MM_September 2025 by AANC2024

MULTIFAMILYMINUTE

AANC QUARTERLY NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2025

THIS ISSUE: President’s Letter| Government Affairs Update| Fair Housing, Artificial Intelligence and Advertising, Oh My! Drucker+Falk’s Third Annual Cleanup| NC Affiliate Updates | And more!

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

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

NORM PRAET, GENERAL COUNSEL

Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

2025 BOARD MEETING DATES

JANUARY 15

Greensboro

MARCH 19

Zoom

MAY 12

Raleigh

AUGUST 20

Zoom

OCTOBER 22

Asheville

DECEMBER 17

Zoom

DIRECTORS AT LARGE

APARTMENT ASSOCIATION OF

WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA (AAWNC)

TINA GORBY BAKER

Apartments.com

BETHANY LYKINS

Greystar

KIMBERLY MEDEARIS

Fogelman Properties

GREATER CHARLOTTE APARTMENT

ASSOCIATION (GCAA)

GABRIELLE BOUKNIGHT

HHHunt Property Management

DANA FLAHERTY

BGSF

MICHELLE O'BRIEN

Loebsack & Brownlee

DEIDRE QUICK

Willow Bridge Property Company

GREATER FAYETTEVILLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (GFAA)

JENNIFER PITTMAN

Apartment Dynamics

ANGELA RAUPP

Apartment Dynamics

GREENVILLE AREA APARTMENT ASSOCIATON (GAPMA)

BRENDA WALTERS

CareMaster

PIEDMONT TRIAD APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (PTAA)

JAMES CRAIG

Ari Apartment Management

MARY GWYN

Apartment Dynamics

KRISTIN STANTON

Bell Partners

BERT WRAY

Chadwell Supply

TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA)

CRAIG NARDI

Blue Heel Development

CINDY NITSCHKE

Valet Living

SYDNEY PARTIN

Greystar

APRIL VASTA

Willow Bridge Property Company

WILMINGTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (WAA)

KRYSTI KESER

Highmark Residential

DORIANE MURRAY

Tribute Properties

KAREN SPAID

Highmark Residential

AANC STATE SUPPLIERS COUNCIL

LIZ NEWKIRK

Loebsack & Brownlee

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

Dear AANC Members,

As we begin to have occasional cool mornings and the light begins to dim earlier each day, there is a bit of excitement to know that fall is coming. Sure, there will probably be a first “false fall”, and we’ll endure more of the heat and humidity that we’re all accustomed to, but rest assured, cooler weather is on the way. And with that bit of excitement around seasonal change, I find I’m also excited about what’s to come this fall within the multifamily industry in North Carolina.

AANC is offering two more webinars in 2025:

Unite & Ignite: Building High-Performing Teams with Emotional Intelligence & DEI on September 11th and Calm the Storm: De-Escalation Strategies for Multifamily Professionals on November 6th. Don’t miss these opportunities to earn a CEC at a low rate for members, just $29.99! Find out more and register on the AANC website.

I’d also like to take a moment to share a few fun and exciting events offered by our affiliates around the state. These include:

• PTAA Field Day 2025 on September 13th. This sounds like a great way to network and have fun at the same time, with events such as a three-legged race and a tug of war.

• WAA 2025 Trade Show “Under the Big Top” on September 16th. Costumes encouraged but not required.

• GFAA 2025 Tradeshow: Lights. Cameras. Building Connections. on September 25th. With the theme of movies this year, attendees are encouraged (not required) to dress up as their favorite character, director, etc.

• AAWNC Tailgate Talk: Property Playbook Exchange on September 25th. Wear your favorite jersey and join them for a networking event styled as a Thursday Night Football pregame with an operations twist.

• GCAA New Construction Bus Tour on September 26th. The tour is construction, new construction. You only live twice, so don't wait...lay a goldfinger on these tickets!

• TAA Golf Tournament on October 3rd at the Neuse Country Club in Clayton. It’s already sold out!

I’m so grateful to be part of an industry full of such dedicated and hardworking individuals who provide stellar educational opportunities and know how to have fun while moving our industry forward.

With a grateful heart,

Karen Perkins, AANC President

Willow Bridge Property Company

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

The North Carolina General Assembly concluded its long session on June 30, 2025, but reserving the authority to reconvene monthly through next April to address outstanding legislative matters, consider veto overrides, and enact targeted legislation. For AANC, the session represented a series of significant policy victories that will substantially benefit the state's rental housing sector. Highlights include:

• Development and Building Code Reform | H768: Emerg. Comm. Code Exempts/Sanitary Board/401 exempts R-2 Type V apartment buildings that meet egress rules and two-story or shorter buildings with direct exterior exits from emergency responder communication coverage requirements under Section 510 of the NC Fire Code. This provision is projected to reduce development costs by tens of thousands of dollars per qualifying project. This provision became effective upon signature into law on July 2, 2025.

• Eviction Proceedings: Attorney Fee Clarification | Both S690: Various Real Estate and Business Law Changes and H620: AOC Agency Requests-AB provide a substantively identical clarification regarding a 2024 law on the recovery of attorney’s fees in eviction cases. The clarifying legislation ensures that attorney fees are recoverable when rental housing providers prevail as the prevailing party and residents appeal in bad faith, while preserving the ability to negotiate settlements. The change applies retroactively to September 9, 2024. Both bills were signed into law July 2, 2025.

• Expedited Removal Process for Unauthorized Occupants | Commonly known as the “squatters bill,” SB 55: Expedited Removal of Unauthorized Persons establishes a streamlined legal framework for removing unauthorized occupants from residential properties. The legislation creates an expedited process for situations involving individuals with no valid lease agreement, ownership interest, payment history, or pending litigation. The legislation provides legal protections for property owners and law enforcement acting in good faith while maintaining civil liability provisions for wrongful removal actions and property owners may relocate abandoned belongings to the property boundary. The law becomes effective December 1, 2025, following the Governor's signature on August 6, 2025. September 2025

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

• 2024 North Carolina Building Code Implementation Timeline | Among its Hurricane Helene recovery provisions, HB 47: Disaster Recovery Act of 2025-Part 1 delays the effective date of the 2024 North Carolina State Building Code until 12 months after the State Fire Marshal certifies that (1) the Building Code Council and Residential Code Council have published, printed, and distributed the Code to required officials, made it available for public purchase, and (2) the Residential Code Council is fully constituted. The 2024 North Carolina State Building Code is not anticipated to go into effect until the second half of 2026 at the earliest. HB 47 was signed into law on March 20, 2025 and this provision was effective upon signature into law.

These legislative achievements, among many others, provide a foundation for continued industry growth while establishing more balanced regulatory frameworks. With the General Assembly retaining monthly reconvening authority April 2026 when the short session begins, AANC remains positioned to advance additional industry priorities and protect existing policy gains throughout the biennium.

Thank you to our 2025 PAC supporters!

Your PAC contributions play a vital role in a candidate’s ability to win elections and every dollar, no matter how large or small, counts. We still have a long way to go to meet our goal of raising $150,000 by the end of 2026, so join us and support the multifamily industry in North Carolina by donating today!

Stay engaged, support the cause, and help shape the future of rental housing in North Carolina.

The Multifamily Housing Coalition of North Carolina (MHCNC) strategically directs resources where they will make the biggest impact. By building a strong financial foundation now, MHCNC can effectively safeguard North Carolina’s multifamily housing sector against future regulatory and legislative challenges.

To donate to the MHCNC, visit the AANC website for more information, or email Jon Lowder at jon@aanconline.org.

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.

Fair Housing, Artificial Intelligence and Advertising, Oh My!

By Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

Although artificial intelligence (AI) is still in its early stages, and its uses and applications are constantly growing and evolving, it is important for housing providers to think about what impact artificial intelligence will have on the future of fair housing, and

how housing providers can ensure that they remain dedicated to fair housing even when utilizing websites, tools, and applications that are powered by AI or utilize AI. With the future of AI being an ever-changing landscape, it can be difficult to determine what you can do as a housing provider to make sure that you remain dedicated to fair housing, while also embracing the new technologies and resources that AI has made available.

This article will focus on the interplay of AI use in advertising and fair housing, and some guidance that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) recently issued on that topic. Specifically, HUD recently issued some updates on its Guidance on Application of the Fair Housing Act to the Advertising of Housing, Credit, and Other Real-Estate Related Transactions through Digital Platforms (link copied here: Guidance on Application of the Fair Housing Act to the Advertising of Housing, Credit, and Other Real Estate-Related Transactions through Digital Platforms). Although this article will provide some “big picture” takeaways from the recent HUD guidance, it is always recommended to consult with your general counsel and/or outside counsel before implementing usage of such technologies for appropriate risk management.

Read the full article here.

AANC WEBINARS

Unite & Ignite: Building High-Perfor ming Teams with Emotional Intellige nce & DEI

Sept. 11, 2025 l 2:00pm 1 CEC

Join us for an impactful panel discussion exploring how emotional intelligence and DEI principles can transform team dynamics, boost performance, and strengthen workplace culture. Walk away with actionable insights from respected industry leaders!

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

STATE SUPPLIERS COUNCIL

A Message from the Chair of the SSC

Hello AANC Members and Partners,

It is my honor to serve as your State Suppliers Council Chair and to share a few thoughts in this issue of Multifamily Minute. Our work as suppliers is more than providing products and services, it is about building partnerships that strengthen our industry and create better living experiences for residents across North Carolina.

Over the past year, I have been reminded time and again that our industry is at its best when we work collaboratively. Property managers, owners, and suppliers all bring unique perspectives, but together we form the backbone of a strong, innovative, and resilient multifamily community.

As a Council, we are committed to:

• Championing supplier excellence by raising the bar for professionalism, reliability, and service.

• Fostering collaboration through open dialogue, networking opportunities, and educational sessions that connect suppliers and property leaders in meaningful ways.

• Driving innovation by highlighting solutions that enhance operational efficiency, sustainability, and resident satisfaction.

• Advocating for our members to ensure supplier voices remain an integral part of industry-wide discussions at both local and state levels.

Looking ahead, we will continue to create platforms where suppliers can showcase expertise, share success stories, and develop partnerships that support the entire multifamily ecosystem. Whether through council meetings, educational programs, or industry events, your engagement makes a real impact.

I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and to work alongside so many dedicated professionals who care deeply about this industry. Thank you for your partnership, your leadership, and your continued commitment to advancing multifamily housing across our state.

Warm regards,

Elizabeth (Liz) Newkirk Chair, AANC State Suppliers Council

Visit the AANC website to discover a variety of sponsorship opportunities to help you elevate your brand throughout North Carolina.

AANC NEXTGEN

20 on the Rise, powered by the AANC NextGen Committee, celebrates 20 bright rising stars with 10 years or less of experience in the rental housing industry.

Honorees receive the opportunity to attend the 2026 AANC CONNECTed Conference in Raleigh from May 1113 for just $49. Nominees must be AANC members and also be involved with their local affiliate. Learn more on the AANC website and

NOMINATE TODAY!

The AANC Leadership Lyceum is accepting submissions for the Class of 2026. This prestigious program is designed to identify, develop, and inspire emerging leaders across the state through a series of dynamic learning and networking opportunities.

The 2026 class will include up to 14 participants. All owner/operator participants are nominated by their local association, while the AANC State Suppliers Council will appoint up to 3 supplier participants. Additionally, the AANC President may appoint 1 participant.

More information and eligibility requirements

WE ARE MULTIFAMILY

STORIES FROM THE GROUND UP

Drucker + Falk's Third Annual Clean-Up Initiative Achieves Unprecedented Community Impact

Information provided by Drucker + Falk

Drucker + Falk (DF), a leading multifamily management company, proudly announces its designation as a Great American Cleanup Ambassador by Keep America Beautiful. This esteemed status coincides with the impressive success of DF's 2025 clean-up initiative, marking the third consecutive year DF teams have dedicated their efforts to community beautification inspired by the Keep America Beautiful organization. This year saw an unprecedented surge in participation, with 278 dedicated DF team members collectively contributing to 18 clean-up events across 7 states. Their efforts resulted in a significant increase in total volunteer hours and bags of trash collected, truly setting a new benchmark for impact within the communities DF serves.

For 2025, DF amplified its commitment to community stewardship by organizing even more clean-up events than previous year, in which DF team members could utilize their annual paid ‘Day of Giving’ benefit to participate. Within just two months, nearly 300 team members dedicated 1,111 collective volunteer hours to beautify local areas. These company-led initiatives spanned seven states - Florida, Louisiana, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, and Virginia - resulting in the collection of over 325 bags and buckets of trash from parks, downtown areas, nature trails, beaches, and more. This impactful effort not only enhanced the appearance of these communities but also created a shared pride and environmental responsibility among our teams.

Woodland Creek Community Area Clean Up 2025

"Our annual clean-up initiative holds a special place for us at Drucker + Falk," shared Tarra Secrest, Director of Marketing. "It's truly inspiring to see the employee interest and participation grow year after year. This type of volunteerism is incredibly inclusive, allows our teams to work together towards an immediate, tangible impact, and people genuinely love the opportunity to make a visible difference in their local communities. It's a prime example of how powerful and engaging giving back can be."

Wendy Drucker, Managing Director for Drucker + Falk, emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating, "I've always believed in the power of giving back and the profound difference it makes in our local communities. This is a huge priority for us at DF and is part of why we created our ‘Day of Giving’ program to begin with. Beyond the immense impact we make externally, these events offer an incredible experience for our team members – fostering camaraderie and a shared sense of accomplishment. I genuinely love participating alongside our teams, and it brings me so much joy to hear the incredibly positive feedback from everyone about this particular initiative each year. Seeing so many team members come together, contributing their time and energy, speaks volumes about our culture and collective commitment."

These recent clean-up events perfectly demonstrate DF's enduring commitment to volunteering in local communities. From donation drives and financial support to planting gardens and providing meals, the company actively promotes a culture of giving back and remains dedicated to these vital initiatives that keep its communities thriving and beautiful.

To discover more about Keep America Beautiful or explore various ways to get involved, visit their website.

AANC ANNOUNCEMENTS

The AANC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Scholarship was established as an opportunity for multifamily housing industry professionals from historically underrepresented demographics to participate in education and networking opportunities at the annual AANC CONNECTed Conference. 2026 Scholarship Recipients will receive paid entry to the 2026 connected Conference in Raleigh (May 11-13, 2026), lodging, and a $100 stipend. Deadline to apply is January 31, 2026.

APPLY TODAY

The AANC Hall of Fame honors outstanding leadership and long-term dedication to the rental housing industry at the state level. If you know someone who has made a lasting impact, nominate them for this prestigious recognition by completing the nomination form and providing a detailed summary of their contributions no later than November 15, 2025.

The 2026 Hall of Fame inductee will be honored during the AANC CONNECTed Conference.

NOMINATE TODAY

AANC ANNOUNCEMENTS

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

Want to get more involved and help shape the future of the multifamily industry at the state level? AANC offers meaningful opportunities to connect with peers, contribute your expertise, and influence key initiatives through our statewide committees.

Whether you're passionate about education, advocacy, events, or industry engagement—there’s a committee that’s right for you.

JOIN US

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

SIGN UP TODAY

to stay abreast of what’s happening in multifamily, including a listing of events offered by AANC and NC affiliates throughout the state.

ON THE MOVE

NEWS FROM THE MULTIFAMILY AND RENTAL INDUSTRY

The Hidden Cost of Regulations: How Policies Are Driving Up Rent

America’s housing affordability crisis is a growing challenge, impacting millions of renters across communities nationwide. To better understand the financial impacts of rental regulations, the National Apartment Association (NAA) and the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) cosponsored two studies conducted by Metrosight that provide data-driven insights for policymakers and housing providers.

The first study, Behind the Cost of Rent, quantified how specific regulations such as source-of-income laws, just-cause eviction laws and right-to-counsel statues and resident screening restrictions increase operational costs and reduce revenues for housing providers. Read more.

Multifamily starts jump, but some question the data’s accuracy

New apartment construction is outperforming expectations, but permits are falling. Read more.

3 ways student housing operators prepare for a new school year Pleasing parents and monitoring services and activities are among the ways companies are getting ready for what could be a very different school year. Read more.

How hurricane resilience for commercial real estate is leveraging drones and AI Facilities managers in commercial real estate are making property resilience a priority amid worsening storms. Read more.

AFFILIATE UPDATES

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE STATE IN THE MULTIFAMILY INDUSTRY

PIEDMONT TRIAD APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (PTAA)

The Piedmont Triad Apartment Association held its Executive Dinner on August 28th, bringing together suppliers and operators for a night of conversation and connection. Members in attendance were honored with Senator Phil Berger, President Pro Tempore of the North Carolina Senate, and Senator for many PTAA members who live or work in his district. Senator Berger shared the efforts he and the Senate are making to continue North Carolina’s streak as the best place for business. The Senator also shared his connection to the apartment industry—during law school, he worked as a painter in Winston-Salem, specializing in painting the interiors of apartments.

Phil Berger speaking with Amanda Williams, BSC, and Cindy Claire, Bell

Senator Berger speaking to the crowd

AFFILIATE UPDATES

TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA)

As summer progressed, TAA focused on a central goal: education. From certifications to career development, our members continued to grow, lead, and advance the multifamily industry throughout the Triangle.

We concluded June by recognizing 18 graduates of the TAA Leadership Lyceum, a five-month program that brought together professionals from diverse backgrounds and equipped them with the necessary tools to lead within TAA and beyond.

This quarter also featured a robust lineup of continuing education opportunities. In August, we hosted the CAPS course, led by industry expert Alexandra Jackiw, with 12 participants successfully completing the accelerated curriculum. The CAM certification is also set to begin soon. Additionally, we reintroduced the NAAEI Supplier Success workshop, providing vendors with a refreshed path to understanding the industry and how to thrive in it.

TAA Supplier Success Program instructors and attendees

AFFILIATE UPDATES

TRIANGLE APARTMENT ASSOCIATION (TAA) (

A recent highlight was the Copper Circle’s Take 5 Business Exchange, a fundraising event that raised $31,250 for NAAEI scholarships. To date, over 75 individuals have received scholarships to further their education and career development.

Beyond structured learning, TAA’s Government Affairs Committee and the Housing Affordability Subcommittee welcomed guest speakers to discuss regional housing issues and current legislation.

continued)

TAA 2025 CAPS Credential Class

These conversations will continue at the upcoming TAA-PAC Breakfast, where Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell and Durham Mayor Leo Williams will share their insights on policy impacts.

Peer-led learning also played a significant role this season. The XCEL Committee released a new podcast episode titled “Damage Control,” offering guidance for property managers on crisis prevention and response. In addition, we hosted a "Maximize Your Membership" session that included breakout groups led by TAA Ambassadors.

This season demonstrated the importance of ongoing learning. We invite everyone to check the education calendar of your local affiliate to stay connected and engaged.

NEWS FROM NAA

from Lisa Taylor, NAA Region 4 Vice President

HUD Funding: The formal appropriations process is underway in Congress. Despite concerns of potentially drastic cuts to HUD, the Republican-controlled House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development opted to propose a relatively flat budget from Fiscal Year 2025. Learn more.

Federal Tax Law: In early July, President Trump signed a federal reconciliation package into law. The new law includes numerous tax policy wins for the rental housing industry, a testament to the diligent advocacy of NAA members nationwide. Read more and listen to an episode of the NAA Apartmentcast focused on the new tax law.

Senate Acts on Housing: Late last month, the U.S. Senate Committee on Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs advanced a 40-section housing legislative package, known as the ROAD to Housing Act. NAA’s advocacy worked to ensure the inclusion of key industry priorities. Read the latest.

Cultivate is BACK! Join us in Nashville, February 17-18, 2026 to connect, learn and lead the way in rental housing innovation. Register today to transform your tomorrow.

Share Your Unique Perspective at DE&I Week 2025: We’re seeking diverse voices and fresh ideas to make this year’s event truly inclusive. Submit your proposal and help shape meaningful conversations!

Some Maintenance Staff Are Just LEGENDARY! With monthly prizes valued up to $5,000, educational grants, a shot at the grand prize and more sponsored by HD Supply, show our industry’s vital maintenance staff our appreciation by sharing their legendary stories today. Nominate your Maintenance Legends now!

NAAEI's Career Mapping Tool: As leaders, you set the tone for professional growth in your communities. Investing in your team's development is more than good management--it's savvy business. With a clear path forward, you can reinvigorate talented professionals, increase company loyalty and boost performance. Show your team the way!

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NEWS FROM NAA

ASSEMBLY of Delegates with 250 delegates from NAA’s 10 regions will meet in Atlanta, GA. it is the largest business meeting of the year! Scheduled for Nov 11th – 12th This is a NO COST to you to attend up until Nov 1st , then there’s a $50 cost added. Please plan on attending to support our very own REGOIN 4’s, Chris Burns as he is installed as 2026 NAA Chair Wednesday evening!

APARTMENTALIZE 2026 GET JAZZED in New Orleans June 17 – 19th! Exhibitor Booths will open in September and additional sponsorships opportunities launch mid-October. Registration opens OCTOBER 22nd! Kayle Quinn, RPM Willow BRIDGE and I are the Co-Chairs for this event and want to BEAT previous records for attendance while supporting Chris Burns, NAA Chair from Region IV, so please register you and your teams!