Cushman & Wakefield places value on relationships with communities and people
At Cushman & Wakefield, it’s our close relationships with people and communities that inspire us to drive progress and create innovative opportunities for our clients.
We love to work with Nashville property owners and investors to manage multifamily properties where people love to live, work and play.
As a leading global real estate firm, Cushman & Wakefield is in a unique position to offer exceptional insights and expertise with our in-depth market knowledge, proprietary technology and a vast network to help clients unlock their property’s full potential.
With about 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries, we pride ourselves in a diversity of perspectives from visionary thinkers.
The combination of our global and local reach allows us to deliver a full suite of management solutions to our clients.
Our team loves helping make Nashville a great place to live, and we are committed to supporting development throughout the Southeast as we grow our portfolio of managed properties.
We currently manage 3,369 apartments homes in the entire state of Tennessee – 2,163 of which are in Nashville – and specialize in garden style, mid-rise, build-to-rent and townhome communities.
Our multifamily advisors help maximize the value of our clients’ portfolios, beyond the typical “where, why, and how” of investing in and managing multi-unit properties.
Evolving demographics, modernized living arrangements and workplace dynamics have all changed the face of multifamily.
We’ve responded to make multifamily investments simpler than ever through Cushman & Wakefield’s one-of-a-kind platform.
Together, our experts provide clients with a comprehensive set of services and knowledge at all stages of the multifamily investment lifecycle including ground-up development, stabilization and lease-up, renovation and repositioning, refinancing and eventual disposition.
We are always looking ahead to the latest developments and challenges in the multifamily market to be a true partner in helping our client achieve their next greatest project through data and personalized support.
Cushman & Wakefield can also support clients during every phase of their multifamily project.
We are a market leader in third-party appraisal, market study, and other advisory services with global coverage in all major markets.
For new constructions, we leverage Cushman & Wakefield’s buying power, and we pass those benefits to our clients via our supply chain relationships and our own preferred supplier program.
Our multifamily professionals’ expertise runs the gamut in terms of the residential product spectrum from trophy Class A assets to workforce housing.
Beyond conventional multifamily, we are leaders in providing advisory services for various niche property subtypes as well including single-family build-to-rent, student housing, senior housing and affordable properties.
We also bring vast experience working with several other property types outside of multifamily, including commercial and industrial, with key assignments and brokers in the Nashville area and around the world. With everything we do at Cushman & Wakefield, we believe in investing in great cities and that “Better never settles.” That means we are always excited to work with our clients to drive their next level of success. We are always proud to serve the Nashville area.
What’s New?
HUD issues new guidance on applicant screening
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has issued new guidance for landlords on the application of the Fair Housing Act (“FHA”) when screening applicants. The 24-page guidance covers screening types and recommends best practices for complying with the FHA. The guidance applies to all types of properties including conventional and affordable housing.
The guidance opens with explaining the different types of tenant screening companies and reports. It goes on to discuss liability issues for screening companies and landlords when making decisions based on these
types of reports and how an applicant might prove discrimination.
Finally, the guidance outlines some “Guiding Principles for NonDiscriminatory Screening” or best practices. This part of the guidance is likely the most enlightening for landlords. It is divided into three different areas: credit reports, eviction records, and criminal records.
Credit: The guidance details how Native Americans, African Americans, Hispanics and victims of domestic violence are traditonally more likely to have lower credit score. Because of this, over-reliance on credit scores may cause a disparate
impact. In addition to scores, other factors should be considered when making a determination as to whether
Angelita Fisher
credit history is a good predictor of ability to pay. For example, a landlord should consider whether or not the applicant has a co-signer or government-issued voucher.
Evictions: The guidance discusses how many eviction records are unreliable, contain ambiguous information and falsely represent a tenant’s eviction history. Additionally, it details how African Americans, Hispanics, women and families with children are more likely to have an eviction on their record. It recommends that eviction that are old, were dismissed or settled should not be used.
Criminal Records: The guidance references the previous HUD guidance on the use of arrest and conviction records in the application process. It further discusses the disparate impact of criminal criteria on African Americans
and Hispanics. Old records, or records for offenses not directly relevant to tenancy should not be used. In addition, some accommodations may be required if the criminal record is related to a disability.
In summary, the rules for selection criteria are changing. While it is important to note that this is a guidance and not a law, regulation or rule, we can be sure about HUD’s position in any challenge to your policies. Check your policies and make sure you can defend any challenge. For more information go to: https://www.hud.gov/sites/dfiles/FHEO/documents/ FHEO_Guidance_on_Screening_of_Applicants_for_Rental_ Housing.pdf
Angelita Fisher is an attorney and owner of the Law Office of Angelita Fisher
HUD has issued new guidance on how different types of screening for resident applicants and different types of ways that applicants might be able to prove discrimination.
WE RECOMMEND THIS COURSE
for maintenance technicians, porters, housekeepers, and groundskeepers who are ready for advancement.
August 6th - 9th, 2024 9:00 am - 4:00 pm AT
The CAMT Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technicians course will help you earn your CAMT cred ential, allowing yo u to improve your knowledge and skills and boost your reputation and confidence.
YOU’LL LEARN ABOUT:
• Processing work orders efficiently and to residents’ satisfaction
• Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, appliance, construction, and lock and key services and repairs
• Painting services
• Customer service
• Following company policy and procedures
• Minimizing personal and property damage
• Maintenance safety
• Fair housing regulatory compliance
• Environmental responsibility and regulatory compliance
• Documenting and reporting maintenance activities in compliance with company policy and regulation
• Curb appeal, property inspection, and daily maintenance
• Maintaining recreational facilities and common areas
• Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule
• Product repair and replacement decisions
• Professional behavior, communication skills, and personal appearance
THE DREADED BUDGET SEASON
How to maintain your sanity during budget season
It’s that time again… BUDGET SEASON! The season that we love to hate, the one that fills some of us with panic and dread at just the thought of it. With a little preparation, you will be able to rock budget season!
Study your financials.
Even the most financially savvy among us can get thrown for a loop while preparing budgets. If you have been at the same community for a couple of budget cycles, then you are probably familiar with your operating statements and the intricacies that lie within them. What do you do when you start at a new community right as budget season starts? In 2022, I went from one community and one budget to preparing three separate budgets for assets that I was unfamiliar with. I started completing the variance report and going over the financial statements to learn where the variances were and why there is a variance. That first year of budget preparation with three was not easy, but taking the extra time to study the financial statements made a daunting task easier for this new multi-site manager.
Reach out to your suppliers to prepare quotes for the work that you will need or want to complete onsite in the coming year. Also, reach out to your current vendors to see if they are increasing their pricing for the upcoming year.
Time Block Your Calendar.
I know I have uttered the words, “If it’s not on my calendar, then it’s not happening.”. Time blocking your calendar allows you to set aside a set amounts of time to work on your budget along with your other daily tasks. This will allow you to allocate the time that you are most productive throughout the day. Send your team calendar invites for your budget time blocks so they are aware of your schedule and obligations.
Prepare a conducive workspace.
You know your financials and you have allotted time to work, now what?
Make sure your workspace is not a hinderance to your plan for productivity.
Clear the distractions out of your line of sight. Close your door, remove the 47 post its, files, to-do list, and invoices that are all over your desk. Clearing distractions will also minimize multitasking, which will in turn keep you
Alicia Jones
focused on your budget.
Take Breaks!
If you are at the point that you physically cannot stand to look at another excel spreadsheet, then don’t. Get up, walk away from the computer, and take a break.
The benefits of a fifteen-minute break far outweigh the potential of wiping out all your work to date. You haven’t lived until you see the look of abject horror on a colleague’s face after they have wiped out their progress. I say it again because it bears repeating, take breaks!
Celebrate!
You have submitted your budget, cheers to you! You made it through budget season. I knew you could do it! Take a moment to celebrate, but not too long because 2025 budget season will be here before you know it.
Have lunch on us, hear from three engaging speakers, and participate in the chance to win prizes and giveaways!
Nashville’s Committment to Affordable Housing
The Davis Housing Initiative
Nashville has seen remarkable growth and prosperity in recent years. However, alongside its rise, the city has struggled with an increasingly pressing issue: Affordable housing.
As housing costs soar and income inequality widens, accessible housing options have become a paramount concern. In response, Nashville, Tenn.-based Freeman Webb Company began the Davis Housing Initiative, named in honor of former Freeman Webb COO Kirby Davis, who retired in 2023.
The Davis Housing Initiative emerged from an initial collaborative effort between the city and housing partners to address homelessness and housing insecurity. Originating from the Metro homelessness commission, the initiative aimed to harness the power of public-private partnerships to provide housing solutions for the vulnerable populations in Nashville. Initially modeled after programs from other cities like Denver, the initiative has faced challenges in its implementation due to capacity constraints and fragmented services.
Accordingly, the Nashville Study of Homelessness and Affordable Housing from May 2022 noted that the Nashville Continuum of Care (CoC) Homeless Planning Council “is not organized for effective governance.” CoC Permanent Supportive Housing sites require “high barriers” to housing, such as sobriety or unemployment. It lacks effective, housing-first supportive services as well as state partnerships.
Freeman Webb Company has continued its work on the affordable housing initiative, restructuring processes and expanding its reach. Hundreds experiencing
Bob Freeman
homelessness or housing instability have been provided safe and supportive housing options. The program prioritizes comprehensive support services for successful transitions to stable housing. This is done through collaborative partnerships with other nonprofits in the field to ensure case management can be provided.
The best way to effect change is to decrease expenses. And instead of cutting services to those that need them, invest in services that make the need for those services less vital. This viewpoint challenges the conventional approach to homelessness, advocating for investments in preventative measures rather than solely addressing its symptoms. By investing in supportive services, communities can reduce the need for expensive emergency services and create a more sustainable solution to housing insecurity.
One of the key aspects of the Davis Housing Initiative is its emphasis on social responsibility among stakeholders. While there may not be direct financial incentives for housing providers to participate, there exists a moral imperative to contribute to the well-being of the community.
The success of the Davis Housing Initiative further reminds the industry of the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative approaches to tackle complex societal problems. By mobilizing resources and fostering partnerships, Nashville has made significant strides in reducing homelessness and providing affordable housing options for its residents. However, there remains much work to be done to ensure that housing remains accessible for all members of the community. By extending services beyond city limits and investing in rapid rehousing programs, Nashville has demonstrated its commitment to addressing homelessness on a regional scale. Nevertheless, structural hurdles and funding limitations persist, necessitating continued advocacy and collaboration at all levels of government.
Affordable housing transcends municipal boundaries, requiring a coordinated response from state and local governments. Initiatives like the Barnes Housing Fund and strategic investments in transportation infrastructure are critical steps toward building a more equitable and inclusive city.
Metro Nashville needs investment dollars and additional construction for more long-term housing. Many dedicated professionals, especially those considered essential workers during the pandemic, settled for more affordable housing options outside the metro area. This creates a one-way relationship where those serving the community cannot themselves be supported by it. It is imperative that communities address this issue and prioritize the housing needs of all residents, including those who contribute significantly to our communities’ well-being.
Though improving, Nashville’s journey toward affordable housing and decreasing homelessness, is not without obstacles.
Nimbyism (Not In My Backyard) poses a significant challenge to efforts to increase housing density and expand affordable housing options. Overcoming entrenched opposition to zoning reforms and land-use planning requires strong leadership and community engagement. It is imperative that policymakers prioritize the needs of all residents, over solely considering the financial benefits.
In recognizing the widespread nature of homelessness as a national issue, it becomes evident that cities like Denver, Houston, Boston and many others face similar challenges. To effectively address these matters, a targeted approach must prioritize assistance for the chronically homeless, offering comprehensive services ranging from mental and physical health support to sobriety assistance and transitional housing programs. However, the solution cannot solely rest on the efforts of local governments or specific organizations. Entire communities, particularly those with the capacity to do so, must actively engage and collaborate to make meaningful and lasting progress. By fostering a collective commitment to address homelessness at its core, the industry can build more resilient and inclusive societies where every individual has the opportunity to thrive.
Bob Freeman is the President of Freeman Webb Company. This article was written for the National ApartmentAssociation’sJuly2024issueof“Units.”
2025 GNAA BOARD N MINATI NS
Chairman:
Tammy Lee – Willow Bridge Property Company
Katherine Morrow - MAA
Chairman-Elect:
Stephanie Burns – NTS Development Company
Andrew Klahn – Kenect Nashville
Vice Chairman:
Eddie Ivey – Freeman Webb Company
Secretary/Treasurer:
Alicia Jones – Freeman Webb Company
Nicole Samson – Carter-Haston Real Estate Services
Management Directors (Four (4) positions will be filled for a 3-year term.)
Please choose four (4) nominees.
Melanie Brink – Carter-Haston Real Estate Services
Jay Cathey – Freeman Webb Company
Haley Flood – Whitney Franklin – Freeman Webb Company
Amy Heskett – Greystar
Laura Watkins – Solstice at June Lake – Willow Bridge Property Company
Chad Vasquez – Greystar
Maintenance Director (One (1) position to be filled for a 3-year term.)
Please choose one (1) nominee.
Rusty Guilliams – Arlington Properties
Emir Skopljak – Willow Bridge Property Company
Supplier Director (Three (3) positions to be filled for a 3-year term.)
Please choose one (3) nominees.
DJ Arbogast – Artisent Floors
Nathan Lybarger – Law Office of Hall & Associates
Abraham McCarver – Bravo Flooring
Jennifer McCoy – Law Office of Jennifer McCoy
Bridget Opfer – Contractors Inc
Christina Robinson Race – ePremium Insurance
Managers Representative (One (1) position to be filled for a 1-year term.)
Please choose one (1) nominee.
Alex Moore – Vantage Point Homes of Marrowbone Pointe – Highmark Residential
Annie Orso – Grove at Shadow Green – Willow Bridge Property Company
Taylor Rodrigues – Townes at Hamilton – Greystar
Amber Sabato – Flats at Taylor Place – Willow Bridge Property Company
Kellie Sleeper – Preston Run – Michelson Realty
Holly Wauford – Falls at 109 – Timberland Properties
Maintenance Representative (One (1) position to be filled for a 1-year term.)
Please choose one (1) nominee.
Cory Aswegan – Margaux Midtown – Willow Bridge Property Company
Branon Saldana – Grove at Waterford Crossing – Willow Bridge Property
Company
Guy Wheeler – Stewarts Ferry – Fogelman
Supplier Representative (One (1) position to be filled for a 1-year term.)
Please choose one (1) nominee.
Marie Berry – LICRA Nashville
Brad Hatcher – Austermiller Roofing
Melinda Penney – Zumper
Rachel Stewart – Wheeler Inc.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE
Stephanie Liston, Committee Chairman and Immediate Past President/Chair
Jenn Mulholland, GNAA Chairman
Sully Lemmons, Management Director
Julie Stayton, Management Director
Alicia Jones, Management Director
Maria Williams, Supplier Director
Rusty McDonald, Supplier Director
Brandon Ethridge, Maintenance Director
OCTOBER
LEAD graduate: Program incredibly fulfilling LEAD program nominations now open, class
will begin in September
GNAA is gearing up for another LEAD Class, which is set to start in September.
The program kicked off in 2023 and has since had 13 graduates complete the program and a host of others working to complete the requirements for the designation.
LEAD stands for Leadership, Education, and Development and is an honorary distinction certified by GNAA.
The program provides a development curriculum for current and aspiring maintenance professionals. There are four criteria that maintenance professionals must complete to receive the designation including completing a basics of maintenance course, which gives them a day of coursework that ranges from customer service skills and basic make-ready to plumbing and hot water basics to HVAC basics and everything in between.
Instructors in the class are veterans in the multi-family industry, which makes it an invaluable tool and resource to GNAA members, and best of all, the program is offered free of charge to GNAA members.
Once the criteria are completed, graduates will be recognized at a luncheon where they receive a tool bag with standard hand tools and will be featured in the News & Events magazine.
I recently graduated from the LEAD Program after learning about it from my supervisor, Rusty Guilliams.
Being part of the LEAD program has been an incredibly fulfilling experience for me in my maintenance job.
Every luncheon and awards ceremony is a highlight, not just because of the delicious food, but because of the valuable knowledge and recognition we receive.
The tools we’ve been given to work with have made a real difference in my day-to-day tasks, making my job easier and more enjoyable.
These events and resources make me feel truly valued and motivated to keep growing.
I’ve also had the pleasure of meeting amazing people who have inspired and supported me along the way.
I deeply appreciate the effort and thoughtfulness that goes into organizing these gatherings and providing us with the tools we need.
Thank you for nurturing both our professional growth and personal well-being.
Your dedication and support mean the world to me.
ON TREND WITH BUDGETS
It’s that time of year again! Budget season is upon us. As the summer heats up, so should your plans to work on a comprehensive budget for next year. We are starting with what we refer to as capital walks.
On each of our existing assets, we make plans over the summer to walk every unit, usually in conjunction with some preventive maintenance onsite. This is a great way to assess what might be needed in the coming year for capital replacements but also helps us develop long term replacement reserve estimates.
Beginning with the base knowledge of the condition of every unit, we can work to formulate a realistic plan for anticipated turnover, estimating slightly lower amounts of move outs because of the current economic conditions. We are also gathering information regarding anticipated rate increases for taxes, insurance and utilities to help forecast expense growth.
Check to make sure that things did not just get repeated from last year. Review one-time events to ensure that they were not copied into the budget template. Payroll has two months twice a year with three periods instead of two. Work with HR to identify when these will hit your financials (not just occur) so that you plan correctly. Lastly, plan to make your case. Using all of the information you have gathered through unit walks, research, photos, articles, and competitive property information. Explain why you think you developed this plan. You are the expert go have a great budget season.
Lisa Gunderson, Bristol Development
Is your community ready for disaster?
Take these proactive steps to prepare for potential issues
Natural disasters such as tornadoes, floods, mold growth, and fires can wreak havoc on multifamily properties, causing significant damage and disruption to the lives of residents. While these events are often unpredictable, there are proactive steps that apartment communities and management companies can take to minimize the impact and ensure a quicker recovery.
It’s often a good idea to get evaluations to help properties identify vulnerabilities and strengthen their defenses against natural disasters. By implementing a few key measures, apartment communities can significantly enhance their resilience and safeguard their investments.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Routine maintenance and regular inspections are crucial for identifying potential hazards before they escalate into major issues. Ensure that roofs, windows, and foundations are in good condition, and address any structural concerns promptly. Regular checks can help spot vulnerabilities early, allowing for timely repairs and reinforcements.
Establish Emergency Plans
Having a comprehensive emergency plan in place is essential. This plan should include clear procedures for evacuations, communication protocols, and designated roles for staff members. Conduct regular drills to ensure that everyone knows their responsibilities and can act quickly in an emergency.
Tree Trimming and Landscaping
Trees and landscaping can pose significant risks during storms and high winds. Regularly trim trees and maintain landscaping to prevent branches from causing damage to buildings or power lines. Well-maintained greenery can also help mitigate the effects of heavy rains and flooding.
Secure Outdoor Objects
Loose objects such as outdoor furniture, decorations,
and equipment can become dangerous projectiles during strong winds. Secure these items or bring them indoors when severe weather is forecast. This simple step can prevent considerable damage and injuries.
Install Backup Power Generators
Power outages are common during natural disasters, and having a backup power generator can be a lifesaver. Ensure that essential systems such as lighting, security, and communication remain operational. This can provide peace of mind to residents and help maintain order during emergencies.
Ensure Adequate Insurance Coverage
Insurance is a critical component of disaster preparedness. Review your policies to ensure they cover natural disasters, including provisions for post-disaster assessment and restoration. Adequate coverage can significantly ease the financial burden of repairs and recovery efforts.
By implementing these proactive measures, apartment communities can better withstand the forces of nature and minimize the impact on residents and property. Taking steps to prepare ahead of time not only enhances safety but also makes the restoration process more efficient in the aftermath of a disaster.
Apartment management companies play a pivotal role in safeguarding their communities. Embracing a proactive approach to disaster preparedness can make all the difference in preserving the integrity of the property and ensuring the well-being of residents. With the right strategies in place, communities can weather any storm with resilience and confidence.
Shelli Wheeler works in multifamily business development and Brian Buckner works in commerical salesandbusinessdevelopmentatApexRestorationDKI.
Rising Stars Series
EVAN GULBRANDSEN Regional Manager, CredHub
Years in the Industry
Two
Volunteer Positions Currently & Previously Held in GNAA
I currently serve on the NextGen Committee.
What brought you to the apartment industry?
It was totally unplanned! An old colleague of mine needed help building out a sales team for CredHub, and I am very happy I accepted the challenge!
Was this the career path something that was always on your radar?
Not at all! I have been in sales my entire professional career, but I did not know it would lead me here.
Did you have any unrelated jobs growing up that unexpectedly prepared you for the apartment industry?
Not really. Sales translates well across all industries if you are doing it with the customers’ best interests in mind.
Best professional advice you have ever been given?
Always be learning.
What is your favorite thing to do on the weekends?
Hanging with my baby daughter, Morrow!
Do you have any pets?
We have one chunky cat named Winnie.
Coolest place you’ve ever traveled?
Tokyo, Japan
Give us a fun fact about you.
I have a hole in one in golf! Greatest achievement in my life!
What upcoming GNAA event are you excited to attend and why?
Beer, Butts, and BBQ! This will be my first time attending and I think it supports an amazing cause in helping disaster victims.
Do you have a motto you live by?
Don’t sweat the small stuff.
If you could get a “do over” for something in your career, what would it be and why?
I have turned down some interesting opportunities for short-term financial gain.
Any advice you could give to the rising stars of GNAA?
Go out and meet the fellow members! You never know who might be able to meet.
What’s your best productivity hack?
Make sure you take time during the day to disconnect.
What does happiness mean to you?
Seeing my baby smile!
Do the ends justify the means?
Only if done with the right intentions.
If you could see a measuring scale above people’s heads, what would you want this scale to measure?
Their level of college football fandom!
When in your career did you reach success?
Being featured in the GNAA’s News & Events!
NEW MEMBERS
COMMUNITIES
Arrowood
Ashley Johnson
248 Drayton Dr. Clarksville, TN 37042
181 apartment homes
480-648-2690
ashleyj@pemreg.com
PEM
Modera Riverview
Caitlin Pearl 1410 Adams St. Nashville, TN 37208-7208
Advertising/Media; Air Deodorizers; Air Duct Cleaning; Air Quality Testing; Bed Bug Removal; Cleaning Services; Graphic Design; Maintenance Services/Supplies; Odor Removal; Paint/Supplies; Video Tours
City Wide Facility Solutions of Nashville
Kaissling Anderson 2211 Crestmoor Rd., Suite 201 Nashville, TN 37215
What is the TNAA Business Exchange? It’s an opportunity for management company leadership to connect with a select number of suppliers for one-on-one timed intervals. This allows management companies to find solutions to their current needs and learn more about new products and services available to help make their properties run smoother and give better resident experiences.
