ISLANDVIBES.
MARCH11,2025!
GCNKAA
HOSTS ANNUAL TRADE SHOW ON MARCH 11
Sip, savor, and celebrate multifamily housing at the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association’s Annual Trade Show on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Sharonville Convention Center from 4 pm to 6:30 pm. If you were one of the few who didn’t stop by in 2024, here is your chance to see what all the hype is about. Some of the products, services and people you meet may lead you to success in the apartment rental industry.
This year, we have 89 booths with vendors that supply a product or service directly to the multi-family housing industry. This is your chance to meet and greet them all andas always - we have free parking, free admission and plenty of entertainment. All pre-registered attendees will receive a $15
food and beverage voucher good for use at the Northern Lights Cafe on the trade show floor. Please note that Sharonville Convention Center is a cashless facility. You will not receive change for any unused portion of your voucher and are also responsible for any charges over the $15 voucher. This is the biggest event of the year for our Associate members, allowing them to display their products and services to both current clients and potential customers. So whether you are looking for a specific new service or just checking out the latest products available...what better or more fun place to find it?!
A huge thank you to the Associate Council, the Trade Show Committee and to all the companies who stepped up to help sponsor this event. For complete information on the trade show - including sponsors and educational seminars - see the insert inside this newsletter.
Please note admission policy regarding non-exhibiting, non-sponsoring associate (vendor) members only. Policy may be found in full by clicking here.
MORE THAN $2500 IN PRIZES TO BE AWARDED AT TRADE SHOW
Not only is the Trade Show your chance to meet and greet more than 89 different vendors and broaden your knowledge of the multifamily housing industry, but you can walk away with one of several different door prizes or one of the $1000 grand prizes!
This year, for the grand prize, we are hosting a Scavenger Hunt. Simply download the app onto your phone and go to each booth to scan their QR code for points. Booths have different point totals depending if they are a VIP booth, a regular exhibitor booth, or a new member. The individual with the highest total points at the end of the evening will win $1000. The second place total earns $500. In the event of a tie, we will enter the top competitors onto the Wheel of Prizes and spin for the winner. You must be present to win so be sure to hang around until the conclusion of the trade show at 6:30 pm!
Returning this year, courtesy of our VIP Sponsors, we will be giving away one $1000 VIP cash prize at 6:30 pm. Watch for details at the trade show registration desk on how you can win! This year our VIP booths include Apartments.com (#52), Apply Rite (#40), Belfor Property Restoration (#54), Bernecker Brothers Roofing (#51), Calloway Cleaning & Restoration (#48), Chadwell Supply (#43 and 44), ePremium Insurance Agency (#55), Hays + Sons Restoration (#42), MB Link (#53), Pinnacle Paving and Sealing (#47), PPG Paints (#38), Rent (#49), ResidentIQ (#39), Rite Rug (#46), Royal Finish (#45), Sherwin Williams (#50), and Zillow Rentals (#41). Only individuals who have pre-registered for seminars, forums, or the trade show are eligible and you You must be present to win.
We have also had other door prizes ranging from gift certificates to color televisions to vacation get-aways. And this is just at the end of the evening! Several booths give away items throughout the show, so be sure to register at the individual booths as well as the Association Prize Booth. Good luck!
REGISTER FOR TRADE SHOW SEMINARS
The Annual Trade Show on Tuesday, March 11, 2025, at Sharonville Convention Center is your chance to attend fabulous educational seminars!
This year’s seminars include Don’t Freak Out About Fair Housing - A Service Tech’s Survival Guide with Rick Ellis; and Hot Topics & Cold Hard Truths About Fair Housing presented by Katie Rigsby. Seminars are both from 2 pm to 4 pm and cost $60 each or free if your company has a Housing Pro Pass.
The Leadership Forums make their return to the trade show this year with Marci French leading the Executive Forum; Sara Woods moderating the Marketing Forum; Bob Williams leading the Human Resource Forum; and Abbie Huffman leading the newly-created Management Forum.
And finally, Express Education seminars return to the trade show floor. First, we will offer Navigating the New Normal of Resident Screening with Alison Young and Amber Taylor of AmRent from 4:40 pm to 5 pm. Second we will host Sean Skelly with Vector Security as he presents Why Go Smart and Where to Start from 5:20 pm to 5:40 pm. For complete details on the seminars, see inside this newsletter or click here.
2025 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
MELISSA JOY
Village Green Mgmt
President mjoy@villagegreen.com
JUSTIN SEGER
HILLS Properties Vice President
JustinS@hillsinc.com
CRAIG COFFMAN
Uptown Rental Properties
Treasurer ccoffman@uptownrents.com
MEGAN LAWHON PLK Communities
Secretary megan@plkcommunities.com
Mark Arnold, Royal Finish Associate Council 2nd Vice President
Heather Barrow, A&H Properties
Lloyd Cobble, CIG Communities
Brian Fullenkamp, Legacy Management
Rod Herper, National Credit Systems Associate Council 1st Vice President
Todd Hignite, Hearth Home Communities
Lisa Isham, CMHA
GCNKAA PAST PRESIDENTS
2024...Melissa Joy
2023...Tonya Petersen
2022...Tonya Petersen
2021...Don Brunner
2020...Don Brunner
2019...Jud Oscherwitz
2018...Jud Oscherwitz
2017...Stacy Walton
2016...Stacy Walton
2015...Rusty Lykes
2014...Rusty Lykes
2013...Maria Stanton
2012...Maria Stanton
2011...Jeff March
2010...Brian Fullenkamp
2009...Brian Hendy, CPM
2008...Brian Hendy, CPM
2007...Becky Alejandrino, CPM
2006...Marc Cameron, CPM
2005...Marc Cameron, CPM
2004...Gary Sanzone, CPM, CAPS, CAM, NALP
2003...Gary Sanzone, CPM, CAPS, CAM, NALP
2002…Jim Ruh
2001…Jay Ingram, CPM
2000…Roy Wergers
1999…Roy Wergers
1998…Robert J. Wahlke, CAPS
1997…Terry Sievers
1997…Dave Lockard
1996…Jim Cohen, CPM
1995…Jim Ruh
1994…Mark Robinson
1993…David Noll
1992…Bernie Wessels **
1992…Jerry A. Molique, CPM, CAPS **
1991…Jay O. Ingram, Jr., CPM
1990…Ronald Bommer
1989…John Cobey
1988…Robert J. Wahlke, CAPS
1987…Robert J. Wahlke, CAPS
1986…Charles Berling
1985…Joseph Fullenkamp, CAPS
1984…John Stalnaker
1983…Jerry A. Molique, CPM, CAPS
1982…Harry Fath
**Apartment Association of N. KY merged with GCNKAA
Office Hours: Monday Through Friday 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
ADVERTISING RATES 2025
Angela Lacy, Jeffrey R. Anderson Property Mgmt.
Oksana Lukjanenko, Denizen Management
Mike Markus, BRG Apartments
Jordann Morgan, Fath Properties
John Recob, Towne Properties
Grant Saunders, Hays + Sons Restoration Associate Council President
Charles Tassell, Parliamentarian Cornerstone Redevelopment
2025 BOARD OF DIRECTORS GCNKAA STAFF
Rebecca McLean, Executive Vice President
Michele Klusman, Director of Communications & Programs; Apartment Advantage Editor
Rick Holste, Director of Membership Sales
Zach Jameson,Accounting, Database & Office Coordinator
James Combs, Education & Social Media Coordinator
Susan Peck,AAOutreach Coordinator
Nicole Metz, Membership Coordinator
Regan Tassell, Education Coordinator
Michael Brown, OfficeAdministrator
DEADLINES
Ad deadlines are the first of the month for the next month’s issue. Placement of articles and ads is limited to pre-set space and dimensions of the Apartment Advantage. Submissions may or may not be used and placement is at the discretion of the editor
Apartment Advantage is a monthly publication of the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association, Kenwood Executive Center, 7265 Kenwood Rd, Ste. 100, Cincinnati, OH 45236; phone (513) 407-8612; fax (513) 407-7868. For up-to-date information check out our website: www.gcnkaa.org.
MARCH 2025
Across the Board
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
By Melissa Joy, President
Melissa Joy Village Green Mgmt.
Well, it is almost Spring on the calendar (March 20 if you’re counting down), but it is very much Spring in my heart. The proverbial meaning of “Spring” is a new beginning or rebirth. I am more excited about the coming season of Spring than I have ever been. I mean this in both the literal and proverbial sense. First, and foremost, March is one of the most exciting months at the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association (GCNKAA). We are just days away from the annual Trade Show - aptly themed “Island Vibes.” I am so ready for the ISLAND VIBES that bring sunshine, warmth, and some smooth sailing! The GCNKAA trade show is an event I have eagerly anticipated every year for decades. No matter what has ever been going on in my career, the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Trade Show has been a wonderful place to network with new members, reunite with existing members, meet up with former co-workers and friends, and learn about services and products that make lives easier for property management professionals. It has always been the event
This section contains articles and information concerning the Board of Directors and Association policies.
The more personal reason I am so excited for the impending Spring season is because I, too, am embarking on a new beginning. I very much compare the new season of my life I am ready to walk into as Spring - it is an awakening and a rebirth. After 25 years with Village Green Management, I am saying farewell in a few weeks. In February, I obtained my Broker’s License for the State of Ohio and have some very exciting opportunities that I am elated to explore. As I say farewell to the company that has afforded me so much experience, so many relationships, and so much professional growth, I do so with the utmost respect and appreciation. I pledge my unwavering service and support to the GCNKAA, my fellow board members, and each individual member of our association during this new beginning. I am excited to share more as the season progresses. If you know me, you know that the multifamily housing industry has been my passion for 30+ years (and counting). One place you will always find me is right here…supporting and furthering the mission of the Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association and our National organization.
Friends, I hope each of you are equally excited for the Spring season we will soon experience. Whether your “Spring” is the literal coming of this season or a new beginning, like mine, I wish you
Low, Predictable cost &
High ROI At .50 cents a unit, the average GCNKAA member’s savings pay for the pass after 5 people attend a single session!
Government & Housing Legalities
MEMBER RESOURCE: IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT AND RENTAL HOUSING
Courtesy of National Apartment Association (NAA)
This member resource is authored by Sheppard Mullin and more information on the authors is available at the end of this resource. Please note that this document is not a substitute for legal or operational advice, and the National Apartment Association (NAA) recommends contacting qualified legal counsel regarding ICE enforcement activities specific to your properties.
On January 20, 2025, the Trump Administration, via Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) under the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), began immigration enforcement activities, including operations at rental housing communities. The Administration has stated that its initial focus will be on the removal of non-citizens with criminal convictions, beefing up border enforcement and terminating humanitarian parole programs. It is still uncertain how widespread such enforcement actions will be, and many apartment owners and operators are concerned that they could be pulled into the fray.
What follows is general information on how to interact with ICE agents if they show up at your property, including the distinction between criminal and civil/immigration warrants, a decision tree to guide your actions and answers to some frequently asked questions. As the situation continues to evolve, this member resource will be updated.
COMMERCIAL PROPERTY OWNERS RIGHT TO PRIVACY
Property owners and commercial establishments have a right to privacy, and their employees generally do not have to allow ICE onto their facility. If ICE wanted to take custody of someone, ICE agents would have to wait outside on public property, unless the property owners allowed them in. However, failure to cooperate could lead to antagonism and further enforcement efforts on the part of ICE.
UNDERSTANDING RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS
Much like property owners, renters and their families have a right to privacy and generally do not have to allow ICE into their homes. In the event ICE wanted to detain someone, they would have to wait outside on public property unless the property owners allowed them in. Regardless of their citizenship, renters and their families also have the right to remain silent and do not have to answer questions from ICE unless they choose to do so. However, their refusal to engage with law enforcement may result in more visits to the rental community.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CIVIL AND CRIMINAL ARREST
Immigration is a civil matter, including for individuals who entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed their authorized stay. If an Immigration Judge already ordered someone to be removed from the U.S., ICE can issue a civil administrative warrant for their arrest, detention and eventual removal. But, even with that warrant, ICE agents cannot enter private property without permission.
However, ICE sometimes obtains a criminal warrant by asking the Department of Justice (DOJ) to seek one from a judge, for
example, if the individual has been arrested for another crime such as drug trafficking or if someone was previously removed from the U.S. pursuant to a removal order and has illegally re-entered the U.S. In the rare instances where the DOJ does prosecute and obtain a criminal warrant, ICE may serve that warrant, and for that they must be allowed entry on the property.
IDENTIFYING WARRANTS
The best way to determine whether a document is a civil or criminal warrant is to look at who signed it. If it has been issued by a court and signed by a judge, then it is a criminal warrant. If it has been issued by DHS/ICE and was only signed by an immigration officer, it is a civil administrative warrant. See the distinctions in the sample civil and criminal warrants.
IMMIGRATION STATUS AND RESIDENTIAL SCREENINGS
Because there are federal, state and local agencies that will file anti-discrimination enforcement actions against housing providers for using immigration status as a basis for screening, NAA recommends housing providers consult local counsel when determining whether to include immigration status as part of their screening criteria.
IMPLICATIONS FOR HUD-ASSISTED HOUSING
The Trump Administration may reverse the Biden Administration’s interpretation of federal laws and regulations that allow resident households that benefit from the Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program to have an undocumented family member reside in their unit. Currently, these households, also known as “mixed status” families, can and do receive prorated assistance that does not take into account the undocumented occupant(s) or other ineligible non-citizen(s) in their household. HUD may disallow this practice, but it would require rulemaking. This process takes quite a bit of time (months at least) and public notice, so there would be ample time to prepare.
EMPLOYER CONSIDERATIONS
I-9 audits of property owners are unlikely because they do not have many employees. That said, employers should make sure that they have a completed I-9 on file for all W-2 employees and that it is completed timely, to demonstrate work authorization. Prior to onboarding, employers should not ask applicants for employment about their immigration status (other than to ask if they have the unrestricted right to work in the U.S. and if not, whether they require visa sponsorship by an employer).
In the event of an ICE I-9 audit, the company can ask for an extension to gather the original I-9s. By law, a company must produce the original I-9s within 3 days, but ICE historically has given one-to-two-week extensions without issue, if asked.
If a company decides to conduct its own internal I-9 audit, it should treat all employees consistently and fairly. The DOJ has an aggressive Immigrant and Employee Rights (IER) unit that This
will issue robust civil investigation demands to employers based on a complaint from a job applicant or employee of discrimination against non-citizens. Some of the I-9 rules can be very confusing. The company should contact qualified counsel before terminating an employee or denying employment to a new hire based on an I-9 issue.
HOUSING PROVIDERS: KNOW YOUR RIGHTS
Absent a criminal warrant:
• Be cordial but there is no requirement to engage in a discussion with an ICE agent
• No requirement to provide the names or other information regarding residents
• No requirement to provide information regarding their immigration status, citizenship or national origin should you happen to know that
• A decision not to cooperate, however, could result in more aggressive follow-up by ICE at a later date
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Reminder: Please note that these FAQs are not a substitute for legal or operational advice, and NAA recommends contacting qualified legal counsel regarding ICE enforcement activities specific to your properties.
1. Does a detained individual have a right to a hearing?
The vast majority of individuals who are in the U.S. without legal status would have a right to a hearing before an Immigration Judge before they could be removed from the U.S. However, the Immigration Court system currently has a 5-year backlog for 3 million respondents and there are estimated to be another 8 million undocumented individuals in the U.S. Usually the process involves several hearings before the actual trial on the merits. So, the process can be time-consuming unless the individual consents to removal.
2. Could an individual be removed from the U.S. without a hearing?
Under a new DHS policy instituted by the Trump Administration (and currently being challenged in court), undocumented individuals who don’t have a credible asylum case and have been in the U.S. for less than 2 years can be deported without a hearing. This is in addition to those who are arriving at the U.S. ports of entry (airports and ground borders) and are found inadmissible (i.e. no visa, public charge, misrepresentation, prior unauthorized employment etc.).
3. What will happen to programs like DACA, TPS, and Humanitarian Parole?
As of this writing, the U.S. government has recently canceled most humanitarian parole programs, but has not taken action against the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) or Temporary Protected Status (TPS) programs, though the future of both is very uncertain. While it is exceedingly difficult to predict, individuals covered by these programs at a minimum should be entitled to a hearing. Furthermore, there are likely plaintiffs that would successfully obtain a temporary injunction against cancellation of these programs based on various grounds, resulting in the halting of any such deportations at least temporarily. Also, the removal process
could take years after any program is canceled.
4. Where can individuals or families obtain legal assistance?
Should you know of a non-citizen family that needs immigration advice, we recommend that they contact the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) referral service at https://ailalawyer.com/.
5. What if ICE Agents ask if a specific resident lives on the property?
Absent a criminal warrant for the information, there is no obligation to provide such information. The housing provider may choose whether to cooperate.
6. What if ICE Agent asks to see my resident log/records?
Similar to a request regarding a specific resident, absent a criminal warrant for the information, there is no obligation to provide such information. The housing provider may choose whether to cooperate.
7. What if ICE damages the property in serving a criminal warrant?
If this happens, you can contact your local ICE office to register a complaint. If ICE’s response is unsatisfactory, you can contact the DHS Office of the Immigration Detention Ombudsman, the DHS Office of the Inspector General, and if need be, speak to your counsel about bringing a lawsuit for damages.
8. What happens to the landlord/tenant relationship if a resident is removed from a unit by ICE Agents? What happens to the lease and the resident’s unit? If there are other residents, do they now become responsible for the lease and the unit? Are there any personal property implications if the resident lived alone?
This will depend on the exact language of the governing rental agreement/lease. If the person removed from the unit is the responsible party under the agreement (or one of them), that person will still have liability under the agreement but it will likely be hard to enforce. The remaining residents don’t automatically become responsible under the lease if they were not named residents, but they also cannot remain there if the rent is not paid and the other terms of the lease are not complied with.
If there is a security deposit, the housing provider will need to follow the law with respect to the security deposit – it can be applied to rent that is due but will need to be refunded to the named resident under the lease if rent is fully paid and the lease terminates.
Any and all occupants of the unit should be listed on the rental agreement – if they are not, the housing provider has the right to require that they provide information and become listed on the rental agreement and they will need to qualify for the rental. If they can’t provide financial information, and no one is able to be the responsible party under the lease, the housing provider can send a notice of termination.
In some states, if an occupant was a minor when the lease commenced but they are now an adult, there are some protections that will apply to prevent eviction – they must be given the opportunity to independently qualify if they want to remain in occupancy.
With regard to personal property left behind, the law and the rental agreement must be followed. If no one remains in occupancy of the unit, a “notice of abandoned property” must be filed in many states, and abandoned property will need to be stored until the notice periods pass.
9. What state implications exist? Aren’t there a handful of places that require checking immigration status while other jurisdictions take the angle of protecting immigration status?
In several states, including California, a housing provider may not ask about immigration status but they can ask for a driver’s license and social security number, as well as income history.
If the apartment is in a rent control area, rent control laws will also impact what can be done and that will be on a case-by-case basis. Many counties, cities and states have their own rent control laws and protections, and research should be updated for each rental agreement at issue.
10. How does this affect HUD housing?
There are two types of HUD beneficiary residents that are relevant to this question. For apartment complexes that were funded with Section 8 money and are operating under HUD’s rules and regulations that require that they accept below market residents, President Trump could by executive order suspend HUD’s ability to execute and enter into those leases, though as of this writing he has not yet done so.
The second type are residents who have Section 8 Housing Choice vouchers. In such cases, there is a three-way contract or lease among HUD, the housing provider and the resident. Thus,
HUD would be in breach of the lease if it suspended a lease with an individual. Currently, “mixed status” families (i.e., where not all family members are undocumented) can and do receive prorated assistance that does not take into account the undocumented family member. To evict all mixed-status families from HUD housing/ vouchers would require regulatory action. This process takes quite a bit of time (months at least) and public notice, so there would be ample time to prepare.
Current federal regulations do not require the verification of recipients’ immigration status. However, this could be changed by rulemaking, which as noted above, takes time.
About the Authors
Jonathan Meyer is a partner in the Governmental Practice Group in D.C. and leads the firm’s National Security team. From 2021 to 2024, he served as General Counsel of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. Jon can be reached at JMeyer@sheppardmullin.com.
Greg Berk is a partner in the firm’s Labor and Employment Practice Group. He leads the Firm’s immigration practice and is the author of Immigration Checklists and Practice Pointers – A Desk Reference book for immigration lawyers published by the American Bar Association. Greg can be reached at gberk@sheppardmullin. com.
Kate Rumsey is special counsel in the Governmental Practice Group in Dallas. She is a former federal prosecutor at DOJ where she handled a variety of complex cases including immigration matters. She is also an Air Force JAG officer. Kate can be reached at
REGISTRATIONS FOR NAA ADVOCATE CONFERENCE OPEN
As the new Congress settles into Capitol Hill, the time has come to introduce members to the rental housing industry. Advocate – NAA’s annual advocacy conference – is the prime opportunity to meet with your representatives by joining rental housing suppliers, property managers, owners and operators in Washington D.C. on March 25-26, 2025. NAA Governance meetings continue from March 27-28, 2025.
It is more important than ever to communicate the rental housing industry’s policy stances and priorities to our representatives in Congress following years of pandemic-fueled challenges and political polarization. Sharing the unique operational needs of rental housing is critical, and there is no better way to educate federal lawmakers than in-person in the halls of Congress.
Advocate is the opportunity to make that a reality by coming together with a family of over 92,000 members and 141 affiliates.
Help us lay a new cornerstone on which we can build even more successes for the rental housing industry.
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
Pre-registration for Advocate is complimentary for all attendees who register on or before March 18, 2025. After this date, registration must be done on-site and will be subject to a $50 charge.
Please Note: Congressional offices may restrict the number of people allowed to participate in meetings on Capitol Hill during Lobby Day. Registering for Advocate does not guarantee that you will be able to participate in a meeting. Please make sure you are working with your local affiliate if you are planning to attend a meeting.
HOTEL INFORMATION
Grand Hyatt Washington 1000 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001
BOOK YOUR STAY
Click here to reserve your room or call 202-582-1234. The NAA Advocate group block code is G-APT0.
Hotel reservations may be canceled up to 4 weeks prior to the date of arrival without penalty. Rooms canceled within 4 weeks of arrival will be charged one night’s room and tax.
Rooms in the NAA room block are intended for registered attendees of 2025 Advocate. You must be registered prior to making your hotel reservation. Only one (1) hotel reservation will be allowed per registered attendee. NAA has the authority to cancel any duplicate hotel reservations or those that are not registered for the conference with or without prior notification.
· Countertop, Cabinet and Bathtub resurfacing
· Cabinet Door Replacement with Resurfacing of frames and boxes
· Increase Rent/Occupancy
· NEW look - Fresh Colors
Our House
This heading contains membership, staff, committee information and events.
NAA MAINTENANCE LEGENDS: ENTER YOUR TECHS TODAY FOR MARCH CONTEST PRIZES
The National Apartment Association (NAA) Maintenance Legends returns for the 2024-2025 season. This program will continue to shine a spotlight on the maintenance heroics we’ve all seen and heard about. It will give the rental housing industry the chance to celebrate the Maintenance Professionals going above and beyond every month.
WIN BIG EVERY MONTH
Three monthly winners will receive prizes up to $5,000 retail value. Submit your maintenance story for a chance to win.
PAID TRIP TO NAA APARTMENTALIZE 2025
Monthly winners will get airfare, lodging, and access to 2025’s Apartmentalize Conference in Las Vegas in June.
FREE TRAINING CERTIFICATIONS
In June 2025, 25 additional winners will be selected for a free certification including the Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT), Certified Pool Operator (CPO), EPA 608 Certification, and more.
A SHOT AT OUR GRAND PRIZE
Monthly winners will have a chance to win big during the 2025 Apartmentalize Conference. The overall grand prize is a new Ford truck.
HOW DO YOU BECOME A LEGEND?
Are you, or do you know, a maintenance tech or property manager that goes above and beyond for their tenants? Time to turn those stories into Legends! Each month, in addition to the story with the most fan votes, our panel of judges will pick two favorites, for a total of 3 winners. Candidates can submit their story from March 1 through March 20 at www.maintenancelegends. com.
HOW, WHEN AND WHERE CAN WE VOTE?
Voting will be open to the general membership beginning March 23 and will close March 31. It is one vote per person.
Learn more at www.maintenancelegends.com.
become a Legend? know, a maintenance tech or property manager that goes above and beyond for their tenants? Time to turn those stories month, in addition to the story with the most fan votes, our panel of judges will pick two favorites, for a total of 3 winners. August 2023.
How To Become a Maintenance Legend
Hard work, dedication and 3 easy steps can make you a Maintenance Legend!
Provide Your Info
Fill out our form with your name, address, affiliate association & more.
Tell Your Story
Submit Your Photo(s)
Every
March 2025 Prizes
Super Cool Prizes, Just For You!
Stay cool and win big with a prize package featuring top-tier gear, including:
• iPad Air
• Bose QuietComfort Headphones
• Ray-Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses
• Nintendo Switch
Three monthly winners will receive prizes up to $5,000 retail value. Submit your maintenance story for a chance to win.
JANUARY 2025 NEW MEMBERS
PRIMARY
J and G Companies
Bryan Banks 21 South Rangeline Road Carmel, IN 46032-2196 (513) 843-4038
bbanks@jandgcompanies.com
Real Estate Housing Pro
Tonya Petersen 533 Grants Way Maineville, OH 45039-7903 (513) 745-2609
rpmhousingpro@gmail.com
ASSOCIATE
CIS Protects and Patrol Services
James Hubbard 5318 Carthage Avenue Norwood, OH 45212-1510 (513) 744-7233
jhubbard@cisprotects.com
Key Control/Safety & Security Services
Jamison Construction Services
Jeff Landrum 96 Arndt Court Fairfield OH 45014 (513) 486-0355
admin@jcsolutionsinc.com Pavement Maintenance & Repair
Mohawk Industries
Randy Reifel 160 South Industrial Boulevard Calhoun, GA 30701 (706) 879-6573
tammy_leech@mohawkind.com Flooring Sales and Installation
Pink’s Windows Greater Cincinnati
Nick Ramos 9 Highview Drive Fort Thomas, KY 41075 (859) 212-3782
nick.ramos@pinkswindows.com Cleaning and Janitorial Services
Signal Security
Michael White 1507 Boettler Rd Suite F Uniontown, OH 44685 (330) 572-7202 mwhite@teamsignal.com Safety and Security Services
SEEKING PROPERTY OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT COMPANIES TO PARTICIPATE IN 2025 BUSINESS EXCHANGE
THE PROGRAM
The Business Exchange is a trade show-style event where the owner and property management companies are the exhibitors and the Associate Members are the attendees. The Associate members circulate the room in three-to-five minute meetings. This is one of the largest revenue generators for the Apartment Association and the participation of our management companies is critical for its continued success.
OWNER AND PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANY REGISTRATIONS
The Business Exchange offers an easy way to manage multiple vendor meetings in one location. This is an excellent opportunity to gather the latest price and product information with a personal touch. We respectfully request that owner/management attendees be senior executives with the authority to make purchasing decisions.
The Business Exchange Committee has worked hard to make changes to this event to provide better value for the companies who participate. Two of these changes include eliminating the prescheduled meetings for the first hour of the event, and moving this
from a morning event to an afternoon event.
The only investment we ask of our property management companies is your time and to donate two $25 gift cards to be raffled off to participating associate members during the Business Exchange.
The Greater Cincinnati Northern Kentucky Apartment Association’s 2025 Business Exchange will be held on Tuesday, May 13 from 1:30 pm to 5:00 am at the Oasis Conference Center in Loveland, Ohio. Participation in this event is free for all management companies. Please plan on arriving by 1:15 pm to ensure you have time to prepare your table. From 1:30 pm to 2:00 pm, we will have open rotations for our participating Associate Member Gold Sponsors; followed by networking from 2 pm to 2:30 pm; and finally, from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm, we will host the open rotations for all attendees. Appetizers and refreshments will be available.
If you would like to participate as a property management company or an owner, or would like more information on the Business Exchange, please click here or contact Michele at the Apartment Association offices by emailing michele@gcnkaa.org or calling 513 407-8612.
To download the Information Statement and Registration Form click here.
GET READY TO ROLL! GCNKAA’S INAUGURAL COMMUNITY CONNECTION TOUR HITS THE ROAD ON APRIL 24
The GCNKAA Bus Tour is more than just a journey - it’s a premier opportunity to showcase the diverse landscape of multifamily housing in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, gain valuable market insights, and build meaningful connections with industry leaders. This high-energy event brings together top professionals for a day of networking, education, and collaborationall while giving back to the communities we serve. Limited seating on the bus is available for our property owners, management companies, and all of their team. Tickets are $50 per person and include a light breakfast and refreshments on the bus, lunch, and Happy Hour. The route includes 1010 on the Rhine, The Alto, Factory 52 Apartments, Graphite Oakley, and Sky Central.
THE GIVE-BACK INITIATIVE
We strongly encourage all sponsors and attendees of the Inaugural GCNKAA Bus Tour to take part in our give-back initiative by donating essential hygienic items to Roll Hill Community Center. Needed items include toothbrushes, toothpaste, body wash, sanitary napkins, deodorant, lotions, shave gel, razors, lip balm, face cloths, bandages, hand sanitizer, tissues, nail clippers, and hair ties. Simply bring your donated items to the start location at Graphite Oakley and GCNKAA staff will take care of the rest!
THE SPONSORSHIPS
As a sponsor, you’ll put your brand in front of key decisionmakers, position yourself as an industry leader, and contribute to an event that strengthens our market. Don’t miss the chance to align your business with innovation, connection, and impact. Secure your sponsorship today and be a driving force in shaping the future of multifamily housing!
Event Sponsor - $1000 (Limit of 1)
• Exclusive opportunity to be the event sponsor of the first GCNKAA Community Connection Tour
• 2 complimentary registrations for the Bus Tour
• Full page ad in the Bus Tour Passport Event Program
• Showcase your brand to attendees and hand out swag
• Social media spotlight
• Company logo included on all promotional marketing including the registration portal
• Receive list of attendees after the event
• Full-page ad in the newsletter for April OR May 2025
Program Sponsor - $750 (Limit of 2)
• Exclusive sponsor for the bus tour event program
• 1 complimentary registration for the Bus Tour
• Half page ad in the Bus Tour Passport Event Program
• Showcase your brand to attendees and hand out swag
• Social media spotlight
• Company logo included on all promotional marketing including the registration portal
• Receive list of attendees after the event
• Half page ad in the newsletter for April OR May 2025
Bus Sponsor - $500 (Limit of 3)
• Provide light refreshments on bus (non-alcoholic) and/or small breakfast item(s). **Refreshments not included in sponsorship fee. Please let GCNKAA staff know what you are bringing to ensure we have a variety of drinks and food.
• 1 complimentary registration for the Bus Tour
• Showcase your brand to attendees and hand out swag
• Social media spotlight
• Company logo included on all promotional marketing including the registration portal
• Receive list of attendees after the event
Lunch Sponsor - $250 (Limit of 1)
• Provide lunch for attendees. **Sponsor is responsible for providing lunch and refreshments (non-alcoholic). Lunch and refreshments not included in the sponsorship fee.
• Table tents with company logo on tables during Lunch
• 1 complimentary registration for the Bus Tour
• Showcase your brand to attendees and hand out swag
• Social media spotlight
• Company logo included on all promotional marketing including the registration portal
• Receive list of attendees after the event
• This sponsorship is available to Associate Members OR the specific site/management company only
Stop Sponsor - $150 (Limit of 5)
• Opportunity to provide a brief introduction about your company to attendees upon approach of your designated stop. (2-minute limit, please)
• Opportunity to include ‘swag’ in the swag bags distributed to all attendees. **All attendees will receive a ‘swag bag’ filled with items from sponsors and participating communities at the end of the tour. Please let GCNKAA staff know what ‘swag’ you will be including in the event giveaway and provide 60 of each item by April 3.
• 1 complimentary registration for the Bus Tour
• Showcase your brand to attendees and hand out swag
• Social media spotlight
• Company logo included on all promotional marketing including the registration portal
• Receive list of attendees after the event
• This sponsorship is available to Associate Members OR the specific site/management company only
CURRENT SPONSORS
Ferguson Facilities Supply - Happy Hour Sponsor
Greenway Waste & Supply - Swag Bag Sponsor
Impruv Painting & Contracting - Stop Sponsor
A.L.L. Laundry Service - Stop Sponsor
Rent Manager - Stop Sponsor
Nature Is My Office - Stop Sponsor
Register online here.
2025 NAA APARTMENTALIZE IN LAS VEGAS: REGISTRATION NOW OPEN!
Whether you’re in management, leasing, marketing or maintenance, if you love working in rental housing, you belong at Apartmentalize. Apartmentalize provides countless chances to converse with the best in the industry through interactive activities, the NAA Exposition and structured networking events.
6 REASONS YOU SHOULD ATTEND APARTMENTALIZE
Innovative learning formats and open spaces that foster knowledge exchanges allow you to align your own education to your personal learning level, need and interests. As you design your own education experience with your professional objectives in mind, you will be able to challenge yourself to explore and find fun in your learning.
General Sessions
Hear from three accomplished general session speakers who will inspire, motivate and entertain you with stories from outside of the industry. Speakers announced so far include podcaster and author Jay Shetty and Olympic Champion Simone Biles.
Jay Shetty, a global bestselling author, award-winning podcast host of On Purpose, and purpose-driven entrepreneur, has made an indelible impact on hearts and minds worldwide. With an astounding following of over 50 million across social media platforms, Jay possesses a talent for making purpose and ancient wisdom not only relatable but also practical and easily accessible. His journey of transformation and inspiration has touched the lives of millions across the globe.
Simone Biles is widely regarded as one of the greatest athletes of all time. The most decorated gymnast in history with 41 medals across World Championships and the Olympic Games, Biles holds the most World Championship medals (30) and gold medals (23) in gymnastics history. A three-time Olympian, her 11 Olympic medals and seven Olympic gold medals are the most by a U.S. gymnast. The three-time Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year and Associated Press Female Athlete of the Year, she has earned the rare distinction of having five skills named in her honor – The
Biles – in the beam, floor (two), and vault (two) disciplines.
Educational Seminars
Choose from over 90 sessions throughout the conference spanning a multitude of topics including Maintenance, Operations, Leasing, Affordable Housing, Marketing, Leadership and Industry Trends. With over 250 industry experts, you’ll find a solution for every day of the week! These sessions feature industry experts and provide useful information that attendees can apply to daily work life. The full listing of Education Sessions will be available soon!
Open Space Stations
This peer-to-peer learning experience is an opportunity to engage in creative conversations with fellow attendees who are passionate about the same issues and topics as you. Expert facilitators support small group discussions that explore a dedicated topic for each group, which you determine together.
Express Education
These sessions take place in a dedicated space in the NAA Exposition and are quick 30-minute interactive sessions that include quick digestible content, easily applied takeaways, Q&A and storytelling. The full listing of Education Sessions will be available soon.
Fishbowl Sessions
Fishbowl Sessions are meant to be more intimate, allowing for more active participation from all attendees, breaking down the separation between ‘panelist’ and ‘audience. A chair is left open on the panel to allow for attendees to step into the conversation.
NAA Exposition
The NAA Exposition brings together the rental industry’s top management professionals and suppliers eager to network, share ideas and the latest products and services.
Apartmentalize is scheduled for June 11-13, 2025, in Las Vegas. Details and schedule will be released soon. In the meantime, registration is now open here. Full conference includes access to everything including General Sessions, Education Sessions, NAA Exposition, Welcome Reception, Lunch on Thursday and Friday, Networking Events including Thursday Night Party , NAA Excellence Awards. Early Bird rate of $955 per person is in effect through February 28, 2025. After that, price increases to $1080 per person.
Jay Shetty Author / Podcaster
Simone Biles Athlete/Advocate
Island Vibes. Big Opp tunities.
2025 GCNKAA Trade Show
Sharonville Convention Center
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 | 4 pm - 6:30 pm
Booth Information Size: 8’ x 10’
Loading Dock Area and Sharonville Convention Center Concession Stand
Axis Communications 6. Ohio Geese Control
7. Greenway Waste & Recycling
24. ServPro of Boone, Kenton & Campbell Cos.
25. Lance Roo ng
26. McSwain Carpets
27. Rumpke Waste & Recycling
28. National Credit Systems
29. Jetz Service Company
30. 1-Tom-Plumber
31. Loveland Excavating & Paving
32. G&G Fitness 33. Qwikkit 34. Hamilton County ReSource
Yardi
Spectrum Community Solutions
Scherzinger Pest Control
Cost Per Booth
$750 Before October 1;
$800 Before February 11
$900 After February 11
VIP Sponsor Only
Booth Includes Pipe and Drape
1 - 6’ Table and Skirt
2 - Chairs
1 - Booth Marker Wifi Access
You May Order Additional Items Directly Through Our Contacts at Your Cost
Carpet - $125*
Electric - $79*
Additional 6’ Table - $50*
Additional Chair - $6*
See inside for ordering information.
*Deadlines to order do apply. Prices after deadline will increase as noted on individual order forms. Prices subject to change
56. The Lake Doctors 57. AnyWeather 58. alta ber
59. Contractors Inc. 60. BGSF 61. CRG Residential 62. Nisbet Brower
63. America’s Floor Source
H-M Laundry
CORT 66. Surface Experts East Cincinnati
Vector Security Multifamily 68. TRI-WEH Restoration 69. It Just Makes Scents
Houchens Insurance Group
Nationwide Energy Partners
Rent Manager
73. Allison Landscaping
74. Integrated Protection Services
75. Feazel Inc.
76. Goodman Gable Gould Adjusters International
77. Sky Contracting
78. JLBS Construction
79. Watchtower Security
80. Rollling Suds of CincinnatiNortheast
81. Oberson’s Nursery & Landscapes
82. Teasdale Fenton Carpet Cleaning & Restoration
83. National Heating & Air
84. Carpetland / Carpet One
85. Air Esscentials
86. Hellospoke
87. ADT Multifamily
88. LiquidLiner.com
89. Impruv Painting & Contracting
90. CIS Protects and Patrol Services
91. Appfolio
The Apartment Association Outreach, Inc.
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT
By Justin Seger, HILLS Properties, Outreach President
The Apartment Association Outreach (AAO), Inc.’s 14th Annual 5K-4-Rent is Saturday, April 26, 2025, at 9 am in Friendship Park. We are counting on great weather and topping our attendance of 290 participants last year!
Sponsorship Levels are $350 for a Bronze Sponsor; $500 for a Silver Sponsor; and $1,000 for a Gold Sponsor.
Jetz Service is our Presenting Sponsor and BRG Apartments is our Finish Line Sponsor. Special thanks to Jetz and BRG for your sponsorships and your unwavering support of the AAO.
Gold Sponsor: Forcht Bank
All proceeds from our 5K go directly to rent assistance for families in dire need. If you plan to participate in our 5K, please register at www.5k4rent.org. The cost to run or walk is $40 per participant. If you register by April 10, you will receive a free shirt. We love seeing family members, friends, kids, residents, and their pets.
February was a busy month for the AAO. Board members toured Jewish Family Service on Clifton Avenue. We are grateful for our partnership with JFS. We also participated in bagging food for the children of Roll Hill.
Lastly, I would like to thank our Champions For Outreach for their generosity and loyalty. I am happy to report that our Champions committed to 2025 for a total of $267,500. It is not too late to become a Champion or contribute as an event sponsor in 2025.
Silver Sponsors: Harrison’s Pro Tree Service, Monarch Investments, Pinnacle Paving, Rent Manager, and TOWNE Properties.
Bronze Sponsors: CIG Communities and Sandstone Properties, LTD.
For more information on how to become a sponsor for the 5k4-Outreach or a Champion of Outreach, contact Susan Peck at the GCNKAA office or see page 30 of this newsletter. To register for the 5k-4-Rent, click here.
Justin Seger
Dear Friends,
Presenting Sponsor
Finish Line Sponsor
Our Committee
Lloyd Cobble- Chair
Susan Peck
Theresa Hallett
Sarah Brewer
Nichole WIley
Gwendolyn Burgess
Kellie Jones
Rebecca McLean
Emily Mason
Megan Ruberg
We are very excited to announce that the Apartment Association Outreach’s thirteenth annual 5k 4 Rent Run/Walk event will take place on Saturday April 26, 2025 at 9am at Friendship Park, 1101 Riverside Drive, in Downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. Please support this event and help Outreach raise money for Rental Assistance. Rental Assistance is provided to responsible and qualified recipients through our long-standing partnerships with Freestore Foodbank in Ohio, CAIN, Churches Active in Northside, Jewish Family Service and Santa Maria Community Services.
Gold Sponsor - $1,000
Company Logo on 5k 4 Rent Shirts
Company Logo on AAO Website & Sponsor Banner
Company Logo on AAO Facebook Page GCNKAA Newsletter Recognition Includes Brunch & Beverages
Silver Sponsor - $500
Company Logo on 5k 4 Rent Shirts
Company Logo on AAO Website & Sponsor Banner GCNKAA Newsletter Recognition Includes Brunch & Beverages
Bronze Sponsor - $350
Company Logo on Sponsor Banner & Brunch Table GCNKAA Newsletter Recognition Includes Brunch & Beverages
Name: _____________________ Company Name: _______________________ Email: _______________________________ Phone: _______________
CHECK PAYMENT- Amount Enclosed: $____________ Checks payable to “The AAO” Please mail your donations to: The Apartment Association Outreach, Inc. - 7265 Kenwood Road, Ste 100, Cincinnati, OH 45236
CREDIT CARD PAYMENT
Name on Card:____________________ Card Number: _________________________________ Exp Date: _______________ Security Code: _______________ Zip Code: _________________ ______Gold $1,000 ______Silver $500 ______Bronze $350 SELECT SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY
All donations made to The Apartment Association OUTREACH, Inc. are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. Contact Susan Peck with questions at 513.407.8612 or susan@gcnkaa.org.
CIG Communities
Helping families stay in their homes
Trend Setting
This heading contains information on Management & Leasing.
STREAMLINING THE LEASING PROCESS WITH AI AND MODERN TECHNOLOGY
By Stephen Ursery,, Linnell Taylor Marketing
The pandemic gave operators a nudge to embrace cutting-edge technology solutions like never before, and experts say the sector now has entered an era in which artificial intelligence (AI) can offer major advancements in leasing process efficiencies and the customer experience.
That was one of the major takeaways of the “Streamlining the Leasing Process with AI and Modern Technology” session at Apartmentalize in Philadelphia.
Virtual leasing agents are one example of an AI-powered technology that is providing benefits for both operators and prospects, according to the panelists.
Katie Nelson, Vice President of Marketing at Maryland-based CAPREIT, said her company has implemented a virtual leasing assistant that can communicate with prospects via chat, text or phone call. The solution, which is up and running 24/7, can help prospects book a tour, provide them with pricing and unit availability and answer questions about amenities, policies and the application process.
The solution enables prospects to get the information they need exactly when they want it, Nelson said. It also lightens the load of the company’s leasing staff, freeing them to have more meaningful interactions with renters.
“To have some of those mundane tasks taken care of, it just gave our associates a breath of fresh air,” Nelson said. “It gave them this sense of relief that they have [the virtual assistant] taking care of the basic needs of our prospects and residents. And then our associates have the time and the ability to take the customer experience to
a different level.”
Tricia Corwin, Vice President at AION, also emphasized the benefits that AI-powered chatbots and virtual agents can provide to an onsite staff’s morale during the leasing process.
“As an associate, if I hear that question a 20th time, I’m like, ‘I’ve got to answer this again?’” she said. “It’s a different person asking it, but the associates are exhausted because they’ve had to answer that question so many times. And people sense that.”
On the flip side, modern and AI-powered leasing systems can gather and centralize prospect information so they also don’t have to answer the same questions repeatedly during the leasing process, the panelists noted.
Modern technologies like AI also can help operators centralize their teams. CAPREIT has implemented a centralized leasing structure, and Nelson said operators considering doing the same should take their time to carefully study how they should proceed.
“We took a year to do our research,” she said. “Take your time and figure it out. Plan the tech stack that you want and know that it’s going to change. It’s not cookie-cutter. It’s not one size fits all.”
Looking outside the leasing process, the panelists said AI has the potential to create significant improvements in handling delinquencies, renewals and maintenance.
Stephen Ursery is a Senior Account Manager at LinnellTaylor Marketing.
AUTOMATION SAVES TIME AND MONEY
Reprinted Courtesy of NAA Units Magazine
The use of technology is allowing staff the ability to focus on other tasks.
Adding technology is one way to save time and money at communities. This is allowing property management companies the chance to focus their attention elsewhere, including staff and resident retention.
The 2025 Property Management Operations Report from Zego, which analyzed survey results from 630 multifamily housing professionals who manage at least 250 units, dives into adding automation into the workforce and its impacts.
The survey reviews how staff and companies are using technology to enhance productivity and the tasks associated with tech. The data shows several tasks have been helped with the addition of technology’s use, including automation. The survey compares 2023 and 2024 information, showing the share of tasks that were completed manually has decreased. For example, building access control was completely manual for 29% of respondents to the 2023 report. That has declined to 19% in the most recent report. By contrast, the share of tasks that were completely or partially automated has increased during the year, and the share of tasks outsourced has remained about the same in the 5% range. Overall, onsite tasks with some or full automation are now in the 70% range for nearly all tasks analyzed after mainly being in the high 60% range in 2023. Other tasks reviewed included communicating with residents, lease renewals, managing maintenance requests, utility billing and more.
There were two key takeaways: Fewer tasks are being done
manually and time and money directed toward administrative tasks has decreased. Tasks were broken down into back-office and resident operations. More time and money are spent on resident operations, both significantly less than in the year prior. In 2023, total back- office operations, including managing maintenance requests, billing residents for utilities and collecting and processing payments, hit 67 manual hours per month. In 2024, that dropped to 42 hours. The annual labor cost dropped about $9,600 as well. Meanwhile, resident operations manual hours declined from 89 hours per month to 53 hours monthly. The annual labor cost sank more than $12,000.
Resident operations highlighted three areas for automation, including resident communication, flexible rent payments and improved retention rates. Technology can alleviate challenges in backoffice operations with automated rent collection, having a process for utility management and billing for renters and outsourcing accounts payable.
The report also reviewed ways to keep staff. Some ways of doing that are with improved leadership and salary growth, along with making employees feel valued.
A third (34%) of respondents manage between 250 and 999 units, while 55% manage between 1,000 and 4,999 units—roughly evenly split between 1,000-2,499 units and 2,500-4,999 units. A majority (80%) manage Class B units, and 55% of respondents have the job title of property manager, with regional property manager and C-suite titles coming in at 12% each.
