MM_September2026

MULTIFAMILY MINUTE A A N C Q U A R T E R LY N E W S | S E P T E M B E R 2 0 2 6

INSIDE THIS ISSUE: President’s Letter| Government Affairs Update| We Are Multifamily: Drucker + Falk’s 4th Annual Clean-Up Legal Update: HUD's Position on Emotional Support Animals | Affiliate Updates| And more!

AANC is dedicated to leading and supporting i t s m e m b e r s ' e v e rc hanging needs through regulatory and l e g i s l a t i v e a d v o c a c y, industry education, and communication.

Affiliated with 188 Wind Chime Court, Ste 101 Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 919.589.7759

AANC STAFF Jon Lowder, Executive Director jon@aanconline.org Sarah Dubose, Director of Government Affairs gad@aanconline.org Kristin Goins, Director of Education and Engagement kristin@aanconline.org Kat Nicholas, Director of Communications kat@aanconline.org Julie Powers, Association Administrator Julie@aanconline.org

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

TABLE OF CONTENTS 4 President’s Letter 5 Government Affairs 7 Legal Update| What Housing Providers Need to Know About HUD's New Position on Emotional Support Animals 9 We Are Multifamily | Drucker + Falk’s Fourth Annual Clean-Up 13 State Suppliers Council Message 14 AANC Webinars 16 NC Affiliate Updates 21 News from NAA Region 4 23 On the Move | News from the Industry 24 AANC Announcements

N O R T H C A R O L I N A A F F I L I AT E S

ON THE COVER The Lindley at Grove 98| Wake Forest, NC

Do you have a propertyAANC youMULTIFAMILY would likeMINUTE to submit for the | DECEMBER 2025cover of the Multifamily Minute?

Email kat@aanconline.org

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BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

DIRECTORS AT LARGE

KAREN PERKINS, PRESIDENT Willow Bridge Property Company, GFAA AMANDA SIEGAL WILLIAMS, VICE PRESIDENT BSC Holdings, PTAA AMY RITCHY, TREASURER Greystar, WAA AMY TIMOCKO, SECRETARY Caviness & Cates, TAA LISA TAYLOR, IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Greystar, GCAA

APARTMENT ASSOCIATION OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA (AAWNC) TINA GORBY BAKER Apartments.com BETHANY LYKINS Greystar KIMBERLY MEDEARIS Fogelman Properties

NORM PRAET, GENERAL COUNSEL Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

2026 BOARD MEETING DATES O C TO B E R 7 Zoom O C TO B E R 1 4 - 1 5 Strategic Planning Wilmington, NC DECEMBER 16 Zoom

GREATER CHARLOTTE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (GCAA) DANA FLAHERTY BGSF MICHELLE O'BRIEN Loebsack & Brownlee DEIDRE QUICK Asset Living MARY BETH WOODARD Highmark Residential GREATER FAYETTEVILLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (GFAA) JENNIFER PITTMAN Van Metre Apartments ANGELA RAUPP Apartment Dynamics GREENVILLE AREA PROPERTY MANAGERS ASSOCIATON (GAPMA) AMY DEAL Hawthorne Residential MICHAEL MULLEN Redi Carpet

PIEDMONT TRIAD APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (PTAA) JAMES CRAIG Ari Apartment Management MARY GWYN Apartment Dynamics CARRIE LANGLEY Burkely Communities BERT WRAY Chadwell Supply TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA) CRAIG NARDI Marquis Asset Management CINDY NITSCHKE Valet Living SYDNEY PARTIN Greystar APRIL VASTA Willow Bridge Property Company WILMINGTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (WAA) APRIL GIRARD Drucker + Falk KRYSTI KESER Hawthorne Residential DORIANE MURRAY Tribute Properties KAREN SPAID Highmark Residential AANC STATE SUPPLIERS COUNCIL BILL CLEMENTS Redi Carpet

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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PRESIDENT’S LETTER Dear AANC Members, As we head into the final months of 2026, we are also beginning some of the most important work we will do to prepare AANC for the years ahead.

This October, our Board of Directors will gather in Wilmington, NC, for our fall board meeting and three-year strategic planning retreat. Together, we’ll take time to reflect on where we are as an association, where we want to go, and how we can continue to best serve our members and strengthen the rental housing industry across North Carolina. But that work begins before we arrive in Wilmington.

As our committees meet in the coming weeks, I encourage them to think beyond the work immediately in front of them.

What opportunities do you see for AANC over the next three years? Where can we have a greater impact? What should we continue, strengthen, change, or explore? And that invitation extends to every AANC member. If you have an idea or priority you believe should help shape our future, we want to hear from you. Whether through a committee, your local affiliate, or directly to AANC leadership, I encourage you to add your voice to the work AANC is doing.

One of the things I value most about AANC is that our direction is shaped by so many voices. The strength of this association comes from leaders and members across North Carolina who generously share their time, experience, ideas, and perspectives. Our strategic planning process gives us an opportunity to bring those voices together and be intentional about where we go next.

And personally, I am really looking forward to our time together in Wilmington. There is something special about stepping away from the normal pace of our days and having dedicated time not only to work, but to reflect, reconnect, and enjoy the company of people who share a genuine commitment to this association and our industry.

Some of the best ideas, along with some of the strongest relationships, are built in those moments between the agenda items. I’m grateful for the opportunity to spend that time with leaders from across our state, and I’m excited about what lies ahead.

AANC has a lot to be proud of, and even more to look forward to as we shape the next chapter together. Your voice has a place at this table, and I hope each of you will lend it to the conversation.

With a grateful heart, Karen Perkins, AANC President Willow Bridge Property Company

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS SEPTEMBER 2026 The 2025–2026 legislative biennium is beginning to wind down, with lawmakers largely finished with substantive work ahead of the November elections. While the General Assembly will continue to hold periodic sessions through the end of the year, attention is increasingly turning toward Election Day and the start of a new legislature in January.

AANC continues to push one of its newest legislative priorities across the finish line: criminalizing rental application fraud. Following Lobby Day, AANC successfully secured the provision in HB 308: 2026 Criminal Law Changes earlier this year, and the bill remains in conference committee as House and Senate negotiators work toward a final agreement on other, unrelated provisions within the bill.

Demonstrating AANC’s strength as an advocate for housing affordability, in July, AANC was invited to the Governor’s Mansion to celebrate the signing legislation reforming local parking requirements, a meaningful win in AANC’s ongoing efforts to reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers and lower development costs for rental housing.

For a comprehensive overview of other legislative wins and new laws from this session, including regulatory reform and state budget changes, see our latest government affairs updates at: https://www.aanconline.org/news/legislative-updates.

Looking ahead, every seat in the General Assembly is on the ballot this November. A new legislature and twoyear biennium will be convened in January, giving AANC a new opportunity to build on this year’s successes and continue advancing policies that support the rental housing industry across North Carolina.

As we begin developing AANC’s 2027 legislative priorities this fall, we encourage members to start thinking about development or operational pain points that could benefit from a legislative solution. Those real-world challenges will help inform our agenda and advocacy efforts for the new biennium. Have thoughts? Email Sarah DuBose at GAD@aanconline.org.

Receive AANC Government Affairs Updates directly in your inbox

SIGN UP HERE AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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SUPPORT MULTIFAMILY The 2026 general election will be a consequential one for North Carolina’s rental housing industry, with every seat in the General Assembly on the ballot and the results helping shape the political landscape heading into the 2027 legislative session.

Because 2026 is an election year, supporting the AANC PAC is especially important.

PAC contributions help elect lawmakers who value housing supply, property rights, and balanced landlord-tenant policy.

It only takes a minute to contribute.

Text “AANC2026” to 50155 or click here to get started.

The AANC PAC is preparing to support candidates who have demonstrated a proven track record of supporting housing affordability, reducing barriers to development, and understanding the issues that impact rental housing providers and residents across North Carolina. To make sure our industry has the resources to support these champions in competitive races this fall, we need your help now!

Please consider contributing to the AANC PAC today. Every contribution strengthens our ability to support candidates who understand our industry and ensure the rental housing industry has a strong voice at the ballot box and at the General Assembly.

The Multifamily Housing Coalition of North Carolina (MHCNC) is an independent expenditure committee regulated by the state and the IRS. The MHCNC focuses on areas with significant impact, such as advertising, advocacy, and other activities to influence public policy debates or elections. The MHCNC can accept contributions from individual donors as well as corporate entities.

To DONATE to the Multifamily Housing Coalition, mail check payable to MHCNC to: Apartment Association of North Carolina 188 Wind Chime Court, Ste 101 | Raleigh, North Carolina 27615 AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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LEGAL UPDATE

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice, nor does it constitute an opinion, recommendation, or endorsement of any kind. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on as, legal advice, nor does it represent the views, opinions, or recommendations of AANC. Readers are encouraged to consult their own legal counsel for advice specific to their circumstances. The information provided herein does not create an attorney-client relationship.

What Housing Providers Need to Know About HUD's New Position on Emotional Support Animals

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently released an internal memo that significantly changes how the agency will handle fair housing complaints involving emotional support animals. This article explains what has changed, what has not changed, and what housing providers should do in response.

Understanding Key Terms: Before we dive in, let's clarify some important terms: Emotional Support Animal (ESA): A pet (usually a dog or cat) that provides comfort and emotional support to a person with a disability simply by being present. ESAs are not trained to perform specific tasks.

Service Animal: Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a service animal is a dog (or occasionally a miniature horse) that has been individually trained to perform work or tasks directly related to a person's disability. For example, a guide dog for a blind person or a dog trained to detect seizures before they happen. The key difference is that service animals must be trained to do something specific not just provide comfort.

Reasonable Accommodation: A change to a rule, policy, or practice that gives someone with a disability an equal opportunity to use and enjoy housing. For example, allowing a service animal in a building with a "no pets" policy.

READ FULL ARTICLE HERE AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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W E A R E M U LT I F A M I LY

STORIES FROM THE GROUND UP

Drucker + Falk Brings Together 400+ Volunteers Across 24 Events for Fourth Annual Clean-Up Initiative Information provided by Drucker + Falk

Marking the fourth consecutive year of its highly successful company-wide beautification campaign, Drucker + Falk (DF), a premier national multifamily management firm, has announced the widespread community impact of this season's environmental initiative. Building on its previous role as a Keep America Beautiful (KAB) Ambassador, Drucker + Falk increased its commitment this year by becoming an official "Partner for Change," supported by a $10,000 corporate donation. This partnership integrates DF into the national Greatest American Cleanup campaign, utilizing the firm’s multi-state volunteer teams to help build cleaner, greener, and more beautiful spaces. With volunteer events running throughout April and May, DF teams worked to improve local communities ahead of America’s milestone 250 th Birthday on July 4, 2026.

The core focus of this year's initiative is making a direct difference in the neighborhoods and regions DF serves. The annual "Day of Giving" program provides all employees with a day off with full pay when serving a philanthropic cause of their choice. While the Greatest American Cleanup is the largest corporate-organized initiative the firm sponsors each year, employees maintain the autonomy to select any charity that resonates with them. The fact that over 400 team members voluntarily chose to dedicate their hours to these cleanup events reflects strong internal alignment and an organic desire across the company to give back.

Raleigh City Farm Clean Up 2026 AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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W E A R E M U LT I F A M I LY

( c o n t i n u e d )

This annual initiative is open to all Drucker + Falk personnel, drawing participation from every level of the organization. By providing corporate organization and paid time off simultaneously, DF enabled over 400 volunteers—including executive leadership, corporate office staff, regional managers, and onsite property teams—stepped away from their daily operational roles to work together to make America more beautiful.

To date, these teams have contributed over 1,500 volunteer hours to clean and restore local ecosystems, public parks, nature trails, urban farms, and coastal beaches. These efforts resulted in the removal of 325 bags of trash and debris across Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, and Florida.

Yorktown Clean Up

“We are incredibly grateful to everyone at Drucker + Falk for bringing such great energy to the Greatest American Cleanup,” said Erin Slaughter, Director of Development at Keep America Beautiful. “After serving as a fantastic Campaign Ambassador last year, it’s exciting to see DF deepen their commitment as an official Partner for Change. Their employees choosing to spend their Day of Giving volunteering in local communities demonstrates meaningful stewardship.”

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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W E A R E M U LT I F A M I LY

( c o n t i n u e d )

The extensive schedule included 24 distinct events, with 12 throughout Virginia, 6 across North Carolina, and individual regional initiatives spanning South Carolina, Maryland, Ohio, and Florida. These efforts targeted a diverse mix of community spaces, combining large-scale litter removal with other improvement projects.

Volunteer tasks ranged from clearing nature trails and public beaches of heavy debris to painting and refreshing properties. Teams also provided specialized facility and pasture maintenance for local agricultural and equestrian non-profits, taking on vital projects like fence installation, shelter repairs, and equipment organization to support these community spaces.

"What began as a localized effort has grown into something our entire company looks forward to every year," said Guy Buck, President, Drucker + Falk. "The momentum behind this initiative just keeps building. Participation from our teams has increased every single year, culminating in 2026 being the biggest turnout we've ever had. It’s incredibly rewarding to see that collective impact grow."

Wendy Drucker, Managing Director for Drucker + Falk, emphasized that the internal cultural benefits of the initiative are just as important as the external environmental impacts.

"Our daily responsibility to optimize property performance for our clients and provide great living experiences for our residents is a natural progression to how we care for the broader community," Drucker stated. "Aligning with Keep America Beautiful as a Partner for Change allows us to back our hands-on efforts with national organizational support. Working together to improve these spaces builds real connections across our teams and highlights a shared commitment that runs through our entire organization."

The Keep America Beautiful-inspired initiative is one component of Drucker + Falk’s broader, year-round philanthropic efforts, which include localized donation drives, financial support for regional non-profits, community garden installations, and meal-service sponsorships.

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For more information about Keep America Beautiful and their environmental initiatives, visit their website at kab.org.

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STATE SUPPLIERS COUNCIL

A Message from AANC 2026 State Suppliers Council Chair, Bill Clements

Happy Almost Fall from your State Suppliers Council!

School is back and I can speak for most suppliers when I say we are chest deep in budget camps, conferences and all things customer related. Our property side partners are really stretched and feeling the pressures of long days and big expectations from all sides. I want each of you to know they appreciate everything you do. And you are seen!

Your supplier’s council has selected its representatives for the 2027 AANC Leadership Lyceum class! We will reveal them soon! We have also finalized the process for selecting and voting on your 2027 Secretary. Tina Baker, the fabulous Market Sales Executive for Apartments.com, will join your 2027 Chair Natalie Hart, and 2027 Vice Chair, Brian McCarthy.

The 2027 CONNECTed Conference will be here before you know it. Sponsorship pricing and trade show space will open soon. You do not want to wait to lock in for it quickly! We also have exciting new opportunities for you, on the supplier side, at conference, for 2027- STAY TUNED! Coming up September 17th: ‘Brand Like a Boss! Supplier Marketing That Works’ This WEBINAR features a power packed panel, covering everything you need to do to succeed and win, in the marketplace. Join Moderator Stephanie Schroeder (BWP) and panelists Hannah Kalinichenko (Greystar), Micah Neighbors (Plume & Pixels), Cel Smart (Ready Fitness), and myself. Cost is $29.99 for members, and you can register here.

We look forward to seeing you at our monthly virtual meetings and we will be gathering in person for our December meeting, to be held at the PTAA office in Greensboro, an annual tradition!

Bill Clements Chair, AANC State Suppliers Council 13

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

AANC WEBINARS Brand Like a Boss! Supplier Marketing That Works September 17, 2026 l 10:00am 1 CEC Stand out, build stronger connections, and grow your business!

Join us for Brand Like a Boss!

Supplier Marketing That Works to discover practical marketing strategies designed specifically for multifamily suppliers. Learn how to elevate your brand, create meaningful industry relationships, and turn your marketing efforts into real business opportunities.

BONUS: Can’t make it live? A recording will be sent to you to watch on your schedule!

Budget Now for 2027 Webinars! $29.99 each Extra, Extra, Hear All About It: Government Affairs Update (Feb 11) Making Cents of It All: Financials from the Bottom Up (Jun 3) Keep Calm and Multifamily On (Sep 16) Beyond the Bot: The Human Edge in Multifamily (Nov 4)

LEARN MORE AND REGISTER TODAY! AANC 2026 WEBINARS Brand Like a Boss! Supplier Market ing That Works September 17 Tech Tools & Apps That Make Multi family Life Easier!

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November 5

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AFFILIATE UPDATES

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE STATE IN THE MULTIFAMILY INDUSTRY GREATER CHARLOTTE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (GCAA) Our hard work helped us bring home THE AWARD! The Greater Charlotte Apartment Association was named the 2026 NAA State/Metro Affiliate of the Year, one of the highest honors an NAA affiliate can receive! This recognition belongs to the entire GCAA community: the members who show up, the volunteers who lead, the industry partners who invest, and the staff who continually push the Association forward.

And we certainly haven’t slowed down since. From pool decks and packed classrooms to bingo cards, rock & roll, and a little Havana heat, the GCAA has spent the season creating opportunities for members to learn, connect, celebrate, and invest more deeply in their multifamily community.

The GCAA officially wrapped another successful Summer Series, a trio of complimentary experiences created specifically for onsite teams. Across three summer dates, members stepped away from the demands of the property for opportunities centered on connection, appreciation, and a little summer fun, reinforcing our belief that meaningful member value should reach every level of the multifamily industry.

The learning certainly did not take a summer vacation. GCAA classrooms stayed busy with several Pool School sessions alongside credential programs including CALP, CAPS, and Fast Track CAM. From professionals building the foundation of their careers to experienced leaders sharpening their expertise, these classrooms represented the full spectrum of multifamily career growth.

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

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AFFILIATE UPDATES GREATER CHARLOTTE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (GCAA) Meanwhile, things are heating up in Havana. The nomination portal for the 2026 BRAVO Awards: Havana Nights is officially open, inviting members to recognize the people, teams, communities, and companies making extraordinary contributions to the Greater Charlotte multifamily industry. With vintage Havana glamour, tropical inspiration, and plenty of surprises taking shape behind the scenes, the road to December 4 is officially underway.

There was also plenty of laughter, nostalgia, and friendly competition when the GCAA took a trip to the lanai for its Golden Girls-inspired Thank You For Being A Friend Charity BINGO. Members gathered for BINGO, raffles, and playful nods to Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia, all benefiting the GCAA Benevolence Fund. It was a fitting reminder that sometimes community impact looks a lot like friends showing up for friends.

Charlotte’s newest communities are also getting ready for their close-up. The GCAA’s upcoming Selling Charlotte New Construction Bus Tour puts a playful reality TV spin on one of our most anticipated industry experiences, taking members beyond the renderings and inside some of the market’s newest multifamily developments. The tour gives attendees a firsthand look at the design, amenities, innovation, and trends shaping Charlotte’s next generation of apartment communities while creating plenty of opportunities for conversation and connection along the way.

And soon, the volume gets turned all the way up. Preparations are in full swing for the GCAA’s sold-out, Rock & Roll-themed Executive Experience. Designed to bring multifamily executives and supplier partners together for deeper, more intentional relationship building, the evening will pair elevated hospitality with live music and plenty of rock-inspired details.

And through all of this, Gold is Coming. Behind the events, education, celebrations, and member experiences of today, the GCAA team is steadily preparing for something much bigger: the Association’s 50th Anniversary in 2027. As the Golden Year approaches, plans are taking shape to honor five decades of multifamily connection, collaboration, leadership, advocacy, and impact while creating experiences worthy of the milestone.

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

AFFILIATE UPDATES PIEDMONT TRIAD APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (PTAA) PTAA Reflects on a Productive Summer and Looks Ahead to 2027 The Piedmont Triad Apartment Association (PTAA) has had a busy and rewarding summer, focused on planning innovative programs for 2027 while celebrating the outstanding contributions of our onsite apartment industry professionals.

In addition to advancing our strategic initiatives, PTAA members demonstrated their commitment to giving back PTAA Volunteers Serving Meals at SECU Family House through several community service projects. Volunteers prepared and served meals for families staying at SECU Family House, collected hundreds of shoes for local children through Backpack Beginnings, and supported Second Harvest Food Bank through a member-driven food drive.

PTAA also recently welcomed Missy Kirchhoff as Director of Membership & Engagement, completing our staff team and strengthening our ability to serve the multifamily housing industry across the Piedmont Triad.

As we move into the fall season, our calendar is packed with opportunities for members to connect, learn, and grow. From networking events and educational programs to onsite recognition initiatives, PTAA remains dedicated to supporting the people and companies that help our communities thrive.

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

AFFILIATE UPDATES TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA) A Quarter of Recognition Recognition has been a strong focus for TAA this quarter, and we’ll carry that focus into the rest of the year.

Whether celebrating the supplier partners who support our industry or highlighting the accomplishments of our members, that commitment has been reflected throughout our programming.

Celebrating Contributions August marked the first annual Supplier Appreciation Month at TAA, a month dedicated to supplier partners who are an important part of our association and the day-to-day work of owner/operators. Suppliers support apartment communities and management companies, bring expertise to the industry, and contribute their time as volunteers with TAA and affiliates across North Carolina.

We celebrated throughout the month with a supplier appreciation lunch, mocktail Monday events, social media recognition, and weekly giveaway prizes to suppliers. We also offered supplier focused education through the Supplier Success Program and Inside the Multifamily Mind seminar. While August gave us a dedicated time to recognize our supplier partners, we hope that appreciation continues beyond this month.

Supplier members and owner/operator supporters gathered at the TAA office for a supplier appreciation lunch

Investing in Growth Professional growth has also been a focus this quarter. In August, we welcomed Alex Jackiw to lead our CAPS fast-track course, providing participants with the opportunity to learn from a renowned industry leader.

During the class, TAA presented a donation to the NAAEI Alexandra Jackiw Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship, which supports professional development opportunities for members of racial and ethnic minority groups, LGBTQ+ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans and active-duty military members.

AFFILIATE UPDATES TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA) (continued) The 2026 TAA CAPS Credential Class presents a donation to the Alexandra Jackiw Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship on behalf of TAA.

More education is ahead. The CAM credential will be offered as a oneweek fast-track program, and the CAMT program begins in November. Additional continuing education courses are planned for the remainder of the year, including Legal Issues, Leadership for Maintenance Professionals, and Property Financials Seminar for Managers.

Beyond the classroom, members will also have an opportunity to get a closer look at the local market through an upcoming New Construction Bus Tour in October, focused on downtown Raleigh. The tour will explore submarket performance, new developments, and market trends.

Recognizing Excellence As we move into the fall, the TOPS Awards offer another opportunity to celebrate the individuals, teams, and industry partners making a meaningful impact across the Triangle. Recognition begins with a nomination, so if someone has made a difference this year, consider nominating them before October 11. Applications and award category information are available on the TAA website.

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

NEWS FROM NAA

from Lisa Taylor, NAA Region 4 Vice President

Impactful Update: NAA Regional Election Process Change

At the National Apartment Association (NAA) Board of Directors meeting held on June 17 in New Orleans, the Board considered and voted on a proposal to modify the Regional Vice President (RVP) election process. This change specifically impacted Region IV, which was the only remaining region utilizing a geographic-based voting system rather than a popular vote methodology.

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2026

Supplier Salesperson of the Year

Tara Gerberich of BGSF and

State Affiliate of the Year

Greater Charlotte Apartment Association (GCAA)

Although Region IV RVPs encouraged board members to either abstain from voting or vote against the proposal, and after nearly an hour of thoughtful discussion, the motion was ultimately approved. The prevailing sentiment among board members was the importance of consistency across all regions, regardless of election methodology.

As a result, beginning with the 2027 Apartmentalize Conference, Region IV RVP elections will be conducted using a popular vote system, with candidates elected based on the total number of votes received. Fortunately, North Carolina has historically demonstrated strong member engagement and participation. Moving forward, it will be increasingly important that our delegates continue to attend, participate, and vote to ensure our state's voice remains well represented.

NAA Apartmentalize 2026 Highlights

Thank you to everyone who attended Apartmentalize in New Orleans and contributed to an outstanding conference experience.

Region IV celebrated several notable accomplishments and recognitions: • Supplier Salesperson of the Year: Tara Gerberich, BGSF • State Affiliate of the Year: Greater Charlotte Apartment Association (GCAA), led by Kim Graham and her exceptional team.

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

NEWS FROM NAA Looking ahead, please mark your calendars for Apartmentalize 2027 in Denver, Colorado. We are proud to share that Kelli Lea (Region IV) and Brett Duke (Region IV RVP) have been selected to serve as Conference Co-Chairs.

Rental Housing Advocacy & Legal Summit (RHALS)

The Rental Housing Advocacy & Legal Summit (RHALS) remains the industry's premier annual event dedicated to legislative, regulatory, and legal developments impacting rental housing operations.

AANC was well represented this year, with several session speakers, including: • Todd Whitlow • Tabitha Elligan • Thomas Howard of Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC.

Assembly of Delegates 2026

The 2026 Assembly of Delegates will be held in Kansas City, Missouri, November 11-13, 2026. During the event, Chair-Elect Jeannette Cox will be officially installed as 2027 Chair.

2026 EVENTS

Lisa Taylor l Greystar, NAA Region IV Vice President LTaylor@greystar.com

AE/AP Leadership Symposium

September 28-30 Scottsdale, AZ

Assembly of Delegates

November 11-13 Kansas City, MO 22

AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

ON THE MOVE

NEWS FROM THE MULTIFAMILY AND RENTAL INDUSTRY The renter generation: Young Americans, shut out of homeownership, brace to rent forever (MarketWatch) People once believed if they worked

hard, they could become homeowners, but ‘we’re coming to terms with the fact that perhaps most won’t.’

Read the full article here.

Beyond the Rent: The economic signals multifamily leaders should watch this fall (Multifamily Dive) Apartment professionals should

keep an eye on the war in Iran, a possible Federal Reserve rate hike and ballooning U.S. debt, among other things.

Read the full article here.

Notable multifamily policy and legal moves from this summer (Multifamily Dive) Apartment

permitting, land use, junk fees and heat violations are among the issues state and local officials have tackled recently.

Read the full article here.

August apartment rents turn positive for the first time in four years (CNBC) Apartment rents are still 0.8% lower compared with August of last year, but that drop is shrinking.

Read the full article here.

Multifamily’s next phase will reward discipline over momentum (Multifamily Dive)

Morgan Properties’ chief operating officer says the strongest operators will be those that protect occupancy, manage costs and leverage technology and disciplined capital strategies.

Read the full article here.

Multifamily new supply set to bottom out in 2027 (Multifamily Dive) Yardi Matrix’s third-

quarter Multifamily Supply Forecast anticipates a modest rebound in apartment deliveries after 2027, but a return to the high levels of 2024 and 2025 is unlikely.

Read the full article here.

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AANC MULTIFAMILY MINUTE | SEPTEMBER 2026

AANC ANNOUNCEMENTS

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION FOR AANC’S INAUGURAL COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD!

MAKE AN IMPACT ACROSS NORTH CAROLINA: JOIN AN AANC COMMITTEE!

The Community Service Award celebrates individuals and companies who have shown outstanding commitment to the quality of life in their communities and the social wellbeing of others.

Your voice matters! Get involved at the state level by joining an AANC committee. It's a great way to build your professional network, develop your leadership skills, and help guide initiatives that strengthen North Carolina's rental housing industry. Whether your interests lie in education, advocacy, events, communications, or member engagement, there's a committee where you can make an impact.

The award will be presented at the 2027 AANC CONNECTed Conference and will include a donation to the organization supported by the community service.

SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION TODAY!

Ready to get involved? We'd love to have you!

Learn more here.

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AANC ANNOUNCEMENTS Celebrate Excellence: Nominate Someone for the AANC Hall of Fame The AANC Hall of Fame honors individuals whose exceptional leadership, service, and lasting contributions have strengthened our industry at the state level.

Nominations should be submitted by November 16, 2026, and include a detailed summary of the nominee’s accomplishments. The 2027 Hall of Fame inductee will be honored during the 2027 AANC CONNECTed Conference in Raleigh (May 17–19).

Help recognize the leaders who have shaped North Carolina's rental housing industry.

Submit your nomination today!

Nominate a Rising Star for "20 on the Rise"!

Do you know an emerging leader who's making a difference in the rental housing industry? 20 on the Rise, powered by the AANC NextGen Committee, honors 20 exceptional professionals with 10 years or less of industry experience.

Selected honorees receive statewide recognition and the opportunity to attend the 2027 AANC CONNECTed Conference in Raleigh (May 17–19) for only $49.

Learn more about the qualifications and benefits on the AANC website.

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AANC ANNOUNCEMENTS

AANC’s weekly newsletter, The Connector, contains links to news stories, events, and updates around the multifamily industry in North Carolina and beyond.

SIGN UP TO RECEIVE THE CONNECTOR IN YOUR INBOX EVERY WEDNESDAY.

Visit the AANC website and discover ways to ensure your brand remains front and center throughout the year.

Explore sponsorship opportunities today !