subscribe Today – For approximately 32 cents per unit per month, RCR can help make sure you know just who your prospective residents are. * For properties 49 units or less, you have unlimited inquiries for $10 per month.

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.

ad index pg 74.qxp_Ad Index pg 74 9/18/18 10:00 AM Page 1

Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY

A/C Supplies

Insurance

Trash Hauling

Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com

Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com

Waste Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 713-354-5230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.thinkgreen.com

Answering Service

Landscape Contractors

HAA Products & Services

Apartment Lines . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 800-583-7769 . . . . . . . . . .www.apartmentlines.com

Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 713-955-0990 . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com

Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org/rcr

Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 281-846-3779 . . . . . . . . . .www.texscapeservices.com

Careers Landmark Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 713-855-3814 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.LMhomes.net

Laundry Equipment & Supplies

Carpet Installation

Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com

Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com

Locks & Locksmiths

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.

CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com

Collection Agencies Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 713-644-4441 . . . . . . . . . . .www.alexanderrose-inc.com

Movers Ameritex Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 713-484-MOVE . . . . . . . . . .www.stressfreemove.com

Countertops Impact Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 800-951-9462 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.impactfloors.com

Paving Contractors Pavement Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 281-758-8434 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.nopothole.com

Electric Contractors Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com

Plumbing Contractors

Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services . . . .37 281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com

AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com

General Contractors

Resident Screening Service

Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . .Back Cover 713-413-2267 . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com

CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover 888-297-8821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.corelogic.com

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottoncompanies.com FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com Gambit Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 832-987-4242 . . . . .www.gambitconstruction.com Gemstar Construction & Development . . . . . . . .1 281-821-1195 . . . . . .www.gemstarconstruction.com Guardian Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 832-672-4196 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardianconst.com

Resurfacing Perfect Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 713-952-0202 . . . . . . . .www.perfectsurfaceinc.com

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

MultiFamily Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 713-266-9100

Security Control Equipment/Systems

RK Builders . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55 281-370-0012 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rkbuilderstx.com

SentriForce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 888-671-2202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sentriforce.com

RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc.

Swimming Pool Service Poolsure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 800-858-POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.poolsure.com

www.haaonline.org/rcr

Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode. Or view this issue on your computer, iPad or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_oct2018.

ABODE

October 2018

www.haaonline.org

Marketline pg 75.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 10:01 AM Page 1

MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com

HOUSTON

115.0 –

Snapshot 90.2% $1,031/mo. 116.9¢/sq.ft./mo. 882 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 4.0% rental rate growth 19,578 units absorbed

•

• • • • • • • • • •

– 90.0

– 89.0 100.0 – – 88.0

•

Recently Opened (12 months): 39 communities 9,048 units

110.0 –

•

Under Construction: 44 communities 11,830 units

– 87.0 Jul 18

Aug 18

Jun 18

May 18

Apr 18

Mar 18

Feb 18

Jan 18

Nov 17

Dec 17

Oct 17

Sep 17

Jul 17

Aug 17

Jun 17

May 17

Apr 17

Mar 17

Feb 17

Jan 17

Nov 16

Dec 16

Oct 16

Sep 16

90.0 –

Proposed Construction: 80 communities 22,026 units

Occupancy (%)

Operating Supply: 2,751 communities 644,578 units

Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

• • • • • • • • • • •

History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units

Hottest Submarkets Over the Past Three Months

Concessions

Annualized % of Market Rank Submarket Absorbed 1 Conroe North/Montgomery 4.8% 2 Montrose/Museum/Midtown 3.5% 3 Heights/Washington Ave 2.7% 4 Brookhollow/Northwest Crossing 4.3% 5 Woodlake/Westheimer 10.1%

Rental Rate Growth % 2.4% 1.9% 1.6% 0.7% 0.1%

Total Units Class w/Concessions All 253,224 A 75,553 B 89,428 C 76,155 D 12,088

% of Total Units 39% 50% 37% 38% 26%

Average Special -2.7% -4.6% -1.8% -1.9% -1.7%

Citywide Effect -6.6% -8.7% -4.8% -4.9% -6.3%

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:

91.9% $1,114/mo. 127.6¢/sq.ft./mo. 873 sq.ft.

90.6% $941/mo. 110.7¢/sq.ft./mo. 850 sq.ft.

91.6% $1,242/mo. 142.3¢/sq.ft./mo. 873 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 3.2% rental rate growth 21,713 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 2.9% rental rate growth 5,932 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 3.6% rental rate growth 10,028 units absorbed

Operating Supply: 3,042 communities 710,357 units

Operating Supply: 889 communities 187,978 units

Operating Supply: 959 communities 223,193 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 million apartment units in Texas, Georgia, Arizona, North Carolina and Tennessee. For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730. © 2018 ApartmentData.com October 2018

ABODE

Backpage pg 76 oct.qxp_Layout 1 9/20/18 3:20 PM Page 1

Back Page

with News from around the COMMUNITY

Join the HAA Food Drive for people and pets Join us for a fun-filled day of golf, games, prizes, giveaways and more, all benefiting Open Arms!

HAA is asking all members to collect food, for both people and pets, to donate to the Houston Food Bank and The Rescue Bank. HAA held its first food drive in 1983, and the Houston Food Bank lists HAA as one of the top 25 donors to the organization. If your property or company plans on a community effort this holiday season, why not collect food for displaced residents and help us make HAA and the apartment industry the largest contributor in the city? Don’t forget our four-legged friends, too! Apartment managers, here are some ideas for collecting food on site: • Set up a collection box at the leasing office. The Houston Food Bank has collection boxes available, or you can decorate your own box. • Place a flier at each resident’s door or in your newsletter announcing that you will be collecting food during November. • Visit your local grocery store and ask for a supply of paper bags that you can use to place at each apartment door asking residents to fill the bag with nonperishable food for people and pets. • Place a flier in the mailbox area announcing the food drive and where/how to donate. Please contact Susan Hinkley at 713-595-0313 or shinkley@haaonline.org to participate.

ABODE

October 2018

Open Arms Charity Golf Tournament at Longwood Country Club: 13300 Longwood Trace Drive, Cypress, TX 77429 Registration – 6 a.m. Tee Time – 8:30 a.m. Registration includes green fees, cart fees, range balls, breakfast and lunch. Sponsorship Opportunities Available: Gold – $5,000 Silver – $3,000 Bronze – $2,000 Breakfast or Lunch Sponsorship – $3,000 Beverage Cart _ $1,500 Golf Fees: Team of 4 only $500 Register online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WVR7PKX If you are not interested in the golf tournament this year, but would like to make a donation to Open Arms, it would be greatly appreciated. For more information on Open Arms: https://www.maac.com/our-programs/open-arms For more tournament information, contact: Alan Jones at 281-630-8219 or alan.jones@maac.com

www.haaonline.org

rencon inside back cover.qxp_Layout 1 9/18/18 10:03 AM Page 1

camp ad Back Cover.qxp_Layout 1 9/25/18 8:21 AM Page 1

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

Return Service Requested