ABODE August 2021

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HALL OF FAME • HAA GALA & MAINTENANCE APPRECIATION PHOTOS

Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77041

THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

www.haaonline.org

August 2021

ABODE • AUGUST 2021 • VOLUME 44, ISSUE 8

HALL OF

honoring

Beth Van Winkle

FAME2021 Highmark Residential

www.haaonline.org

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CONTENTS August 2021

ON THE COVER 38 A Heart for Service – Meet Beth Van Winkle, the 2021 recipient of HAA’s highest honor, the Hall of Fame Award.

Also don’t miss photos from the Gala, Maintenance Appreciation and NEXT breakfast.

Cover photo by Mark Hiebert, Hiebert Photography

FEATURES & PHOTOS 30 On the Scene – Photos from the 2021 HAA Gala.

38 A Heart for Service – Beth Van Winkle, a regional vice president of property operations for Highmark Residential, and a former HAA and TAA president, is being inducted into the HAA Hall of Fame.

48 Problem Residents vs Resident Problems – There’s a difference.

52 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA Maintenance Appreciation Night at BBVA Stadium.

56 On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Professional Breakfast.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES 7 President’s Corner – More advice from an HAA past president.

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Gemstar Construction Development.

9 Legislative Update – Stafford rescinds huge permit fee increase.

11 It’s The Law – The good, the bad and the ugly of the 2021 legislative session, Part 2.

14 Resident Relations – A resident slips his notice to vacate under the leasing office’s doormat after hours.

58 What’s Next – Learn about the NEXT young professionals group from three HAA Product Service Council members.

20 Calendar – HAA’s schedule of events for the coming months.

72 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at another HAA member property.

64 Go-Getters – Cheers to membership!

62 Welcome Mat – Find out about the newest HAA members.

66 The Ambassador ONE Society – The Ambassadors make connections.

70 Portfolio Changes and In the News – Property updates and industry news clips from our members.

74 Index of Advertisers – See the supplier members who support this publication.

75 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers.

76 BackPage – News from around the community.

We welcome your comments. Email us at comm@haaonline.org.

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OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ President-Elect JOHN BORIACK President

SCOTT DOUGLAS Vice President at Large

DAVID LINDLEY, CAS President FSI Construction

GINA ERWIN Vice President at Large

DEREK DEVRIES, CAS Vice President, Camp Construction Services

SHELLEY WATSON Vice President at Large

CANDIS MOHR, CAS Secretary, AAA Plumbers

TRACIE YODER Vice President at Large

JOSEPH RODRIGUEZ, CAS Treasurer, The Urban Foresters

CLAY HICKS Immediate Past President

LAURA LESTUS, CAS Immediate Past President, The Liberty Group

STEPHANIE GRAVES Secretary/Treasurer

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS John Boriack President Clay Hicks Immediate Past President Mack Armstrong Julie Batche Jeff Blevins, CAS Jill Bounds, CAM Michelle Bridges, CAS Kyle Brown Joseph Bryson, CAM, IROP Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Michelle Croasmun Derek DeVries, CAS Ian Douglas Scott Douglas, CAM, CAPS Gina Erwin Tamara Foster Israel Garza, CAS Diane Gilbert Monica Gracia Stephanie Graves, CAM, CAPS Manu Gupta Bryan Head, CAM Melissa Herrera Deborah Holcombe Crystal Jackson, CAM, CAPS Tyler Johnson Debbie Kelm Jacob Kunath, CAS Barby Lake Laura Lestus, CAS David Lindley, CAS Sonia Lopez, CAM, CAPS Betsy Marshall, CAM, CAPS Kristin McLaughlin, CASE Candis Mohr, CAS Carlos Neto Dean O’Kelley, CAS Jenifer Paneral Mark Park, CAS Velissa Parmer Michelle Pawelek Loyal Proffitt Jackie Rhone Christy Rodriguez Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Corri Smith Kelley Suess Debbie Sulzer

Ryan Terrell Dana Tucker Starla Turnbo Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS Shelley Watson Quintina Willis, CAM Tracie Yoder, CAPS DIRECTORS EMERITUS Josh Allen Ken Bohan Gary Blumberg Kathy Clem Jack Dinerstein Jenard Gross Darlene Guidry Alison Hall David Hargrove Larry Hill Stacy Hunt Hap Hunnicutt David Jones Mike Koch Dick LaMarche Tim Myers P David Onanian John Ridgway Kim Small Eileen Subinsky Steve Sweet Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley H J Tollett, Jr. Pat Tollett Vic Vacek, Jr. Beth Van Winkle Jerry Winograd ADVISORY DIRECTORS Billy Griffin, CAS Amanda Kelly, CAS Cesar Lima Mary Lawler Bruce McClenny Angelee Kumar Parikh Penny Sprang Theri Tinelli Ruha Vohra, NALP, CAM Tony Whitaker GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Joe Bax

HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Kevin Fenn Diane Gilbert Anita Harrison Dwayne Henson Mike Koch Merry Mount Monette Reynolds Sherry Stevenson Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley Sonny Unverzagt Del Walmsley Nancé Wells H.P. Paul Young Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks PATRON MEMBERS 1961 CSC ServiceWorks 1968 Century A/C Supply 1978 Houston Planned Energy Systems 1982 Cotton Commercial USA Inc. 1984 AAA Plumbers 1985 Gemstar Construction Development 1986 Craven Carpet 1987 Dixie Carpet Installations 1994 Camp Construction Services 1997 Apartments.com 1999 FSI Construction Inc. 2006 Lowe’s Pro Supply

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL MEMBERS Amanda Kelly, CAS, Angie Aversa, CAM, Brandt Electrical A/C CAPS, CAS, & Heating Services The Liberty Group Debra Knight, CAS, Chris Bell, CAS, Fidus Construction Cotton Commercial Services Marivel Bownds, Stephanie Krop, CAS, Valet Living CASE, Poolsure Dixie Caldwell, Liz Levins, CAS, Apartments.com Rasa Floors Shaun Callaway, CAS, Tracey Moore, CAS, Earthworks Flooring Warehouse Neal Conant, CAS, Karen Nelsen, CAS Gemstar ALN Apartment Construction Data Development Matthew Nunn, CAS, Sean Cunningham, Capital Construction CAS, Flooring Doug Oehl, CAS. Warehouse Flooring Warehouse Deborah DeRouen, Nikki Sekunda, CAS, CAS, OneApp The Liberty Group Guarantee Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Juana Estrada, CAS, Gemstar First OnSite Construction Giovanna Gone, CAS, Development Century A/C Supply Blake Subinsky, CAS, Clark Gregg, CASE, HD Supply Fidus Construction Mat Tilley, CAS, Jimmie Hotz, CASE, WeDoTrash Chadwell Supply Amber Whitaker, CAS Dan James, CAS, FSI Construction Redevelopment Services

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AUGUST 2021 I VOLUME 44, ISSUE 8 CEO and Publisher CASEY WATTS MORGAN cmorgan@haaonline.org EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org Managing Editor MORGAN TAYLOR mtaylor@haaonline.org ADVERTISING Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY, CAE asherbondy@haaonline.org CONTRIBUTING STAFF Vice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP, CAE. ehilton@haaonline.org Vice President of Public Affairs ANDY TEAS, CAE. ateas@haaonline.org Vice President of Finance NANCY LI LO, CPA. nlo@haaonline.org Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org Director of Events and Meetings LAUREN RAGIN, CMP lragin@haaonline.org Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org Assistant Vice President – Outreach LAUREN TURNER, CAE, CMP lturner@haaonline.org Membership and Marketing Manager KAYLON NEWCOMB knewcomb@haaonline.org Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org PRINTER TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES COMMITTEE CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR Executive John Boriack Casey Morgan Program & Budget Christy Rodriguez Casey Morgan Nominating Clay Hicks Casey Morgan Fair Housing Mack Armstrong Casey Morgan Ethics Michelle Pawelek Casey Morgan Investment Stephanie Graves Casey Morgan ByLaws Kyle Brown Casey Morgan Past Presidents Council Kathy Clem Casey Morgan Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Elizabeth Castro-Gray Andy Teas Developers Todd Triggs Andy Teas Legislative Christy Rodriguez Andy Teas Political Action Stacy Hunt Andy Teas PAC Fundraising Gary Blumberg Andy Teas Century Club Joseph Rodriguez Andy Teas Golf Mark Park Andy Teas Strategic Outreach Stephanie Graves Lauren Turner Leadership Development Alison Hall Susan Hinkley Community Outreach Jackie Aguirre Susan Hinkley Product Service Council David Lindley Susan Hinkley Expo Exhibitor Derek DeVries Amanda Sherbondy Membership Melissa Friend Amanda Sherbondy Doug Oehl Ambassador ONE Society Ryan Weis Amanda Sherbondy Marivel Bownds Independent Owners Connection Ramon Nunez Amanda Sherbondy Education Advisory Council Betsy Marshall Emily Hilton Monica Gracia Emily Hilton Career & Community Development Penny Sprang Emily Hilton Resident Relations A Beverly Norris Matti Luna Resident Relations B Kevin Hartman Matti Luna Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry Matti Luna HAF Fundraiser Mark Park Lauren Ragin Debbie Andreozzi NEXT Ruha Vohra Lauren Ragin Amanda Kelley Property Awards Susan Dear Tina DeFiore Crystal Jackson HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MISSION AND VISION: HAA is the leading advocate, resource and community partner for quality rental housing providers in the Houston and surrounding area. HAA develops leadership in the multifamily industry by engaging broadly diverse membership, embracing effective technology and advocating for a geographically inclusive association. ABODE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION serving the multihousing industry in Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Waller and Wharton counties.

ABODE, AUGUST 2021, VOLUME 44, ISSUE 8 ABODE (USPS 024-962) is published monthly by the Houston Multi Housing Corporation. Publishing, editorial and advertising offices are located at 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Telephone 713-595-0300. The $50 annual ABODE subscription rate is included in all member dues and additional subscriptions are available. The annual subscription rate is $50 for members, $65 for non-members.

Advertising rates are available upon request. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the Houston Apartment Association. Copyright © 2021 by HAA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

Guide ’s r e y u B 2 2 0 2 le! a s n o w o n e c ad spaising rates, visit

yersGuide For advert u /B rg .o e n li n aao http://www.h want to miss this n’t Hurry! You do rtunity! ppo ONCE A YEAR o

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABODE, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041.

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SPONSOR MEMBERS These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their sponsor membership.

Please give them careful consideration, whenever possible, in your business.

100% Tree & Lawn Care LLC A + Infinity Blue Outdoors LLC AAA Staffing Ltd AAdvantage Laundry Systems ACM Contractors of Texas ACT Security Group Action Window Coverings Inc ACTIV Answer by Audio Images Adobe Floors Inc Adventure Playground Systems Inc Affinity Hot Water Technoogy Inc Aftermath Services Alcaraz Lawn Care All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc Allegion Allied Powder Coating The Allshouse Group LLC ALN Apartment Data Inc America Outdoor Furniture American Fire Systems Inc AmRent Andrews Myers PC Apartment Lines ApartmentData.com APEX Lighting Store AppFolio Arbor Contract Carpet Inc arc electric + lighting Archcon ASAP Personnel Inc ASAP Steamers Carpet Cleaning Asphalt Maintenance Inc Atom4 Security Camera AZPartsmaster B&G Construction Belfor Property Restoration Bell’s Laundries Benefits 4 Rent BenefitU Bentley, Bratcher & Associates - PC Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC BGE Inc/aka Brown & Gay Engineers Inc Big Star Development LLC Bio-One Houston South BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning Blue Heron Technologies LLC BluSky Restoration Contractors Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc Brannan Designs LLC Architecture & Interior Design BrightView Landscape LLC BSI Building Professionals of Texas CAD Restoration Services LLC Cameras Onsite Cano Electric Inc Cantrell McCulloch Inc Carradine Valet CashFlow Pros LLC Centex Construction CFI Group Chadwell Supply Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete Classic Same Day Blinds Classic Touch Painting

Comcast Contractors Inc ControlByNet Cloud and Managed Video Surveillance Solutions CORT Furniture CRE Business Solutions LLC Crowned Eagle Construction CSI LED & Hardware Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc DeNyse Companies Designs by Holmes Diamond Services LLC DNM Contracting Inc DoodyCalls Dooley Tackaberry Inc Door Clearance Center DreamCoat Cloud Services Ecolo Environmental Inc Embark Services Emersyn Electrical Services LLC EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions Epic Air Conditioning Fantastic Floors FAST Security, LLC Featherston Sign Partners Fedora Intertech Fiat Construction LLC Fidus Construction Services Finish Factory Inc Finishes Insurance Agency Flavor Finish Resurfacing Flexirocks Frontier Waste Solutions fun abounds Furniture Refinishing Services Gambit Construction Garan Commercial Construction Inc Gasof United Remodeling Gateman Inc Giordano Construction Inc Go-Staff Inc Graphic Stylus Promotional Products Great American Business Products Green City Security LLC Green Garbology Guardian Gutters Halo Doors Inc HARCO Insurance Services Hard Works Valet Trash & Recycling Hays Recruiting Higginbotham Hillco Building Service Hive Technology HK Morris Group LLC The Home Team Roofing & A/C Hoover Slovacek LLP Hut Services LLC IGD Plumbing LLC Industrial Disposal Supply Infinity Power Partners J Guzman General Remodeling J National Johnstone Supply Jonah Digital Agency Kathy Andrews Interiors Keylo Painting & Construction

King’s Granite and Marble KONE Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting The Liberty Group Lights Out Production Company Lincoln Jacob Construction Lithotech Printed Products/ Forms Center LJL DESIGN, LLC Local Roofing and Restoration Lopez Carpet Care & Painting LP Building Solutions: LouisianaPacific Corporation LSR Multifamily Macyas Remodeling LLC Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc Marathon Solutions Group LLC Marvin F Poer & Company Masonry Solutions Inc Matrix Construction Services McMahan's Flooring Inc Moveforfree.com Inc MPS Direct Mueller Water Conditioning Inc MV Electric Inc MX2 Commercial Paving Nations Roof Houston LLC Nationwide Eviction Nettles & Co Property Tax Consulting Norman Roofing and Construction Notifii LLC O’Connor & AssociatesCommercial Property Tax Division O’Conor Mason & Bone PC On Duty Tree and Landscape On Site Towing LLC Onesource Moving Outdoor Elements P.A.I. Restoration Pace Mechanical Services LLC Parking Management Company/ PMC Towing Pathfinder Insurance Group Paul Davis Restoration North Houston PCS Creative Surface LLC Perma-Pier Pool Knights Precision Hydro Pros Priority Protection & Investigations Inc Pro Turf Landscaping Professional Resurface LLC Pura Flo Corporation Quick Roofing RAM Construction Ram Jack Foundation Solutions Redevelopment Services Redstone Payment Solutions Reliable Roofing of Texas Inc Reliant Remedy Roofing Inc RENCON Rent Debt Automated Collections RentPath RentSense LLC Residential Waste Service LLC

Restoration 1 of Central Houston REVS (Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions) RezClean Houston RG Miller Engineers Roosevelt General Contracting Roto-Rooter Services Co SafeRent Solutions Saifee Signs & Graphics Saint Clair & Sons Inc Scoop Troop HTX SEAL Security Solutions LLC Secure Insurance Security Reconnaissance Team Sherwin Williams Company Sign-Ups & Banners Signal 88 Security SOS-ASAP Softwashing South Central Electric LLC Southern Shingles State Patrol Services LLC Steward Trash Valet Service Storm Maintenance & Monitoring Stormwater Professionals Group Strata Roofing and Construction LLC Structural Concrete Systems LLC Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management Texas Apartment Pool Services The Texas Bee Yard LLC DBA 3BeeGuys Bee Removal Texas Concrete Professional Company Texas Engineered Roofing & General Contracting Texas Landscape Group LLC Texas Management Group LLC Texas Southwest Floors Inc Texas Waste Management Solutions LLC Texas Window Cleaning Co Inc Text Services LLC The Lane Law Firm Three Amigos Texas LLC Tidal Renovations LLC Top Brass Services Group Total Safety Security Services LLC Tpo Pros Roofing & Restoration Triangle DJ Contractors Two Brothers Foundation Repair United Protective Services Urban Design Constructors LLC USA Patrol Division Valet Living VBM Waste LLC Veteran Supply Services LLC Vima Decor WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems Wayfinder Tax Relief LLC Webb Pest Control Westco Grounds Maintenance LLC Whitmans Contracting and Roofing Willbanks & Associates Inc World Cinema Inc WRLD PRO Vending LLC

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Letter from the President

By JOHN BORIACK, 2021 HAA President

LEARN FROM THE LEADERS Advice from the Houston Apartment Association’s rich legacy of past presidents.

THIS MONTH, I interview Houston Apartment Association Past President Starla Turnbo, who served HAA as president in 2019.

Starla started in the apartment industry at 18 years old as a leasing agent during the oil glut in the 1980s. Sheer determination and grit catapulted Starla to become a 22-year-old regional manager with 35 properties in her portfolio across five states. Through unwavering commitment and dedication, today Starla is a partner and regional director of SMI Realty.

Regional director best describes her day-to-day. She is a boots-onthe-ground leader who is often onsite working with her teams. Her high-level passion and no-nonsense drive are what I admire about her the most. I also admire the fact that she has led SMI Realty to achieve such steady growth over the years. I only hope Veritas can achieve that same pace of growth.

We could all learn a thing or two by gleaning from Starla’s wisdom.

Let’s read what Starla has to say.

John: What are some things you wish you knew when you started your career?

Starla: I was only 18 years old when I started in this industry, but I learned a lot from my older sister who was in the industry before I started my career. The most important advice for people starting in this industry is that we need to treat our customers with kindness and professionalism. We are really in the customer service industry, and our residents are our customers.

John: What skill do you believe is the most important to perfect for someone who does what you do?

Starla: To always be fair when making any decisions, regardless of what level the decision is. From the most important decision for an organization to minor decisions, always be fair when making a decision. Listen, have patience, and at the end of the day, be fair to all parties.

John: What is the hardest leadership lesson that keeps being presented to you that you either have to learn or relearn?

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Starla: For me, it’s I can’t expect everyone to share the same work ethic, drive or the same desire as I do. It’s hard. And it is something I work on all the time.

John: What was the best leadership advice you’ve ever received?

Starla: The best career advice I’ve received is to remain aligned with the business plan. Basically, stay on course. Don’t compete with others, compete with your own goals. I think that’s hard to do when you see others doing things that make them successful, but every property is different, every portfolio is different. What works for one property may not work for another. If we start looking at what works for everyone else and try it ourselves, it usually doesn’t work. In my career, I’ve learned to pay attention to our business plan and our course. That’s the best advice that I’ve been given.

John: Describe either a challenge, accomplishment or decision that catapulted you to your success?

Starla: My decision to make my career my highest priority and having the opportunity to work with someone who believed in me were the keys to my success.

John: Do you have a morning routine or habit that you feel makes you a more productive person?

Starla: I don’t really have a morning routine. What makes me feel most productive is what I do the night before. My evening or nightly routine is to always have a plan for the next day, to prepare myself and others for tomorrow. Don’t wait until tomorrow to start planning.

When I was onsite as a property manager, I would have my tasks for the next day ready on my desk, the tasks for my maintenance team ready on my desk and the tasks for my assistant ready on my desk, all for the next day. I don’t wake up in the morning wondering what’s on my agenda. I already know what’s on my agenda before I go to bed at night. I mean, things happen and your plans change, but you can go to bed knowing what your purpose is for the next day. To me, someone who looks at their calendar in the morning to figure out what they have planned for the day is already behind.

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These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their patron membership. Please give them careful consideration, whenever possible, in your business.

Houston Planned Energy Systems

HAA Member since 1997

Cotton Commercial USA Inc.

Gemstar Construction Development Inc.

HAA Member since 1982

Lowe’s Pro Supply

HAA Member since 1985

CSC ServiceWorks

HAA Member since 1984

HAA Member since 2006

HAA Member since 1961

Craven Carpet

HAA Member since 1986

Camp Construction Services

HAA Member since 1994

August Patron of the Month

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Apartments.com

HAA Member since 1978

AAA Plumbers

FSI Construction Inc.

HAA Member since 1999

Dixie Carpet Installations

HAA Member since 1987

Century A/C Supply

HAA Member since 1968

www.haaonline.org

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Legislative Update

By CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ, HAA Legislative Chair, with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs

PERMITS, WATER RATES AND TRESPASSERS Stafford rescinds huge permit fee increase.

THE CITY OF Stafford’s property tax rate is zero.

That’s right. Stafford, Texas is the only city we know of that charges no municipal property tax.

Through a mixture of fiscal responsibility and healthy sales tax collections from retail establishments along the Southwest Freeway, Stafford has been able to give property owners (and renters) a break on the tax that increasingly drives rental rates more than any other expense.

The costs of running a city are significant, however, as Stafford Fire Chief Larry DeCamillo pointed out last month, a single fire truck now costs more than $700,000. To better fund the fire department, Stafford quietly adopted a requirement that apartments purchase an “assembly permit” for each individual building at a cost of $250. One Houston Apartment Association member’s annual expense for fire permits went instantly from $750 to over $20,000.

The problem – besides the obvious one – is that apartment properties are not classified as assembly occupancies in Stafford’s fire code.

To the credit of Stafford’s fire chief and elected officials, they agreed when HAA pointed that out. The city has rescinded the assembly permit requirement and will work with HAA on a new, more reasonable inspection permit requirement for adoption next year. Thanks to Rockwell Management CEO Etan Mirwis for his work on this issue and for his help negotiating a solution with the city leadership.

Houston Water and Sewer Rates Many of you may remember the Houston Apartment Association was founded more than 60 years ago over Houston water and sewer rates.

In June, the Houston City Council voted to enact a significant water and sewer rate increase to be phased in over several years starting next month. While we never want to see our residents’ rates go up, this was a difficult issue. After years of www.haaonline.org

neglect, Houston finally settled a lawsuit it was about to lose with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. It is a felony violation of the Clean Water Act to discharge any untreated sewage into the environment, and Houston was discharging copious amounts every time it rained, with older, lower-income neighborhoods often getting the worst of it.

Under the court order, Houston agreed to major upgrades of its sewer system – upgrades that frankly should have been completed long ago. The upgrades will cost around $3 billion, and the cost must be paid by ratepayers, since the water and sewer system is an “enterprise fund” that cannot be subsidized by tax money.

For your budgeting purposes: Starting in September, your monthly base charge per meter will increase slightly (between $2 and $25), depending on the size of the meter. The multifamily water charge per thousand gallons will increase from $4.65 to $5.45. The multifamily sewer charge per thousand gallons will increase from $6.76 to $7.40. If you have a separate irrigation meter, the new water rate will be $10 per thousand gallons with no sewer charge.

Future increases are scheduled for April of each year through 2026, and are available here: https://www.houstontx.gov/citysec/HPW/serviceratestudy.pdf If your Houston property does not submeter or allocate the expense for water and sewer to residents, be sure to account for the higher rates as you negotiate leases. If you want to begin an allocation program for the first time, there are rules you have to follow and some water-saving devices you may need to install – see your TAA Redbook for details.

Trespass Bill Vetoed After trying for three legislative sessions, the apartment industry was finally able to pass a bill

to give police officers some additional options to deal with trespassers on apartment properties.

The bill passed the House and Senate unanimously, only to be vetoed by Governor Greg Abbott in June.

The story is familiar to most apartment managers – someone is hanging around your property who does not belong there. You ask them to leave. They refuse. You call the police.

Criminal trespass is a Class B misdemeanor – meaning an officer must make an arrest in order to charge someone with that crime. The police officer knows prosecutors are reluctant to accept charges on trespassers, that judges are reluctant to punish them, and that a trespass arrest will take him out of his patrol area for half his shift.

Accordingly, the officer often just tells the trespasser to get lost. The trespasser generally leaves but is soon back at your property with no record that anything occurred.

S.B. 237 would have given police officers the discretion of either making an arrest or simply writing a citation for criminal trespass. A ticket would have required the trespasser to pay a fine – or go before a judge and explain himself – and would have created a record of what happened, which would’ve been available to officers in the case of repeat offenders.

Governor Abbott’s veto proclamation indicates the bill might have gotten caught up in some politics involving immigration and border security.

HAA members owe thanks to Senator Paul Bettencourt (R-Houston), our Senate author, and Rep. Barbara Gervin-Hawkins (D-San Antonio), our House sponsor, for their work on this bill for the past three sessions. And a thank you to Villa Serena Properties CEO Steve Moore for his tireless advocacy for this.

We hope to try again next session.

If you have a regulatory problem or question, call the HAA main line at 713-595-0300 and ask for Public Affairs.

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It’s the Law

By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel

2021 LEGISLATIVE SESSION The good, the bad and the ugly! (Part 2)

LAST MONTH, I presented four new Texas laws. Now that we are passed the deadline for the governor to act on these bills, they have all become adopted into law.

Here is part two of the two-part series on the laws that have passed the 2021 legislative session.

Please note that, similar to part 1, I have provided the bill analysis (attached to the legislation) and outlined the change to the law. The purpose of this article is to identify some of the new laws that will impact your business operations. No attempt has been made to provide an interpretation or opinion of either the bill analysis or the change to the law. Hopefully, this will provide you with enough information to make the appropriate business decisions with respect to any changes in your operations.

Fee Collected by an Owner in Lieu of a Security Deposit Adds Section 92.111 to the Property Code Effective for leases entered into or renewed on or after September 1, 2021 (SB 1783) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: Often, the most significant housing barrier faced by potential residents is advance payment of first and last month’s rent, plus a security/damage deposit. Millions of Texans’ deposits sit unusable in their owner’s bank accounts – dollars that are desperately needed, especially during a pandemic.

A 2018 study found that security deposits intensify the housing affordability crisis and are extremely burdensome on those earning lower incomes. SB 1783 would codify the current practice of utilizing a small monthly “deposit waiver fee” instead of a large down payment upon move-in. This will encourage owners to www.haaonline.org

use lease insurance and offer zeroThe purpose of this article is to identify some of deposit rentals, which will help thousands of Texans. the new laws that will impact your business Lease insurance reimburses operations. No attempt has been made to provide owners for damages and unpaid an interpretation or opinion of either the bill rent. When residents pay this analysis or the change to the law. Hopefully, this small monthly deposit waiver fee will provide you with enough information to make to help owners pay the insurance the appropriate business decisions with premium, owners can eliminate security/damage deposits and resrespect to any changes in your operations. ident can save hundreds to thousands of dollars on move-in day.

The current practice is already popular, alAt the time an owner offers a resident the though, Texas law is silent on the issue. 92% option of paying a fee in lieu of a security of residents who are offered the option, deposit, the owner shall notify the resident choose to pay a monthly fee in lieu of a onein writing: 1. that the resident has the option to instead time, large deposit. Explicit governmental pay a security deposit; approval would encourage more owners to 2. that the resident has the option to termioffer this option, which would provide nate the agreement to pay the fee at any greater access to affordable housing for thoutime and stop paying the fee, and instead, sands of Texans. As proposed, SB 1783 to pay a security deposit in the amount ofamends current law relating to a fee collected fered to new residents for substantially by an owner in lieu of a security deposit. similar housing; and 3. of the charges for each of the above 2. The Change: options.

If a security deposit is required by an owner, the owner may choose to offer the If the resident decides to pay a fee in lieu resident an option to pay a fee in lieu of a seof a security deposit, an agreement to colcurity deposit. (The law specifies that the fee lect the fee must be in writing and signed by must be a recurring fee of equal amount and both parties. payable at the time each rent payment is due.

A fee collected may be used to purchase Since the TAA lease provides for monthly rent insurance coverage for damages and charges payments, in most cases, the recurring fee for which the resident is legally liable under will be a monthly fee.) the lease. An owner may not charge a resiIf the owner offers a resident the option dent a fee that is more than the reasonable of paying a fee in lieu of a security deposit, cost of obtaining and administering the inthe owner: surance purchased.

1. shall offer the resident the option to inIf the resident decides to pay a fee in lieu of stead pay a security deposit; and a security deposit and the owner purchases in2. may not use a prospective resident’s surance coverage, the new law provides for choice to pay a fee in lieu of a security decertain requirements with respect to the agreeposit or a security deposit as a criterion in ment to collect the fee (referenced above) and the determination of whether to approve an owner submitting and being compensated an application for occupancy.

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for a claim for damages or unpaid rent. The new law also prescribes limitations on an insurer’s ability to seek reimbursement from the resident for a paid claim.

A fee collected under this section is a security deposit, except that a fee is not a security deposit if an agreement was signed to collect the fee and the fee is used to purchase insurance coverage.

An owner may not charge a resident for normal wear and tear of a dwelling.

If the resident challenges the claim for damages or unpaid rent and the challenge results in a determination by the owner or by a court that the notice of indebtedness is incorrect, the indebtedness is void and the owner may not file an insurance claim for insurance purchased under this section in the amount of the voided indebtedness. If the owner has already submitted to the insurer a claim for the voided indebtedness, the claim must be withdrawn. If the insurance company has already paid the owner for the invalidated claim, the owner must return the payment.

Carrying, Possessing, Transporting, and Storing of a Firearm or Other Weapon Amends Section 30.05 and 30.06 of the Penal Code Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 1927) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: The Second Amendment enshrined the right to bear arms in the U.S. Constitution. There are concerns that state law infringes on the free exercise of that right, namely by requiring a license, which takes time and money to obtain, to legally be able to carry a handgun. HB 1927 seeks to reduce barriers to the free exercise of Texans’ constitutional right to bear arms and defend their lives and property by making it legal for individuals who are 21 years of age or older and who can legally possess a firearm to carry a handgun without first obtaining a license. HB 1927 retains the handgun license in statute as optional to allow reciprocity with states that have not yet passed similar legislation.

2. The Change: A person may provide notice that firearms are prohibited on the property by posting a sign at each entrance to the property that:

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1. includes language that is identical or substantially similar to the following: Pursuant to Section 30.05, Penal Code (Criminal Trespass), a person may not enter this property with a firearm; 2. includes this language in both English and Spanish; 3. appears in contrasting colors with block letters at least 1 inch in height; and 4. is displayed in a conspicuous manner clearly visible to the public.

An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $200. Except that the offense is a Class A misdemeanor if it is shown on the trial of the offense that after entering the property, land or building with a firearm or other weapon, the actor: 1. personally received from the owner notice that entry with a firearm or other weapon was forbidden, as given through: (i) oral or written notice; or (ii) if the actor is unable to reasonably understand the notice, other personal notice that is reasonable under the circumstances; and 2. subsequently failed to depart. / See Law, Page 28

www.haaonline.org

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Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

BUT I MADE A COPY

A resident slips his notice to vacate under the leasing office’s doormat after hours.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with

the Houston Apartment Association to dispute charges for breaking his lease.

The resident’s lease term started on October 2, 2018 and ended on October 27, 2019. According to the resident, he submitted his notice to vacate by slipping it under the leasing office’s doormat after hours. In the complaint, the resident claimed he made a copy of the notice to vacate as proof of his submission.

Management responded to HAA and that response was forwarded to the applicant.

Management felt the resident was charged accordingly for the reletting fees.

Enclosed in management’s response were copies of the application form, the lease, the

move-out condition form, the The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide resident ledger, pictures and an impartial review of resident complaints using invoices. the documentation provided by both the resident When the property and management. contacted the resident on Dec. 10 for nonpayment of rent, the resident informed management he moved out on Nov. only charged for rent and reletting fees.

27. The resident also informed management The committee ruled in favor of managethat he was still in possession of his keys ment. It was clear that the resident did not fuland gate remote. fill his lease obligation. Charges were justified.

When the property manager walked the The resident owes the property $1,506.30. unit, he found it with trash dispersed throughout the unit. Management, however, did not If you are a manager with a resident charge the resident for cleaning fees, for the relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 keys nor the gate remote. The resident was for direct assistance.

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

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I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

www.haaonline.org

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The Honors are back November 11!

T

T

T

T T

T

Online property nominations are open!

Deadline for property nominations is Friday, August 13 Visit https://custom.haaonline.org/Honors/HonorsForm.aspx Watch your email, ABODE and www.haaonline.org for more details on individual nominations.

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State Industry of the

Breakfast Fall Edition

Join HAA and industry leaders as we assess the current and future state of Houston’s multifamily market mid-year.

Topics will include the latest pandemic-related issues, eviction moratoriums, recent economic trends, job growth, forecasts, rental rate and occupancy trends, new construction developments, technology, marketing trends and much more.

State of the Industry Breakfast Thursday, August 26 7:30 a.m. to 8;30 a.m. – Breakfast and networking 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. - Program The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 Program cost: $99/person See www.haaonline.org for more information.

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2021

HALL OF 2021 Hall of Fame Luncheon

Beth Van Winkle

FAME honoring

Highmark Residential Thursday, August 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Omni Houston 4 Riverway Houston, TX 77056 Table of 10 - $600 Individual Seat - $60

All proceeds benefit the Houston Apartment Foundation 501 (c) (3) and its educational programs.

See www.haaonline.org for more details and to register.

Sponsored by Dixie Carpet Installations and Gemstar Construction Development

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Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE

AUGUST S M T W T F S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

SEPTEMBER S M T W 1 5 6 7 8 12 13 14 15 19 20 21 22 26 27 28 29

T 2 9 16 23 30

F 3 10 17 24

S 4 11 18 25

AUGUST 4 The calendar does not reflect some sponsorship information as the HAA Sponsorship Auction was held after the July 2021 ABODE went to press. See www.haaonline.org for sponsorship details.

New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, August 4 10 a.m.

Via Zoom All new supplier members are welcome.

Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, August 4 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

5

Avenues: Leadership 2 – “Leadership vs. Management” with Katie Rigsby Thursday, August 5 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details.

Sponsored by Texas Southwest Floors Legal Lowdown Thursday, August 5 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.

See Page 23 for details.

NEXT Spelling Bee Thursday, August 5 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Sponsored by AZ Partsmaster, Century A/C Supply and FSI Construction

6

IROC Breakfast Friday, August 6 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Sponsored by Horisons Roof & Exterior Solutions

11-13

IROP Wednesday, August 11 to Friday, August 13 8:30 a.m.

Sponsored by Century A/C Supply

11

Resident Relations Committee B Meeting Wednesday, August 11 2 p.m.

Via Zoom Chili Fest Committee Meeting Wednesday, August 11 3:30 p.m.

12

Featured Event: Hall of Fame Luncheon Honoring Beth Van Winkle Thursday, August 12 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Omni Houston Hotel 4 Riverway, 77056 See Page 18 for details.

Sponsored by Dixie Carpet Installations and Gemstar Construction Development

17

Avenues: Marketing 3 – “Hustle, Work Smarter and Other Top Habits of Successful Leasing Superstars” with Amy Kosnikowski Tuesday, August 17 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details.

Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data

18

Honors Property Awards Committee Meeting Wednesday, August 18 9 a.m.

Expert Exchange: Legislative Update and Lease Questions with HAA’s Andy Teas and Matilde Luna Wednesday, August 18 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Via Zoom, Facebook Live and YouTube (subscribe to HAATV) Every third Wednesday of each month.

19

Supplier Education: Seeking Oppportunity the Right Way Thursday, August 19 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

See Page 25 for details.

Sponsored by the Product Service Council HAAPAC Luncheon Thursday, August 19 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Sponsored by AZ Partsmaster

24-25

Leasing 101 Tuesday, August 24 to Wednesday, August 25 8:30 a.m.

24

Legislative Committee Meeting Tuesday, August 24 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

26

State of the Industry Breakfast Thursday, August 26 8 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Road, 77024 See Page 17 for details.

Sponsored by Chadwell Supply and Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search

31-2

NAA Education Conference & Expo in Chicago Tuesday, August 31 through Thursday September 2 Visit www.naahq.com for details.

UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED, all events meet at our Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., second floor, in either the Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search or the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room. Meetings located at the HAA Offices, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., first floor, will be held in the Redi Carpet and Winograd Families/Judwin Properties Conference Room. See www.haaonline.org for an interactive calendar.

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www.haaonline.org

calendar pg 20,21.qxp_Layout 1 7/20/21 3:35 PM Page 2

Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Check the calendars at www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date information.

For the most up-to-date information, see the calendar on the HAA website:

www.haaonline.org

SEPTEMBER 1

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29

New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, September 1 10 a.m.

Via Zoom All new supplier members are welcome.

Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician: Interior/Exterior Repair Tuesday, September 14 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Texas Apartment Pool Services

Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Finance Wednesday, September 29 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Best Plumbing

Ambassador ONE Society Happy Hour Wednesday, September 1 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Kirby Ice House Memorial City 1015 Gessner Road Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

Steering Committee Meeting Tuesday, September 14 Noon

Featured Event: HAA Education Conference & Expo Wednesday, September 22 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NRG Center – Hall A 1 NRG Park, Houston, 77054 Join HAA Conference and Expo Chairs Derek DeVries with Camp Construction Services and Monica Gracia with DayRise Residential right here in Houston, Texas. Find new opportunities at the best multifamily expo in the country!

See Page 26 for more information and a list of sponsors.

2 Legal Lowdown Thursday, September 2 3 p.m.

Sponsored by Perma Pier

7 Chili Fest Committee Meeting Tuesday, September 7 3:30 p.m.

8-9 Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course Wednesday, September 8 through Thursday, September 9 Noon to 4 p.m. and 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

During the first day of this course, students will learn all about the process and best practices for success as a CAM candidate. They will also receive a math refresher and start preparing to calculate industry formulas that are on the exam. The second day of the course covers industry essentials and the resident experience.

Sponsored by Best Plumbing and Dixie Carpet Installations Inc.

8 Resident Relations Committee A 2 p.m.

Via Zoom

10 ACES Luncheon Friday, September 10 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Location: TBA Sponsored by AZPartsmaster and Recycle NOW

www.haaonline.org

15 Expert Exchange: Handling Tricky Resident Situations Wednesday, September 15 Noon to 12:30 p.m.

HAA’s Micro Webinar series is made available to you via Zoom and YouTube (subscribe to HAATV) Every third Wednesday of each month.

16 Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician: Plumbing Repair Thursday, September 16 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers Expo Committee Meeting Thursday, September 16 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

17 Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician: Electrical Repair Friday, September 17 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Dixie Carpet Installations

21 Expo Exhibitor Move-in Day Tuesday, September 21 5 p.m.

NRG Center – Hall C 1 NRG Park, Houston, 77054

HAA Board of Directors Meeting Wednesday, September 22 Noon NRG Center 1 NRG Park, Houston, 77054 Sponsored by SafeRent Solutions

30 Certified Apartment Manager Credential Course: Finance Thursday, September 30 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data Go-Getter Happy Hour Thursday, September 30 4 p.m.

Cadillac Bar 1802 Shepherd Drive See Page 64 for details.

Sponsored by ApartmentData.com and Outdoor Elements

28 Avenues: Maintenance 1 – “Intermediate Electrical Troubleshooting and Repairs” with Mark Cukro Tuesday, September 28 8:30 a.m.

This course provides a more in depth understanding of electrical fundamentals, components and repairs of an electrical system. The primary focus in this class is to learn what will be immediately useful in the field by practicing troubleshooting circuits and components. There is a greater emphasis on troubleshooting and wiring concepts while practicing workplace safety.

Each student will practice how to use a multi-meter and an ammeter effectively and identify the root cause of the problem to avoid just replacing parts until the system works. This will result in completing more correct repairs in less time and will also greatly assist in resident satisfaction. This seminar is for technicians with experience and it is recommended they attend the fundamentals class prior to this seminar or have significant experience. This is a highly technical class and even the most experienced will benefit.

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers

August 2021

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Sponsored by

Follow a road that fits you career journey with Avenues. The Avenues series of seminars feature some of the best nationally-acclaimed speakers in the industry with learning sessions for every level of multifamily professional. Annual Property Subscriptions are available with unlimited attendance for all on-site property staff to all sessions at discounted prices: • Only $199 per year per property for properties with fewer than 200 units • Only $399 per year per property for properties with 200 to 350 units.

• Only $450 per year per property for properties with more than 350 units.

If you need a single workshop, individual sessions are priced at only $50 per person, a real steal for quality education.

Look for the class schedule and online at www.haaonline.org for details.

Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or register online at www.haaonline.org.

Main

ST

Main III October 27 Teri Norvell The Mental Makeover

Look for the class schedule and online at www.haaonline.org for details.

Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or register online at www.haaonline.org.

Maintenance

Maintenance I September 28 Mark Cukro Intermediate Electrical Maintenance II October 6 Chad Moulin Maintenance Manners Maintenance III November 17 Mark Cukro Intermediate HVAC

ing Livestream View ersg forodentails. or Inao-P nline.or See www.ha

BLVD

Leadership

LN

Leadership II August 5 Katie Rigsby Leadership vs Management

Marketing

PL

Marketing III August 17 Amy Kosnikowski Dilisio Hustle, Work Smarter and Other Top Habits of Successful Leasing Superstars

Leadership III December 14 Amy Kosnikowski Dilisio Play To Your Team’s Strengths: Adapt Your Leadership Style To Bring Out The Best in All

We’re on the road

ar? in m e s e n o t s ju d Nee sessions are priced at only $50

on!

Individual r quality educati fo l a e st l a re a , n per perso

again!

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Mark your calendars!

August 5 September 2 October 7 November 4 December 2

Get the lowdown, virtually!

2021 is sure to be another bumpy ride, with many legal implications for the multifamily industry. Stay up to date and in the know via this new monthly series. Join Howard Bookstaff virtually for an update on all things legal, from eviction procedures to local, state and federal law changes.

First Thursday of every month at 3 p.m.

Program fee: $45 per person Annual Property Subscription available: $500 per property

Register online today at www.haaonline.org or call 713-595-0300 for details.

golf 2021 pg 24.qxp_Dinerstein golf pg 6 7/20/21 2:10 PM Page 1

Monday, October 4, Wildcat Golf Club,

Bill DinersteinMemorial

12000 Almeda Road, Houston, TX 77045

T o u r n a m e n t Benefiting the Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee

Practice Range Sponsor One Source Realty Advisors Beverage Cart Sponsors Ideal Towing Outdoor Elements Closest to the Pin Sponsor LSR Multifamily Longest Drive Contest Sponsor WeDoTrash President's Cart Sponsor Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC

Join us for the 42nd annual HAA Golf Tournament.

Prizes for: Closest To Pin • Longest Drive • Tournament prizes awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, net scores.

Check-in opens at 7 a.m. with a breakfast buffet.

Shotgun start at 9 a.m. Two owner/management and two suppliers per team. Award reception and lunch follows.

Pinot & Putting Contest 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m.

One golf ball may be purchased for $20 per player.

The player will have a chance to putt their ball to win a bottle of wine on the Wildcat Putting Green.

Registration fee includes golf fees, breakfast, lunch and beverages during play. All tournament winners and sponsors will be recognized in the ABODE Magazine. *Please note this event is open to sponsors and players only, no spectators.

In the event of rain, your contribution will go to the HAA Political Action Committee. Contributions are not tax-deductible as charitable contributions under the Internal Revenue Code. Paid for by HAA Political Action Committee, Stacy Hunt, Treasurer.

Breakfast Sponsor AAA Plumbers

Beverage Station Sponsors Century A/C Supply Flooring Warehouse G & H Trash Valet Inc Bag Drop Sponsor Ideal Towing

Scorecard Sponsor Texas Southwest Floors Inc Pinot & Putting Contest Sponsors ALN Apartment Data Inc Horisons Roof & Exterior Solutions LLC Hole Sponsors AAA Plumbers ApartmentData.com Best Plumbing Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC Chadwell Supply Earthworks Inc Fetch Package Fidus Construction Services First Onsite Guardian Construction Hoffer Furniture Rental & Sales Lowe’s Pro Supply Matrix Construction Services Redevelopment Services Saferent Solutions TXU Energy 19th Hole Reception Sponsors Century Air Conditioning Supply HD Supply Awards Sponsors American Fire Systems Camp Construction Services Core Landscape Group Gemstar Construction Development Inc Guardian Construction

Payment must be made by personal credit card Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Discover or personal check payable to HAAPAC. Payment must accompany registration.

HAA is prohibited from accepting corporate contributions for PAC events. If a team does not consist of two owner/management and two suppliers, they will be disqualified from team awards.

Name __________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________ Company________________________________________________________________ Phone (____________)_________________________ MC____ Visa____ AmEx____ Discv_______ Credit Card #________________________________________________________________________ CC Security Code____________ Expiration Date__________ Name on Card______________________________________________________________ Number of players (two owner/management, two supplier) paid for___________ @ $180 each by September 6/$200 after September 6 = $_________ Add “Pinot & Putting Contest” for $20 x _______ (how many balls) = _____________ (total amount paid).

Owner/Management Name____________________________________________Company_______________________________ Handicap___________ Owner/Management Name____________________________________________Company_______________________________ Handicap___________ Supplier Name________________________________________________Company___________________________________ Handicap___________ Supplier Name________________________________________________Company___________________________________ Handicap___________ Mail completed form and payment to: HAAPAC, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Credit card registrations may be emailed to golf@haaonline.org; payment must accompany registration.

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Suppliers: Get back to business and learn how your clients and potential clients want to be engaged during ther HAA Education Conference and Expo and how as a supplier to get the most out of that experience.

Seeking Opportunity The Right Way Learn from industry leaders about: • Preparing in advance of the show • Day of show dos and don’ts • Following up after the show has ended

It’s a new dawn for the multifamily industry as we get back to business and networking! Join the HAA Product Service Council and Past PSC Presidents Cesar Lima, AAA Plumbers, and Beth Rohani, Ameritex Movers, for an informative session that will help you to make the most of your Expo experience.

Thursday, August 19 9:30 a.m. to 9:45.m. – Registration 9:45 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. – Program HAF Education Center 4810 Westway Park Blvd. (located off Clay Road and the Beltway) Sponsored by the HAA Product Service Council

Free for all supplier members.

Register online at www.haaonline.org/supplierprogram

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It’s a new dawn for the multifamily industry as we get back to business and networking! Join Conference and Expo Chairs Derek DeVries, Camp Construction Services, and Monica Gracia, DayRise Residential, right here in Houston, Texas and find new opportunities at the best multifamily expo in the country!

HAA 2021 Education Conference & Expo Wednesday, September 22 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

NRG Center, Hall A Education Conference registration opens at 9 a.m.

Expo opens at 1 p.m

Education Conference with David Rendall Conference Registration includes one or both sessions along with lunch $175/person Early Bird pricing available by September 15: $135 Special pricing for NAA Credential holders (must be current): $105

Visit www.haaexpo.org for more information and to register

Expo Show Hours

1 p.m. to 6 p.m. with attendee shifts from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Over 250 Exhibitors!

$3,000 in Cash Prizes!

Expo only is FREE for all management personnel. Registration is required.

Visit ww.haaexpo.org to register.

Non-exhibiting suppliers are not admitted.

NRG Parking: $15 CASH ONLY

NOTE: To attend just the Expo, attendance is free, but advanced registration is required.

Scan here to register now or visit www.haaexpo.org

expo pg 26,27.qxp_Layout 1 7/21/21 7:39 AM Page 2

Don’t miss our Education Conference Double-header with David Rendall!

First up – The Freak Factor: Discovering Uniqueness

by Flaunting Weakness 9 a.m. – Registration Opens 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. – Morning Program Do you want more happiness, fulfillment, and energy?

Do you want better relationships at work and at home?

Do you want to dramatically improve teamwork and increase productivity?

Our parents, teachers, and managers have told us that, if we want to succeed, we should find and fix our weaknesses. But what if our biggest weaknesses were also our biggest strengths? What if we could create outrageous personal and professional success by amplifying flaws, instead of denying them? How would that change the way we parent, teach, and manage people?

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. – Networking Luncheon

Double the Education – Pink Goldfish: Defy Normal and Exploit Imperfection 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. – Afternoon Program Do you want more innovation and creativity? Do you want to improve your marketing and strategy? Do you want to captivate your customers? Companies need to stand out in a crowded marketplace, but true differentiation is increasingly rare.

Based on over 200 case studies, Pink Goldfish provides an unconventional eightpart framework for achieving competitive distinction by embracing flaws, instead of fixing them.

Learning Objectives: * Clarify organizational strengths and weaknesses * Capture consumer attention * Improve customer retention * Maximize differentiation * Increase word of mouth advocacy * Enhance customer loyalty

Thanks to our Sponsors: Expo Grand Entrances: McMahan's Flooring Expo Lanyards: Lowe’s Pro Supply Expo Bars: Matrix Construction Services McMahan's Flooring Expo Showcase: Contractors Inc Crestmark Construction Services Expo Aisle Signs: AZPartsmaster Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services LLC HD Supply Contractors Inc Ideal Towing Matrix Construction Services Texas Apartment Pool Services TXU Energy Expo Charging Station: Green Mountain Energy TXU Energy Expo Hand Sanitizer Station: First Onsite Secure Insurance Expo Head Shots: Texas Southwest Floors Inc Education Conference Keynote Sponsors: Camp Construction Services Contractors Inc Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search Education Conference Leasing 101 Session: Outdoor Elements Networking Luncheon: Outdoor Elements

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Law, continued from Page 12 The legislation states that persons who are currently prohibited from possessing firearms under state and federal law will not gain the right to possess or carry a firearm under this legislation.

The new law also provides that a peace officer may disarm a person at any time the officer reasonably believes that it is necessary for the protection of the person, officer or another individual. However, the peace officer is required to return the handgun to the person before discharging the person from the scene if the officer determines that the person is not a threat to the officer, person or another individual and if the person has not committed a violation that results in the arrest of the person.

Another change under this law provides that it does not prevent or otherwise limit the right of a public or private employer to prohibit persons who are licensed from carrying a handgun on the premises of the business.

The new law does not change Section 92.026 of the Texas Property Code, which provides that unless possession of a firearm or firearm ammunition on an owner’s property is prohibited by state or federal law, an owner may not prohibit a resident or a resident’s guest from lawfully possessing, carrying, transporting or storing a firearm, any part of a firearm or firearm ammunition: 1. in the resident’s unit; 2. in a vehicle located in a parking area provided for residents or guests; or 3. in other locations controlled by the owner as necessary to enter or exit the resident’s unit, the property or the vehicle of the resident or guest on the property.

Applicability of Texas Fair Housing Act Amends Section 301.041 of Property Code Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 1153) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: The federal Fair Housing Act and the Texas Fair Housing Act provide two exemptions for individual owners from liability. The first exemption generally involves someone who does not own more than three single-family houses at any one time (the “single-family home” exemption). The second exemption covers someone who has a home with living quarters occupied by no more than four families living independently of each other and the owner actually maintains and occupies one of them (“Mrs. Murphy” exemption). However, there are

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exceptions to these exemptions.

Section 301.041 of the Texas Fair Housing Act states that “(a) Subchapter B does not apply to [the single-family home and Mrs. Murphy exemptions].” Subchapter B contains a laundry list of issues or types of violations, three of which are clearly exceptions under the federal statute: (a) Section 301.022, Publication, (b) Section 301.026, Residential Real Estate Related Transaction, and (c) Section 301.027, Brokerage Services.

HUD researched why the difference between the federal and state statutes exists. HUD found that the state statute was certified by HUD in 1990, after the Texas Commission on Human Rights (TCHR) passed emergency rules containing remedial language to clarify the existence of the above exceptions. After the daily operations of TCHR were transferred to TWC, the rules were re-codified in 2005, but the remedial language was not included.

H.B. 1153 seeks to fix this issue by amending the Texas Property Code, Chapter 301 by adding language to clarify the exceptions to the exemptions to conform to federal law.

2. The Change: The new law modifies certain exclusions for owners of single-family houses sold or rented.

The exclusions that previously applied with respect to discrimination based on publications, persons in the business of residential real estate-related transactions and brokerage services have been excluded from the exemption and will apply even if the owner would otherwise be exempted under the single-family home or Mrs. Murphy exemptions.

Liability for Claims During a Pandemic Adds Chapter to the Civil Practice and Remedies Code Effective September 1, 2021 (but may take effect earlier in certain cases) (SB 6) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: SB 6 provides retroactive civil liability protections for large and small businesses, religious institutions, non-profit entities, healthcare providers, first responders and educational institutions.

The bill also extends current immunity that healthcare volunteers have during a manmade or natural disaster to include a health care provider that is getting paid during a man-made disaster, natural disaster or a health care emergency.

SB 6 also provides civil liability protections to a person who designs, manufactures, sells, labels or donates certain products that have a defect or inadequate instructions unless the person had knowledge of the issue and acted with actual malice.

2. The Change: A person is not liable for injury or death caused by exposing an individual to a pandemic disease during a pandemic emergency unless the claimant establishes that: 1. the person who exposed the individual: a. knowingly failed to warn the individual of or remediate a condition that the person knew was likely to result in the exposure of an individual to the disease, provided that the person: i. had control over the condition; ii. knew that the individual was more likely than not to come into contact with the condition; and iii. had a reasonable opportunity and ability to remediate the condition or warn the individual of the condition before the individual came into contact with the condition; or b. knowingly failed to implement or comply with the government-promulgated standards, guidance or protocols intended to lower the likelihood of exposure to the disease that were applicable to the person or the person’s business, provided that: i. the person had a reasonable opportunity and ability to implement or comply with the standards, guidance or protocols; ii. the person refused to implement or comply with or acted with flagrant disregard of the standards, guidance or protocols; and iii. the government-promulgated standards, guidance or protocols that the person failed to implement or comply with did not, on the date that the individual was exposed to the disease, conflict with government-promulgated standards, guidance or protocols that the person implemented or complied with; and 2. reliable scientific evidence shows that the failure to warn the individual of the condition, remediate the condition or implement or comply with the government-promulgated standards, guidance or protocols was the cause in fact of the individual contracting the disease. www.haaonline.org

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Additional requirements are made with respect to the litigation process in a case involving a claim of an injury caused by exposing an individual to a pandemic disease.

Liability Resulting from Execution of a Writ Adds Section 24.0061(i) to the Property Code Effective September 1, 2021 (HB 900) 1. Background: According to the bill analysis: Upon receipt of an eviction notice, a resident has a certain timeframe in which to remove their possession from the premises. If the resident fails to remove their belongings, the court will order a writ of possession, in which an officer may enter the premises, remove the resident’s belongings and place them on the curb to be picked up by the evicted resident. The bill analysis states that it has been noted that owners are currently held responsible for any damages inflicted upon these belongs while sitting on the curb. HB 900 seeks to remedy this situation by exempting an owner from liability for certain damages.

2. The Change: A subsection has been added to the writ of possession statute, which expressly states that an owner is not liable for damage to the resident resulting from the execution of a writ of possession by an officer under this section.

Hopefully, this will help you understand what new laws have passed pertaining to the operations of your communities. As always, any new laws are subject to analysis, interpretation and the judicial process. This should give you a start in being able to modify any appropriate policies and procedures dealing with the issues of concern.

Want to read more legal news from Howard?

Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography 2021 HAA Gala Friday, June 11 at the Ballroom at Bayou Place

Presenting Sponsor Camp Construction Services Premier Sponsors Century A/C Supply, Crestmark Construction Services, Lowe’s Pro Supply and Reliant Postponed due the pandemic, the reopening of Texas allowed for a smaller than usual Gala event celebrating 2021 President John Boriack, the HAA Executive Committee, board of directors and Product Service Council officers.

For more photos, visit www.haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography 2021 HAA Gala

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography 2021 HAA Gala

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography 2021 HAA Gala

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Photos counterclockwise from top left: Beth at age 3. Beth and family on vacation in July of this year. Beth volunteering in Sri Lanka.

Beth and her mom, Jan. The Carlson family in 1968. Beth and her sisters Laura and Julie in Germany. Beth’s 2009 HAA Presidential cover.

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A Heart for

HALLOF

Service

FAME

By Morgan Taylor, HAA Staff, Photgraphed by Mark Hiebert, Hiebert Photography

B

eth Van Winkle, a regional vice president of property operations for Highmark Residential, is being inducted into the Houston Apartment Association’s Hall of Fame.

For 20 years, she has poured her heart into volunteer leadership, serving HAA, the Texas Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association. To know Van Winkle is to know her strength. She is driven and hardworking. She has high expectations, but she also has a soft spirit that is grounded in kindness and compassion. There is vulnerability and courage in her strength.

If you ask anyone to describe her, people speak of Van Winkle as a conscientious, ethical, honorable person who is committed to her team, her family and her friends. She has strong values and lives her life in alignment with those values. It’s simple. She just believes in doing the right thing and doing it to the best of her ability. Whether that means giving one of her employees the tools and encouragement to grow in their career or building an orphanage halfway across the

world. What Van Winkle feels called to, she will do, and she will give it her all.

Only three other women before her have been instated into the HAA Hall of Fame.

Eileen Subinsky in 2001, Darlene Guidry in 2011 and Suan Tinsley in 2017. Nora Krakower was the first and only female supplier partner to date who has been honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, a comparable achievement for a supplier partner.

The HAA Hall of Fame is the highest honor for a volunteer leader, symbolizing the culmination of one’s achievements and impact on HAA, the members we serve and the overall apartment industry.

Van Winkle started serving on the HAA board of directors in 2000. In 2004 through 2009, she served TAA as a director/alternate. Then, in 2005, she joined the HAA Executive Committee as treasurer and served NAA as a delegate/alternate. With each year, Van Winkle moved up the HAA executive ladder. The structure back then went from the treasurer position to secretary, then vice president, then president-elect. In 2009, Van Winkle was installed as HAA president.

Highmark Residential Senior Regional Management Kyle Brown has worked with Beth Van Winkle for nearly 20 years. Van Winkle encouraged Brown to pursue more leadership positions within HAA, leading him to serve on the HAA Executive Committee and eventually as HAA's 2017 president.

Here is what he had to say about HAA’s 2021 Hall of Fame inductee.

“Beth is an incredible leader and she’s fun to work with. She is a very driven, goal-oriented person motivated by doing the right thing. She strives to be friends with everyone in the office, but when it comes down to it, she holds everyone accountable to get the job done. Beth is able to help people succeed and excel in their careers based on their unique strengths. She can group the right people together to set everyone up for success. I was involved in HAA, but Beth really encouraged me to elevate my involvement. Because of her influence, I pursued even more volunteer opportunities at HAA, which eventually led to me serving as president. I wouldn’t have done that without her support. Congratulations, Beth, we are so proud of you and it has been an honor to work with you over the years!”

From left: Beth’s dad, John, distributes candy from his helmet to children in Vietnam in 1970. Beth following in her dad’s footsteps.

Beth’s grandchildren Colby, Kailey and Lauren in 2009. www.haaonline.org

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After her HAA presidency, Van Winkle continued to serve on the HAA Executive Committee as immediate past president. She then became a TAA vice president at large from 2010 to 2012. In 2015, she led TAA as president. The following year, Van Winkle remained on the TAA Executive Committee as immediate past president and served her final year as a delegate/alternate for NAA. In 2017, Van Winkle became a region regional vice president for NAA, then as a voting regional vice president and finally as an alternate regional vice president, a position she resigned from this year. In this Q&A, we learn the stories that reveal Van Winkle’s vulnerability, strength and heart for service.

What is your story?

My story is short, like me. My story, first and foremost, is that I am a child of God redeemed by a savior. That, to me, is the most important part of me. That’s who I am. After my God comes my family. If you ask family members who I am, I’m the mother of a beautiful daughter and son-inlaw, I’m granny to my grandchildren, I’m a sister, I’m an aunt, I’m a great aunt, I’m a cousin – I have many different titles, but that story is only second to my first story, being a child a of God. And thirdly, I’m a U.S. citizen, proud to be an American. I love this country. I love having the blessing of being born here and being part of something that is so incredible. Incredible enough that my father fought and was a hero in his battles. The fourth part of me is my job. There are two components to my job. It’s not just my work job, it’s my volunteer job as well. There are layers and stories within those four pieces that to me are very special and define who I am as a whole, but if I look at who I am, these four pieces make up who I am and my story.

Describe your parents. What were they like?

I am so proud of my father and my mother.

They raised five children. Daddy took on the task of also supporting my Granny, whose nickname I

Beth and Kelly Scott, a regional vice president for Capstone Real Estate Services, were introduced because they shared profound grief. The two lost their adult children around the same time, about 11 years ago. Bonded by their strength, these two became friends for life instantly.

“We established an instant bond over our loss and became close friends.

Though we both have busy lives, our bond remains strong – the true meaning of friendship. Beth is one of the kindest people I know. She has a gentle nature about her, yet she is a driven, inspirational leader who is well respected throughout the industry. Beth is a quiet warrior, overcoming heartbreaking personal tragedy and using it to become a more compassionate person.

I am incredibly proud of her. This is just one more accomplishment among so many that she is achieved, through all her hard work. It has been wonderful to watch her grow and flourish over the years, with such style charm. There are so many things to admire. Her strength, intelligence, compassion and her steadfast faith. I admire that she carries herself with such dignity and grace, even when times are tough. Beth has been an advocate for so many worthwhile causes in the industry - I am not sure where to begin. She has worked tirelessly for so much and has affected so much change. Beth is a compelling force and when she supports a cause, she comes to the table prepared. She is a courageous, remarkable leader who has paved the way for so many women.

She is so deserving of this award and to that, I would say, well done, my friend.

You continue to amaze me.”

Debbie Kelm and Beth also share a relationship of over 20 years. While Highmark Residential has changed company names several times over the decades, Debbie has been with the company for over 32years, just a few years more than Beth. When the two met 25 years ago, Debbie was a property manager and Beth was her supervisor.

Debbie speaks with gratitude when she said Beth encouraged her to grow professionally within her career and outside of her career. Debbie, who served as a vice president of multifamily for the Institute of Real Estate Management, today is a senior regional manager for Highmark Residential and an HAA board member.

“Beth is a very strong person. She can juggle a lot at once, and you would never even know it. If you need to ask her something, even if she has a lot going on, she will always make herself available to you. It’s something I’ve really appreciated about her over the years – her accessibility and approachability. She develops her staff, she encourages career growth, she wants everybody to participate in HAA, TAA and NAA. She wants everyone to make the most of their careers and she is willing to do anything to get you there. She always said there’s more than just the job out there.

Whatever you want to make of it, you can have it. She’s always the one to guide you and tell you, here are some of the things I did, get involved, go to committee meetings and just get involved. It makes your work life so much more rewarding. She’s always been big advocate for association involvement and making your work life more rewarding. If there is ever anything going on that has to do with family, she always says family first and she’s behind you 100%. She cares not just about your work, but she wants you to take care of your family, too. She does have high expectations.

She lives by those high expectations herself and she expects everyone to follow suit.

That’s her. But she also gives very honest feedback, and she is very ethical.

Congratulations, Beth. Nobody deserves it more than you. You are the most ethical, hardworking, devoted person I know and I’m so happy for you.”

Photos from left: Beth at her first job as a manager. Beth and Kyle Brown receive the President’s Award from then-HAA President Jackie Rhone.

Beth with NAA Chairman Rick Graf and TAAEF Vice President Becca Ramati. Beth with fellow TAA Past Presidents Jeff Lowry and Tami Martin.

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Beth Van Winkle was president of the Texas Apartment Association during Chris Newton’s first year as Executive Vice President five years ago. They say the best leaders are great teachers. It isn’t clear whether Beth was purposely teaching Newton the lessons he learned from her, but Newton cherishes and values the guidance she graciously gave him.

“Beth was the first president I worked with when I began working for TAA in 2016. She demonstrated a willingness to answer all my newbie questions and with patience, as well. She always made herself available. She helped me understand the importance of TAA’s culture by way of examples. She was always a great listener to all sides of a debate, but she has a strong moral compass, and she is very transparent about what she feels is right and why.

More often than not, what Beth thought was right was usually the best position for TAA to be in. She taught me a lot about transparency in decision making and the importance of doing the right thing, no matter the cost to you or the organization, which is really important. Beth has thrown her leadership into HAA, TAA and now NAA. She’s set an example not only for volunteers and volunteer leaders, but with staff as well. Everybody keys into what Beth thinks and why. I think her impact on all three organizations will last far beyond the honors, awards and recognition she’s received. She’s really influenced an entire generation of staff and volunteers.”

When Beth Van Winkle began serving on HAA’s board of directors, she asked HAA Past President Kathy Clem what she needed to do to get on the HAA Executive Committee, like Clem was at the time. Clem’s advice to Van Winkle was simple. “Just keep doing what you’re doing. Let people know you’re interested, keep volunteering and it will happen. She did that and more,” Clem laughed. Today, they are close friends of 21 years.

“I just want to say, ‘You go girl!’ Beth is very driven, she loves the apartment industry, she loves what she does, she’s very committed and she’s very loving and compassionate, too. She cherishes her family and her friends, who she treats like family. She just has a really big heart. Anything she does, she goes at it full steam, whether it’s her work, her volunteer work, fishing or hunting – she goes at it with the same passion.

I’m not surprised that she is being inducted into the HAA Hall of Fame – it is well deserved. When someone volunteers on the local, state and national level, you have that consistency of mission and of what is important.

Leadership positions within HAA can be like full-time jobs, and you’re still required to do your day job. She’s done that on the local, state and national level. She has been a great advocate and spokesperson for our association at every level. And we need that. We need the advocacy, we need somebody at the national level who is going to bring the message back to Houston, to give us the information, so we can be ready to advocate for what will benefit us as property owners in Texas.”

Eileen Subinsky and Beth met 23 years ago when they both worked for Steve Lamberti, who was shocked the two didn’t already know each other. In his eyes, Subinsky and Beth shared a lot in common. Well, he was right, according to Eileen, because the two have been close friends ever since.

“Beth is probably one of the kindest and most thoughtful people I know.

She is smart, capable, loyal and someone who cares about humanity more than personal gains. She can be tough when circumstances warrant, but for the most part, she makes decisions from her heart. Beth is a very deserving honoree. She has spent more than half of her life contributing to the betterment of our industry. She leads by example and has spent countless hours, days, weeks and months providing leadership skills and interjecting her knowledge to the Houston Apartment Association, the Texas Apartment Association and the National Apartment Association. I admire everything about her, except her political views. We have never agreed in that arena, however, she has the ability to set her views aside when it comes to maintaining a friendship.

She is always willing to work with everyone to achieve a goal for the common good. It is an admirable trait and one that our politicians on both sides of the aisle could emulate. Beth has worked on more committees for HAA than I could list. And, in every instance, she has brought a level of experience and a levelheadedness that nurtures an environment for people to find common ground for the recommendations of that committee. When Beth chairs a committee, there is never a lack of volunteer members to sign up for service. It is an indication of the respect and the high regard her peers have for her leadership and judgement.

Her contributions have all been noteworthy and, in many instances, have helped to grow the associations in the expansion of membership and the escalation of quality in the way they operate. She is truly a worthy inductee into the HAA Hall of Fame!”

From left: Beth is installed as TAA President. Beth with her fellow HAA officers, Suan Tinsley, Jenifer Paneral, Kim Small, Jerry Winograd and David Jones in 2008. www.haaonline.org

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Highmark Residential’s CEO/President Steve Lamberti has worked with Beth for 26 years. In Beth’s 2009 HAA ABODE presidential profile, she said that being empowered to do the job she needed to do was rewarding for her and she credited Steve for creating this supportive, empowering work environment. Today, the people who work for Beth say the same thing she once said about her own boss.

Beth and John Ridgway of Celtic Realty Advisors have worked together a lot during their association involvement. The two co-chaired a membership drive in 2002 and served on the HAA Executive Committee at the same time. Beth served as HAA president the year after John did and the two continued their volunteer leadership at TAA and NAA.

“She is an exceptional individual. Extremely passionate about her family, what she does and the people she works with. She is a very committed, passionate individual. That is who she is every day. She wants to make a difference. She is focused. She is intense, but she does it in a manner to bring others to success, not for intimidation. She does it through passion. She does it through confidence that she wants to succeed, but for her, it’s about bringing others to success along the way. She’s good at delegation.

She’s good at accountability. She’s good at driving results. Watching her people succeed brings her joy. That’s the kind of person she is. She’s very committed, honest, true and respectful. What sets Beth apart and what sets others apart who excel in this business is, having the great core knowledge, but also being able to take that knowledge and give it people, across the spectrum, who work for you. As their success is improving and driving up, you float with it because you are the catalyst of their success. What puts Beth in a category with many of our peers in the industry is that she learned how to do two things: how to manage up and grow up, but always keep a perspective of coworkers at the levels below.

She never lost that ability – and that is what sets leaders apart. Having knowledge is good, but to differentiate and to be able to take that knowledge, share it with others, get them at a level of success which rises you up in the leadership ranks – not everybody is capable of doing that, and she is capable of doing that. She can walk on a site, identify with porters, maintenance people, leasing agents and be able to ascertain areas that need focus. She’s able to communicate with them in a manner that sets the goal, sets the expectation, enlightens them or teaches them how to get there.

She’s been able to do that, and it’s contributed to her success. She never shies away from a challenge. Never gives up, and she is always appreciative of her team – actually, today (July 1), Debbie Kelm has been with us 32 years as of today. Beth identifies good talent; she empowers them to be successful and then she supports them to be successful. That’s why she has the tenure of people. She doesn’t over manage them. She sets an expectation; she gives them the tools and shows them the path to get to the success and then guides them along the way. Congratulations, Beth.

This honor is well deserved.”

“She would do whatever it took to excite the crowds at the meeting, including doing the splits. She followed me as HAA president, so we spent many years on the executive committee together. We both gravitated to serving TAA and NAA at the same times, too, so I was fortunate to work closely with Beth for many years at the state and national level as well. Beth is insightful, intuitive and listens to others in finding consensus and a workable solution. Beth worked tirelessly as a volunteer to fulfill the mission to make our industry better, and she succeeded. Her personal contributions made a significant impact on not only the associations themselves, but the staff and members as well. Beth, I have known you are a hall of famer for many years.

Congratulations on this great and welldeserved recognition.”

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Susan Hinkley, the general manager and vice president of HAA, met Beth when she co-chaired a membership drive in 2002.

Over time, the two became friends. Today, Susan and Beth, along with a handful of other powerful women who have served HAA in volunteer leadership positions and who are leaders within their own companies are such close friends that they meet frequently for dinner. It’s a sisterhood, the sushi sisterhood.

“The woman is always up for a challenge.

She does not shy away from anything. That is not to say she does not listen to others and get input from others, she definitely does. She really likes to understand an issue and work through it. She surrounds herself with strong, capable people and then leads the way. It takes a whole lot of time and will to serve at the local, state and national level.

You have to really want to give and understand how all the associations work independently as well as with one voice. Beth does. Her volunteer service began way before she served as president of HAA and TAA, and that building of knowledge and willingness to learn and contribute has continued to support and improve the industry and the people who work in it. I think that has been her goal throughout her career and every time she accepts a new volunteer role. Beth, you are an inspiring person and leader. You have made a positive impact on so many, and I want to thank you for giving so much of your time and talent serving the industry. Side note: As a sushi sister, I’m still in awe of the amount of wasabi you can consume. Impressive.” / See Van Winkle, Page 44

Photos from top: Beth and the “Sushi Sisters”: Kelly Scott, Suan Tinsley, Deborah Holcombe, Darlene Guidry, Susan Hinkley, Kathy Clem and Eileen Subinsky.

The Highmark group with the Dallas skyline.

Beth having some fun with supplier sponsors and Highmark’s Steve Lamberti, far right.

Beth with John Ridgway leading the 2002 Membership Campaign.

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Photos from top: The avid hunter and sportswoman. Beth with fellow past TAA Presidents Tami Martin, Jackie Rhone and Traci Hall.

took to honor her, and my two twin aunts. My twin aunts were just a few years older than me, so they weren’t working. He and my mother had a lot on their shoulders as they supported our family members. They weren’t afraid of hard work. I was the eldest, so I was daddy’s girl. I’m really proud of my dad for his service in the Armed Forces. He was a Command Sergeant Major. He fought in Korea and Vietnam. In Vietnam, he came back with several bronze stars and a silver star. I’ve looked at that silver star so many times. I’ve had it since he passed. To think of my dad going out with bullets flying around him, bringing his men back over hills into bunkers, knowing they were bombing his area – but to my dad, it didn’t matter. He was going to do whatever it took to bring those guys back home. I think he thought of his troop as his kids.

Back then, a troop was a group of people. He didn’t have to go to war because he was much older and he had so many dependents. It was such a sacrifice for our family and for him, but he went, and he came back a hero. He never really talked about it. It was no big deal to him, because that was just who he was. He just did what he was supposed to do. I’m really proud of him and what he accomplished. His heart for service continued when he became a police detective. After he left the army, he became a police officer, as a patrol officer. He got promoted to detective, worked in homicide and vice. He really loved his final position with the police department, working with juveniles. He took so many kids under his wing.

He saw some really brutal things that affected him and that he was angry about, but he loved kids and he loved all of us. That translated to being a really good detective and being an advocate for the juveniles. And then my mom, she continued to support all the people he left behind. Sometimes, he would go out into the field for 30 days. She would keep the house going and she worked at night. They really sacrificed a lot. She worked for a long time at night as a waitress just so there was someone at home with us all the time. As we got older, she got a day job.

Almost all of our clothes were handmade by our mother and grandmother. They knew how to make a pot of goulash go a long way. Daddy passed away from esophageal cancer, as I mentioned in this article (pointing to her 2009 presidential profile feature in ABODE magazine).

Then my mom passed away during my presidency at HAA. She was in the hospital during my installation. I left from the hospital to go get dressed for the installation gala. She passed away a few months after that. I lived with her and took care of her for about 15 years, so that left a big hole in my heart. I still want to call her. When I

was told about the hall of fame, my first thought was, “I want to call my mom and tell her.” I think mother and daddy would be very proud. I think I’ve honored who they are and what they taught me in doing what I do.

Tell me about your path into the apartment industry.

Laughs. You know, it was in 1980, and like everybody else back then, it was by happenstance. I had moved to Houston as a single mom with two children, recently divorced. I was looking for apartments in several areas because I had several job offers. I was in the process of finding a place to live when I met Sarah Jane Oakes – a delightful lady. She took me under her wing after her boss asked if I had a job. I told him I had three and that I was looking for an apartment. He said he had a job for me that included an apartment. So, I got a free, three-bedroom apartment, all bills paid, and I think I made $750 a month. I thought I was in high cotton. Laughs. I had arrived in the big city! It was awesome. And that’s how it happened. It was supposed to be temporary. I was taking the place of a bookkeeper who was having surgery. She didn’t come back, and the rest is history. I found that I loved it. At the time, I didn’t realize it. I guess I knew inherently. I fell in love with it because it’s a service industry.

That’s what my parents did. Looking back, it just seems natural that I fell into and fell in love with this industry.

Highmark Residential has gone through several name changes over the years. How long have you been with the company?

This September it will be 26 years. We have changed names several times because we’ve changed ownership. But the interesting thing about all of us is our whole group has stayed together. When we sell, we move lot, stock and barrel. The most recent transaction was with Starwood and we’re very excited about that. I mean, who wouldn’t be excited? It’s Starwood. It’s just so incredible that so many of us have been together for so many years. I think it attracts ownership, too. With every ownership transition, the overriding and overreaching part of our culture is that the family stays together. I’m retiring people after 30 years. We have community directors right now who have been with me ever since I’ve been with the company. It really is great.

We’ve seen our children grow up, get married and have babies. We’ve buried loved ones together. It’s truly something I never dreamt would be possible after having been raised in the military – to have a home base now that feels so grounded.

Even though we’ve changed ownership, there is a stability and a grounding that to me is incredible. / See Van Winkle, Page 46

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In your 2009 presidential interview with ABODE, you expressed that during the interview process with the then Concierge Management, you were in awe of Dee Bindhammer and Carol Pettigrew. These two women were in high leadership positions. At that time, it wasn’t typical to see women in leadership positions. Do you think the apartment industry still has a long way to go in terms of females in leadership positions?

Yes. I think there are a lot of women who broke many glass ceilings, but at the end of the day, I do think that there is still room for women to move up into leadership roles within their organizations and associations. I think there’s a way to go on that. It’s still somewhat of a boy’s club, but there is a lot of emphasis on diversity and inclusion today. Companies that are looking at leadership through a different lens are going to make a difference because there are some very capable women who deserve to be in leadership positions.

What makes you a unique HAA Hall of Fame inductee is your vast association volunteer work on all levels, local, state and national.

What has driven you to be involved at all levels?

My sisters would probably tell you it’s because I’m bossy. And my brother, too. I was the oldest and I was bossy! Laughs. But it’s not because I’m bossy. It’s because I believe I can make a difference. I believe I can bring value to whatever I’m doing – whether it’s my job or my volunteer work.

I believe I can bring value and I want to make a difference, especially in this industry. This industry has been such a blessing – I can’t even begin to describe what a blessing this industry has been to me personally, professionally and to my family. To be able to give back to an industry that means everything to me, it’s the right thing to do.

If I can make a difference to people coming up in the ranks or if I can make a difference to help our industry, legislatively, to protect our industry, I’m going to fight that battle. I’ve got my dukes up.

For me, it’s never been about the recognition. It’s about being involved, making a difference and protecting the industry, so that the folks coming up behind me will enjoy it as much as I have and will reap the benefits as much as I have.

I feel it is important to talk about your volunteer work outside of HAA, TAA and NAA because it makes up so much of who you are. What led you to mission work?

That was a God thing, truly. My daughter had been killed in 1999, and when that tsunami hit (the 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami), there were so many orphans and so many lives lost. I was going to work, listening to KSBJ. They called out for volunteers to go and build orphanages for these kids. I had just exited Westheimer to go onto the Beltway, and God spoke to me. I literally heard the voice of God say to me, “You’re going.” I pulled off onto the side of the road, I was so shaken. I had burst into tears, and I called my boss, Steve Lamberti, from my car. I said “Steve, I need to be off for two weeks.

I’m going to Sri Lanka. Just trust me. I’m going on a mission trip.” I got home that night and told my / See Van Winkle, Page 63

Photos counterclockwise from top left: Beth with her daughters Lanie and Lorie. Beth with Texas Governor Greg Abbott. Beth with Ed Subinsky. Beth atending the ceremony for her dad’s promotion to Command Sgt. Major.

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Problem Residents vs Resident Problems There’s a difference.

By

DAVID DILL, CALP, IROP, Veritas Equity Management

In reality, throughout our daily operations, the majority of us would probably agree that there aren't many problem residents, but problems to address and solve for the residents.

It is important to differentiate between the two and handle the situations accordingly.

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“Happiness is not the absence of problems, but the ability to deal with them.”

– Charles De Montesquieu

C

ommunity managers and staff are in the unique position of being in the people business while simultaneously being in the real estate business. Providing residents with a place they call home can induce significant expectations when promised conditions and a lifestyle portrayed during the marketing and leasing process.

It is important to understand and accept that we may not be able to meet their expectations 100% of the time. Our best intentions may not always come to fruition in every circumstance.

In reality, throughout our daily operations, the majority of us would probably agree that there aren't many problem residents, but problems to address and solve for the residents. It is important to differentiate between the two and handle the situations accordingly.

With few exceptions, it is likely the latter. If a resident pays rent, keeps the unit they are leasing reasonably free of avoidable damages and steers clear from behavior that could disrupt the satisfaction of neighbors or other residents, this person is probably not a problem resident.

Residents have high expectations about the value they intend to get out of what they pay for, and rightfully so. When people lease from us, it is because they have been convinced that their expectations were understood and that we've agreed we can August 2020

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While it is our residents' homes, it is also important to remember it is still a business. Addressing the concerns of our residents in an effective manner is one of the top ways to ensure that we are maintaining and growing our property value each and every day. Maintain resident relations to solve resident problems, not problem residents.

meet them. We tell them that we provide a community they can be proud to call home, a place to rest and be free of the stresses of their daily lives, a place with the notion that maintenance will be available in a timely manner and a staff that offers excellent service.

When we don't meet these expectations, people get upset about it.

It is reasonable to expect this to happen. It is natural to be let down and respond in a disappointed manner when one feels they aren’t receiving what they expected to receive in exchange for what they agreed to pay.

This can result in conflict among other residents, residential and/or business neighbors and staff about various issues, such as parking arrangements, crime or unattended and unfinished maintenance requests. Some of these things are in our control. Others are not. The perception of how you handle it from the perspective of a resident will largely determine their reaction to a problem.

How can we address these issues with adequate solutions to ensure the ongoing satisfaction of our residents?

1. Understand the situation.

Without an understanding and a measure of empathy for the dilemma and how it affects our residents, we are not in a position to figure out what is wrong or how to fix it. Take the time to let them speak and vent. Let them confide in you. The key word in this is “confide.” While this may or may not be in your control, understand that the fact they are bringing it to your attention means they trust you (to whatever degree) to make it right or to resolve the issue.

2. Understand your role.

Taking a step back for perspective purposes will show us that, in most events, the problem is the problem, not us. How we react to it will determine not only the outcome but also the process. If our reaction makes a problem worse, we are on the path to equating ourselves with the problem in the resident's mind. We don't want to avoid conflict, but we also don't want to involve ourselves in conflict.

We should also keep in heart and mind not to take things personally.

Don't make it personal at all. Finally, it is not our responsibility to determine what is a problem and what is not. It is our responsibility to handle residents' concerns. Sometimes when the solution is not actionable, there can still be a communicative solution in order to come to an understanding. Always keeping a professional and friendly demeanor while earnestly doing everything in our power to right wrongs is our role.

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3. Make a game plan.

Be as upfront and transparent as possible about your understanding of their concerns and how you plan to address their worries.

These plans are crucial for obvious reasons, but a large part that is often overlooked is the necessity of effectively communicating these plans with the residents in a manner that they are able to understand and rely on. As I often do, I will refer to the 80/20 rule that applies to a variety of things. I'd like to suggest that in many cases, apologizing is only 20% of the battle. The other 80% of this equation lies in developing a game-plan to remedy the issue and executing it.

4. Follow through.

Say it louder for those in the back. We must do what we say we are going to do. Ironically enough, the best follow through is being proactive to avoid unsatisfactory circumstances in the first place.

While this is not always possible, it should be at the forefront of operations. Keep in mind that this heavily relies on what we initially communicate and the expectations we set for the residents and ourselves from the very beginning. Proactive is always favorable over reactive. Preventative measures are golden. When the inevitable does occur, we know we've done what we could to avoid it and we are prepared to hit it head on. The frustration behind the issue is rarely about the issue being complained about. Rather, it is often what was falsely promised regarding the issue.

What does all of this mean for us at the end of the day? While it is our residents' homes, it is also important to remember it is still a business. Addressing the concerns of our residents in an effective manner is one of the top ways to ensure that we are maintaining and growing our property value each and every day. Maintain resident relations to solve resident problems, not problem residents.

David Dill has a dynamic background in real estate. He worked as a licensed real estate agent for brokers such as Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Gary Greene and he operated real estate for a limited liability business. Since 2018, David has worked onsite with Veritas Equity Management in leasing. He was named the 2021 Anita Marcino Leasing Professional of the Year by the Texas Apartment Association.

Through the National Apartment Association, David obtained the Certified Apartment Leasing Professional credential and the Independent Rental Owner Professional credential.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography HAA Maintenance Appreciation Night Wednesda,y June 23 at BBVA Stadium Sponsored by Chadwell Supply, Matrix Construction, Texas Apartment Pool Services, The Liberty Group and Waste Consolidators HAA members showed their appreciation to the back bone of the apartment industry, our maintenance professionals! Attendees cheered on the Houston Dynamo vs. the Portland Timbers for a fun night of hot dogs, libations and giveaways. Congratulations to $500 cash giveaway winners Frank Hernandez, SMI Realty, and Jose Velasquez, Abbey Residential. For more photos, visit www.haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography HAA Maintenance Appreciation Night

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On the Scene with the HAA NEXT NEXT Professional Breakfast Friday, June 25 at the HAF Education Center Sponsored by Camp Construction Services and HD Supply The HAA young professionals group came out in force for education and networking, including a presentation from popular industry speaker Bill Nye.

MEET THE NEXT GENERATION OF HAA LEADERSHIP. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA’s young professionals. Network with your peers and grow your career together among the next generation of HAA leadership! To Learn how to become involved with NEXT, see online at www.haaonline.org/next.

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‘ SUPPLIER PARTNERS SERVING TO FACILITATE GROWTH AND STRENGTHEN THE INDUSTRY. The Product Service Council is a group of active supplier members whose objectives are to promote the active involvement and participation of supplier members. For more information on the council and how you can make your membership work for you, see online at www.haaonline.org/psc or contact Susan Hinkley at shinkley@haaonline.org.

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The Houston Apartment Association’s Product Service Council is here to help supplier partners navigate the association. Learn how you can get the most out of your membership.

H

AA NEXT is the Houston Apartment Association’s young professional group who are committed to the future of the association and the multifamily industry.

Through professional development, peer-topeer networking, political action fundraising and community service-based volunteer opportunities, HAA provides professional development and association involvement opportunities to younger members of the association. The HAA NEXT Committee helps HAA engage young professional members by identifying and facilitating networking events, continuing education programs and volunteer opportunities.

This month, we interview PSC members Amanda Kelly with Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services, who also serves the HAA NEXT Committee as the current co-chair; Nikki Sekunda with The Liberty Group who served the HAA NEXT Committee as co-chair in 2019 and 2020; and Amber Whitaker with FSI Construction and a member of the HAA NEXT group.

A big part of HAA NEXT is professional development.

How has being on the HAA NEXT Committee helped your professionally?

Amanda Kelly: The HAA NEXT Committee has impacted me in so many ways. To narrow it down to just a handful of reasons, HAA NEXT has refined my leadership skills and my perspective on leadership. Previously, I believed leadership was a reward. I’ve learned that leadership is not a coveted exalted position. It is a call to serve. Being the great leader she is, Nikki Sekunda, the previous NEXT co-chair, has encouraged me, built my confidence and reassured me that I am capable. Serving HAA in this way has introduced me to so many great leaders who have supported me and taught me so much about being a leader. My fellow leader and NEXT co-chair Ruha Vohra (with Veritas Equity Management) has taught me the art of listening. Nikki has taught me to lean into my discomforts to develop needed skills. Lauren Ragin (HAA’s meetings and events director and HAA NEXT staff lead) has shown me that every great team needs great support. The team captains have shown me that they are ready and capable to be the future leaders of HAA, they just need the right opportunities. Because of HAA NEXT, I am a better teammate and a better leader professionally. I have a better understanding of how to inspire people, how to invest in them and encourage them to surpass any limitations that may be holding them back.

Nikki Sekunda: The HAA NEXT Committee has opened many doors for me professionally and personally. The relationship building is great, and everyone is truly there to help each other. Being around the Nexters motivates me to push myself and those around me to do better.

Amber Whitaker: The HAA NEXT Committee has given me the opportunity to expand my professional and networking relationships by mixing and mingling with other multifamily

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professionals who I share a lot in common with.

Surrounding myself with the industry’s future leaders has motivated me to take advantage of every learning opportunity, be intentional about my personal and professional growth and establish my place in the industry as a dynamic young professional. As the saying goes: “The more you know, the more you grow.” The professional development breakfasts have provided beneficial tips, tricks and wisdom to increase my growth potential.

Kelly

What so far has been your favorite HAA NEXT event?

Amanda: This is a difficult question to answer because I love them all and NEXT is famous for curating amazing events and projects. The “rockstar panel” professional development breakfast is the event I hold closest to my heart because it was the first event that I had a part in helping with. The panel of leaders that day taught me so much about this industry and the people in it. It changed the trajectory of my career. I have read almost every book Cesar Lima (a past PSC president with AAA Plumbers) suggested and I have not been disappointed yet. Christy Rodriguez (HAA presidentelect with Judwin Properties) gave me the courage to persevere in growing my very new and struggling business. I met Kristin McLaughlin (past PSC president with Dixie Carpet Installations) that day and she has been such an inspiration to me personally and professionally. Kelly Scott (a long-time HAA board member with Capstone Real Estate Services) encouraged the attendees to be themselves when trying to build business, which hit home for me at the time. And, finally, Betsy Marshall (an Education Advisory Council cochair with Tradewind Residential) was the host. She was so funny and lighthearted speaking to such a large room. I aspire to have grace and confidence like that.

Nikki: This is tough! I’ve been a part of several events, but I’d have to say that our “Monte Carlo Casino Night” was my favorite. We had a huge turnout and all the proceeds went to the Goodwill Certified Apartment Maintenance Technician program. I’m a huge supporter of programs like this because our industry needs a push in bringing in more people to our industry.

Amber: My most loved HAA NEXT event so far was the “Krazy Karaoke Mix ’n’ Mingle” a few years ago. I had an absolute blast spending quality time with industry friends and connecting with new people who I’ve continued to build relationships with since then. It was one of the most fun networking events I have attended. We work hard, so we have to play harder!

Sekunda

Whitaker

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What advice do you have for young supplier partners fresh out of college or high school who are new to HAA? Amanda: Get involved. Showing up is 75% of your success in this industry. When I joined HAA, I did not have the luxury of a marketing budget, but I did not let that stop me. I showed up to every free event and every volunteer opportunity – there are tons within HAA. I gave my time because that was all I had. I met people, connected with other suppliers and built relationships, and not because I wanted to sell something to them, but because I genuinely enjoyed getting to know people. HAA is filled to the brim with remarkable human beings. Take the time to truly get to know them and their accomplishments, dreams, goals and needs. The sale will come, but it won’t be because you had some super fancy logo or giveaways, it will be because people know that you care. My favorite reminder is a quote from Theodore Roosevelt, “People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” I also recommend getting mentor in this industry. I have had many mentors throughout my time in the industry, but Candis Mohr (PSC secretary, AAA Plumbers) and Cesar Lima with AAA Plumbers have been essential to my professional growth within HAA. I was so lost at one point, but Candis helped me navigate the HAA event calendar, so that I wouldn’t miss anything. They have invested so much time, education, prayers and love into my career that I will forever be grateful. Find a mentor who you can connect with.

Nikki: You get out what you put into it, so show up. Be genuine and support each other. You never know what doors will open for you today or tomorrow so always be kind and genuine.

Amber: My first bit of advice is to find a mentor within the industry who can help guide you through the best association out there. There is something for everybody, and your mentor can help you find your niche. Don’t know many people yet? No problem! My next bit of advice is to start attend-

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ing the networking events and professional development breakfasts. NEXT is a group full of dynamic, fun and friendly professionals who are ready and willing to bring you in and lend a helping hand. Last but not least, I recommend reaching out to any of the Product Service Council (PSC) members.

The PSC is a group of active supplier members whose objective is to promote the active involvement and participation of supplier members.

Why is this a good group for young supplier partners?

Amanda: HAA Next was the first HAA committee I joined. I was nervous, but everyone was so welcoming and encouraged my involvement. HAA NEXT is inclusive, it’s a creative outlet, it provides young people leadership opportunities, it teaches the value teamwork and most importantly it is a group of industry friends who continue to enrich each other’s lives professionally and personally. HAA NEXT has been a vital part of my growth the last three years. If you are new to the industry or a young professional who would like to get involved with a group of innovative, talented, creative and overall amazing people, come to our next event. Make it a point to say hi to me and/or Ruha. We would be happy to help you navigate HAA NEXT. We look forward to meeting you.

Nikki: It creates opportunities to connect with likeminded individuals and decision makers. NEXT is a great gateway for HAA involvement.

Amber: When navigating through your professional career, it is always helpful to have people by your side who you can relate to and grow with.

That is exactly what NEXT is about. We are the future of the multifamily industry, and it is important that we remain engaged and connected with one another. NEXT is a powerful niche within the association that can give you the best of all worlds: education, networking, political action fundraising and community service. We hope to see you at the “next” event!

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Welcome Mat

Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS

OWNERS

10825-GW Apartments John S. Coulter 8102 Braesmeadow Houston, TX 77071 832-264-4017 Green Willow Apartments

American Communities Lisa Guerrero 2800 Dallas Pkwy #324 Plano, TX 75093 972-265-6960 The Grand on Memorial Apartments B.I.G. Management Firm Nikita Bourn 6700 Woodlands Pkwy #230 Spring, TX 77382 713-725-4212 Shepherd Lofts Heights Colony Audley House Balfour Beatty Communities Stephanie Haefner 1 Country View Road #100 Malvern, PA 19355 484-796-1020 City Lake Bellrock Real Estate Partners Alexis Murrell 3000 S. Hulen St. #124 Fort Worth, TX 76109 817-585-9500 Bellrock Market Station Center for Civic and Public Policy Improvement (CCPPI) Angelita M. Gomez P.O. Box 88140 Houston, TX 77288 713-397-0241 St Charles Place Apartments JC Investment Properties Jeff Jenkins 1475 Texas St. #2403 Houston, TX 77002 713-569-3440 Joseph Nayfach-Battilana Joseph Nayfach-Battilana 7215 Sandy Isle Lane Spring, TX 77389 415-847-8346 Edison

SUPPLIERS

La Monterra Apartments Nathalie Marroquin 310 Parramatta Lane Houston, TX 77073 281-443-1555 La Monterra Apts - Property Linden Management Frank Lin 8302 Golf Green Circle Houston, TX 77036-4074 713-772-8899 La Hacienda Apartments Villa Bella at Ranchester Madison Apartment Group Jean A. Merenda 3843 West Chester Pike Newtown Square, PA 19073 919-349-7600 The Parkway on Westlake

August 2021

Garan Commercial Construction Inc Alex Cheng 13135 Champions Drive #203 Houston, TX 77069 713-787-6548 General Contractors

Tradewind Residential Betsy Marshall 733 Richmond Ave. #288 Richmond, TX 77406 713-376-2165 Triscope Frank Lin Linus Li 6114 Gessner Road Houston, TX 77041 713-476-1602 Highland Village Apts

Hut Services Ben Williams 18007 Mueschke Road Cypress, TX 77433 832-761-5141 Roofing Consultants, Pest Control Services, Gutters & Downspouts, Window-Replacement & Repair

Wehner Multifamily Temi Bruno 901 International Pkwy #200 Richardson, TX 75081 214-821-1533 Newport at Clear Lake Estates at Westchase Preserve at Westchase The Grand at Westchase Costa Mesa Multifamily The Vista at Westchase

Isothermal Protective Coatings Inc Derron Cook 1950 Oday Road Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-4440 Roofing Consultants, Roofing Materials, Roofing Contractors

at haabuyersguide.com, searchable by product/service category or company name.

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First Advantage Resident Screening Jennifer Bryan 214-236-6304 Resident Screening Service, Collection Agencies Referred by Sara Hinson

On Point Capital Brett Paulk 134 N Heritage Mill Circle Tomball, TX 77375 281-300-6400 Gayle Villa Apartments Referred by Justin Duke

ALL SUPPLIER MEMBERS are listed online

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Allied Fire Protection Leslie Atkinson 2003 Mykawa Road Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-6803 Fire Alarm Systems, Sprinklers Automatic - Fire, Fire Protection Consultants, Fire Protection Equipment & Supply Referred by Anita Alberger

BluSky Restoration Contractors Greg May 2411 Washington Ave. #201 Houston, TX 77007 832-707-8135 General Contractors

Carthage Construction Walid Zouari 714 Link Rd Houston, TX 77009 832-515-2185 Fence Posts & Fittings, Fences, Railings, Stairs, Steel Structures Referred by Souheil M. Sassi

Kukreja LLC Kamlesh Kukreja 5221 Mimosa Drive Bellaire, TX 77401 305-490-1030

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

Jadco Gypsum Floor Systems Basilio Salgado 603 Curtis Pasadena, TX 77502 713-252-5228 Concrete Contractors, Waterproofing Contractors P.A.I. Restoration Michael Akins 1795 N. Fry Road #189 Katy, TX 77449 346-300-9761 Construction Mgmt-Consultants, Roofing Consultants, Roofing Contractors Priority Protection & Investigations Inc Travis Aldridge 21251 FM 529 Cypress, TX 77433 832-243-5056 Security Guard/Patrol Service, Security Consulting Service Remedy Roofing Inc Matthew Brewster 1626 Avenue D. Katy, TX 77493 281-391-8555 Gutters & Downspouts, Roofing Contractors Referred by Grace Medley Scoop Troop HTX Josh Roth 12680 W. Lake Houston Pkwy Ste. 510 #103 Houston, TX 77044 832-321-7667 Pet Waste Removal, Pet Services TheGuarantors Jules Thetford 7 World Trade Center 10th Flr New York, NY 10007 214-403-2792 Risk Management, Security Deposit Alternatives Triangle DJ Contractors Derek Steiner 6115 Camp Bowie Blvd #225 Fort Worth, TX 76116 214-704-0760 Roofing Consultants, Roofing Contractors Referred by Melissa Friend Zillow Rentals Kaylie Routen 1301 2nd Ave. Seattle, WA 98101 206-757-4473 Advertising-Internet I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

www.haaonline.org I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

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mother I was going to Sri Lanka to go help build an orphanage. She said, “Well, where is that?” We pulled out our atlas and looked through it. Sri Lanka is exactly halfway around the world. I didn’t know a soul, but I went. I was 55 years old when I went, but God calls us, and He equips us.

He gave me supernatural strength to be able to dig ditches, tie rebar, mix concrete by hand, pour concrete and clear the jungles. I was right there with the young whippersnappers. It was wonderful. So much so that I went back the following year. It was lovely.

TAA Executive Director Chris Newton cherishes you for teaching him the importance of transparency in decision making and the importance of doing the right thing, no matter the cost to you or the organization. Tell me more about the importance of doing the right thing and being authentic no matter the result.

It goes back to my parents. I’m so honored to be a military brat. A lot of folks think that’s not a very nice term, to be a brat, but it is an honor. By extension, military brats are service members, and we were taught that at home. That’s how my moral compass came about. Do the right thing.

Do it right and do it to the best of your ability the first time. I try to instill that same value in my children, my grandchildren and my associates. I have high expectations, but the thing I understand about that is it helps people grow. For me, doing that right thing is every day. In relation to my presidency at TAA, that was a transition year.

It was one that folks weren’t really looking forward to. There was a lot of angst because George (Allen) was leaving. He was Mr. TAA. How are we going to fill his shoes? How are we going to keep the staff? There was a lot going on during that time. I was on the nominating committee, and we knew Chris was the guy. I was so excited to have him come on board. I didn’t know I taught him that much. I just wanted to shepherd him through the processes and be as transparent as we could as we made the change. I knew that would be important for him going forward, to just put it out there. Win, lose or draw, just put it out there. Chris has done such an incredible job and I’m so proud that we hired him. I know we made the right decision. He’s such a good guy.

When he talked about transparency, I think he’s done an admirable job with that.

Do you think your service to others and association leadership translates to your career?

Absolutely. This is a service industry. We sometimes get bogged down by the technology and all / See Van Winkle, Page 69 www.haaonline.org

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The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS

CHEERS TO MEMBERSHIP! Join the Go-Getters so everyone knows your name and they’ll be glad you came!

2021 Chairs:

Join our Quarterly Meetings!

Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win $500 cash!

Plus, for each new member you recruit, you’ll earn a chance to win gift cards ranging from $25 to $250!

Melissa Friend Greystar

JOIN A TEAM and build relationships with like-minded members.

Get involved with Go-Getters and make lasting industry connections.

Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters to get all the information you need.

Doug Oehl, CAS Flooring Warehouse

er top First quartRuha Vohra, r produce quity Management Veritas E

Don’t miss the next meeting: September 30 4 p.m.

Cadillac Bar! Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for more information.

THE GO-GETTERS ARE THE BACKBONE of the Houston Apartment Association. By recruiting new members, the Go-Getter Club helps both new management and supplier companies and the association grow for the future.

To join the club and get going on recruitment, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact Amanda and Kaylon in the Membership Department at members@haaonline.org.

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Support your industry and make lifelong friends in the process! Join this list of prestigious recruiters –

The Go-Getters!

Official Go-Getters (10 or more) Ron Craver Teresa Elliott Gilbert Garcia Maxine Goodin Ralph Lewis David Lindley Ron Marateo Kathy Maxie Candis Mohr Sue Lynn Ramsey Sharon Robinson Meda Ryan Janet Sakach Patrick Tollett Betty Vestal Richard Wall Linda Whitt Gayle Adujani Debbie Brueckner Deborah DeRouen Estie Dobson Melissa Friend Summer Koon Debra McKinney Amanda Montgomery Debra Moore Sue O’Neil Jack Tennyson Paige Tooker Debbie Webre Rebecca White Tracie Yoder Bob Cabell Dwain Capodice Dan Croasmun Paula Daniels Jan Lane Wanda Miller Jenifer Paneral Terri Rasmussen Sandy Reed Anne Rozelle April Wilkin Kenneth Bohan Michelle Croasmun Duke Dillon Clay Hicks Dee Holmes Dick Marshall Michelle Pawelek Kathy Perry Sonya Sampson Starla Turnbo Mike Biggs Kyle Brown Carina Bryars Christine Diamond Lauri Harvey Susan Jarvis Caroline Kane Georgeanne Longoria Don Milbauer Kim Moore Joe Perez Yvonne Saenz

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 11 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 12 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 13 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14 14

Elite Go-Getters (15 or more) Jeff Blevins Cheryl Cotton Jenifern Dugat Brandi Eakes Kimberly Henson

15 15 15 15 15

www.haaonline.org

Larry Hill Crystal Jackson Carol Pettigrew Michelle Rhone John Ridgway Ryan Weis Becky White Anita Alberger Donna Farthing Israel Garza Deborah Holcombe Stephen Sweet Sheri Thomas Carol Andrews Mike Collier Earon Hunt Pat Keller Tricia Martin Alex Townsend Bailey Wallace Nancy Gilman Paula Phelps Rucky Mindy Price Vicki Summitt Andrea Winans Angie Aversa Randa Dick Laura Elvgren Darlene Hunter Kelly Kuehle Bethe Prichard Amy Abdallah Gary Blumberg David Jones Pablo Paz Jackie Rhone Nick Senofsky Natalie Spratt Quintina Willis Michelle Bridges Virginia Laird Dan Marshall Pam Wyly Kathy Clem Rachel Crew Donna Herron Harry Reed TAA Winner’s Circle (25 or more) Maureen Doherty Pauline Martin Mark Park Kelly Scott Crystal Sulzer Marie Bell Connie Bunton Terry Elder Deona James Sherrolyn Morris Paula Ramsey Rebecca Adams Michael Bright Jan Netherland Linda Barham Liz Peel Raymond Campbell Kelli Guyton Jill Lane Kim Small Mike Maerz Christy Rodriguez Kathy Smith Sandra Dilley Florence Durham

15 15 15 15 15 15 15 16 16 16 16 16 16 17 17 17 17 17 17 17 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 19 19 19 19 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 20 22 22 22 22 24 24 24 24

25 25 25 25 25 26 26 26 26 26 26 27 27 27 28 28 29 29 29 29 30 30 30 31 31

Honorary Life Members Monette Reynolds Sherry Stevenson Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley Sonny Unverzagt Del Walmsley Nancé Wells H.P. Paul Young Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks

Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco Terri Clifton Kevin Fenn Diane Gilbert Anita Harrison Dwayne Henson Mike Koch Merry Mount

Eileen Subinsky Michelle Ybarra Theresa Tollett Lamar Marsha Baker Michael Flores Susan Lee Kurt Gilpin A J Simpson Debbie Andreozzi Lee Craven Margo McKay Chris Rich Joy Schaefer Gloria Haney Dick LaMarche Steve Park Bruce McClenny H J Tollett Billy Griffin Rashann Fontenot Nona Durrett Stacy Hunt Jimmie Hotz John Balusek Roger Camp

31 31 32 34 34 34 36 36 37 37 37 38 38 39 39 39 40 40 41 42 43 43 44 45 45

Royal Go-Getters (50 or more) Cristina Buaas Debbie Sulzer Carol Marple Mike Dillon Darlene Guidry Alison Hall Monette Reynolds-Boortz Cesar Lima Suzy White Harold Sowell

54 54 55 57 58 58 59 62 63 73

TAA Triple Crown Club (75 or more) Robin Reed

80

Honorary Life Members (100 or more) Merry Mount Terri Clifton Kirk Tate Mike Koch Diane Gilbert Carolyn Hudson Sonny Unverzagt Sherry Stevenson Monette Reynolds

103 104 106 107 108 110 110 117 120

TAA Shining Star Award (125 or more) Jeane Marie Zublin Dicks Kevin Fenn Tina Cavaco Anita Harrison Del Walmsley Suan Tinsley

124 128 158 182 275 296

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The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE

ALL TOGETHER NOW The Ambassadors are back and all in on networking and outreach.

Mark your calendars and join us!

Ambassador ONE Society meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month: August 4, September 1, October 6, November 3 at Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, 77055 Visit www.haaonline.org for details.

Photo below: “ONE of the Month” Janell Cornelius, Stay Classy, with 125 points for June.

In second place is Mike Andrade, Green Machine, with 27 points and Ashley Wiggin, The Bomb Squad, with 10 points in third place.

Ambassador ONE Society members with at least 10 points, ranked by points earned: Janell Richter-Cornelius JMI Contractors Susan Alvarado Century A/C Supply **Giovanna Gone Century A/C Supply Dimas Turcios Platinum Copier Solutions LLC **Amanda Kelly Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Stephane Leveque Onesource Moving Mike Andrade BenefitU Xochitl Flores Zumper Tammy Broadway American Fire Systems, Inc. **Tracey Leach-Moore Flooring Warehouse **Karen Nelsen ALN Apartment Data, Inc **Blaise Spitaleri Gemstar Construction **Blake Subinsky HD Supply Austin Lawley Furniture Refinishing Services **Marcy Holmes Designs by Holmes Interior Design Danyell Wilkerson ApartmentData.com Lindsey Veliz Matrix Construction Services Kevin Thomas Waste Consolidators, Inc Brian Clayton Outdoor Elements Tiffany Torres Johnstone Supply Alex (Marquez) Fanning Johnstone Supply Ryan Carson Gemstar Construction **Phillip Price HD Supply Brian Alvarado Done Deal Consign James Gregory Fidus Construction Juana Estrada First Onsite Andrew Middleton Behr Paint Company Eddie Maher Redi Carpet *Tim Broxson Dixie Carpet Installations Inc Jennifer Fisher WeDoTrash Grace Medley Restoration 1 of Central Houston Bo Hang Redi Carpet Candis Mohr AAA Plumbers Mario Erazo Contractors Inc Gena Bean Belfor **Shaun Callaway Earthworks, Inc Rachel Sedelmyer Texscape Services Marcus Wheatfall Triple Seal Insulation Ashley Wiggin Infinity Power Partners Angel Lopez Metropolitan Staffing Solutions *Dane Anderson Outdoor Elements Casey Lund Hive Technology Chris Bell Cotton Commercial

240 175 134 66 62 53 32 27 26 26 24 24 23 22 20 20 18 18 18 18 17 17 16 16 16 15 15 15 14 13 13 12 12 12 11 11 11 11 10 10 10 10 10

Ambassadors earn points by sharing leads, making introductions and visiting communities to promote HAA events and news.

THE AMBASSADOR ONE SOCIETY is an organized network exchange that helps supplier partners build their business contacts within HAA. It’s the perfect way for new suppliers to get started with the association. Group members share leads, make introductions and support HAA and its members. For details on how to join and for meeting dates, visit www.haaonline.org/ambassadors or contact Amanda in the Membership Department at 713-595-0316, or email asherbondy@haaonline.org.

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Team photos at left, from top: First place team Stay Classy with 213 points for March.

Second place team The Bomb Squad with 145 points.

Third place team Green Machine with 102 points.

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Van Winkle, continued from Page 63

the other things that come with our industry nowadays, but at the end of the day we are providing a home to somebody. What’s more important than a home? It seemed so natural when I joined this industry to make people happy in their homes. I think my work outside of the industry has helped. It’s a symbiotic relationship.

In this industry, at the end of the day, we serve the people who live in our homes. If we keep that at the forefront, we’ll be successful.

In reading your story and talking to your colleagues, you have displayed a large amount of grit, courage, resilience, perseverance, faith – there are so many words I could use to describe your ability to show up when times get tough. Coming off the pandemic, with the collective human experience being hardship, loss and stress, pushing through tough times is hard for a lot of people right now. What motivates you when times get tough?

Being a BRAT. People have tried to turn “brat” into an acronym to explain what it stands for. I think one of the most accepted is Brave, Resilient, Adaptable and Trustworthy. So, I’m a brat. If you combine your earthly experience with your faith, you can’t beat it. This pandemic has taught us a lot. I’ve never seen this kind of isolation throughout the country. It makes me think about people who don’t have family, who don’t have the support system to make it through something like that. Beyond just the illnesses people experienced, the terror and the fear has changed how a lot of us feel about our everyday lives. I hope that fear wanes and people start connecting again. There is such a need for that.

We need that human connection. It’s so important. We need to do a better job of reaching out to each other and understanding we’re in it together. It’s been a tough time.

What is next for Beth Van Winkle?

I hope heaven can wait. Laughs. But when it happens, I will go joyously. My volunteer work outside the industry has certainly slowed down because of the pandemic and I’ve been through a rough three years with an injury and five surgeries. As I look to the future, I have to redefine who I’m going to be. I’m blessed to have the luxury to understand that’s something I need to do when I retire, to redefine who I am. I’m working on the plan. It might include a great grandchild because my granddaughter just got engaged. So, who knows, I might be babysitting! That would be a blessing! I’ll continue volunteering. I also hope God calls me to mission work in Africa. That would be so awesome!

Don’t miss the Hall of Fame Luncheon honoring Beth Van Winkle. See Page 18 for details. www.haaonline.org

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Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • 10825-GW Apartments: Green Willow Apartments, 16 units at 10835 Greenwillow Drive.

• 630SixtyTwo: 630SixtyTwo - Properties, 2 units at various locations.

• An Residential: Post Oak Apartments, 82 units at 11211 S. Post Oak Road.

• Ascension Commercial Real Estate: The Place at Greenway Apartments, 219 units at 3333 Cummins St. • Asset Living: Canyon Club, 240 units at 11500 Greens Plaza Drive; Spring Brook Lofts, 104 units at 3402 Blalock Road; and Stonegrove Fall Creek, 322 units at 8802 N. Sam Houston Pkwy E., Humble.

• Axiom Residential: Tiffany Bay Townhomes, 46 units at 16505 Tiffany Court.

• B.I.G. Management Firm: Audley House, 24 units at 3308 Branard St.; Heights Colony, 25 units at 303 E. 9th St.; and Shepherd Lofts, 12 units at 5017 Cornish St. • Berkshire Residential Investments: Berkshire Exchange, 352 units at 21603 Spring Plaza Drive, Spring.

• Best Synergy Investment: Brewster Homes, 12 units at 3501 Brewster St. • Bo Management: Riviera at Clear Lake, 289 units at 16457 El Camino Real.

• The Brown Company: Savannah Court, 24 units at 500 W. Pitts Pasadena.

• Dominium Management Services: Lakeside Pointe, 274 units at 2920 Oak Road, Pearland.

• First Choice Asset Management: Bellaire View Apartments, 63 units at 9115 Bellaire Blvd.

• The Hanover Company: Hanover Parkview, 421 units at 3737 Cogdell St. • Haven Residential - 29th Street Capital: Barringer Square, 284 units at 623 B Barringer Lane, Webster; Sommerall Station, 368 6777 Sommerall Drive; Helix at Med Center, 224 units at 7200 Almeda Road; and Greenhouse Apartments, 350 units at 2040 Greenhouse Road.

• Hillcap Equity Management: Vail Apartments, 60 units at 1507 Vail St., Sealy.

• Hilltop Residential Management: Woodland Pines, 336 units at 25 Rayford Road, Spring.

• Imperion Investments Management: Vantage Point Apartments, 228 units at 12703 Jones Road.

• Indus Management Group: The Palms at Chimney Rock, 125 units at 6700 Chimney Rock Road.

• Madison Apartment Group: The Parkway on Westlake, 320 units at 16848 W. Lake Houston Pkwy, Humble.

• MC Residential of Texas: The Place at Barker Cypress, 645 at 1800 Barker Cypress Road.

• The Mitchell Company: Tara Oaks Apartments, 126 units at 3800 Sherwood Lane.

• Neema Property Management & Consulting: Neema Property Management & Consulting - Properties, 2 units.

• On Point Captial: Gayle Villa Apartments, 26 units at 1022 Witter St., Pasadena.

• Relik Realty: Kendall Manor, 272 units at 21717 Iverness Forest Blvd.

• Roscoe Properties: Briarwest North and South, 380 units at 1950 Winrock Blvd.; Heights 2121, 504 units at 2100 Tannehill Drive; Oaks of Timbergrove, 372 units at 1700 Seaspray Court; and The Bennett Baytown, 204 units at 2200 W. Baker Road, Baytown.

• U.S. Excel Management: U.S. Excel Management - Properties, 38 units at various locations.

• VSC Management: Province on the Park, 124 units at 407 Greens Road and French Quarter, 40 units at 2550 S. Bypass, Alvin.

• Wehner Multifamily: Costa Mesa Multifamily, 151 units at 14150 Tomball Pkwy; The Vista at Westchase, 239 units at 3435 Walnut Bend Lane; Preserve at Westchase, 468 units at 10615 Meadowglen Lane; Estates at Westchase, 307 units at 2305 Hayes Road; and The Grand at Westchase, 316 units at 10881 Richmond Ave. • ZRS Management: Boone Manor, 248 units at 5350 Crawford St.

In the News

Representatives of the Houston apartment industry, including HAA Officers and Board members, met with Houston and Harris County officials and BakerRipley leaders to compare notes and promote to Deputy Treasury Secretary Wally Adeyemo how our region has done an exemplary job of managing and stabilizing rental housing through the COVID-19 pandemic.

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In the News Asset Living is excited to announce the promotion of Julie Bonnin to principal.

Bonnin joins Asset Living’s executive team, while continuing to oversee the student housing portfolio.

Lorie Stafford joins Texas Southwest Floors as sales executive.

Madera Residential is excited to announce Katy Myrick as its new vice president of operations.

Better World Properties’ Michael Knight made the news as the Houston Chronicle covered his “Pandemic Project.”

The article, “A pirate’s life: Houston ‘tinkerer’ builds a ship-castle playground to entice hisgrandkids to visit more’ by Staff Writer Diane Cowen, tells the story: “The pandemic wasn’t yet upon us in November 2019 when Terri Clifton spotted a pirate ship sandbox on Pinterest and showed it to her partner, Michael Knight.Their grandson, 8-year-old Weston, needed a new sandbox, and soon their second grandchild — 2-year-old Bella Cruz — would be old enough to play in it, too. Knight is both a dreamer and a tinkerer, so when asked to tackle a home improvement project, Clifton knows that he’s always going to go big. He got out some graph paper and started sketching ideas: a hull; acrow’s nest; a tower with fun things like trap doors, a drawbridge and hidden exits; plus places for kids to crawl, climb and swing. The result was a substantial playground that’s part pirate ship and part castle, evolving over nearly a year of design and construction that got its final touch — a water canon — in place in time for the recent Memorial Day weekend.”

Way to go Michael! www.haaonline.org

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On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Greystar

FOUNDRY ON 19TH Take a closer look at a new property in The Heights.

Property: Foundry on 19th Owner/Management: Greystar Location: 555 W. 19th St. Units: 284 Built: 2021 Web: www.foundryon19th.com Interesting features: The Heights is Houston’s hottest submarket in rental rates, rental growth and absorption in the last three months, according to ApartmentData.com. The Foundry on 19th is one of a handful of properties new to the popular neighborhood.

Exclusively offering apartment units, The Foundry offers one- and two-bedroom apartment homes with open concept layouts, designer finishes and premium appliances.

The Foundry’s pool is on the fourth level, with private cabanas, aqua loungers and a sun deck that you can only find at a resort. Because Foundry on 19th was built during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, many of its amenities are workfrom-home friendly. Amenities include a club room with a kitchen, a fitness and yoga studio, built-in Wi-Fi, private co-working suites, a social courtyard, first-floor retail and an outdoor kitchen by the pool.

Each apartment home offers French door refrigerators, wine refrigerators, industrial brushed nickel lighting pendants and fixtures and more.

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I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the

rcr pg 73.qxp_Layout 1 7/20/21 1:00 PM Page 1

Do you really know your applicant?

Comprehensive applicant screening tools available today can uncover financial and criminal background information. Proper screening can also reveal identity fraud issues, including stolen and fabricated identities, which may result in costly problems. Comprehensive screening using Rental Credit Reporting can also tell you who hasn’t paid rent, who has broken leases and who has received their deposit refund.

RCR provides Houston’s apartment industry with the most effective rental credit reporting tool available. RCR was established in 1977 to solve screening problems HAA founders felt plagued the local apartment industry. RCR has unsurpassed data on resident rental histories in the Houston region and gives your leasing staff immediate access to information about which prospects have fulfilled their leases and who have been residents in good standing.

The Houston Apartment Association’s Rental Credit Reporting and SafeRent Solutions have partnered to offer numerous searches in one bundled report with immediate and unlimited inquiry access.

a service of

in partnership with

To subscribe or to learn more, call RCR at 713-595-0300, email rcr@haaonline.org or visit www.haaonline.org.

ad index pg 74.qxp_Ad Index pg 74 7/20/21 2:16 PM Page 1

Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY

A/C Supplies

Landscape Contractors

Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com

Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 713-955-0990 . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 281-846-3779 . . . . . . . . . .www.texscapeservices.com

Carpet Installation Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com

Laundry Equipment & Supplies

Impact Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61 713-686-9222 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.impactfloors.com

Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com

Texas Southwest Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 800-719-4321 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.texasswfloors.com

Locks & Locksmiths

Collection Agencies

CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com

Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-644-4441 . . . . . . . . . . .www.alexanderrose-inc.com

Maintenance Supplies AZPartsmaster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .60 888-924-7278 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.azpartsmaster.com

Electric Contractors Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com

Personnel Agency

Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services . . . . .19 281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com

ASAP Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 972-432-6667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.asapdo.com

Foundation Repair

Plumbing Contractors

Church Foundation Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 713-468-8400 . . .www.churchfoundationrepair.com

General Contractors

AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com

Resident Screening Service

Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . .Back Cover 713-413-2267 . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com

SafeRent Solutions . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover 888-297-8821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.corelogic.com

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottongds.com Crestmark Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 713-426-6161 . . . . . . . . . . .www.crestmarkservices.com FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com Gemstar Construction & Development . . . . . .37 281-821-1195 . . . . . .www.gemstarconstruction.com Guardian Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47 832-672-4196 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardianconst.com MultiFamily Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 713-266-9100 RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc. Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

Resurfacing Perfect Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 713-952-0202 . . . . . . . .www.perfectsurfaceinc.com

Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69 713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com

TARGET QUALIFIED LEADS With HAA’s job board, you’ll discover a professional community that’s committed to helping you find the right candidate or your next job opportunity in the greater Houston and surrounding areas.

www.haaonline.org jobs@haaonline.org 713-595-0300

Screens Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

Security Control Equipment/Systems SentriForce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 888-671-2202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sentriforce.com

Swimming Pool Service Poolsure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 800-858-POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.poolsure.com

HAA Products & Services

Insurance

HAA reserves the right to reject any advertising if its content is inappropriate or inconsistent with HAA’s standards for publication or HAA’s business interests, in HAA’s sole opinion.

www.haaonline.org

Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org/rcr

Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

Or view this issue on your computer, iPad or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_aug2021.

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August 2021

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MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com •

HOUSTON Snapshot

1050 – 90.7% $1,116/mo. $1.26/sq.ft./mo.

886 sq.ft.

Recently Opened (12 months): 86 communities 23,431 units

1000 –

– 90.0

975 – – 89.0

– 88.0

Under Construction: 59 communities 15,981 units Jun 21

May 21

Apr 21

Mar 21

Feb 21

Jan 21

Dec 20

Oct 20

Nov 20

Sep 20

Aug 20

Jul 20

Jun 20

May 20

Apr 20

Mar 20

Jan 20

Feb 20

Dec 19

Nov 19

Oct 19

Sep 19

Aug 19

Jul 19

– 87.0

Proposed Construction: 97 communities 28,015 units

History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units

Hottest Submarkets Over the Past Three Months

Concessions

Annualized Rank 1 2 3 4 5

Occupancy (%)

Operating Supply: 2,942 communities 693,800 units

Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)

Past 12 Months: 5.0% rental rate growth 27,759 units absorbed

1025 –

•

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

•

Submarket Heights/Washington Ave Montrose/Museum/Midtown Woodlands/Conroe South Katy/Cinco Ranch/Waterside Tomball/Spring

% of Market Absorbed 37.4% 36.2% 33.0% 32.9% 23.3%

Rental Rate Growth % 5.7% 4.0% 3.6% 3.6% 6.3%

Total Units Class w/Concessions All 262,102 A 81,467 B 85,381 C 82,754 D 12,500

% of Total Units 38% 45% 35% 39% 20%

Average Special -2.5% -3.9% -1.6% -2.1% -1.1%

Citywide Effect -6.3% -8.0% -4.7% -5.3% -5.6%

One Month Free = -8.33%

THE FIRST TABLE ABOVE GIVES A SNAPSHOT of the current market conditions. The graph displays the overall occupancy and effective rental rates over the past 24 months. These statistics are derived from a continuous survey of all apartment communities in the Houston region. The effective rental rates are the calculated net of concessions and utility adjustments. The second table lists the five hottest submarkets in the Greater Houston area. There are a total of 42 submarkets, and the ranking is based on the best combination of rental rate growth and absorption over the past three months. The third table distributes and analyzes concessions (specials) by classification.

Concessions generally are represented by three types of specials: move-in, months free or floor plans. The effect of these specials is captured and prorated over a lease term to arrive at a percentage reduction in market or street rents.

TEXAS

Dallas/Ft. Worth

San Antonio

Austin

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

92.1% $1,273/mo. $1.45/sq.ft./mo.

878 sq.ft.

91.5% $1,059/mo. $1.24/sq.ft./mo.

856 sq.ft.

91.4% $1,422/mo. $1.62¢/sq.ft./mo.

876 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 7.7 % rental rate growth 33,002 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 5.9% rental rate growth 10,167 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 9.4% rental rate growth 16,218 units absorbed

Operating Supply: 3,293 communities 786,861 units

Operating Supply: 966 communities 207,405 units

Operating Supply: 1,088 communities 257,063 units

www.haaonline.org

ApartmentData.com has been providing apartment data and marketing products since 1986.

ApartmentData.com provides real-time access for property specific information, market surveys and historic submarket data for more than 3.5 million apartment units in Texas, Florida, Georgia, Arizona, North Carolina and Tennessee.

For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730. © 2021 ApartmentData.com August 2021

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with News from around the COMMUNITY

HAA Blood Drive

Thank you to HAA members and the community for donating blood in support of the Gulf Coast Regional Blood Center on Wednesday, June 23 at the HAA Education Center.

Erica Windham Jackie Aguirre Ashley DeLeon Rollin Ahmann Phillip Price Christina Johnson Monica Gracia Susan Alvarado Ruha Vohra Amanda Kelly Tracie Yoder Blaise Spitaleri

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HALL OF FAME • HAA GALA & MAINTENANCE APPRECIATION PHOTOS

Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77041

THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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August 2021

ABODE • AUGUST 2021 • VOLUME 44, ISSUE 8

HALL OF

honoring

Beth Van Winkle

FAME2021 Highmark Residential

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