Q3 2022 Key Magazine

KEY

THE

Q3 2022 ISSUE

Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Lake and Volusia

For 34 years, HH Staffing has been assisting clients in growing their businesses. Our interview and selection process ensures that the highest quality talent is sourced and presented to our clients for their open positions.

HH Staffing guarantees all hires or we will refund your money.

HH Staffing offers temporary staffing, temptohire placement, direct hire placement, and retained search services locally and throughout the United States.

Add to your team and your bottom line. Call today!

(941) 751-6262 Darrin Rohr, Owner

Tampa | Orlando | Sarasota | Plantation | Fort Myers

WHAT'S INSIDE

Q3 2022 ISSUE

VOLUME 48, NO. 3

As you read through the Key Magazine, you may notice several formatting and stylistic changes, including updated headers and footers. Find different sections of the magazine with ease! The section titles included (i.e. - Education, Events, so on and so forth) in the table of contents color coordinate with the triangles in the corner of each section's page.

4 5 6 7

AAGO Officers and Board of Directors Meet AAGO's new Membership Manager New Members 2022 Premier Partners

Membership 8 New Members 9 AAGO Member Profile How To's

Education 11 12 13 14 15 16

Education at a Glance CAPS Express APASS Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT) Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP)

17 DEI Committee - Gay Pride: Then and Now 18 AAGO Foundation Rock-N-Bowl Charity Fundraiser

20-21

ANNIVERSARY TIMELINE

Events 22 23-26 27 28-29

Events at a Glance That's a Wrap! That 70's AAGO Trade Show Maintenance Appreciation Golden Key Award Nominations

Advocacy 32 Orange County Rent Stabilization Study, What Happens Next?

Legal 34-35 Recent Appellate Rulings Impacting Housing Providers

Market Trends 37-38 How to Effectively Market your Affordable Apartment Community Published By

The Apartment Association of Greater Orlando (AAGO) 340 N. Maitland Avenue Maitland, Florida 32751 (407) 644-0539 and Director One Print and Mail 7213 Sandcove Court, Suite 1 Winter Park, Florida 32792 (407) 679-2000

Disclaimers

The KEY Magazine is published quarterly in the interest of all segments of the multifamily housing industry. One copy per member is included in the cost of membership dues.

AAGO digests information from a wide variety of sources to keep members informed but is not in the business of rendering legal, accounting or financial advice. We strongly encourage members to discuss these matters with their attorney, accountant, and/or other professional advisors. Byline articles and columns express the opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect policies or sentiments of AAGO. Cover copyright. 2022 AAGO and its licensors.

All rights reserved.

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Thank you to AAGO’s 2022 Leadership Association Staff

OFFICERS

Monica Ramsey, Executive Vice President

PRESIDENT Rachelle Hundley ARM, HCCP, CPO, CAPS Highmark Residential

VICE PRESIDENT Debby Gentry, CAM, CAPS, HCCP Concord Management

TREASURER Kathy Hensley, CPM Greystar

Trinity Kutschinski Director of Public Affairs

SECRETARY Melissa Dugas, CAPS Royal American Management

ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT Justin Frost Affinity Waste Solutions

IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Lee Rogers, CAM, CPM Candidate JMG Realty, Inc.

Chris Mahoney, Director of Career & Program Development

DIRECTORS Carina Favale Manager of Meetings & Events

Alex Colasuonno Bridge Property Management

Jennifer Eid CAPS MAA

Chip O’Kelley First Communities

Joelis Barandica ConAm

Doris Granger CPM Candidate, CAPS, CAMT JMG Realty

Eddy Perez CAM, CAPS, LEAP, ARM Kettler

Greg Malinowski RezCor

Linda Beach Redi Carpet

Maurice Williams CAM, TCS (Tax Credit Specialist) OnCall Parking Manager

Meredith Torres CAPS Greystar

Heather Alzate Manager of Membership

Lee Steinhauer Government Affairs & General Counsel

Dominica Hurst Bookkeeper Michael Krause Atrium

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Shana Jackson CAM Epoch Residential

Tami Swanson Massey Services

Tracy Lesse CAPS, CAM Rangewater Real Estate

Wendy Manning ContraVest

2 0 2 2

2 0 2 2

2P 0RE 2M 2I

P R E M I E R

P RP A ER MT N IE ER RS

P A R T N E

P A R T N E

E R

AAGO members earn 2% Cash Back* How Doers Get More Done Home Depot is dedicated to helping members save time and money.

AAGO With an easy-to-use website and multiple methods of delivery, we make getting the products you need convenient and simple.

For even more business benefits, join our Pro Xtra free loyalty program for the opportunity to earn up to a 2% annual rebate and receive exclusive offers like 20% off paints, stains and primers. Use agreement code HDNAA-ORL to start saving more today.

Contact Amber S. ( amschmid@behr.com ) if you have questions or would like to enroll in the Pro Xtra program.

*Accounts must be registered/enrolled at homedepot.com/c/Pro_Xtra to receive rebate credit of up to 2%. Minimum rebate period spend of $25,000 on in-store or homedepot.com purchases required to receive a rebate. Please call 1-866-333-3551 or visit naahq.org for further details. Pro Xtra Paint Rewards is a sub-program of the Pro Xtra Program. Pro Xtra Paint Rewards qualifying ourchases will be tracked during the program period and include select The Home Depot Paint department in-store purchases an online purchases from the The Home Depot website, see homedepot.com/c/

©2020 Home Depot Product Authority, LLC reserved.

MPM-14843

Now Open - Two Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Opportunities, Deadline - July 29 Applications are currently being accepted for the Alexandra Jackiw Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship for members of a racial/ethnic minority group, LGBTQ, people with a disability, or a former/serving member of the military. Or if you have an innovative idea about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace, then apply for our Innovation in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (IDEI) Grant. For more about DEI and apply today.

RPM Careers Week & Apartment Onsite Teams Day, July 18-22, 2022 Mark your calendars! RPM Careers Week is back this July 18-22, including Apartment Onsite Teams Day on Wednesday, July 20. Join us in celebrating our community members and onsite teams while raising awareness about career opportunities in the residential property management industry. Get inspired with the NAA RPM Careers Week Toolkit accessible via the NAA website.

NAA’s Upcoming & On-Demand Webinars Expand your knowledge base! From understanding the latest FCC Broadband Rules to interrupting implicit biases that hamper success to learning DE&I Strategies that increase employee retention and using solid leadership techniques that produce positive results for your teams, NAA strives to bring you the latest industry trends and solutions.

NOT A CREDIT CARD A BUSINESS TOOL

The Lowe’s Pro Supply Purchase Card is exclusively for customers with a Lowe’s Pro Supply account.‡

Enroll at LowesProSupply.com/PurchaseCard

Proud member of

‡ Must have an approved Lowe’s Pro Supply account. The Purchase Card is not a line of credit or financing vehicle; it only provides an easy means to automate purchases. Lowe’s Pro Supply Purchase Card is intended for commercial use only, not for personal, household or family purposes.

Get 5% off your eligible purchase or order placed to your Lowe’s Pro Supply Purchase Card at Lowe’s stores (excluding Lowe’s outlets) and on Lowes.com. Offer not valid on any Lowe’s Pro Supply sale. Customer must pay applicable sales tax. Offer can’t be used in conjunction with or on: (i) any other promotion, discount, markdown, coupon/barcode, rebate or offer, including any Lowe’s volume or special discount programs (such as but not limited to, Contractor Pack, Buy in Bulk, Volume Savings Program (VSP), Special Value, New Lower Price, Was:Now, Military Discount, Employee Discount, and Lowe’s price match guarantee); (ii) associate discretion price adjustments; (iii) any services (such as but not limited to, extended protection/replacement plans; shipping, delivery, assembly or installation charges); (iv) fees or taxes; (v) previous sales; (vi) gift cards; or (vii) Weber or Kichler products. We reserve the right to discontinue or alter the terms of this offer at any time.

1

©2022 Lowe’s. LOWE’S, the Gable Mansard Design and Lowe’s Pro Supply are trademarks or registered trademarks of LF, LLC.

3379763

Q 3 N E W M E M B E R S

Welcome To All Our New Members New Community & Management Company Members ALLURE ON ENTERPRISE 2841 Enterprise Road DeBary, FL 32713 130 Units

HUDSON AT METRO WEST 464 South Kirkman Road Orlando, FL 32811 320 Units

SOUTH HIAWASSEE VILLAGE 38 N Hiawassee Rd Orlando, FL 32835 58 Units

THE GROVE AT CLERMONT 16551 Lake Trail Drive Clermont, FL 34711 288 Units

AVILA APARTMENTS 2880 Avila Cross Circle Oviedo, FL 32765 269 Units

i3 100 West Plant Street Winter Garden, FL 34787

TERRA HILL ESTATES 3135 Woodhill Road Winter Haven, FL 33881 76 Units

THE LANDINGS AT BOGGY CREEK 3060 Landings Circle Orlando, FL 32824 310 Units

CITRUS OAKS APARTMENTS 4855 South Orange Blossom Trail Orlando, FL 32839 105 Units GEORGETOWN SQUARE 90 Units HUB ON CAMPUS ORLANDO 11012 Hub Plaza Orlando, FL 32826 745 Units

IMAGES CONDOMINIUM 10 Units MODERA CREATIVE VILLAGE 505 Chatham Ave Orlando, FL 32801 292 Units PROSE STEVENS 3010 Camber Drive St. Cloud, FL 34769 264 Units ROYAL PALM COMPANIES (RPC) 1010 Northeast 2nd Avenue Miami, FL 33132

TERRA VILLA PARK 154 Tuskawilla Road Winter Springs, FL 32708 41 Units THE AVERY 1000 Avery Village Orlando, FL 32825 200 Units THE COMMONS 8050 Gables Commons Drive Orlando, FL 32821 280 Units

WALDEN PALMS 4700 Walden Circle Orlando, FL 32811 13 Units

New Associate Members BENCHMARK LANDSCAPING Landscaping/Lawn Maintenance; Landscaping/ Lawn Maintenance/ Consulting; Lawn/Shrub Spraying; Lawn Pest Control CARR COMPANY Purchasing Services CERTAPRO PAINTERS Painting CITY FURNITURE, INC. Furniture/Housewares Sales/ Leasing CNI ELECTRIC Electrical Supplies/Services; Light Bulbs/Light Fixtures; Lightning Protection; Emergency Repairs; Remodeling

ENTEGRITY SMART PROPERTY SYSTEMS Access Control Systems; Automatic Access Systems; Locksmith/Lock Supplies; Security Systems/Service, Installation & Monitoring ESSENTIAL STAFFING SOLUTIONS Staffing; Personnel/Temporary Services; Training/Education FRANK GAY COMMERCIAL Electrical Supplies/Services; Lift Station; Plumbing Parts/ Supplies/Services; HVAC Maintenance; HVAC Commercial up to 25 tons HIGHER POINT CARPET CARE Carpet Cleaning Services; Dryer Vent Cleaning; Water Restoration

PI FORCE, LLC Pre-Employment/Resident Screening PROGREEN SERVICES, LLC Irrigation Repairs/Parts; Landscaping/Lawn Maintenance; Plants/Planting Supplies RYCHRIS CONTRACTING General Contractors; Construction RYTECH RESTORATION Mold/Asbestos/Lead Remediation/Restoration & Consulting; Water Restoration SECURITAS MOBILE Access Control Systems; Cameras | CCTV; Patrol Services; Vehicle patrol services; Unarmed security

COMMUNITY CONCIERGE SERVICES SHUTTERS TO SHELTERS MAINSCAPE, INC. Waste Removal; Pressure Personnel/Temporary Services Landscaping/Lawn Washing/Ext. Building Maintenance; Landscaping/ STARLITE TRASH SERVICES Cleaning; Bulk Waste Lawn Maintenance/ Bulk Waste Removal; Waste Removal; Dryer Vent Cleaning; Consulting; Mulch; Lawn/ Removal; Waste/Recycling; Gutter cleaning Shrub Spraying; Tree Services Waste/Recycling/Specialty/ CONTRACTORS, INC. Consulting ON THE FLY WASTE SOLUTIONS Construction; Fire Restoration; Bulk Waste Removal; Cleaning STEPHENS AND COMPANY, LLC General Contractors; Water Services; Waste Removal; Painting (Applicators); Restoration Waste/Recycling Painting; Power Washing; DISH FIBER Roofing Contractors/ ORKIN PEST CONTROL TV Cable/Contract Consultants; Roof & Exterior Exterminators; Lawn/Shrub Consulting; Internet Services & Cleaning Spraying; Lawn Pest Control Design; Wireless Service

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THE RETREAT EAST 1705 France Drive Orlando, FL 32826 138 Units

aago.org

STUDIO XXII PHOTOGRAPHY Multimedia Services; Advertising/Marketing; Cameras | CCTV; Website Development; Printing/ Typesetting/Graphic Arts THE GUARANTORS Lease Insurance/Security Deposit; Insurance Services/ Risk Management THE LISTING REAL ESTATE MANAGEMENT Apartment Lease-up | Apartment Leasing; Management Consultant; Real Estate Brokerage/MultiFamily/Appraisal/Developer; Resident Retention; Resident Screening THS NATIONAL, LLC General Contractors UpKEEPERS WASTE SERVICES Bulk Waste Removal; Waste Removal; Waste Removal/ Consulting WAVEFLY Internet Services and Design

YOUR AAGO MEMBER PROFILE HOW TO, TIPS, AND TRICKS

Navigate to the homepage of the AAGO website.

Once there, locate the "Join | Login" (hint: top left corner!)

If you want to update an existing member profile, click "Login."

If you do not have a member profile and need to create one, click "Join."

I need to.....

Helpful Hint: Have a shared work email? You can create your profile with a personal email address.

Create a profile

Helpful Hint: Having trouble logging in?

Click the password reset option below the login button.

Update an existing profile

Once the membership and account access tab populates, click "Create an Account" and set up your login information.

Next, you will be asked to insert company and/or community information.

If you work for/at an apartment community, you will insert the name of the community as the "Parent Member."

Note - Member profiles should not be created for companies or communities.

Once logged in to your member profile, click your name (top left corner) to navigate to your member compass.

From your member dashboard, click "Profile" in the side column to access your contact and company information.

Here, you can add or change your contact information, indicate your interests, note your dietary restrictions, and even select your pronouns!

Encourage fellow team members to set up member profiles too!

Looking for additional ways to be involved and stay up-to-date with all things AAGO? 1. Interests - Indicate your interests within your member profile to receive customized communications that align with your preferences.

2. Join a committee or council - Volunteer your time and become a committee and/or council member. For additional information about openings, visit aago.org/volunteeropportunities.

MEMBERSHIP

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Q3 EDUCATION CALENDAR = Webinar. The gold computer icon displayed next to several of the above class titles is meant to signify the format of the offering.

JULY 7/13 - CALP Module II

7/27 - CALP Module III

7/15 - From Good to GREAT 7/21 - Conflict Resolution 7/26 - EPA 608 Certification

AUGUST

RESERVED FOR 8/18 - 8/21 - CAPS Express

8/9 - CAMT Interior & Exterior 8/10 - CAM - Industry

8/23 - Advanced Leasing Techniques

EDUCATION CALENDAR 8/24 - Appliance Repair

Essentials & Financials

8/16 - HVAC Troubleshooting

8/25 - CAM Property Maintenance

8/18 - Excel 101

8/26 - Landlord-Tenant Law

SEPTEMBER 9/7 - CAM Human Resources

9/21 - Fair Housing & Beyond

9/7 - HVAC Troubleshooting

9/22 - CAM Risk Management &

9/8 & 9/9 - Certified Pool Operator

Legal

9/13 - CAMT Electrical

9/27 - CAMT Plumbing

9/16 - CAM Marketing

Dates, times, and instructors are subject to change. For the full and most up-todate education calendar, please visit aago.org/events/education EDUCATION

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CAPS

EXPRESS

RESCHEDULED - August 18-21, 2022 Become a Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor.

CAPS Express Instructor

Alex Jackiw, CAPS, CPM, C3P Chief Operating Officer, Hayes Gibson Property Services

Unable to attend in person? Take advantage of our virtual attendance option!

aago.org/events/caps22

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aago.org

APASS APASS

Unlock

Unlock unlimited learning and engagement opportunities at a fraction of the and cost for you and your team. unlimited learning engagement opportunities

a fraction ofsubscriber, the costtake foradvantage you andofyour team.

As an APASS an array of FREE programming included in your subscription.

As an APASS subscriber, take advantage of an array of Become an APASS subscriber for either FREE programming your subscription. month $795 / included year or $69 / in Become an APASS subscriber for either $795 / year or $69 / month

For additional information or to subscribe visit, aago.org/APASS

EDUCATION

13

a

Be a jack-of-all-trades Be master and Be a a ajack-of-all-trades jack-of-all-trades Be a ajack-of-all-trades master and and ajack-of-all-trades master of maintenance.

Be a and a master of maintenance. of maintenance. and a master of maintenance. of maintenance.

CERTIFICATE FOR APARTMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN (CAMT) CERTIFICATE FOR APARTMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN (CAMT) CERTIFICATE FOR APARTMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN (CAMT) CERTIFICATE FOR APARTMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN (CAMT) Earning boosts your and and CERTIFICATE FOR APARTMENT MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN (CAMT) Earning your your CAMT CAMT boosts your knowledge knowledge and skills, skills, your your reputation, reputation, and your your confidence. confidence.

This is for technicians, porters, housekeepers, and Earning your boosts and your your Earning your CAMT CAMT boosts your your knowledge knowledge and skills, skills, your reputation, reputation, and your confidence. confidence.

This program program is recommended recommended for maintenance maintenance technicians, porters,and housekeepers, and groundskeepers who are ready for advancement.

This program program is recommended recommended for maintenance maintenance technicians, porters,and housekeepers, and This is for technicians, porters, housekeepers, and groundskeepers who are ready for advancement.

Earning your CAMT boosts your knowledge and skills, your reputation, your confidence. groundskeepers who for This program is recommended for maintenance technicians, porters, housekeepers, and groundskeepers who are are ready ready for advancement. advancement.

Program Program groundskeepers who are ready for advancement.

Program Costs Costs Program Schedule Schedule (all classes are 9:00 a.m.

-- 5:00 p.m.)

Program Costs Program Schedule $850 APASS Subscribers (all classes are 9:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.) $850 APASS Subscribers Program Costs Program Schedule 9 -- Interior/Exterior Program Costs Program Schedule (all August classes are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00Maintenance p.m.) $850 APASS Subscribers $950 Members August 9 Interior/Exterior Maintenance $950 Members (all classes are 9:00 a.m.

5:00 p.m.) $850 APASS Subscribers 13 (all September classes 9 are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00Maintenance p.m.)

August - Interior/Exterior $850 APASS Subscribers September 13 -- Electrical Electrical Members $1150 Non-members $1150 $950 Non-members September 27 Plumbing August 9 Interior/Exterior Maintenance August 9 Interior/Exterior Maintenance 13 Electrical September 27 - Plumbing $950 Members $1150 Non-members October 12 Appliance Repair September 13 Electrical 27 Plumbing September - ElectricalRepair October 12 13 - Appliance $1150 $1150 Non-members Non-members October 25th & 26th September 27 12 Appliance Repair October 25th 26th -- HVAC HVAC September 27&-- Plumbing Plumbing October 12 - Appliance Repair 25th & 26th - HVAC October 12 Appliance Repair October 25th & 26th - HVAC

Throughout the you learn 25th & 26th HVAC ThroughoutOctober the program, program, you -will will learn about... about...

Throughout the program, you will learn about...

• Processing work orders efficiently and to • Processing work orders efficiently and to Throughout the program, you will learn about... residents’ satisfaction

• Processing work orders efficiently and to residents’ satisfaction • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, appliance, residents’ satisfaction • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, appliance, Throughout the program, you will about...

• Processing work orders efficiently andlearn to construction, and lock and key services and repairs • Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, appliance, construction, and lock and key services and repairs residents’ satisfaction • Painting services construction, and lock and key services and repairs • Painting services Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, •• Processing work orders efficiently and to appliance, Customer service • Painting services Customer service construction, and lock and key services and repairs residents’ satisfaction • Customer Following company • service policy Followingservices company policy and and procedures procedures • Painting Minimizing personal and property damage ••• Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, mechanical, appliance, Following company policy and procedures Minimizing personal and property damage Customer service • Maintenance safety construction, and lockand andproperty key and repairs • Following Minimizing personal damage Maintenance safety • company policy andservices procedures Fair housing regulatory compliance Maintenance safety Fair housing regulatory compliance •••• Painting services Minimizing personal and property damage Environmental responsibility and • Customer Fair housing regulatory compliance Environmental responsibility and regulatory regulatory • Maintenance safety service compliance Environmental responsibility and regulatory Fair housing regulatory compliance •••compliance Following company policy and procedures compliance • Environmental responsibility and regulatory •compliance Minimizing personal and property damage

• • Documenting Documenting and and reporting reporting maintenance maintenance activities in compliance with policy • Documenting and reporting maintenance activities in compliance with company company policy and regulation activities in compliance with company policy and regulation • Documenting and reporting maintenance • Curb appeal, property inspection, and daily and regulation • Curb appeal, property inspection, and daily activities in compliance with company policy maintenance • Curb appeal, property inspection, and daily maintenance regulationrecreational •and Documenting and reporting maintenance • Maintaining facilities and common maintenance • Maintaining recreational facilities and common • Curb appeal, propertywith inspection, and daily activities in compliance company policy areas • Maintaining recreational facilities and common areas maintenance • Implementing a maintenance and regulationrecreational areas • Maintaining Implementing a preventive preventive maintenance • facilities and common schedule •areas Curb appeal, property inspection, and daily • Implementing a preventive maintenance schedule • Product repair and replacement decisions schedule • Product repair and replacement decisions maintenance • a preventive maintenance • Implementing Professional behavior, communication skills, • Product repair and replacement decisions Professional behavior, communication skills, and and •schedule Maintaining recreational facilities and common personal appearance • Professional behavior, communication skills, and personal appearance • Product repair and replacement decisions areas personal appearance Professional behavior, communication skills, and ••personal Implementing a preventive maintenance appearance

• Maintenance safety schedule For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAMT22.

For additional information and registration, please • Fair housing regulatory compliance • Productvisit repairaago.org/events/CAMT22. and replacement decisions For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAMT22.

• Environmental responsibility and regulatory • Professional behavior, communication skills, and For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAMT22. compliance personal appearance

For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAMT22.

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aago.org

Boost Boost your your knowledge, knowledge, skills, skills, and confidence! and confidence!

CERTIFIED CERTIFIED APARTMENT APARTMENT MANAGER MANAGER (CAM) (CAM) Earning your CAM credential allows you to demonstrate that you have the knowledge and Earning your CAM credential allows you to demonstrate thatthe you have the knowledge and ability to manage an apartment community and achieve owner’s investment goals. ability to manage an apartment community and achieve the owner’s investment goals.

The CAM credential positions you well for career opportunities and advancement. This The CAM credential positions you well for career opportunities and advancement.

This program is recommended for community managers and experienced assistant managers. program is recommended for community managers and experienced assistant managers.

Program Schedule Program Schedule (All classes are 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.)

(All August classes 10 are- 9:00 a.m.Essentials - 5:00 p.m.)

Industry and Financials August 10 Industry Essentials and Financials August 25 - Property Maintenance August 25 Property Maintenance September 7 - Human Resources September Resources September 7 16- -Human Marketing September 16 Marketing September 22 - Risk Management and Legal September - Risk Management and Legal October 11 22 - Resident Experience & Review October 11 - Resident Experience & Review

Throughout the program, you will learn about...

Throughout the program, you will learn about...

•Occupancy rates •Occupancy rates •Comprehensive marketing plans •Comprehensive marketingand plans •Sales team management product readiness •Sales team management and product readiness •Equitable treatment of current and potential •Equitable treatment of current and potential residents residents •Resident retention and maintaining a positive •Resident company retention image and maintaining a positive company image with residents •Communicating •Communicating •Customer servicewith andresidents issue resolution •Customer service and issueand resolution •Enforcing company policy complying with laws •Enforcing company policy and complying with laws and regulations and regulations •Property inspections •Property inspections •Preventive maintenance programs •Preventive maintenance •Service request process programs •Service request process

Program Cost Program Cost $875 APASS Subscribers $875 APASS Subscribers $975 Members $975 Members $1150 Non-members $1150 Non-members

•Apartment turnover •Apartment turnover •Working with contractors and vendors •Working with contractors and vendors •Recruiting high-caliber employees •Recruiting high-caliber employees •Employee orientation and training •Employee •Employee orientation evaluation and training •Employee evaluation •Employment regulations and record-keeping •Employment record-keeping •Analyzing theregulations property’s and financial operations and •Analyzing the property’s financial operations and taking corrective actions for underperformance taking corrective actions for underperformance •Monitoring property performance to achieve the •Monitoring property performance to achieve the owner’s investment goals owner’s investment goals •Accounting principles and practices •Accountingnet principles andincome practices •Maximizing operating •Maximizing net operating income •Reporting property performance •Reporting accurately property performance accurately

For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAM22.

For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CAM22.

EDUCATION

15

Make Make that that career career commitment commitment today. today.

CERTIFIED CERTIFIED APARTMENT APARTMENT LEASING LEASING PROFESSIONAL PROFESSIONAL (CALP) (CALP) The CALP Certified Apartment Leasing Professional course will help you earn the CALP credential, The CALP Certified Apartment Leasingshowing Professional will that helpyou're you earn the CALP many people's first industry credential, your course employer committed tocredential, a career in many people's first industry credential, showing your employer that you're committed to a career in residential property management. This certification is recommended for leasing consultants, residential property management. certification recommended leasing consultants, concierges, and career changersThis with hospitality, isretail, or customerfor service experience. concierges, and career changers with hospitality, retail, or customer service experience.

Program Schedule Program Cost Program Schedule Program Cost (All classes 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) $349 for APASS Subscribers (All classes 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.) $349 for APASS Subscribers June 15 $399 Members June 15 $399 Members July 13 July 13 $499 Non-members July 27 $499 Non-members July 27

Throughout the program, you will learn about...

Throughout the program, you will learn about...

•Using technology to generate trafc •Using technology to generate •Measuring and managing yourtrafc community’s •Measuring and managing your community’s reputation reputation •Inspecting the leasing center, tour route, model •Inspecting the leasing center, tour route, model units, and vacant apartments units, and vacant apartments •Researching the competition and building •Researching thecompetitors competition and building relationships with relationships with competitors •Compiling a comprehensive community •Compiling resource toola comprehensive community resource •Creatingtool e ective marketing plans •Creating e ective marketingand plans •Relationship sales processes evaluating your •Relationship sales processes and evaluating your personal sales performance personal sales performance •Evaluating a prospect’s commitment level and prospect’s commitment level and •Evaluating aobjections overcoming overcoming objections •Preparing prospects for the next steps in the •Preparing prospects for the next steps in the rental process rental process

•Applying fair housing law and communicating •Applying fair housing law and communicating rental criteria rental criteria •Qualifying prospective residents according to •Qualifying rental policyprospective residents according to rental policyand reviewing leases with new residents •Preparing •Preparing and reviewing leases with new residents •Move-in processes •Move-in processes •Responding to resident issues and maintenance •Responding to resident issues and maintenance requests requests •Building relationships with residents and creating •Building a sense ofrelationships community with residents and creating a sense of •Reportingcommunity incidents, maintaining documentation, •Reporting incidents, maintaining documentation, and taking corrective action and taking corrective action •Maximizing revenue and operational efciency •Maximizing revenue and operational efciency •Securing and processing lease renewals •Securing and processing lease renewals •Conducting a market survey •Conducting a market survey

For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CALP22.

For additional information and registration, please visit aago.org/events/CALP22.

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aago.org

PRIDE MONTH Then And Now

by Gregg Girard

AAGO

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

2020 marked the 50th anniversary of Gay Pride. The original Pride Parade took place in New York’s West Village in 1970, one year after the Uprising at the Stonewall Inn. The Stonewall Riots happened in the summer of 1969 at a time when homosexual acts were considered illegal in most states. Restaurants and bars could get shut down for having gay employees or for serving gay patrons. During this time police raids were common but on June 28th,1969 members of the LGBT community fought back sparking an uprising that would launch a new era of resistance and revolution. Over the following days and nights, gay activists continued to gather and share information and build the community that would fuel the growth of the Gay Rights Movement. A year later, activists organized the Christopher Street Liberation March which inspired other cities like San Francisco, Boston and Chicago to organize similar celebrations.

Then in 1999 June became the official month for Gay Pride.

I remember going to my first Pride Parade in 1993 in Boston. I was 21 years old and not “out” to family and friends yet. The emotions I felt this day I liken to someone seeing in color for the first time. As a teenager in the 1980’s we really didn’t say gay; it was a derogatory word used in playgrounds and locker rooms and you did everything to separate yourself from it. Watching a parade with hundreds of people not only like me but those in the crowd that supported people like me changed me forever. A year later I came out and moved to Florida to start a new life. Having no job or friends, the manager at my apartment community offered me a job as a Leasing Agent. I can remember a bit of fear and anxiety as I outed myself to the team not knowing how the maintenance guys would view me. To my surprise they treated no differently and become my first friends in Florida. I quickly got involved with the apartment association where again, I was accepted for who I was. Twenty-eight years later, numerous promotions and tons of opportunity, I’m still here, I’m still queer and still thankful for that first Gay Pride in Boston that gave me the courage to begin my life.

Today’s Pride parades attract hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. In Orlando we celebrate Pride in October and attract over 150,000 people in Downtown Orlando.

Last year I had the privilege of marching side by side with my coworkers in the Parade to celebrate Greystar’s commitment to Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

Given all the advances we’ve made over the past 50 years for Gay rights, one might wonder if we still need to celebrate Gay Pride. The answer is yes, now more than ever, if only to reach that one person who still needs to see color for their first time.

I’d like to close with a sentiment that I recently heard saying “I don’t need to understand you to love you.” Powerful words at a time that we need more love and compassion.

EDUCATION

17

FOUNDATION

Thursday, July 14, 2022 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

AMF Altamonte Lanes

280 Douglas Avenue Altamonte Springs, FL 32714

Single Bowler - $40

Spectator Ticket - $45

Team of 6 - $225

For additional information and registration, please visit, aagofoundation.org/events/rocknbowl

ARBOR CARPETS

CAM SERVICES & REPAIR

ASPHALT365 CONTRAVEST I-4 WASTE SOLUTIONS MASSEY SERVICES NATIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATES RANGEWATER SHERWIN WILLIAMS SWITCH ELECTRIC

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Like us on facebook

facebook.com/ettflorida

• (888) 642-2226 • www.ettflorida.com • sales@ettflorida.com

ET&T – Your Design Professionals where:

“We Design the ”

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Outdoor Furniture Playgrounds Dog Parks Social Areas Shade Structures

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Solar Stations

Owner Member - $25.00 minimum, $1.00/unit.

Associate Member - $200/year.

Prospective Owner - $25.00/year.

50th Anniversary

In 1980, association membership dues were broken down as follows.

1980's -

Dues at a Glance!

1980

Fun Fact!

In 1980, motion was moved that the CFMHA suggests to FAA that we set up a statewide workman's compensation fund pool for all membership

In 1981, Doug McGrath moved for the BOD to accept the newly proposed rate for evictions… $60.

New Fee Rate for Evictions?

In February, the Tampa Apartment Association expressed interest in holding a CAMT class in Orlando, and per NAA charter restrictions, asked to host it jointly with CFMHA.

Regional Association Partnership is Born!

February 3, 1983

1983

1981

Fun Fact!

In 1981 CFMHA had a safety committee. Their responsibility was to investigate those participants with a large number of Insurance claims.

1984 Association Member Benefits, Discount Cards, and Freebies.. oh my!

1985 February 5, 1985 From Complex to Community!

During a February BOD meeting, Carroll Jaye requested that the association start referring to apartment “complexes” as apartment communities.

In an early 1987 BOD meeting, Patricia Kirkbride was named Association Executive of the Central Florida MultiHousing Association, marking the first AE.

Timeline

First AE Named

- 1990's

1987 During an October BOD meeting, board members recommended that a full-time position be created to run the association in the upcoming year. The individual would report directly to the board and be selected by the Nominating Committee.

Creation of the Association Executive.

In March, Patricia Kirkride hired an administrative assistant, Angie Vignola. The second association employee.

CFMHA Team becomes +1!

March 9, 1988 1988

October 17, 1986

1986

1989 1987 Check out the new digs!

In January, the Central Florida Multifamily Housing Association relocates, assuming the address of 1400 S. Orlando Avenue Suite 205 B Winter Park, Florida 32789.

April 12, 1989 Apartments, Public Lodging Establishments, same thing.

In April 1989, in an effort to o avoid any citations, the City of Orlando Fire Chief alerted the association to his recent determination that, per Florida Statute, all apartment buildings fall under public lodging establishments.

Q3 EVENTS CALENDAR Mark your calendars so you do not miss a thing!

July 14

August 5

Rock-N-Bowl

Owners & Officers Luncheon

August 23

September

5

Q3 Associates' Breakfast

Boots, Bling & BBQ

October 27

November 10

Maintenance Appreciation

Thanks for Giving

December 3

Don't miss our 50th Anniversary After Party following the Golden Key Awards!

Golden Key Awards

Please note, dates and times are subject to change.

For additional information and registration, please visit, aago.org/events 22

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And that's a wrap!

And that's a wrap!

With over 148 exhibitors and 1,000+ attendees, our 2022 "That 70s Trade With over exhibitors and 1,000+ our 2022 "That 70s Trade Show" was148 a far-out success!

Thanksattendees, to all our exhibitors, sponsors, and Show" was a far-out success!

Thanks to all our exhibitors, sponsors, attendees for supporting this year's show. For your viewing pleasure, and check attendees for supporting this year's show.

For your viewing pleasure, check out a few groovin' pictures from the event. out a few groovin' pictures from the event.

EVENTS

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URT FURNIT URE AS AN AMENITY'"CAN GIVE YOU A COMPETITIVE EDGE

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2022 Best Booth Winner, Massey Services

EVENTS

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Thanks to our poppin' Presenting Sponsors, CNI Electric, Rapid Response Team, Resource Pavement Group, Valet Living, and XTREME Roofing & Construction.

Looking for additional photos from this year's show?

Copy and past the link below in your browser! https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1E1x_aOcIno1nL 5M-YDun5wh8SoCMrpn2?usp=sharing 26

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SAVE THE DATE APPRECIATION

MAINTENANCE

Join us for an evening full of food, drinks, and rides in celebration of our hard-working maintenance professionals!

Thursday, October 27, 2022 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.

FunSpot Orlando Early Bird Ticket Pricing

Take advantage of the below early bird ticket pricing by registering before Friday, September 30th.

Maintenance Professionals: $45

Members: $65

For additional information and registration visit, aago.org/events/ma2022

Interested in sponsoring Maintenance Appreciation?

Contact Carina Favale, Manager of Meetings and Events carina@aago.org

EVENTS

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Get ready to nominate your colleagues, cohorts, and coworkers! The 2022 nomination window runs from July 6 through August 17.

Submit your nominations at aago.org/GKAAwards.

One form = One Nomination. There is no limit to the number of entries in a category and al AAGO members are encouraged to submit nominations. In order to be eligible for judging, all submissions must include the following.

Photo or Video

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Summary of Accomplishments

Letter(s) of Recommendation

Account Executive of the Year

Maintenance Technician of the Year

Assistant Manager of the Year Management Company Executive of the Year Corporate Support Person of the Year

Porter | Groundskeeper of the Year

Emerging Leader Award

Property Manager of the Year

Housekeeper of the Year Leasing Professional of the Year

Regional Manager of the Year Property Management Rookie of the Year

Leasing Manager of the Year

Supplier Rookie of the Year

Maintenance Supervisor of the Year

Supplier Technician of the Year

Affordable Community of the Year

Mixed Use Development Maintenance Team of the Year Multifamily Development of the Year Online Campaign of the Year Renovation or Remodel of the Year Resident Experience Award Supplier Company of the Year

Best Curb Appeal Campus Area Community of the Year Community of the Year Interior Design Award Luxury Community of the Year

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Multi-Family Specialists

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Providing Professional Cleaning Services since 1992

Roofs • Exteriors • Breezeways • Walkways • Common Areas • Detailed project plans and communication throughout the project • Fully compliant with third party groups • Licensed and insured and bonded • Uniformed work crews • Flexible scheduling with multiple crews to minimize impact on residents “Your team did a fantastic job cleaning the roofs - they look brand new! They were professional and cleaned up after themselves, and they weren’t in the way or otherwise disruptive to the property’s residents.”

Regional Manager – Orlando

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT ORANGE COUNTY'S RENT STABILIZATION PROPOSAL Despite major findings of the 54 page study, concluding that rent stabilization fails to address the underlying structural issues driving housing costs, and may even prove counterproductive by deterring much-needed production of new housing inventory, the commission decided to table the issue for further discussion at a special session in late June.

In April, Orange County Commissioner Emily Bonilla brought forth discussion of a rent stabilization ordinance as an item included under her Commissioner's Report.

Following deliberation, the commission decided that this was something that required additional study and directed staff to contract with a consultant to further examine the proposal, explore other potential policy solutions, and report back findings.

The special session will focus exclusively on rent control and the other policy proposals presented. It is important to note that this is a continuation meeting designed to provide the commission additional time to discuss and deliberate what if any policy proposals they want to move forward with and will not involve a public hearing or consideration of draft ordinance language.

On June 7, the Orange County Commission was presented with those findings, and despite lengthy discussion, was unable to reach a consensus on whether to move forward with rent stabilization and/or the alternative policy proposals presented.

FINDINGS OF THE RENT STABILIZATION STUDY The findings of the study produced by the County's consultant overarchingly concluded that rent stabilization fails to address the underlying structural issues driving housing costs, and may even prove counterproductive by deterring much-needed production of new housing inventory.

Market conditions largely reflect trends that have been emerging for years.

The focus on rents, virtually, to the exclusion of other housing issues, overlooks the complexity of the current housing crisis and diverts attention away from the importance of a well-funded comprehensive strategic approach.

Both the shortage of labor and materials aligned and substantively drive up the cost of those units being produced.

Whatever the housing situation in Florida, it is largely influenced by broader industry trends and activity occurring nationwide.

FOR THE LATEST ON THE ORANGE COUNTY RENT STABILIZATION PROPOSAL, PLEASE VISIT, AAGO.ORG/NEWS/NORENTCONTROL 32

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Legal Legal News News

by Kevin

by Kevin Knight Knight Recent Appellate Rulings Every now and then it’s good to “put your hand on the pulse” A COUPLE OF RECENT APPELLATE This article will examine two recent cases impacting attorneys fees in eviction actions and handling security deposits. In particular, this article will consider Edgar Ortuzar v Dana Foley, 47 FLW D1078a (Fla. 2dDCA May 18, 2022) and Breman Wootton and Brooke Wootton v Iron Acquisitions, LLC, 47 FLW D967a (Fla. 2d DCA May 4, 2022) THE ORTUZAR FACTS: Ortuzar was Foley’s landlord and sued Foley to evict her. After the suit was filed, the trial court ordered the parties to mediate their dispute. Soon thereafter, Ortuzar dismissed his eviction and the notice said that the case had been resolved between the parties. Neither party requested that the court enter an Order regarding the dismissal.

Three weeks after the case was dismissed, Foley seized the opportunity to file a motion seeking attorneys’ fees as the prevailing party. The trial court ruled in Foley’s favor and awarded $3,500 in attorneys’ fees. Unhappy with the ruling, Ortuzar appealed.

THE ORTUZAR APPEAL: On appeal, the court found that Foley was not the prevailing party because Ortuzar had dismissed the case and there had been no adjudication/judgment entered in Foley’s favor.

The appellate court quoted Section 83.48, Florida Statutes: “[i]n any civil action brought to enforce the provisions of the rental agreement . . . the party in whose favor a judgment or decree has been rendered may recover reasonable attorney fees and court costs from the nonprevailing party.” Id. (emphasis added).

Based on the language of the statute, the appellate court reversed the $3,500 of attorneys fees awarded to Foley. Morale of the story: if the landlord intends to dismiss his action, he/she should make sure that an order isn’t entered which could be construed as determining the tenant to be the “prevailing party.”

THE WOOTTON FACTS: The Wootons were tenants in a residential property with Iron as their landlord. Problems developed and the parties reached a settlement agreement which terminated the lease. The actual settlement agreement provided that Iron would “consider the Lease terminated as of the date of the execution of th[e] Agreement and would give “written notice to Wootton within 30 days of said Agreement….”

The settlement agreement was dated 10/5/19 and Iron sent their notice on 11/13/19 imposing a claim against $960 of the security deposit. The Woottons sued Iron asserting

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Impacting Housing Providers of various trial court rulings on landlord-tenant matters in Florida.

RULINGS IMPACTING LANDLORDS that Iron’s notice didn’t comply with Section 83.49 and no claim could be imposed. The final judgment entered in Iron’s favor didn’t have any factual findings.

THE WOOTTON APPEAL: On appeal, the court quoted Section 83.49, Florida Statutes which required the landlord’s notice to be delivered within 30 days of the termination.

Further the notice has to be substantially in the following form: This is a notice of my intention to impose a claim for damages in the amount of __________ upon your security deposit, due to __________. It is sent to you as required by s. 83.49(3), Florida Statutes. You are hereby notified that you must object in writing to this deduction from your security deposit within 15 days from the time you receive this notice or I will be authorized to deduct my claim from your security deposit. Your objection must be sent to (landlord’s address).

Iron’s letter to the Woottons stated Iron’s intent to impose a claim on the Wootton’s security deposit. It further advised that Iron had performed a move-out inspection on Saturday, November 9, 2019, that it was returning $240 of the deposit, and that $960 of the deposit was being retained for five items related to cleaning or repair of the residence.

In flyspecking the notice, the appellate court pointed to the letter’s deficiencies: 1) it was not mailed to the Woottons’ last known mailing address; 2) it failed to notify them that they had to object in writing within fifteen days to the deduction from the security deposit; and 3) it failed to provide the address to which they were required to mail their objection.

4) the letter was not sent to the Woottons’ last known address In its defense, Iron asserted that the parties had reached a settlement so Section 83.49 didn’t apply. The appellate court was not convinced; they noted that the settlement agreement said that “pursuant to Section 83.49”, Iron would send the notice making a claim on the deposit.

The appellate court reversed the judgment in Iron’s favor.

BOTTOM LINE: These cases point out the importance of strict compliance with Chapter 83, Florida Statutes Part II. Failure to strictly adhere to the various provisions of the statute could create a fees award to the tenant.

LEGAL

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How Howto toEffectively EffectivelyMarket MarketYour YourAffordable Affordable Apartment ApartmentCommunity Community By ByAshley AshleyTyndall Tyndall https://beswifty.com/aaoa https://beswifty.com/aaoa

Marketing Marketingan anaffordable affordablehousing housingcommunity communityputs putsthe themarketer marketerininaaunique uniqueposition. position.With With aadefined definedtarget targetaudience audienceand andspecific specificparameters, parameters,ititmust muststick sticktotowhen whenititcomes comestotoits its marketing marketingscope. scope.You Youshould shouldknow knowyour yourtarget targetdemographic demographicinside insideand andout outand anduse usethis this information informationtotohelp helpshape shapeyour yourapartment apartmentmarketing marketingefforts. efforts.Your Yourentire entirestrategy strategyboils boils down downtotocreating creatingaapersonal personaltouch touchrather ratherthan thanaabig bigbudget. budget.Here Hereare aresome someofofthe themain main components componentsofofaagreat greatmarketing marketingstrategy strategyfor foraffordable affordablehousing housingthat thatfocuses focuseson ongaining gaining new newleads leadsthrough throughrelationship relationshipbuilding buildingand andnext-level next-levelengagement. engagement.

1.1.Engage EngageWith WithYour YourFollowers Followers You Youdon’t don’tneed needtotohave haveaahuge hugemarketing marketingad adspend spendtotogrow growyour youronline onlinepresence. presence.Social Social media mediaoffers offersaafree, free,worldwide worldwideplatform platformtotoincrease increasebrand brandawareness awarenessand andengage engagewith with your youraudience, audience,without withoutspending spendingaadime. dime.Yes, Yes,Facebook Facebooklead leadform formads adsare areaagreat greatway waytoto earn earnmore moreconversions; conversions;you youcan canstill stillgrow growyour youraudience audience(and (andhopefully hopefullyyour yourleases) leases)by by simply simplyengaging engagingonline. online.Develop Developaaconsistent consistentposting postingstrategy strategy(and (andstick sticktotoit), it),then thenspend spend 15-30 15-30minutes minutesper perday dayengaging engagingwith withcurrent currentand andprospective prospectiveresidents. residents.

2.2.Prioritize PrioritizeaaMobile-Friendly Mobile-FriendlyWebsite Website According AccordingtotoPew PewResearch, Research,there therehas hasbeen beenaa12-point 12-pointincrease increaseininsmartphone smartphoneownership ownership among amonghouseholds householdsearning earningless lessthan than$30,000 $30,000per peryear: year:76% 76%ofofthese theselower-income lower-income Americans Americansnow nowown ownaasmartphone. smartphone.Further, Further,44% 44%ofofAmericans Americanshave haveused usedtheir theirphone phonetoto look lookup upreal realestate estatelistings listingsororother otherinformation informationabout aboutaaplace placetotolive. live.The Theusability usabilityofofyour your company companyororcommunity communitywebsite websiteisiscritical. critical.By Bysticking stickingwith withan anoutdated outdatedwebsite, website,affordable affordable housing housingmarketers marketersare areleaving leavingaalot lotofofopportunities opportunitieson onthe thetable. table.Being Beingaware awareand andmindful mindful ofofdemographic demographicshifts shiftswill willafford affordmarketers marketersthe theopportunity opportunitytotobetter betterconnect connectwith withtheir their target targetaudience audiencefor foryears yearstotocome. come.

3.3.Tell TellYour YourStory Story Provide Provideyour yourprospective prospectiverenters renterswith withaabrand brandthey theywill willremember rememberby byutilizing utilizingyour yoursocial social media mediaand andwebsite websitetototell tellyour yourstory. story.ItItmay maybe beasassimple simpleasasoutlining outliningthe thevision visionofofyour your community communityororyour yourcommitment commitmenttotoyour yourresidents. residents.Where Whereshould shouldyou youweave weaveyour yourstory? story?

Everywhere Everywhere——social socialposts, posts,website website(homepage, (homepage,about aboutus uspage, page,contact contactpage, page,etc.), etc.),and and blogs. blogs.IfIfyou youhave haveroom roomininyour yourbudget budgetfor forpaid paidadvertising, advertising,don’t don’tbe beafraid afraidtotoweave weaveyour your story storythere thereasaswell. well.By Byfollowing followingthis, this,you youcan canmaximize maximizethe theuse useofofyour yourresources resources——rather rather than thanwasting wastingthem themon onstandard standardads adsthat thatdon’t don’tconvert. convert.AAfew fewstorytelling storytellingtips tipsinclude include creating creatingan anemotional emotionalimpact impactand andbeing beingrelatable relatabletotoyour yourtarget targetaudience, audience,including includingasas many manyspecific specificdetails detailsininyour yourstory storyasaspossible. possible.

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4. “Show” … Don’t Just “Tell” Whenever someone comes to your website or social media, your main goal is to grab their attention quickly. On average, users look at a page for 15 seconds or less — this is how long you have to grab their attention. The best way to do this is through photos and videos. The rate at which the brain processes images is 60 times faster than words. This means you are more likely to hook renters faster with images on your website rather than a lot of text. As well, photos engage your viewers, give them an authentic look at what their possible new home has to offer, and help them remember your community. In fact, if an image is paired with text, a user will remember 65 percent of the message three days later compared to 10 percent without it. Additionally, Papilios Real Estate Photography found that listings with good photography generated an average of 139 percent increase in clicks. Hiring a photographer can be overwhelming and expensive; luckily, we live in an age where your average smartphone is equipped with a high-tech camera that can capture beautiful images. However, we do suggest investing in a point-and-shoot camera that will provide higher-quality images than a phone but is more budget-friendly than a professional photographer. With a little research on how to create good lighting, you can take some pretty compelling photos of your property that will engage prospective renters.

5. Share Resident Reviews It’s no secret that online reviews are increasingly affecting residents’ purchasing decisions.

Maximize on what’s already out there and share positive online resident reviews of your community. The more you can share and highlight positive reviews on your apartment website and social media, the better. It’s possible that in their search, prospective renters won’t see your property’s reviews but if they end up on your apartment website or social media, they won’t have to look too far to read reviews given by real people. There is a sense of comfort and trust that only reviews can create. If you do not have enough good reviews to pull from, begin a campaign where you ask your current residents to leave new reviews. You can do this through email, but we suggest it in person along with a slight incentive of your choosing.

6. Utilize Hashtags on Social Media While advertising on social media is not free, posting and using highly-searched and related hashtags is. Hashtags can connect you with the affordable housing industry, keep you within relevant circles and help prospective renters find you. In fact, studies show that businesses that use hashtags are able to improve their engagement rates by up to 12.6%. Begin by completing some research on what topics/phrases are trending in the affordable housing industry right now as well as what is being searched and compile lists for each platform to pull from when creating your posts. The most advantageous aspect of these affordable housing marketing tips is that they all overlap as well as combine together to form an impactful marketing strategy for your community. With the active use of social media as well as filling your multifamily website with engaging images, you can share the essence of what makes your community a great home in an authentic way that stands out.

MARKET TRENDS

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