THEKEY
TABLEOFCONTENTS
Monica Ramsey (Monica@aago.org)
AAGO'S 2024 LEADERSHIP
OFFICERS ASSOCIATIONSTAFF
DIRECTORS
2024 PREMIER PARTNERS
MEET OUR 2025 INCOMING LEADERSHIP
Melissa Dugas
2025 AAGO President
AAGO Officers
President: Melissa Dugas, Royal American
Vice President:Eddy Perez, Rangewater
Treasurer:Meredith Torres, Greystar
Secretary:Domonique Messeroff, ConAm
Associates’ VP: Ashlee Partin, Affinity Waste Solutions
Immediate
Past President: Kathy Hensley, Greystar
AAGO Directors
Jon Chapman, Bainbridge
Brent Dickson, BELFOR Property Resoration
Mallory Hoffmeyer, RangeWater
Erika Johnson,PRG Real Estate
Tracy Lesse, RangeWater
Michelle Montoya,ConAm
Laura Vargas-Mazzarino,Bell Partners
Austin Cotton, Stephens & Company
Sheena Griffin, Asset Living
Nicole Johns, Tempest Roofing
John Kozlarek, LiveCor
Ana Lugo, Atrium Management
Amanda Otey, Bell Partners
Jolie Whitmore,Highmark Residential
Maurice Williams, i4 Waste Valet
MEET OUR 2025 INCOMING LEADERSHIP
AAGO Foundation Officers
President: Kimberly Maggard, Royal American
Vice President:Sydney Jamieson, 407Apartments
Treasurer:Lori Agudo, Royal American
Secretary:Tami Swanson, Massey Services
Immediate
Past President: Bryce Heath, Real Floors
Kimberly Maggard 2025 AAGO Foundation President
AAGO Foundation Directors
Sean Bailey, Apartment Life
Michelle Dixon, Greystar
Beverly Duda, Highmark Residential
Krya do Camro, Career Strategies
Mark Ogier, Debbie Gentry, Concord Rents
Michelle Lippai, Atlantic Southern Paving
Renae Rodriguez, Highmark Residential
Joseph Rossenwasser, Meadows Wood Property Company
Rachelle Hundley, Highmark Residential
Lee Rogers, Asset Living
Jodi Sink, D.Sink Inc
Wendy Sikorski, Cambridge Management Services Inc.
WelcometoAllOurQ4NewMembers
New Community Members
7900 Ascend Drive Kissimmee, FL 34747
League Road Kissimmee, FL 34741
14201 Boggy Creek Road
FL 32824
Lead Lane Lady Lake, FL 32159
3800 Viceroy Place DeLand, FL 32724
ACG Roofing & Construction Division LLC
Roofing Contractors/Consultants; Commercial Roofing & Repair;Waterproofing
Goode Services, LLC
Landscaping/Lawn Maintenance
2 Respond Water Restoration;Training/ Education
New Supplier Partner Members
Clean Space Inc
Carpet Cleaning Services;Cleaning Services;Power Washing;Pressure Washing/Ext Building Cleaning;Window cleaning
National MultiResidential Signs
Signs;Signs/Flags/ Banners
Construction;Floor Covering;Painting; Painting(Applicators);Re modeling
Construction Unlimited
Roofing Contractors; Siding/Installation;TurnKey;Construction;Gutter Protection FL
Property Management Law Solutions, LLC
Legal
Plumbing Parts/Supplies/Services;Wate r Filtration;Water Restoration
Roofing Contractors/Consultants
Quality Roofing Solutions
Roofing Contractors/Consultants;C ommercial Roofing & Repair;
Commercial Roofing &Repair;Waterproofin g;Roofing Contractors
This Program Will Introduce:
Education and training on the safe handling and servicing of systems using low GWP refrigerants.
Certification preparation to ensure competency and safety.
Emphasis on meeting new industry standards and regulatory requirements. REGISTER TODAY! aago.org/events/hvacjan25
CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2024 NAAEI DESIGNATES
Alyssa Barber, CAM
Amy Allman, CAM
Christopher Tanner, CAM
Gustavo Dallos, CAM
Jacqueline Oshel, CAM
Kristie Storer, CAM
Queen Collins, CAM
Stephanie Bell, CAM
Alejandro Ortega, CAMT
Angel Ernesto Lanuza, CAMT
Angel Gonzalez, CAMT
Eddie Andino, CAMT
Edwin Rodriguez, CAMT
Fabio Mata, CAMT
Gerardo Rivera Vega, CAMT
Heimar Mauricio Murcia, CAMT
Jeffrey Lopez, CAMT
Jewell Dye, CAMT
Jose Suarez, CAMT
Alyssa Barber, CAPS
David Lobsinger, CAPS
Heather White, CAPS
Kayla Herman, CAPS
Kristie Storer, CAPS
Kip Newberry, CAMT
Rafael Vargas, CAMT
Reinaldo Rodriguez, CAMT
Richard Taylor, CAMT
Sean Davis, CAMT
Wesley Rivera, CAMT
William Thurmer, CAMT
Yordany Mata, CAMT
Lisa McElhinney, CAPS
Tammy Huntley-Schuering, CAPS
Whitney Moore, CAPS
Q4 EVENTS CALENDAR
R E G I S T E R T O D A Y a a g o . o r g / e v e n t s / 2 0 2 4 g k a
IndividualNominees
TeamNominees
Acclaim at Conroy
Advanced Exercise
Alton Serenoa Apartments
Apex Apopka
Arya at Windermere
Asset Living
Aston Square Apartments
Atlas at the Loop
Bainbridge Winter Park
Bayfront on Sand Lake
Bell Lake Forest
Burano Hunters Creek
Cacéma Townhomes
Deseo Grande Apartments
Emerson at Celebration
Ezelle Apartments
Gallery at Mills Park
Greystar Management Services
Highmark Residential
Palm Crossing
RangeWater Real Estate
Reef Club Apartment Homes
Roof Depot
RPM Living
Infield Apartments
Liberty Interiors
Lynwind
Martinez Painting Group
Massey Services, Inc.
Minneola Hills
Osprey Park
Sanctuary at Daytona
Sanctuary at Westport
Story Sanford
Summer House at Lake Apopka
Sun Lake
The Adeline
The Alexander at Sabal Point
The Alibi at Lake Lilly
The Grove at Clermont
The Henry
The Isle Apartments
The Lodge at Hamlin
The Overlook
The Yard at Ivanhoe
Trelago
Urbana
Vale East Student Living
Venetian Isle
Village at Baldwin Park
Wellington Woods Apartments
Westmount at Winter Park
Windermere Cay
2024 BOOTS, BLING,&BBQ
2024 MAINTENACE APPRECIATION
H I S P A N I C
HERITAGE MONTH
DISCOVER THE STORIES OF OUR MEMBERS WITH HISPANIC HERITAGE
MADISON QUINTANA
Assistant Property Manager
ZRS Management
JOSHUA REYES
Maintenance Technician
Highmark Residential
LAURA VARGAS-MAZZARINO Community Manager
Bell Partners Inc
IN HONOR OF HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH, PLEASE TELL US HOW YOU EMBRACE HISPANIC CULTURE AND TRADITIONS?
MADISON: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is very important to me, and I love marking the occasion by cooking traditional dishes from various Latin American countries It's a great way to connect with my roots and share the flavors of our culture with friends and family As a Puerto Rican born and raised in Florida, I didn’t learn Spanish from my parents, so I’m teaching myself the language now. Music is also a big part of how I embrace my heritage; whether it’s salsa, reggaetón, or bachata, I always have something playing to keep the energy up and remind me of where I come from
JOSHUA: The way that I embrace my Hispanic culture is by not forgetting were I came from this being Puerto Rico I'm always listening to reggaeton and salsa and I love going to the beach and eating rice and beans while drinking a Malta it's the little things that if you keep in rotation can never break your roots
LAURA: Our culture is beautifully diverse, yet one thing many Hispanics share is the importance of family, which remains at the heart of many of our activities Personally, I celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve) by hosting family dinners and game nights filled with delicious food and lively music, keeping our Dominican traditions vibrant and alive
Q:
WHY DO YOU THINK IT IS SO IMPORTANT TO CELEBRATE HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH?
MADISON: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is important because it allows us to honor the rich cultural contributions and history of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. This month shines a light on the diverse traditions, languages, and achievements that enrich our society It gives us a wonderful opportunity to share stories and experiences, helping to foster understanding and appreciation among everyone Additionally, recognizing this month reminds us of the challenges these communities still face, prompting important conversations about equity and representation Ultimately, it’s about celebrating our heritage and promoting unity and respect for all cultures
JOSHUA: I feel like it’s important to celebrate Hispanic heritage month because the Latin community work very hard To always provide better for their family were very ambitious and hardworking when we want something we get it and we live in the moment.
LAURA: Hispanic Heritage Month serves as a reminder for both the Hispanic community and others to appreciate the cultural richness and deeply rooted values we contribute to society. It’s also a time to celebrate the ongoing impact we’ve made (and continue to make) in areas such as education, music, sports, and the broader economy
Q:HOW DID YOU GET STARTED IN THE INDUSTRY?
MADISON: I got started in the property management industry thanks to my brother's girlfriend, who works for Willow Bridge One day, I was venting to her about my struggle to find something that truly resonated with me I wanted a career where I could grow and build a stable life, especially after getting pregnant at a young age It was important for me to provide my son with a good life and the things he wanted without having to worry constantly about financial stability.
She recommended leasing, emphasizing how it offers a great work-life balance, which was exactly what I was looking for. I decided to give it a try and landed my first job in DeBary with ZRS as a leasing agent. Now, I’m proud to say I’m an assistant property manager I don’t regret making this transition at all While the industry has its challenges, I’ve truly found my career path in property management
JOSHUA: I got started in the industry at 12 years old when it was a take your child to workday my dad was my biggest inspiration when I was young. I wanted to be just like him and when I saw what he did and how happy people were when he fixed items in their apartments I instantly fell in love and told myself ima be in the trades and make a career for myself
LAURA: I began my property management journey as a curious resident, and officially got my first job as a customer support associate, a role designed to assist the leasing office and management with administrative tasks and resident support. With a passion for helping others and building connections deeply rooted in who I am, I quickly transitioned to a leasing consultant just a few months later, and the rest is history
Q:
WHAT IS ONE PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’D GIVE TO SOMEONE STARTING OUT IN YOUR CAREER?
MADISON: One piece of advice I would give to someone starting out in property management is to prioritize building strong relationships This industry is all about connecting with residents, colleagues, and vendors, so taking the time to listen, understand their needs, and communicate effectively can make a significant difference in your success
It's important to remember that this career comes with its challenges and mistakes, and there will be times when things might be difficult However, don't let those moments discourage you Embrace feedback, seek mentorship, and continually educate yourself about the industry Each experience, whether it's a challenge or a success, is an opportunity for growth. Stay persistent, and don't give up; you’ll find your footing and thrive in this rewarding field
JOSHUA: Don’t worry about the money it will come later do the job and see how you feel about it first if you enjoy it and it’s what you wanna do your gonna be happy Because you’re getting experience and you’re learning because without passion theirs no love better to do a job you love then to get paid a lot but hate we’re you work
LAURA: Embrace your uniqueness and never compromise your essence to fit in Leverage the qualities you've inherited from your culture, such as resilience, respect for others, and a strong work ethic to your advantage
An Education Savings Program
Written by Kevin Knight
In a significant Florida landlord-tenant case, Geraldo Podesta Perez v. Belmont at Ryals Chase Condominium Association, Inc., and Webb Realty Consultants, Inc., decided on September 25, 2024, the 2nd District Court of Florida addressed essential legal principles regarding landlords' obligations to maintain rental properties and the implications of tenants' awareness of dangerous conditions.
BACKGROUND OF THE CASE
Geraldo Perez, the tenant, filed a negligence lawsuit against his landlord, Belmont at Ryals Chase Condominium Association, and the property management company, Webb Realty Consultants, after he sustained injuries from falling on loose floor tiles within his rented unit. Despite previous complaints about the dangerous condition of the tiles, the property management did not address these concerns adequately The Circuit Court for Pasco County initially granted summary judgment in favor of the defendants, ruling that they did not owe a duty to Perez because he was aware of the hazardous condition, classifying it as "open and obvious "
LEGAL ANALYSIS AND APPELLATE COURT DECISION
The appellate court reversed the lower court's decision, emphasizing that the landlord's duty to maintain the premises in a safe condition does not cease simply because a tenant is aware of existing hazards The court clarified that landlords have a "continuing duty to exercise reasonable care to repair dangerous conditions upon notice of their existence by the tenant, unless waived by the tenant " In Perez's case, his wife had notified the property management about the loose tiles on two separate occasions, thereby fulfilling their obligation to report and not waiving any rights to safe living conditions.
IMPORTANCE OF THE CASE FOR LANDLORDS
This case underscores several critical points for landlords and property management companies:
1 Continuing Duty of Care: Landlords have an ongoing responsibility to address hazardous conditions once they are notified Ignoring such notifications can lead to legal liabilities.
2 Impact of Tenant Notifications: Tenants' awareness or notifications of dangerous conditions do not absolve landlords from their duty to perform necessary repairs Instead, these notifications serve to formally acknowledge the risk and solidify the landlord’s duty to act.
3 Legal and Financial Risks: Failure to maintain rental properties can lead to significant legal and financial consequences Beyond the potential harm to tenants, landlords might face costly lawsuits and increased insurance premiums
4 Documentation and Compliance: Maintaining thorough records of tenant complaints and actions taken in response is crucial These documents can be vital in legal proceedings, demonstrating diligence in property management
5 Proactive Maintenance Strategy: Adopting a proactive approach to property maintenance is advisable to prevent such issues Regular inspections and timely repairs can avert accidents and associated legal disputes
CONCLUSION:
The case of Geraldo Podesta Perez vs. Belmont at Ryals Chase Condominium Association, Inc serves as a crucial reminder for landlords about the importance of adhering to safety standards and addressing tenant concerns promptly. It highlights the potential pitfalls of neglecting the safety aspects of property management and reinforces the legal obligations landlords have towards their tenants This ruling protects tenants’ rights to safe living conditions and emphasizes the need for landlords to take proactive steps in maintaining their properties to avoid similar legal challenges
2024 CHARITY PARTNERS
