ABODE December 2017

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December 2017

from the HAA Go-Getters

ABODE • DECEMBER 2017 • VOLUME 40, ISSUE 12 www.haaonline.org

Happy Holidays

GOOD WORKS • BILL DINERSTEIN GOLF TOURNAMENT PHOTOS

AB DE

THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

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CONTENTS December 2017

ON THE COVER

FEATURES & PHOTOS

36

30 On the Scene – Photos from the It’s the Law Luncheon in October.

Making Membership Matter – The 2017 Go-Getters had another successful year.

Thank you to our wonderful Go-Getters. Don’t miss the final meeting of the year, see Page 66 for more information. HAA members have been supporting and rebuilding the community all year long, see Page 34 for the annual Good Works feature. Also in this issue is a feature on the Houston Furniture Bank, starting on Page 40.

Cover Image by Hiebert Photography

34 Good Works – ABODE’s annual Good Works feature highlights HAA members participating in community service efforts.

40 Help Make Houston Whole Again – Rebuilding Houston would be impossible without organizations such as the Houston Furniture Bank. Learn how you can help.

42 Meet the Staff – Learn more about the HAA staff and how they can better serve you.

46 Challenges & Choices – These helpful hints take the stress out of renovating or replacing cabinets.

50 Good or Bad? Smart or Dumb? – Learn the difference between good, bad, smart and dumb data, and how to use it.

52 On the Road with HAA – Photos from the Annual Montgomery and San Jacinto County Justice of the Peace and Constable Appreciation Luncheon.

54 On the Scene – Photos from the Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament.

58 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at six HAA Honors Awardwinning properties.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES 7 President’s Corner – HAA President Kyle Brown of Milestone Management gives his thanks for a great year.

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support RentPath.

9 Legislative Update – Key things to know about pool and fire alarm permits in unincorporated Harris County.

11 It’s The Law – Court cases that showcase the law on inverse condemnation.

14 Resident Relations – A resident requests a refund on her deposit.

19 Upcoming Education – Find out what education courses the Houston Apartment Foundation is offering in December and January.

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

22 2018 Calendar of Events – Take a look at all of our major events throughout 2018.

26 NAA Update – A summary and analysis of tax cuts and jobs act.

28 On the Road with HAA – Photos from the Fort Bend Happy Hour, Baytown Happy Hour and Webster Happy Hour.

64 Welcome Mat – Meet the newest HAA members.

66 Go-Getters – Making membership matter.

68 The Ambassador ONE Society – News from the HAA welcome wagon.

70 Portfolio Changes and In the News – 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

JOHN BORIACK Vice President at Large

MICHELLE PAWELEK President-Elect KYLE BROWN President

JOHN FEDORKO Vice President at Large

DIANE GILBERT Vice President at Large

KELLY SCOTT Secretary/Treasurer

CLAY HICKS Vice President at Large

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

STARLA TURNBO Vice President at Large JEFF HALL Executive VP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Alison Hall, Immediate Past President Josh Allen Mack Armstrong Jeff Blevins John Boriack Kyle Brown Joe Bryson Tina Cavaco Grant Crowell Scott Douglas Ian Douglas John Fedorko Paula Forshee Amy Funk Israel Garza Diane Gilbert Stephanie Graves Ira Gross Bryan Head Clay Hicks David Jones Jacob Kunath Barby Lake Laura Lestus Kristin McLaughlin Carlos Neto Dean O’Kelley Michelle Pahl Velissa Parmer Jenifer Paneral Mark Park Michelle Pawelek Jackie Rhone Christy Rodriguez Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Kim Small Debbie Sulzer Dana Tucker Starla Turnbo Beth Van Winkle Quintina Willis Tracie Yoder DIRECTORS EMERITUS Gary Blumberg Ken Bohan Kathy Clem Jack Dinerstein

Darlene Guidry Jenard Gross David Hargrove Larry Hill Stacy Hunt Hap Hunnicutt Mike Koch Dick LaMarche Tim Myers P. David Onanian John Ridgway Eileen Subinsky Steve Sweet Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley H.J. Tollett Pat Tollett Vic Vacek Jr. Jerry Winograd ADVISORY DIRECTORS Terri Clifton Brenda Crawford Billy Griffin Cesar Lima Robert Lopes Sonia Lopez Karen Nelsen Shelley Watson Tony Whitaker GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Joe Bax HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco 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 PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS Israel Garza, CAS, President Maintenance Supply Headquarters Grant Crowell, CAS, Vice President The Urban Foresters Jacob Kunath, CAS, Secretary Century A/C Supply Laura Lestus, CAS, Treasurer The Liberty Group Kristin McLaughlin, CASE, Immediate Past President Mohawk Industries MEMBERS Marivel Bownds, CAS, Valet Waste Dixie Caldwell-Greer, CAS, The Liberty Group Peggy Charles, CASE, Sunny Rock International LLC Dylan Coleman, CAS Camp Construction Services Deborah DeRouen, CAS, Respage Derek DeVries, CAS, Camp Construction Services Brian Febbo, CAS FSI Construction Jimmie Hotz, CASE, HD Supply Dan James, CAS Redevelopment Services Debra Knight, CAS, Valet Waste

Stephanie Krop, CASE, Buyers Access David Lindley, CAS, FSI Construction Inc. Candis Mohr, CAS, AAA Plumbers Doug Oehl, CAS Power Express PATRON MEMBERS 1980 CSC ServiceWorks 1982 Republic Services 1986 Craven Carpet 1987 For Rent Media Solutions 1994 AAA Plumbers Presto Maintenance Supply 1996 Houston Planned Energy Systems 1997 RentPath 1999 FSI Construction Inc. 2003 Dixie Carpet Installations 2009 Camp Construction Services 2013 Criterion Brock

SPONSOR MEMBERS 1968 Century A/C Supply Hoover Slovacek LLP Reliant 1973 Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc.

CORT Furniture Rental 1974 Mueller Water Conditioning 1976 Great American Business Products 1977 Webb Pest Control 1978 Houston Metro Electrical Corp.

The Liberty Group 1981 AmRent Marvin F. Poer & Company 1983 Namco Mfg. Co. Inc. Sherwin Williams Company 1984 RENCON 1985 Gemstar Construction Development Inc. 1986 ApartmentData.com 1988 Wallace Garcia Wilson Architects Inc. 1992 Alexander-Rose Associates Saint Clair & Sons Inc. 1998 AAA Staffing Ltd. CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions 2000 Moveforfree.com Inc. Pura Flo Corporation 2001 Apartment Life Inc. 2002 American Fire Systems Classic Touch Painting Direct Energy LP Keystone Resources Southwest Painting Contractors Inc. 2003 Sign-Ups & Banners 2005 LSR Multifamily Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management United Protective Services 2006 Bell’s Laundries CAD Restoration Services DoodyCalls Lopez Carpet Care & Painting Masonry Solutions Inc. Roto-Rooter Services Co. TXU Energy Multifamily Services Valet Living 2008 ARE Business Solutions Flavor Finish Resurfacing HARCO Insurance Services Texas Turf Management 2009 Contractors Inc. Moen Inc. Redevelopment Services Storm Maintenance & Monitoring 2010 ALN Apartment Data Inc. BAC Products Belfor Property Restoration Certified Termite and Pest Control Cotton Commercial USA FTK Construction Services 2011 DNM Contracting Inc. Fantastic Floors Greenway Environmental Services Infinite Energy Inc. Parking Management Company/PMC Towing 2012 ABC Supply Co. Inc. Accent Sign & Awning Co. BGE/Brown & Gay Engineers Cantrell McCulloch Inc. EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions Floor and Decor Giordano Construction Go-Staff Inc. Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc. Nationwide Eviction Texas Concrete Professional Company

2013 ACTIV Answer by Audio Images Arbor Contract Carpet ASAP Steamers Carpet Cleaning Capitol Wrecker LLC Comcast Gambit Construction Gorman Roofing Services Outdoor Elements Pool Works LLC StoveTop FireStop Tidal Renovations LLC 2014 Adventure Playground Systems Inc. Chadwell Supply Classic Same Day Blinds D & G Quality Roofing J National Jonah Systems LLC MX2 Commercial Paving Pathfinder Insurance Group Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas Ram Jack Foundation Solutions SisTerra Landscape Texas Apartment Pool Services The Katy Plumbing Co. WCA Waste Corporation Zillow Group 2015 Admiral Linen & Uniform Service by Alsco Air Pro Systems America Outdoor Furniture American Painting & Renovations Inc. ASAP Personnel Inc. BSI Cameras Onsite CertaPro Painters Competitive Choice Inc. CSILED.com DeNyse Companies Division-9 Inc. Duke Sys Fix My Slab Foundation Repair Fulton Law Group PLLC Gateman Inc. Goes Heating Systems Greater Houston Pool Management H.S. Services Holder’s Pest Control Infinity Power Partners Kathy Andrews Interiors Lane Law Firm Notifii LLC Pace Mechanical Services Power Express Prestige Restoration LLC Smith Protective Service The Allshouse Group LLC Torocon Services LLC Wilsonart 2016 3'D Painting & Construction LLP 5885 Roofing & Construction Inc. Action Window Coverings Inc. Air Rescue Allied Fire Protection, LP Armadillo Professional Landscaping LLC Bath Fitter BH Fitness North America Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete E-Systems Pest Management Inc. Ecolo Environmental Inc. Embark Services Entrust Movers Express Employment Professionals Fidus Construction Services Fun Abounds Furniture Options Green City Recycler Green City Security Green Days Lawn Care Guardian Chimney Sweep Halo Doors Inc. Hive Houston Metro Security JLL Johnstone Supply Kastle Systems KONE Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting Liquid Waste Solutions Manning Pool Service McCann Total Security Solutions Murrah & Killough PLLC Murray Insurance & Financial Paul Davis Restoration North Houston Pet and Playground Products

Progressive 1 Roofing & Construction Quantum Fitness Ram Construction RoofTec Ross Fried Consulting Sparkle Wash Pressure Washing Sustain-Ability Solutions Texas Southwest Floors The Home Depot The PI Company ValencePM VMI Premier Group LLC WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems WellKept Whitmans Contracting and Roofing 2017 911 Security Cameras Inc. Abilities Unlimited Inc Action Gypsum Supply ACT Security Group Advanced Property Services All About Doody Pet Soutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc. Allegion American Fire Protection Group Apartment Total Services Aquatic Training Institute BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning South Houston Brooklet Energy Distribution Buddy's Roofing & Construction Co. Byte Time Computing Cano Electric Inc. City Supply Co. Inc. Classic Towing Continental Adjusters CoreServ LLC Creative Surface Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc. D&C Painting Designs by Holmes Disaster America Disaster Restore 365 Eagle Restore, LLC Energy Ogre Ernie Smith and Sons Roofing LLC Fast Forward Services, Finishes Etc LLC Flooring4.Us Frost Insurance Agency Gage Multifamily Services Genesis Panel Systems, Gravely & Pearson LLP Griddy Energy H Town Movers and HVAC Services Henley & Henley PC HousingManager.com Houston SEAL Patrol Division LLC Lithotech Printed Products/Forms Center Maven Auto Detailing McMahan's Flooring Inc. Media Nation Outdoor MPS Direct Norman Construction NorthMarq Capital On Site Towing LLC Pack-It Movers Paragon Roofing Inc. Paul Ryan Windows POPIC Quick Relief Restoration Re-Mark Technologies Group LLC RealState Investments Reliable Fire Protection Rent Accelerator Residential Waste Service Richmond Equipment Roof Top Innovations Rutherford Services Inc SEAL Security Solutions Secure Insurance Securecomm Inc. Special Touch Landscaping State Sign - A Comet Signs Company Student Movers Inc. Swiff-Train Company Symmons Industries TD Waterproofing Inc. Texas Crime Prevention Agency Texas Engineered Roofing & General Contracting Texas Eviction LLC USA Patrol Division WBI General Contractor Willbanks & Associates

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ABODE DECEMBER 2017 I VOLUME 40, ISSUE 12 Executive Vice President and Publisher

JEFF HALL, CAE jhall@haaonline.org EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF

Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org Writer/Editor MORGAN TAYLOR mtaylor@haaonline.org ADVERTISING

Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY asherbondy@haaonline.org CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Vice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP 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 Information Technology ART EIDMAN aeidman@haaonline.org Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org Director of Events and Meetings EMILY BANNWARTH, CMP ebannwarth@haaonline.org Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org Education and Meetings Coordinator KAREN MITCHELL kmitchell@haaonline.org Strategic Growth Manager LAUREN TURNER, CMP lturner@haaonline.org Membership and Marketing Coordinator LAUREN WOLFSON lwolfson@haaonline.org Public Affairs Specialist ALPA PATEL apatel@haaonline.org Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org PRINTER

TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com HOUSTON COMMITTEE Executive Program & Budget Nominating Ethics Investment Fair Housing By-Laws Past Presidents Council Strategic Growth Legislative PAC Fundraising HAA Better Government Fund Century Club Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Media Relations Golf Developers Leadership Development Product Service Council Community Outreach Resident Relations Appeals Resident Relations A Resident Relations B Membership Ambassador ONE Society 2017 Expo IROC Education Advisory Council Career/Community Development NEXT HAF Fundraiser Property Awards HAA Street Team

APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR KYLE BROWN JEFF HALL MICHELLE PAWELEK JEFF HALL ALISON HALL JEFF HALL EILEEN SUBINSKY JEFF HALL KELLY SCOTT JEFF HALL BRYAN HEAD JEFF HALL KIM SMALL JEFF HALL JENIFER PANERAL JEFF HALL KELLY SCOTT LAUREN TURNER MICHELLE PAWELEK ANDY TEAS JERRY WINOGRAD ANDY TEAS STACY HUNT/JOHN RIDGWAY ANDY TEAS LAURA LESTUS ANDY TEAS JOHN FEDORKO ANDY TEAS JOHN FEDORKO ANDY TEAS CLAY HICKS ANDY TEAS CYRUS BAHRAMI ANDY TEAS MACK ARMSTRONG SUSAN HINKLEY IZZY GARZA SUSAN HINKLEY JOHN BORIACK SUSAN HINKLEY DARLENE GUIDRY MATILDE LUNA HEATHER LACLAIRE MATILDE LUNA KARI CARGLE MATILDE LUNA CLAY HICKS AMANDA SHERBONDY DEBORAH DEROUEN/DEREK DEVRIES AMANDA SHERBONDY GRANT CROWELL AMANDA SHERBONDY STEPHANIE BRYSON EMILY HILTON STARLA TURNBO EMILY HILTON DIANE GILBERT EMILY HILTON LINDSAY TORRES/DAVID LINDLEY EMILY HILTON SUSAN WELLS/ARRIE COLCA EMILY BANNWARTH DAVID JONES/STEPHANIE GRAVES TINA DEFIORE CARINA BRYARS LAUREN WOLFSON

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.

Visit HAA Online at www.haaonline.org 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, DECEMBER 2017 VOLUME 40, ISSUE 12 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 © 2017 by HAA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

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

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2018 Installation & New Year Gala A

&White

Black

Celebration Presented by

Premier Sponsors CENTURY A/C SUPPLY CRESTMARK CONSTRUCTION IMPACT FLOORS REDI CARPET SALES OF HOUSTON LTD.

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2018 7 P.M. TO 11:30 P.M. HILTON AMERICAS, 1600 L AMAR STREET, HOUSTON TX 77010 ATTIRE: FORMAL, BLACK TIE OPTIONAL. PLEASE WEAR BLACK OR WHITE OR A COMBINATION. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT WWW.HAAONLINE.ORG/GALA. HOTEL INFORMATION: RESERVE A ROOM AT THE GROUP RATE FOR $139.

VISIT THE SPECIAL HAA REGISTRATION LINK AT HTTPS://AWS.PASSKEY.COM/EVENT/49275646/OWNER/11720/HOME. MUST BOOK BY DECEMBER 28.

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President’s Corner By KYLE BROWN, CPM, 2017 HAA President

A STRONG COMMUNITY We proved our strength in 2017 and now it is time to look to the future.

I WANT TO first thank everyone who helped make this a great year for me and for HAA. We hit a lot of milestones this year and we accomplished and survived so much as a city.

This year passed by all too quickly. We hosted the Super Bowl and showed the country how Houston puts on a party, we endured the most furious hurricane to hit the Texas coast since Carla in 2000 and the Houston Astros won the World Series.

HAA kicked off the year with an outstanding, record-breaking Gala with over 900 in attendance, and many other major HAA events hit peak numbers. Together, we raised more money for Camp Hope than ever before at $64,000 and PAC fundraising was extremely successful this year, reaching a record of $180,000. Our suppliers supported the association financially with an all-time high dollar amount of $326,000 at the June sponsorship auction. Best of all, we hit 600,000 units in March, making the Houston Apartment Association the largest apartment association in the nation.

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Thank You Supporters I would like to thank the El Paso Apartment Association for their generous donation of $5,000 to the Mayor Sylvester Turner Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund. Hurricane Harvey took so much from us, including the annual HAA Chili Fest. Our wonderful members who either sponsored the event or purchased booths offered to donate their money to the mayor’s hurricane relief fund or the Houston Apartment Foundation. Thank you to AAA Plumbers, Abbey Residential, Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT, Camp Construction Services, Cotton Commercial, Criterion Brock, DayRise Residential, Francis Property Management, Gambit Construction, Guardian Construction, Impact Floors, Maintenance Supply Headquarters, Pavecon LTD, Redevelopment Services, Southhampton and Valet Living.

Strategic Growth HAA has worked diligently to expand our services to HAA’s 12 surrounding counties, and this year it has been a joy watching the Strategic Growth Department double its offerings. Our

members in the outlying areas were clamoring for education and networking programs conveniently located to their properties. I am proud to say we are now offering Fair Housing seminars and happy hours to our 12-county service area, in addition to the current area council meetings. At the start of next year, we will also be hosting Leasing 101 and Redbook on the Road seminars.

Houston Strong Houston’s strength was tested time and time again, and if we proved anything this year it is that we are resilient. Winning the World Series lifted the City of Houston in a way it so desperately needed after Hurricane Harvey. The Houston Astros made us all proud winning the World Series for the first time in franchise history.

What a great way to end the year. Now it is time to look to the future, and I am excited to see what the next year will bring.

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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

For Rent Media Solutions

HAA Member since 1978

HAA Member since 1987

Republic Services

Criterion Brock

HAA Member since 1982

HAA Member since 1985

Presto Maintenance Supply

AAA Plumbers

HAA Member since 1983

HAA Member since 1984

CSC ServiceWorks

FSI Construction Inc.

HAA Member since 1961

HAA Member since 1999

Craven Carpet

Dixie Carpet Installations

HAA Member since 1986

HAA Member since 1987

Camp Construction Services

RentPath

HAA Member since 1994

HAA Member since 1979

December Patron of the Month

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Legislative Update

By MICHELLE PAWELEK, CPM, CAPS, HAA Legislative Chair, with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs

POOL & FIRE ALARM PERMITS Two key things to know about your apartment communities in unincorporated Harris County.

JUDGE ED EMMETT has been in the news a lot recently. As Harris County judge, he is also the head of the Harris County Emergency Management operations, so his role during and after Hurricane Harvey was highly visible.

Judge Emmett has used his role to remind everyone that the population of unincorporated Harris County will soon be larger than the population of the City of Houston. It already stands at over 2 million. If the entire unincorporated area of Harris County was a city, it would be the fifth largest city in the United States – bigger than Philadelphia.

Harris County manages this increasingly urban area with rules established for rural Texas. Harris County has no building code and no ordinance-making authority. It receives not a penny of the billions of dollars of sales tax collected in its unincorporated area.

Aside from a few special exceptions for strip clubs and fireworks, its regulatory powers are extremely limited. While Texans typically favor as little regulation as possible, it’s becoming increasingly apparent that Harris County is going to need additional revenue and some basic regulatory powers to provide for public safety and deal with our region’s explosive growth.

Two powers Harris County does have are the power to require permits for alarms, and to require permits for swimming pools.

Pool Permits Earlier this year, the Harris County Commissioners Court approved a proposal to begin issuing operating permits for apartment swimming pools. The rules are pretty simple: You are required to meet the Texas Department of State Health Services rules for swimming pools and spas, the state law on pool enclosures and the federal Virginia Graeme Baker Pool & Spa Act on entrapment prevention. Apartment pools are required to www.haaonline.org

comply with these anyway, but Judge Emmett has used his role to remind everyone usually any enforcement outthat the population of unincorporated Harris side of a city had always been County will soon be larger than the population established, basically, by lawof the City of Houston. It already stands at over suit after an accident – nobody’s first choice for a 2 million. If the entire unincorporated area of Harris regulatory system.

County was a city, it would be the fifth largest city The permit requirement is in the United States – bigger than Philadelphia. pretty simple. You don’t have to do anything until county health inspectors visit your property to determine if your pool needs a permit. They will Alarm Permits give you the information you need. One In unincorporated Harris County, security piece of good news: The permit is free. If you alarms and fire alarms are all handled fail inspection, however, there is a fee for the through a single permit from the Sheriff’s Ofinspectors to come back out – $200 for the fice Alarm Administration: https://www.hcfirst re-inspection, $350 for a third trip and soalarmpermit.com/. $500 for a fourth.

The county appreciates when we have To prepare for this, make sure your pool monitored alarms. It’s a “force multiplier” for complies with the state rules and state pool busy deputies and firefighters. The problem enclosure law (http://www.dshs.texas.gov/ is that approximately 99 percent of all alarm poolspa/rules.shtm) and the Virginia Graeme calls are determined to be false. Every false Baker Pool & Spa Act (https://www.dshs. alarm diverts critical first responder retexas.gov/poolspa/baker.aspx). The most sources, delaying their ability to get to an accommon violations typically involve enclotual emergency somewhere else. sure fences. It needs to be 4 feet high with a The initial annual permit fee is $35 per self-closing, self-latching gate and with no “alarm site.” In an apartment community, openings that would allow a 4-inch sphere to each unit with an alarm is a separate alarm pass through the fence at any point. Another site. Once the permit is established, it’s only common problem involves Virginia Graeme $10 per alarm site to renew. Each permit covBaker Pool & Spa Act compliance. If you have ers all the alarms at that alarm site – breakan older pool with a single main drain, it in, panic, fire, etc. County rules hold the needs an approved anti-entrapment drain apartment resident responsible for alarms in cover as well as a vacuum release device units, and require them to provide your called an “SVRS.” A third common problem is property contact information when they obthe lack of required safety equipment, intain their permit. cluding the emergency phone, shepherd’s The penalties for activating an alarm withcrook, ring buoy and throwing rope. Check out a permit can be steep – $75 for each true out those two websites for all the specifics. or false alarm as well as “the full costs inFor more information about Harris curred by Harris County” of responding to County’s pool permit program, call the Harris the alarm. If you’ve ever seen the response to County Health Department’s Environmental an unknown fire or law enforcement emerPublic Health Division at 713-274-6300. gency, you can imagine that it isn’t cheap.

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It’s the Law

By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel

REMNANTS OF HARVEY

An explanation of a couple of court cases that showcase the law on inverse condemnation.

A holiday jingle composed by Howard M. Bookstaff, HAA General Counsel (To the tune of “Santa Clause Is Coming to Town…”)

We survived the storm We’re cleaning debris It’s not the norm But will make you see Harvey is not getting us down We’re coming back fine And may need a hand But we have turned water into land Harvey is not getting us down Yes, there’s still work to be done Tenant claims and lawsuits true We know its win or lose So win we’re assured to do!

Oh! We survived the storm!

We’re cleaning debris It’s not the norm But we’ll make you see Harvey is not getting us down!

THE RAINS AND flooding associated with Hurricane Harvey have long since dissipated. However, we are continuing to deal with issues relating to the natural disaster.

Residents who were displaced are continuing to search for permanent housing elsewhere.

Property owners are dealing with insurance companies and FEMA. Rebuilding continues.

As anyone who lives on the west side of Houston can attest, one lingering issue in particular is with respect to the Barker and Addicks reservoirs releases into the Buffalo Bayou. The releases caused a number of properties to flood well after the storms ended. www.haaonline.org

The intentional releases of The intentional releases of flood water has caused flood water has caused many many property owners asking the question: property owners asking the Can I recover damages for my losses? question: Can I recover damages for my losses?

A number of lawsuits have been filed to determine A number of lawsuits have whether, and to what extent, damages can be recovbeen filed to determine ered. The purpose of this article is to provide inforwhether, and to what extent, mation, not to litigate or analyze the issues with damages can be recovered. respect to pending cases. However, it might be beneThe purpose of this article is to ficial for you to know the elements of inverse conprovide information, not to litigate or analyze the issues with demnation, likely the type of cause of action under respect to pending cases. Howwhich property owners would be seeking recovery. ever, it might be beneficial for you to know the elements of inverse condemnation, likely the type of through the reservoir’s floodgates for the first cause of action under which property owners time. For the first time in its history, the Gragg would be seeking recovery.

Ranch suffered extensive flood damage. The The Texas Supreme Court has weighed in flooding breached levee roads in several on this issue before. In 2004, the court ruled places, and gouged large sections of land out on a case styled Tarrant Regional Water Disof the ranch’s bottomlands. trict v. Gragg. In 2016, the court ruled on a The owner and tenant of the ranch sued case styled Harris County Flood Control Disthe water district, alleging that its constructrict and Harris County, Texas v. Kerr, et al. tion and operation of the reservoir had inBoth cases involved analyzing the law on inversely condemned their property in verse condemnation. Let’s look at the rulings violation of the Texas Constitution. After the in both cases. reservoir was constructed and operations began, Gragg claimed, the nature of the Gragg Facts flooding significantly changed and the ranch In 1990, the Tarrant Regional Water District suffered extensive damage that it had never (TRWD) began releasing water for the first before experienced. Gragg claimed that posttime from the Richland-Chambers Reservoir reservoir flood effects made it economically on the Trinity River about 8 miles upstream infeasible to continue using the ranch as from the Gragg Ranch. The Gragg Ranch high-intensity cattle ranching operation. is one of the largest in East Texas, lying The court held that the TRWD had inpartly in Anderson County and partly in versely condemned a flood easement on the Freestone County. ranch and a jury found the difference beThe reservoir was not constructed to contween the market value of the ranch immeditrol floods but to supply water. Consistent ately before and after condemnation to be with its intended function, the TRWD kept over $10,000,000. Additional amounts were the reservoir as full as possible at a level only given to the ranch’s tenant.

2 feet below the overflow point.

The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals afIn March 1990, extremely heavy rains firmed the trial court’s judgment and the case caused extensive flooding throughout the was appealed to the Supreme Court to deterTrinity Basis and the TRWD released water mine whether the judgment was appropriate.

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Supreme Court initially heard the case and also agreed with the lower courts that the homeowners’ suit should continue.

Notwithstanding the court’s initial decision, the court agreed to rehear the case and now is, once again, deciding whether or not the case should continue.

The court stated it seeks to ensure that the public does not bear the burden of paying for property damage for which it received no benefit.

Kerr Facts The plaintiffs in the case consisted of more than 400 residents and homeowners in the upper White Oak Bayou watershed in Harris County. Their homes were built mostly in the mid-to-late 1970s and early 1980s. despite a history of flooding in the area, they initially suffered little to no flood damage. This changed, however, when Tropical Storm Francis in 1998, Tropical Storm Allison in 2001 and an unnamed storm in 2002 flooded their homes one or more times. The homeowners blamed Harris County and Harris County Flood Control District, asserting that they approve new upstream development without implementing appropriate flood-control measures, and that they were substantially certain flooding would result.

In 1976, the Army Corp of Engineers prepared a report on the upper White Oak Bayou. It stated the flooding was caused primarily by inadequate channel capacities of the streams and that the problem was compounded by continuing urbanization of the fast-growing area. It was predicted that additional residential development is expected to occur with or without an adequate plan for controlling the floods.

The government entities concurred with the Army Corp of Engineers’ findings, but federal funding was slow to materialize, even as thousands of acres were developed in the bayou’s watershed and the county continued approving more development.

The delay in federal funding led county officials to develop their own flood-control plan. Their plan was to be funded through local taxes and impact fees, but it was never fully implemented.

The engineering reports confirmed that the government entities knew for several decades that development in the bayou’s watershed exacerbates flooding in the upper bayou. The owners presented evidence that the County approved development without previously required on-site detention.

The government entities filed a plea to the jurisdiction and motion for summary judgement contending that there was no genuine issue of material fact on the elements of the takings claim. The trial court denied the motion, and the court of appeals agreed. The

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Constitutional Basis for Claim Article I, section 17 of the Texas Constitution provides: No person’s property shall be taken, damaged or destroyed for or applied to public use without adequate compensation being made, unless by the consent of such person.

This is what is known as the “takings clause” in the constitution. The court stated that at the heart of the takings clause lies the premise that the government should not force some people alone to bear public burdens which, in all fairness and justice, should be borne by the public as a whole.

A physical taking may occur when the government physically appropriates or invades private property, or unreasonably interferes with the owner’s right to use and enjoy the property. When the government takes private property without first paying for it, the owner may recover damages for inverse condemnation. But mere negligence that eventually contributes to property damage does not amount to a taking.

The court stated it seeks to ensure that the public does not bear the burden of paying for property damage for which it received no benefit.

Generally, plaintiffs seeking recovery for a taking must prove the government intentionally took or damaged their property for public use, or was substantially certain that would be the result. “Taking” cannot be established by proof of mere negligent conduct by the government. The court stated that a takings claim must be based on some affirmative act or action of the government.

The court has not recognized liability where the government only knows that someday, somewhere, its performance of a general government function, such as granting permits or approving plats, will result in damage to some unspecific parcel of land within its jurisdiction.

The court stated it has not held that the public-use element is met where the government does nothing more than approve plats or building permits for private development.

Gragg Wins The court held that the evidence presented was legally sufficient to support the trial court’s findings that the reservoir caused recurrent destructive changes in flooding characteristics that directly impacted the Gragg property such that it was no longer usable for its intended purpose and was taken. The court also found nothing reversible with the jury’s compensation award. Accordingly, the court affirmed the previous judgment.

Kerr Loses The court stated the governmental entities that engaged in flood-control efforts were not liable to the homeowners. The only affirmative conduct by the governmental entities that allegedly caused the flooding was approval of private development. Additionally, the flooding resulted from multiple causes, including act of God and activities of private developers. At most, the governmental entities were aware of a risk that properties in the White Oak Watershed somewhere, someday would flood. However, this, in the court’s view, did not give rise to a takings claim. Accordingly, the court reversed the judgment of the court of appeals and rendered judgment dismissing the homeowners’ case.

Conclusion The two opinions show both sides of the coin. In the Gragg case, the court allowed the ranch owner to prevail on an inverse condemnation claim when the flooding was the result of the reservoir’s construction and operations. In the Kerr case, the court denied homeowners an inverse condemnation claim when the court determined that the government entities engaged in flood-control efforts and, at most, were guilty of approving private development knowing there was a risk of flooding.

It will be up to the courts to determine, based upon whatever evidence is presented by the parties, whether and to what extent recovery is available as a result of the reservoir releases connected with Harvey. There may be several difficult questions to be addressed by court including the intent of the government entities involved, whether affirmative action caused the flooding and whether the taking was for a public use. Hopefully this gives you some understanding of the issues as these cases progress through the court system.

Want to see previous law columns online?

Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode.

www.haaonline.org

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Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

CRYING BAD CREDIT A resident discovers outstanding move-out fees has affected her credit and requests a refund on her security deposit.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with HAA stating that she provided a written notice to vacate. She claimed management failed to deliver her with a response. In the complaint, the resident claimed she endured several health hazards and maintenance issues. When the resident moved out in June 2015, she was charged with a lease termination fee, a heavy cleaning fee and accelerated rent. The resident also had an account balance of $60.39 for outstanding water bills. The resident requested that all charges be dropped and that she receive her $500 security deposit, which she never received. The resident provided pictures of the unit.

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Management Response Management responded to HAA and that response was forwarded to the resident. According to management, there was no record on file that the resident provided a notice to vacate.

The resident did not provide a condition form nor did she submit work order requests during her time at the community. Management pointed out that per the TAA lease, the resident was not charged with a security deposit. Enclosed were copies of the lease, the application and the final account statement. Management felt the resident was charged accordingly.

The Committee’s Decision Based on the pictures and the documenta-

tion provided by management, the committee decided in favor of management. The resident did not fulfill her lease obligation. Charges were justified. The resident owes the property $1,502.39. The resident may wish to pursue any other issues in small claims or civil court.

If you are a manager with a resident relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 for direct assistance. Renters can be referred to HAA by calling 713-595-0300 to speak to a trained consultant Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Thursdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Residents can also be directed online to www.haaonline.org/renters.

www.haaonline.org

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& t o H icy Sp

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Add a little kick to your marketing plan in 2018! Fire up recognition for your company and gain new customers by sponsoring upcoming HAA events and meetings.

Need a taste test?

If this is your first time to attend the HAA Auction, come early for the Auction 101 session and we’ll walk you through the process.

Can’t take the heat?

If you cannot attend the live auction proxy bidding is available. Contact Amanda Sherbondy at asherbondy@haaonline.org to find out more.

p i h s r o s n o p S Auction

Join us as we sell HOT events such as the Volleyball Tournament, Honors Awards Dinner, Top Golf Spring PAC Fundraiser, Maintenance Mania, Education Conference & Expo, ACES Luncheons, and numerous education and credential courses and seminars.

Visit the HAA website for the full Auction Program with the list of events up for sale at www.haaonline.org/sponsor/

Wednesday, January 31 HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center 4810 Westway Park Blvd. off Clay Road just east of Beltway 8

FREE to all supplier members Auction 101: 2:30 p.m. • Registration: 3 p.m.

Drawings close: 3:45 a.m. • Live Auction begins: 4 p.m.

RSVP online at www.haaonline.org/calendar

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HAA is dedicated to our supplier members and the Product Service Council is a group of active members ready to assist you and help you get the most from your membership. Whether you are brand new to HAA or perhaps a supplier looking for some guidance, a mentor might be just what you need.

When people think of mentoring, they often think of an older executive counseling a young upstart. But mentoring has changed a lot in the last few decades. Below are four myths: knowing the truth about them can help you figure out whom to turn to and how.

Myth #1: You have to find one perfect mentor It's actually quite rare these days that people get through their career with only one mentor. In fact, many people have several advisors they turn to. In all likelihood, you'd benefit from having more than one mentor.

Myth #2: Mentoring is a formal long-term relationship Because the world moves fast and people change jobs and careers more often, a long-term advising relationship may be unrealistic and unnecessary. Mentoring can be a one-hour mentoring session. We don't have to escalate it to a six-month or year-long event. Instead of focusing on the long term, think of mentoring as something you access when you need it. It may not be big agenda items that you're grappling with. You don't need to wait until you have some big thing in your career. In today's world, mentoring is more like Twitter and less like having a psychotherapy session.

Myth #3: Mentoring is for junior people Many people assume that they only need a mentor when they are first starting out in their careers. We used to think it was people at early stages of their career who needed mentoring, those just out of MBA programs. Now we understand that people at every stage benefit from this kind of assistance. Consider a more junior person who advises a senior person on things like new technology.

The reality is there are lots of points in a corporate career when you need a mentor. Though you shouldn't wait for them to come up, transitions are a particularly good time to seek out a mentor. Whether you are making a career change, taking on a new role, or contemplating leaving a job, advice from someone who has done it before can be helpful. You may need a mentor when the environment around you is changing rapidly and you haven't had a chance to keep up with the changes.

Myth #4: Mentoring is something more experienced people do out of the goodness of their hearts It can be an honor to ask someone to be a mentor. But the respect isn’t the only reason people agree to help. Mentoring should be useful to both parties involved. Before seeking out a mentor, think about what you have to offer him. Can you provide a unique perspective on the organization or his role? Do you bring valuable outside information that might help him be successful in his job? Whatever it is, be sure that you are clear what's in it for him.

So, do you need mentoring?

Now that you have a better understanding of what mentoring can be – do you need it? Visit www.haaonline.org/mentors to find out more.

www.haaonline.org

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State Industry of the

Join HAA and industry leaders as we assess the current and future state of Houston’s multifamily market. Topics will include Harvey-related issues, 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 Wednesday, January 24 Breakfast and Registration: 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.

Program: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Location: TBA Program cost: $99/person if prepaid with a credit card; $125/person if invoiced See www.haaonline.org for more information.

Sponsored by Guardian Construction and Sentriforce

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Upcoming Education

From the HAA EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

DECEMBER

JANUARY

ACES Holiday Luncheon Friday, December 1 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Brennan’s of Houston 3300 Smith St., 77006 Program fee: $55 Sponsored by FSI Construction and Texscape Services Please note that this program is open only to executives in property management, such as owners, presidents, vice presidents, regionals, supervisors, marketing/training directors and etc. New for 2017: All eligible ACES attendees will be able to invite any member of their staff.

Leasing 101 - (Day and a half) Tuesday, January 16 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $65 by January 15; $75 An in-depth introduction to the apartment industry for new leasing professionals and for those looking to learn more about the industry as a career.

This day and a half program covers topics including: greeting and qualifying the customer, executing the lease contract, overcoming objections and closing techniques, an overview of Fair Housing and more. Students who complete the course will receive a certificate, as well as a listing of placement agencies and management companies that are members of HAA. If you are not working for a member company of HAA download this registration form: http://www.haa online.org/images/programs/pd f/leasing101_2017.pdf

HAA NEXT: Mix N Jingle Thursday, December 14 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Location: Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill, 2820 White Oak Drive, 77007 Sponsored by Brookway Horticultural Services This holiday season, join your HAA Young Professionals ages 35 and under for a FREE festive night out. Live music, appetizers, drinks, holiday cheer, door prizes and more!

Whether you want to make new friends or reconnect with those you've missed all year, it's sure to be a memorable night you won't want to miss.

SCHEDULE AND FEES

Industry Math Tuesday, January 23 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $99 per member A new curriculum authored by NAA, this half day workshop is an excellent opportunity to sharpen your mathematical skills in preparation for attending any of the credential programs. From calculating percentages, to converting fractions (remember those?) to understanding averages and

are subject to change without prior notification. Notice of cancellation is required two days in advance to receive a refund, less a $15 administrative fee. Seats are guaranteed on a first-come, first-served basis when payment and registration are received in advance of the program. Unless otherwise indicated, courses are held in either the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room or the Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Room at the Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. on the second floor of the HAA Office www.haaonline.org

more, this is your chance to "go back to school" in a relaxed and low-stakes environment.

Learn how various mathematical calculations influence operations and get introduced to the more advanced concepts you'll need to know to advance in your industry career.

2018 State of the Industry Breakfast Wednesday, January 24 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Location: TBA Program fee: $99/ $125 if invoiced Sponsored by Guardian Construction and SentriForce A comprehensive look at what is happening in the Houston apartment market. Breakfast and registration is from 7:30am to 8:30am. Topics will include recent economic trends, job growth, forecasts, rental rate and occupancy trends, new construction developments, technology, marketing trends and much more.

IROC Breakfast Friday, January 26 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Program fee: FREE for members; $25 per nonmember Sponsored by Texas Eviction The Independent Rental Owners Connection features customized education and networking programs just for you. Whether you are a brand-new apartment community owner or have been a part of the industry for many years, we encourage you to network within your fellow independent owners.

NALP I: Bringing in New Residents – Be Prepared Tuesday, January 30 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; individual modules may be taken as standalone seminars at $65 per member; $85 per nonmember Sponsored by Brook Furniture This course focuses on the skills needed to deliver exceptional leasing support. From organization and time management to teamwork and technology, the top leasing professional applies these talents to a successful outcome for prospective residents.

NALP II: Marketing and Maintaining Your Community Tuesday, January 30 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $325 per member; $425 per nonmember; individual modules may be taken as standalone seminars at $65 per member; $85 per nonmember Sponsored by Brook Furniture Explore the importance of image, reputation and brand in well-maintained communities.

The course covers a detailed list of what keeps a community in peak showable condition, along with the importance of a robust and varied marketing approach for maximum exposure. If you are taking this as a standalone course, please arrive to our facility by 12:30 p.m. in the event the morning course finishes early.

Building. Seating is limited. You must pre-register. For more information and to register, go online at www.haaonline.org.

Notice to Attendees: All pre-registered no-shows will be billed. For admittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will be required at the door if not received prior to the event. Start times listed above include a 30-minute registration period. Notice of cancellation is required two days prior to the event for a refund, less a $15 administrative fee.

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DECEMBER S M T W T

Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE

3 4 5 6 7 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 20 21 24 25 26 27 28 31

F 1 8 15 22 29

S 2 9 16 23 30

JANUARY S M T 1 2 7 8 9 14 15 16 21 22 23 28 29 30

W 3 10 17 24 31

T 4 11 18 25

F 5 12 19 26

S 6 13 20 27

DECEMBER 1

7

14

25-26

ACES Holiday Luncheon Friday, December 1 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Brennan’s of Houston 3300 Smith St., 77006 Sponsored by FSI Construction and Texscape Services

Go-Getters Meeting Thursday, December 7 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Café Adobe 7620 Katy Fwy, 77024 Visit the Go-Getters Corner at www.haaonline.org/gogetters for tips and tools for recruiting.

Sponsored by Foundation Specialists and Rasa Floors

HAA PAC Luncheon Thursday, December 14 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Program fee: $30 per PAC member; $40 per non-PAC member Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org for registration and details.

Sponsored by Earthworks

Offices Closed The HAA offices will be closed from Monday, December 25 through Tuesday, December 26 in observance of the holidays.

6 HAA Food Drive Drop Off Wednesday, December 6 by noon Camp Construction, 15139 S. Post Oak Road, 77053 or Cotton Commercial, 3600 Brittmoore Road, Suite #190, 77043

HAA NEXT: Mix N Jingle Thursday, December 14 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Christian’s Tailgate Bar & Grill, 2820 White Oak Drive, 77007 Sponsored by Brookway Horticultural Services

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.

2018 Installation & New Year Gala A

FRIDAY, JANUARY 19, 2018 7 P.M. TO 11:30 P.M. HILTON AMERICAS SEE PAGE 6 FOR DETAILS.

&White

Black

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www.haaonline.org

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

JANUARY 1-2

23

24

30

Offices Closed The HAA offices will be closed Monday, January 1 through Tuesday, January 2 for the New Year holiday.

Industry Math Tuesday, January 23 8:30 a.m. to noon

Resident Relations Committee B Wednesday, January 24 2 p.m.

Product Service Council Meeting Thursday, January 23 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Contact Susan Hinkley at shinkley@ haaonline.org for details.

25

Leadership Development and Training for Lyceum and Board Tuesday, January 30, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

By invitation only. Contact Susan Hinkley at shinkley@ haaonline.org for details.

10 Resident Relations Committee A Wednesday, January 10 2 p.m.

16 Leasing 101 (Day and a half) Tuesday, January 16 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

19 2018 Installation & New Year Gala Friday, January 19 7 p.m.

Hilton Americas 1600 Lamar St., 77010 See Page 6 for details Sponsored by Camp Construction Services, Century A/C Supply, Crestmark Construction Services, Impact Floors and Redi Carpet Sales of Houston

HAA Open House Tuesday, January 23 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.

4810 Westway Park Blvd., 77041 New to HAA or looking to join the association? Meet the HAA staff, and learn how to get involved and maximize your membership. All members and prospective members are welcome.

24 2018 State of the Industry Breakfast Wednesday, January 24 7:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

Hilton Houston Westchase 999 Westheimer Road, 77042 Sponsored by Guardian Construction and SentriForce

Board Meeting Thursday, January 25 4:30 p.m.

Sponsored by Guardian Construction

26 IROC Breakfast Friday, January 26 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Sponsored by Texas Eviction

30 NALP I: Bringing in New Residents – Be Prepared Tuesday, January 30 8:30 a.m. to noon Sponsored by Brook Furniture NALP II: Marketing and Maintaining Your Community Tuesday, January 30 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Brook Furniture

31 Sponsorship Auction Wednesday, January 31 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

FREE to all supplier partners Sponsoring an event in 2018 is a great way to gain recognition for your company. Over 60 events will be up for auction. Drawings and Proxy bidding will be available.

Arrive early at 2:30 p.m. for Auction 101 session for first timers to get more information on how the auction works and about the events up for bid. Contact Amanda for more information at asherbondy@ haaonline.org or 713-595-0316.

See Page 16 for more details.

HAA open house | january 23 Get on the road to networking opportunities by driving to our house.

New to HAA? Join us on Thursday, January 23 from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Meet the HAA staff and learn how to get involved and maximize your membership at the 2018 HAA Open House. HAA is YOUR association, and it’s #notjustaprettyform! This event is free for all owner and supplier attendees.

All members are welcome to attend. Contact the Membership & Marketing Department for more information at members@haaonline.org.

www.haaonline.org

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Events Calendar 2018 HAA’s General Meetings and Events open to all members.

JANUARY

JUNE

Installation Gala – January 19 at the Hilton Americas #HAAGala $110 early/$130 regular | $1,100/$1,300 table of 10

Sponsorship Auction – June 21 #HAAAuction

Annual Open House – January 23 #HAAOpenHouse Free for all members State of the Industry Breakfast – January 24 #HAASOI $99 Sponsorship Auction – January 31 #HAAAuction Free for supplier members

FEBRUARY NAAPAC Wine Tasting – February 15 at the Vantage Med Center $275 per ticket/two attendees per company

MARCH Volleyball Tournament – March 23 at Third Coast Volleyball Club #HAAVBall $250 team/$20 spectator Go-Getters Happy Hour – March 29 at Cafe Adobe, Marq-E Center For New Members and Recruiters

APRIL

Honors Awards – June 28 at the Hilton Americas #HAAHonors $85 early/$105 regular | $850/$1,050 table of 10 Go-Getters Happy Hour – TBA at Cafe Adobe, Marq-E Center For New Members and Recruiters

JULY Bowling Tournament – July 20 at Copperfield Bowl #HAABowl $250 team/$20 spectator

AUGUST Business Exchange – August 9 #HAABizX For suppliers: $350 per person for first two per company/$375 for third person

SEPTEMBER Supplier Education Program – September 6 #HAASupplierEd Free for supplier members 40 Under 40 – September 19 at Prohibition Supperclub & Bar #HAA40Under40 $55 early/$75 regular

Maintenance Mania – April 5 at the Houston Marriott Westchase #MaintMania $55 competitor/$45 spectator

Go-Getters Happy Hour – TBA at Cafe Adobe, Marq-E Center For New Members and Recruiters

Supplier Education Program – April 17 #HAASupplierEd Free for supplier members

OCTOBER Dinerstein Golf Tournament – TBA #HAAGolf $720 per foursome. Two owner/management and two suppliers per team.

Spring HAA Political Action Committee Fundraiser – April 19 Topgolf Houston-Katy #HAAPAC $500 team for high-top bay/$600 team for lounge bay

Chili Fest – TBA #HAAChili

MAY

NOVEMBER

Sports Challenge – May 11 #HAAAllStars $20/spectator/$400 team

NAAPAC Wine Tasting – November 1 TBA

HAA Education Conference & Expo – May 17 at NRG Center #HAAExpo Expo only is FREE to attend for owner/management members. Non-exhibiting suppliers not admitted.

Education Conference $125 Booth prices for supplier members start at $980 *Exhibitors only

Annual Business Meeting – TBA #HAAABM $55 early/$75 regular | $550/$750 table of 10

DECEMBER Go-Getters Happy Hour – TBA at Cafe Adobe, Marq-E Center For New Members and Recruiters

MARK YOUR CALENDARS for these fabulous networking and professional development events in 2018. Please note that dates and prices are subject to change. Check the calendar pages at www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date information and registration links, or call 713-595-0300.

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Need Meeting Space?

The Houston Apartment Foundation Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center is here for you.

The Direct Energy LP and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Computer Lab seats 24 and is fully equipped with computers and a sympodium system, including an electronic dry erase board and collaboration tool.

The Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center is located on the second floor of the HAA/HAF facility, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. in the Westway Park Development at Clay Road and Sam Houston Parkway, a premier location with easy access for members and their employees.

Available features for each room include: • Podiums • Ceiling-mounted LCD projectors • Automated projection screens • DVD/VCR with direct projection • Fully functional sound systems • Hand-held microphones or lavalier microphones • Wireless internet access • Kitchen facilities And much more…

Keep the education center in mind when your company is in need of a facility for your next meeting or employee training. The center is available for rental to members and is the perfect venue for budget meetings, planning sessions and more. For more information, contact Marie Garza at 713-595-0306, e-mail mgarza@haaonline.org or visit us online at www.haaonline.org.

The Michael Stevens Interests and Camden Room can be divided into two training rooms, each seating 60 to 72 classroom-style, 102 to 112 theatre-style or 80 in rounds. The entire space will seat 120 classroom style or 200 theater style. Other table arrangements are also available. Call for more information.

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Congratulations, 2017 National Apartment Association Credential Holders!

Sharifa Al-Hashimi, NALP Sara Alvim, NALP Mike Andrews, CAM Cecille Araujo, NALP Roxann Bacchus, CAPS Kimberley Baker, CAM Guadalupe Banda, CAM Olivia Banda-Boutte, NALP Clint Beck, CAS Leandre Bickley, IROP Leslie Brodin, CAM Mynde Bruhn, CAM Joseph Bryson, CAPS Elvia Bustos, NALP Jessica Campbell, CAM Jessica Casler, CAM Cynthia Cason, CAM Elizabeth Castro Gray, CAPS Crystal Cauthron, CAM Lori Childs, IROP Christopher Childs, IROP Brandon Coleman, CAPS Jeremiah Cook, CAM Catherine Cornett, CAPS Catherine Cornett, CAM Cheryl Cotton, CAPS Ceci Coy, NALP Jennifer Cruz, CAM Karina Cuadros, NALP Randa Dick, CAPS Rebekah Dixon, NALP Angila Dorsey, CAM Shelley Duchow, CAM Nadia El-Negery, NALP Laura Espinosa, NALP Laura Espinosa, IROP Carlos Espinosa, IROP Deidre Evans, CAM Jonathan Family, CAM Melissa Fasci, CAPS Jose David Ferreira, CAM Robyn Finley, CAM Shannon Fletcher, CAPS

Neomi Freeman, CAM Lynne Gage, CAM Fernando Galvan,NALP Andrea Garcia, CAM Maritza Garcia, NALP Giovanna Gone, CAM Kimberly Gonzalez, CAM Jana Gragg, CAPS Brenda Grasha, CAM Michelle Green, CAPS Rita Greif, CAM Ollie Grisby, NALP Yang Groves, CAPS Jamie Guettler, CAM Torey Hawkins, CAM Curtis Holland, IROP Lauren Hollis, CAM Jessica Holmes, CAM Allison Hoop, CAM Roland Hurst, IROP Amber Hyde, CAM Amber Hyde, CAPS Carla Jackson, CAM Tory Jenkins, CAM Bessy John, CAPS Tamara Kilgore, CAM Annette Knoth, CAM Nicole Koehler, CAM Sandra Kronman, IROP Valerie Lacy, CAPS Chavonne Lafleur, CAM Michael Laniak, IROP David Lansberry, IROP Denisse Lara, CAM Hunter Lee, NALP Elizabeth Leschander, CAM Vincent Lewis, CAPS Emmie Lo, CAM Denise Longoria, CAPS Gregg MacDonald, IROP Stephanie Madrid, CAM Bushra Majeed, CAPS Yasmin Maldonado, NALP

Gunel Mammadzada, IROP Betsy Marshall, CAPS Georgia Martinez, CAM Amelia Martinez, CAM Rosi Martinez, CAM Judith McClain, CAM Russell McClure, CAM Christopher McCombs, CAS Will McGinnis, CAS Zerlina L. McNeal, CAM Veronica Mier, CAM Veronica Mier, CAPS Anthony Miller, NALP Connie Montano, CAM John Moon, IROP Keith Moore, IROP Chantessa Moore, NALP Monica Morales, CAM Alexandria Moreno, NALP Angela Myles, NALP Claus Nielsen, IROP Kirsten Nielsen, IROP Claus Nielsen, CAPS Maricella Nolasco, CAM Ramon Nunez, CAM Angela Olvera, NALP Andrea Osorio, CAM Lakisha Parks, CAPS Narendra Patel, CAM John Pistone, IROP Kenneth Polk, NALP Heather Pritchett, CAM Heather Pritchett, CAPS Alexandra Prybil, NALP Camilo Ramos, CAPS Lee Reeves, CAM Brenda Reyes, NALP Maritza Reyes, CAM Sade Rhoder, CAM Marilyn Rivero, CAM Marilyn Rivero, CAPS Vivienne Rodriguez, CAPS

Meshay Roney, CAM Robert Salchak, IROP Rachel Sanchez, NALP Steve Sands, CAM Papia Santra, IROP Darerius Savoy, NALP Tonya Schenk, CAM Tia Short, CAM John Sibilsky, CAM Erin Singleton, NALP Ramsey Slaieh, IROP Rami Slaieh, IROP Rebecca Slater, CAM Ashlee Smith, CAM Vanessa Solis, NALP Maria, Solorzano, NALP Susie Soto, NALP Sandi Soto, CAM Blaise Spitaleri, CAS Natalie Spratt, IROP Amy Statler, IROP Vanessa Suarez, CAPS Denise Swann, CAPS Steven Tackett, IROP Sagar Tanna, CAPS Trang Taylor, NALP Steve Tennison, CAM Vania Thompson, CAM Ron Thompson, IROP Poonam Tiwari, CAPS Carol Tobola, CAM Carol Tobola, CAPS Tom Tran, IROP Nigel Tzib, NALP Subba Vadlamani, CAPS Jannie Vasquez, CAM Patricia Waindel, CAM Christopher Willridge, CAM Cameron Wilson, NALP Mollie Witt, CAPS

Thank You Volunteer Instructors!

Betsy Marshall, CAM, CAPS Q10 Property Advisors

Jennifer Ramos, CAM, CAPS Greystar

Mindy Price J Turner Research

Stephanie Graves, CAM, CAPS Q10 Property Advisors

Brandon Coleman, CAM, CAPS, NALP, CPO Pinnacle

Kelly Suess Greystar

Quintina Willis, CAM Capstone

Tanya Dusek Davis Development

Kristen Marie Settles, CAM, NALP FDC Management

Rebecca Shirley, CAPS Greystar

Terri Clifton Better World Properties

Lindsay Torres, CAM Bell Partners

Robert Lopes, CAM, CAPS, NALP CPO Relik Realty

Theresa Lamar Maintenance Supply Headquarters

Sara Newman, CAM Allied Orion

Vi Lewis, CAM, CAPS Axiom Residential

Chavonne LeFleur, CAM Greystar Cliff LeJeune Deborah DeRouen Respage

Lori Lindley, CAPS Marlo Simmons Valet Living

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Industry Update from the NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATION and the NATIONAL MULTIHOUSING COUNCIL

TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT A summary and anaylsis provided by NMHC.

HOUSE REPUBLICANS released tax reform legislation this week that would cut tax rates for individuals and businesses.

In particular, a portion of multifamily business income that is earned by the passthrough entities that dominate the industry (i.e., LLCs, partnerships, and S Corporations) would be eligible for a 25 percent tax rate. As currently written, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act would preserve interest deductibility, likekind exchanges, and carried interest. The 27.5-year depreciation period for multifamily properties is left unchanged; and the estate tax is repealed in 2024, while stepped-up basis is retained.

Notably, the Act would retain the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. However, as currently drafted there is concern that the equity generated by the credit could be reduced given that the corporate rate is proposed to fall to 20 percent. Additionally, the Act would eliminate tax-exempt bonds, which could jeopardize the efficacy of the 4 percent LIHTC. The House Ways and Means Committee intends to begin marking up the package beginning next Monday, which would be followed by floor action. Senate Finance Committee Chairman Orrin Hatch today said he would introduce his chamber’s version of tax legislation once the Ways and Means Committee completes its markup.

Tax Rates on Pass-Thru Income: The multifamily industry is dominated by pass-through entities (e.g., LLCs, partnerships and S Corporations) that pass through a company’s earnings to owners who are taxed at individual rates of up to 39.6 percent. The Act would allow a portion of this income, which would be designated as business income, to be taxed at a maximum rate of 25 percent. The remaining income would be considered compensation and taxed at ordinary income tax rates.

The Act specifies the following: • Active owners would have to separate

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business income from compensation. Under one option, active owners could designate 30 percent of their total income as business income eligible for the 25 percent rate. The remaining 70 percent would be taxed at ordinary income tax rates. Alternatively, and positively for real estate, a higher capital percentage would be available for capital-intensive businesses. It would be calculated based on a rate of return (Federal short-term interest rate plus 7 percent) multiplied by the capital investments of the business. The Act would maintain current definitions of active and passive income.

• Passive income would be fully eligible for the 25 percent rate.

• REIT dividends would be taxed at 25 percent, down from today’s maximum 39.6 percent rate.

• Income attributable to brokerage services would be ineligible to use the 70/30 split but could use the alternative method to calculate business income attributable to capital invested.

Business Interest Deductibility: The Act preserves the full deductibility of business interest for the multifamily industry. That said, the Act generally limits net interest expense to 30 percent of an entity’s EBITDA. Depreciation: The Act retains current law that depreciates multifamily real estate over a 27.5year period.

Like-Kind Exchanges: The Act preserves like-kind exchanges for real property, though eliminates them for non-real estate assets.

Carried Interest and Capital Gains Taxes: The tax treatment of carried interest is unchanged as is the maximum 20 percent tax rate on capital gains.

Estate Tax: Under current law, the estate tax provides for a $5.49 million ($10.98 per couple exclusion), a 40 percent top rate and stepped-up basis. The Act doubles the exclusion amounts before repealing the estate tax in 2024. Inherited assets would retain the benefit of stepped-up basis before and after repeal of the estate tax.

Low-Income Housing Tax Credit: The Low-Income Housing Tax Credit is not changed under the Act. However, this may pose concern given that equity raised could drop given the proposal to cut the corporate tax rate to 20 percent. Additionally, private activity bonds issued after 2017 would lose their Federal tax exemption, which could harm 4 percent LIHTC deals.

State and Local Income and Property Taxes for Business: The Act retains the ordinary and necessary tax deduction for state and local income and property taxes attributable to a business.

Rehabilitation and New Markets Tax Credits: The Rehabilitation and New Markets Tax Credits are repealed.

Corporate Tax Rate: The corporate tax rate is reduced to 20 percent from 35 percent.

Individual Income Tax Brackets: There are currently seven tax brackets ranging from 10 percent to 39.6 percent. The Act provides for tax brackets of 12 percent, 25 percent, 35 percent and 39.6 percent. The 39.6 percent bracket would begin at $500,000 in taxable income for single filers and $1 million in taxable income for married couples.

The 12 percent bracket would be phased out for single filers earning over $1 million and married couples earning over $1.2 million.

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Standard Deduction / Personal Exemptions: The standard deduction is doubled, taking it to $24,400 for married couples. The Ways and Means Committee estimates that whereas approximately one-third of taxpayers today itemize their deduction, this would fall to fewer than 10 percent. Personal exemptions are repealed.

Employer-Provided Housing: The employee tax exclusion for employerprovided housing is limited to $50,000 and is phased out for individuals earning over $120,000.

Provided by NMHC as part of the NAA/ NMHC Joint Legislative PrograM – Les Shaver Registration Now Open for Advocate Registration has opened for the industry’s largest advocacy event, Advocate! Formerly known as the NAA Capitol Conference, Advocate reflects the same high standards and experience expected of NAA events wrapped into an exciting new schedule and venue.

The new schedule aims to create a compelling experience for all attendees: An issues briefing will be held on Tuesday, March 13 to prep veterans and newcomers alike for Lobby Day meetings on Wednesday, March 14. Over these two days, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the issues facing our industry and be given the tools to meet with members of Congress – on Capitol Hill and in district all year long.

Importantly, the conference primes attendees on prominent issues and lays groundwork for year-round efforts because advocacy doesn’t just occur in Washington D.C. We look forward to working with you to continue your advocacy through events such as: In-District Meetings, Congressional Property Tours, Site Visits, Legislative Action Alerts and NAAPAC events.

The timing for this conference is more crucial than ever – with the elections next year, the apartment housing industry must make our voices heard. Together, we can strengthen our industry, secure a favorable legislative climate and voice our support for pro-apartment housing industry policy.

Also new in 2018, committee meetings will follow Lobby Day and begin on Thursday, March 15 and run through Friday, March 16.

All of these activities will be based out of Advocate’s beautiful new venue, the Grand Hyatt Washington. / See NAA Update, Page 67

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On the Road with HAA Fort Bend Happy Hour Tuesday, October 10 Baytown Happy Hour Wednesday, October 18 Webster Happy Hour Thursday, October 26 Managers and property professionals from three outlying areas joined HAA for networking and fun during our special happy hours held at area restaurants.

HAA IS REACHING OUT to better serve our members by bringing targeted networking and educational events to different parts of our 12-county service area. Contact strategic growth manager Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org to sign up for these FREE, management-only events where you can learn about issues affecting your area and network with your fellow managers. Want to host an event? We are looking for member properties to host Area Council meetings. Contact lturner@haaonline.org.

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On the Scene with HAA It’s the Law Luncheon Friday, October 13 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff presented an “It’s the Law” luncheon covering the evolving legal issues related to Hurricane Harvey.

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Wine

ThursdAy, FebruAry 15, 5:30 P.m.

VANTAge med CeNTer

1911 holCombe blVd., housToN, TexAs 77030

Wine and Dine with HAA Past Presidents for an evening of wine and networking.

Attendees will have the opportunity to sample each host’s favorite wine during the evening, vote for their favorite wine and a host winner will be crowned. Appetizers, soft drinks and water will also be served. Please join us!

Who:

Tasting

limited to the first 35 supplier members. spots will not be secured until hAA receives a registration form and payment from the registrant(s).

How Much: $275 per ticket (2 attendees per company only, unless registrant is on PAC Fundraising Committee)

National Apartment Association Political Action Committee

YES! I want to attend the NAAPAC Wine Tasting Event!

I pledge to contribute to NAAPAC $275 x __________ attendees (maximum 2) = $_________________ ________________________________________/_____________________________________ Name occupation ________________________________________/_____________________________________ Name occupation Address:________________________________________________________________________ Note: Political contributions to NAAPAC are not tax deductible for federal tax purposes. No Corporate Contributions, please. o designate my contribution to the following NAA Affiliate's Fund our Future goal Affiliate Name: houston Apartment Association o my personal check made payable to NAAPAC is enclosed.

o Please charge my: • Visa • masterCard • American express Name on Card:_____________________________________________________________________ Card Number:_____________________________________________________________________ exp. date:________________ sec. Code:________________ signature:_______________________________________________________________________ date:________________________________ Please return forms to haapac@haaonline.org or by fax to 281-582-1520.

Federal law requires political committees to report the name, mailing address, occupation and name of employer for each individual whose contributions aggregate in excess of $200 in a calendar year. Contributions to the NAAPAC are for political purposes. All contributions are voluntary. You may refuse to contribute without reprisal. Guidelines are merely suggestions and you may contribute more or less than the guidelines suggest.

NAAPAC will not favor or disadvantage anyone by reason of the amount contributed or the decision whether to contribute.

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Good Works By

MORGAN TAYLOR, HAA Staff

Rosella Golub , right

n edicatio al Tree D ri o m e AMLI M

r Walk Rockstar Breast Cance

H

AA members are busy all year long giving back to the communities they serve and support. Each December, ABODE asks HAA members to share stories and pictures of the good works they’ve been up to. And this year, because of Hurricane Harvey, community service was at an all-time high. It brings us, the ABODE staff, great joy to showcase our HAA members making Houston an even better place to live.

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AMLI on Eldridge Parkway Dedicates a Memorial Tree to 99-year-old Resident Over the years, the team at AMLI on Eldridge Parkway grew to be very fond of one resident in particular who lived at the property for 19 years.

Rosella Golub was just 40 days away from turning 100 when she peacefully passed away on May 27.

In her honor, the AMLI team planted a memorial tree beside the building she lived in during her time at AMLI on Eldridge Parkway. She was known for her vibrancy and laughter.

Century A/C Sup ply dona tion for C amp Ho pe

“Every time Rosella walked into the leasing office, it was a big deal. Everyone would stop what they were doing to get up and hug her,” Community Manager Janice Quigley said.

Rosella and her daughter, Audrey, who also lived at AMLI on Eldridge, were as close as mother and daughter could be. The pair were the best of friends. Brian Le, the leasing manager, developed a close relationship to Audrey and Rosella.

He was like a son and a grandson to the two women, Quigley said. www.haaonline.org

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Tree Tops at Post Oa and Camp Construc k tion

nks Alta West End tha first responders.

Rocks tar ado pts a fa mily.

When Rosella passed away, Le and the on-site staff arranged for her personal belongings to be moved out of the apartment. It was Le’s idea to plant the tree in Rosella’s memory, so that he, Audrey and everyone else will always have a place to visit with Rosella right on site.

Her obituary reads “Rosella has given so much love to all that knew her and it is with such joy to say that the love has been returned to her as well.”

Camp Construction Goes Beyond Construction for Tree Tops at Post Oak Apartments While this isn’t necessarily a “good works” submission, ABODE felt this act of kindness deserved recognition. A thank you note was submitted by Tree Tops at Post Oak Apartments for Camp Construction’s efforts during Hurricane Harvey cleanup. The thank you note describes a story that many in Houston can, unfortunately, relate to.

One Tree Top resident named Helen whose apartment home was completely inundated by Hurricane Harvey, was frightened to return to her home and face the destruction.

Upon entering her home, with Tree Top Property Manager Candy Lambright, Helen was devastated to discover that her entire home and all of her personal belongings were unsalvageable.

Before Helen could abandon her home, she refused to leave until she located a pouch of jewelry, which contained family heirlooms and sentimental pieces. She searched and searched, but could not find the jewelry. After it was determined the jewelry was missing, Lambright sat with Helen as she cried. Just hours after this resident deemed the jewelry gone forever, the Camp Construction team discovered the jewelry and returned it to the leasing office.

“Every piece of Jewelry was still in the pouch.

Loose diamonds, rings, earrings, pearls, a ring Helen’s mother gave her when she was 16, and everything else was in there. Nothing had been disturbed. All of us had a cry fest as she delicately pulled out piece after piece of jewelry and told us the history behind every item. She said to me with tears streaming down her face, ‘Candy, I feel like I have won the lottery.’ Camp construction made this happen for Helen. We were able to witness www.haaonline.org

complete truth and honesty, which gave me renewed faith in mankind,” Lambright said.

Lambright said Camp Construction returned many other items of sentimental value belonging to other residents, such as family heirlooms, cash, photos and etc. More importantly than that, Camp Construction went beyond their construction duties for the Tree Top residents.

“James Helms and Rene Gutiez (of Camp Construction) have done a wonderful job coordinating each and every move in helping to make this easier for these families. They have helped families move, been a shoulder for these residents to cry on and the list goes on. The amount of goodness displayed by James, Renee and the team out there could go on and on. All of the associates have been working tirelessly in very rough conditions, and every minute doing nothing but topnotch work. Great job, Camp Construction. You guys are truly a class act.”

Alta West End Apartments Thanks First Responders Houston owes so much to the first responders who traveled far and near to support the vast Houston-area, and the team at Alta West End wanted to thank the Houston Police Department and the Arlington Police Department for their efforts during and after Hurricane Harvey.

Alta West End resembled an island during Hurricane Harvey and the water surrounded the apartment community for days after the rain ended. As soon as the two police entities were able to reach the property, police officers did everything they could to ensure the residents and staff were safe and dry. Thereafter, officers visited the property at least once a day to ensure that sense of safety was maintained at Alta West End. Courtesy officer Antonio Boutte and his partner, police officer Al Estrada, worked around the clock to make certain an officer was patrolling the property at all times.

“It was really important that the West End team did something to show our appreciation for the first responders who came out to support us during and after Harvey,” Regional Property Manager Valeria Lacy said. “The officers were overwhelmed

tear out drywall.

Veritas volunteers

Kristin McLau of Mohawk In ghlin dustries and her husban Tom delivers d supplies to Se cond Baptist Church .

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cues ter res igh wa h r e e volunt Veritas

d Supplier Partners Lincoln Properties an

and it was really emotional. Everyone was hugging each other and helping each other bring food out. It was really nice to go out and be able to say thank you.”

The lunch was pioneered and coordinated by Property Manager Lisa Sherman. Sprouts, La Madeleine and Pi Pizza offered discounted rates that allowed the Alta West End team to feed the near 70 police officers.

for Tots Rockstar Toys

Estancia San Miguel

ties and Lincoln Properers Supplier Partn

Century A/C Offers Hope Representatives from Century A/C Supply and Ruud Air Conditioning Division recently presented Camp Hope, The PTSD Foundation of America, with a $10,000 donation from proceeds generated by Century A/C’s 17th Annual Golf Tournament held earlier this year.

Camp Hope provides interim housing for wounded warriors, veterans and their families suffering from combat related PTSD in a caring and positive environment. Their facility is located in Houston and offers a PTSD recovery program in addition to career placement and other services that help veterans transition to life after war.

“Century A/C Supply strongly believes in the importance of giving back to the men and women who have given so much to defend our freedoms. We currently employ several veterans and active duty personnel in our stores, which made the choice to donate to Camp Hope an easy decision,” Century A/C’s President Rick Luke said.

With the support of their generous supplier sponsors, Century A/C Supply was able to present the donation to Camp Hope in a ceremony held at the Redneck Country Club. To find out more about Camp Hope and the PTSD Foundation of America, or to volunteer or donate, visit www.ptsdusa.org.

Lincoln Property Company and Supplier Partners Come Together Six feet of water flooded Parkwood on Cypress Station during Hurricane Harvey and the community lost 134 units. Residents were without electricity and hot water for a week and their refrigerators were damaged as well.

Regional Marketing Director Randi Cameron

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and Regional Director of Learning and Talent Development Brittney McDowell for Lincoln Property Company immediately started working to assist their residents.

“Our main focus was to get hot meals, clothes, sheets and baby items to the victims as quickly as we could, which was pretty amazing,” Randi Cameron regional marketing director for Lincoln Property Company said.

Cameron and McDowell created the LPC Hurricane Harvey fund and raised $23,000 for affected Lincoln residents and employees within the Houston region. McDowell and Cameron raised money and collected items to donate, such as clothes for all sizes, towels, sheets, backpacks filled with school supplies, canned goods and more.

Cameron reached out to HAA members and Lincoln supplier partners, Deborah DeRouen of Respage, Kristin McLaughlin of Mohawk Industries and Chris McCombs of Rasa Floors to assist her and McDowell with providing lunch and distributing donations. With the generous contribution made by local restaurants, Cane Russo and Rudy’s BBQ, the group was able to hand out 60 pizzas and 300 barbecue sandwiches to residents.

“We were honored to help,” McCombs said.

“The residents were so happy and gracious, and Deborah, Kristin and I enjoyed every minute of this event. Until you get to see first-hand what Mother Nature is capable of, you wouldn’t believe it. The property looked like a bomb had gone off, but through all that there were smiles all around.”

Cameron said she was grateful that McCombs hauled his trailer and truck with him to the property to set up shop, as well as for McLaughlin and DeRouen for their contribution and assistance.

“Deborah, Kristin and Chris are all current supplier partners for Lincoln here in Houston and close friends of mine who offered to help me because of how fast these meals needed to happen,” Cameron said. “I couldn't haven't done it without them.”

Parkwood on Cypress Station offered lunch to their residents every other Friday for the entire month of September. Through the fund, Lincoln was able to give Parkwood on Cypress Station www.haaonline.org

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tions ply dona hool Sup c S r a st k Roc

Allied Ori Kiki Campon Group’s Ian Dou gla bell with C ollista Fra s and nklin

$4,128 for Harvey recovery efforts. The rest of the fund was distributed to other Lincoln Property Company residents and used to help rebuild their lives.

iguel Estancia San M

Rockstar at K eegan

Kitchen

donations on Group ri O ed lli A Some

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Rockstar Capital Management Cares Rockstar Cares is the charity branch of Rockstar Capital Management. The Rockstar motto is “Whatever it Takes” and they certainly apply this motto out to their community to help those in need.

“We love our residents, we love our community, and we love coming together to help and do good in our city,” Rockstar Owner Robert Martinez said.

This past year they hosted their first breast cancer walk in Humble and raised $10,000 for the Susan G. Komen foundation. They also volunteered at the Keegan Kitchen (a Houston Food Bank kitchen) and made over 1,700 pounds of food, which equals to 2040 meals to help fight hunger.

Rockstar also held a canned goods food drive at all of their properties and donated the collected goods to the Houston Food Bank. In December of 2016, Rockstar Cares adopted a family with a single mother of five children. The Rockstar team dressed up as Santa Claus and his helpers, and delivered presents to children.

“We wanted to make the experience extra special for them,” Martinez said.

Rockstar also held a toy drive at their properties and delivered all of the toys to the Toys for Tots Foundation. In March, a handful of team members went on a mission trip, and Rockstar Cares donated clothes and shoes to children in Guatemala.

After Hurricane Harvey, Rockstar Cares stepped in and delivered over $3,000 worth of items to those in need, as well as $10,000 to a local church. The company also donated $1,500 worth of school supplies to a school that was flooded.

Allied Orion Group’s Altruism Allied Orion Group raised over $34,000 to help their 42 team members who were directly affected by Hurricane Harvey. The management company also had an internal donation center created to gather items for their team members in need. They were able to cover almost every one of the deductibles for all who were affected.

“The support has been overwhelming and has come from all over. We delivered groceries, donations and checks to support our team,” Director of Training and Marketing Kiki Campbell said.

Allied Orion Group – Peninsula Park Apartments Allied Orion Group presented their First Annual Humanitarian Award to Collista Franklin, property manager at Clarke Springs Apartments. Franklin was nominated by her peers for her tireless and outstanding work with Dress for Success Houston – a worldwide nonprofit organization that empowers women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support. Franklin actively participates in Dress for Success Houston by donating clothes to women in need with.

The property manager also serves as a board member for the Phoenix Women’s Outreach, an organization dedicated to helping women and children who have been affected by domestic violence. At Allied Orion’s leadership conference in late March, Franklin was awarded $1,000 in recognition of her achievements. She was also presented with a check for $5,000 to be given to the charity of her choice.

“Franklin is a shining example of her company’s philosophy of giving back to the community,” Public Relations Specialist Carrie Saks said.

Nino Properties Supports Houston Furniture Bank Gloria Nino of Nino Properties is a board / See Good Works, Page 72

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Help Make Houston

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Whole Again Help the Houston Furniture Bank rebuild Houston by providing gently used furniture for families in need.

Story and photos by

F

or 25 years, the Houston Furniture Bank has been furnishing the Greater Houston Metropolitan area at no cost to families and individuals in need. Because of this organization, over 50,000 children have slept in beds rather than the floor and over 21,000 families have been able to sit and share meals at a table. This would not have been possible without donors, supporters and volunteers who have supplied mattresses, beds, tables, chairs and much more. The Houston Apartment Association can assist with their mission by calling upon our members to be a source for the furniture bank.

Executive Director Oli Mohammed founded the HFB and has been an essential element of the furniture bank since its inception. He believes furniture is a critical part of improving the living conditions of individuals and families and it’s an important way to elevate pride and dignity. Hurricane Harvey destroyed the homes, dignity and comfort of many Houston-area families. In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the HFB has been able to assist over one thousand families so far.

However, the organization is estimating that tens of thousands of families under the poverty line still need their assistance. In order to continue to service and improve the lives of affected families, the HFB needs a high stock of gently used furniture.

“By working together, we can be proud of a city where every family has basic home furniture and every child has a bed to sleep,” Mohammed said.

Basic furniture items such as gently used beds, mattresses, dressers, couches and kitchen tables that can fit in studio and efficiency sized apartment homes are in high demand. Sadly,

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MORGAN TAYLOR, HAA Staff

seeing these soaked, basic living items on the curbs of Houston-area streets became the norm. Typically, federal and state assistance does not include furniture, which is why charitable organizations such as the HFB are all the more necessary right now. With so many in our community suffering and struggling to piece their lives back together, Mohammed’s goal is to ensure that affected families and individuals can furnish their homes without having to worry about the cost.

HAA-member companies CORT Furniture and Hoffer Furniture have generously supported the furniture bank through significant in-kind donations, product drive collections and/or financial contributions. We thank these supplier partners for supporting HFB, and we ask that other HAA members think about HFB the next time their gently used furniture needs a new home.

Maybe you don’t have gently used furniture to donate. Properties and management companies can assist the HFB in a big way by hosting a furniture drive at a designated property. Your residents might have a dresser or a kitchen table that is in need of replacing, but just haven’t had the motivation or time to move it out of their apartment home. Setting up a furniture drive gives your residents the opportunity to finally swap out their gently used furniture and support a charity that is dedicated to rebuilding Houston at the same time. HAA members are accustomed to the operations of a committee and volunteer work, so a project like this could work well for an HAA-member property or company.

If you are interested in hosting a furniture drive at your community, there are a few steps the HFB suggests taking. First, determine the best location for your drive and advertise it well

in advance. Advertising should start a month out to give your residents plenty of time to decide if they want to participate. After you have figured out how you will advertise your furniture drive, the next step HFB suggests is establishing a committee, or just simply selecting a few individuals who are tasked with specific roles and duties. Your dedicated furniture drive leaders will essentially be running the show. They will recruit volunteers, generate instructions and forms for your residents and ensure that things are running smoothly. Your furniture drive leaders will determine volunteer positions and begin the recruiting process. The final step is getting the donated furniture items to the HFB location.

Before you get started on your furniture drive, visit the HFB website at www.houstonfurniturebank.org/start-a-furniture-drive/ for a detailed checklist of all the steps listed above. Call the HFB and let them know that you are thinking about hosting a furniture drive. They will be able to coordinate pickup or drop-off times.

A furniture drive is a great way to support the HFB, but there are other ways to help if a furniture drive is not practical for you.

Donating personal furniture items is always a great option, as is donating money or your time. If you want to get the whole company involved, becoming a HFB sponsor is another great way to support the HFB. Visit the HFB at www.houstonfurniturebank.org for details on any of these options.

The HFB relies on donations and volunteers to serve the thousands of local families and individuals in need. Every donation and each minute of volunteer work provides hope and a step towards stability. We hope that our members will contribute any way they can.

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HAAppy

‘Tis the Season! Each December, ABODE puts a spotlight on the HAA staff – who we are and what we do.

Find out who can help you with your specific membership needs.

Photos by

MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

Holidays!

Jeff Hall, CAE Executive Vice President --Jeff has been the guiding force and leader of the association for more than 15 years and a key staff member since 1984. He oversees the entire association staff, its budgets and it’s mission. He works directly with the Executive Committee and Board of Directorson on all association functions, goals, planning and implementation.

713-595-0304/jhall@haaonline.org.

Susan Hinkley, CAE Vice President and General Manager --Susan guides several departments in serving the HAA membership, including Membership and Marketing, Resident Relations, Communications and Events and Meetings. In addition, she serves as liaison to the Product Service Council, a group of indus-

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try-leading suppliers, and the Community Outreach Committee, which is responsible for developing and coordinating new and ongoing community service programs. Susan is also the liaison for the Leadership Development Committee, which identifies industry professionals and educates them on the mission and strategic objectives of the association. Susan has been with HAA since 1988.

713-595-0313/shinkley@haaonline.org.

Andy Teas, CAE Vice President of Public Affairs --Andy monitors elections and government actions in Houston, Harris County, Montgomery County and on state and federal levels. He is responsible for keeping members aware of legislation and governmental actions that affect the multifamily business, and he represents the apartment industry before federal, state and local gov-

ernments. He also co-authors the monthly Legislative Update column and is staff liaison for the Legislative Committee. Andy has been with HAA since 1989.

713-595-0303/ateas@haaonline.org.

Emily Hilton, CPP Vice President of Professional Development --Emily is responsible for the overall marketing, budgeting and direction of HAF education programs. Emily serves as the staff liaison to the Education Advisory Council.

She oversees education programs, including NAA credentials, ACES, IROC, HAA NEXT, the APPLE workshop series, online learning and the Career and Community Development Committee, which promotes industry careers and apartment living to students. Emily has been with HAA since 2002.

713-595-0319/ehilton@haaonline.org.

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Nancy Li Lo, CPA, CGMA Vice President of Finance --Nancy joined HAA in 2008 and oversees cash management and revenue collection. She monitors operations and accounting for HAA’s three financial entities and the political action committee, prepares budgets and financial reports and handles personnel and employee benefits administration, insurance renewal and investments.

713-595-0310/nlo@haaonline.org.

Amanda Sherbondy Vice President of Membership and Marketing --Want to join or recruit for HAA? Are you a supplier and need help marketing your business? Amanda is here to help. She joined HAA in January 2007 and assists owner and suppliers in a multitude of ways. Her department works with prospective members, promotes involvement and oversees retention and recruitment efforts. Amanda also assists suppliers exhibiting at the yearly HAA Education Conference & Expo and advertising in ABODE magazine, the Directory & Buyer’s Guide and HAA Online. She can help suppliers make the most of the many educational and event sponsorship opportunities available. Amanda is also the staff liaison for the Expo Committee, GoGetters and the Ambassador ONE Society.

713-595-0316/asherbondy@haaonline.org.

Lauren Wolfson Membership and Marketing Coordinator --Lauren joined HAA in March 2015 and assists Amanda with all things membership and marketing, including retention, recruitment, calls from prospective members, assisting the Go-Getters and Ambassador ONE Society, working on the yearly membership drive and much more. She is also the staff liaison for the Street Team, HAA’s social media committee.

713-595-0322/lwolfson@haaonline.org.

Emily Bannwarth, CMP Director of Events and Meetings --Emily joined HAA in 2015 and is HAA’s event planner who designs and executes all of HAA’s annual events. She organizes the general meetings, special events and fundraisers, www.haaonline.org

including the Installation & New Year Gala, Honors Awards, Chili Fest and the Volleyball, Bowling and Golf Tournaments. She is the staff liaison for the Chili Cook-Off Committee.

713-595-0323/ebannwarth@haaonline.org.

Marie Garza Building Manager --If you would like a tour of our facility or more information about renting the Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center for your next education event, contact Marie. A former staffer who returned to HAA in 2015, Marie not only maintains the HAA/HAF building, she oversees rentals, office supply purchases, vendor contracts, compiles information and sells forms for HAA. 713-595-0306/mgarza@haaonline.org.

Alpa Patel Public Affairs Specialist --Alpa joined HAA in February of this year and assists Andy Teas, HAA staff and members to implement and achieve HAA government affairs, media and public relations goals. Additionally, she assists Andy with the Legislative Committee meetings. Alpa oversees administration, fundraising and endorsement recommendations relating to the HAA Political Action Committee and monitoring, communication and advocacy with the City of Houston, particularly the Office of the Mayor, the City Council and key departments including police, fire, planning, public works and health.

713-595-0302/apatel@haaonline.org.

Lauren Turner, CMP Strategic Growth Manager --Lauren joined HAA in February 2014 and works with Public Affairs supporting HAA’s initiatives developing relationships with public officials and educating them on the multifamily industry. She serves HAA members throughout the association’s 12county service area with targeted networking and educational programs for managers in locations convenient to their properties. She also oversees the Strategic Growth Committee.

713-595-0335/lturner@haaonline.org.

Tina DeFiore Director of Rental Credit Reporting --RCR, in partnership with

CoreLogic, offers a comprehensive suite of resident screening services available as an exclusive member benefit. Tina joined the staff in 2011 and is responsible for RCR operations, which includes, collection of data, sales and marketing, Management District partnerships, group training and retention programs for existing customers. She also manages the long-standing partnership with CoreLogic.

713-595-0330/tdefiore@haaonline.org.

Mariana Lima RCR Account Manager --Mariana oversees the maintenance of RCR account information and updates, conducts site visits, handles training issues and customer service and assists residents with rental reports, working closely with CoreLogic. She joined the HAA staff in July of this year and is our newest staff member.

713-595-0329/mlima@haaonline.org.

Cynthia Gonzalez Front Desk Administrator --The first person you meet upon arriving at HAA is Cynthia. A veteran of more than 29 years, Cynthia handles hundreds of calls a day from our members and from the general public. She performs other duties that include maintaining our database and assisting the Resident Relations and RCR departments.

713-595-0300/cgonzalez@haaonline.org

Matilde Luna Director of Resident Relations --Resident Relations handles disputes between apartment residents and owner/management companies to provide an alternative to filing court cases. The department receives more than 1,000 calls and hundreds of online complaint forms each month. Matilde, a 25-year HAA veteran, answers questions from both apartment personnel and residents concerning leases and rights and responsibilities. She also oversees two Resident Relations committees.

713-595-0331/mluna@haaonline.org.

Karen Mitchell Education and Meetings Coordinator --Karen joined HAA in January 2012. She handles course registrations and December 2017

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questions about credentials and other education programs. Karen also maintains records and communicates with current and former students and assists with registration during many HAA events.

713-595-0314/kmitchell@haaonline.org.

Art Eidman Director of Information Technology --Art joined HAA in January 2011.

He oversees all information technology functions of HAA, including computer, database and web access for Rental Credit Reporting and HAA Online. He also oversees technical support for the staff.

713-595-0305/aeidman@haaonline.org.

Will Alfaro Web Systems Manager --Will has been on staff since January 2006. Will is the designer and producer of the HAA website, www.haaonline.org, and HAA’s mass email communications, including our weekly e-newsletter, HAA This Week. Will also manages and promotes our job board, provides information technology function

support and oversees HAA’s Ektron Content Management System and Web 2.0 technologies.

713-595-0327/walfaro@haaonline.org.

Cindy Ramirez Accounting Manager --Cindy is completing 11 years with HAA. She assists in revenue collections and daily operational accounting items, including recordkeeping, invoicing and member accounts.

713-595-0311/cramirez@haaonline.org.

Lan Tran Accounting Clerk --Lan joined HAA in 2008 and assists with daily operational accounting items, record-keeping and accounts payable and assists with member accounts.

713-595-0308/ltran@haaonline.org.

Morgan Taylor Writer/Editor --Morgan joined HAA in February 2016. She edits, manages and produces editorial content for ABODE maga-

zine and the association. Morgan writes feature articles, generates industry-related content, procures and edits articles submitted by members and HAA staff, assists with the association’s social media platforms and shoots photos at select association events and of properties for periodic features.

713-595-0334/mtaylor@haaonline.org Deborah Nix Director of Publications and Design --Deborah oversees the creative and editorial development and production of HAA publications, including ABODE and the Directory & Buyer’s Guide. She is the artist behind in-house projects and association promotions, including event logos and materials.

She coordinates all printing and mail fulfillment.

She has been with HAA since January 1992.

713-595-0333/dnix@haaonline.org For more about HAA, check us out online at www.haaonline.org.

The HAA Staff wishes you and yours a very happy holiday season and many more!

Rental Credit Reporting (RCR) was established in 1977 to solve screening problems the Houston Apartment Association founders felt plagued the local apartment industry. RCR has unsurpassed data on resident rental histories in the Houston region. The Houston Apartment Association and CoreLogic are partnered to expand RCR and include the following searches in one bundled report with immediate and unlimited inquiry access.

National Landlord-Tenant Data • Texas Criminal Data • Terrorist Check Sex Offender Search Move-in/Move-out Entry • Eviction Entry • Inquiry History Quick and Easy • Cost Effective Immediate Access • Monthly Activity Report Subscribe Today – For approximately 32 cents per unit per month, RCR can help make sure you know just who your prospective residents are. * For properties 49 units or less, you have unlimited inquiries for $10 per month.

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

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These helpful hints take the stress out of rrenovating or replacing cabinets.

BROOKS LASER, Cinch Cabinet Refacing Kits

Challenges & Choices T

here comes a time in the life of every apartment community when cabinets become a drag. They eventually get old, out-of-fashion, worn out or damaged. And cabinets are important. When prospect residents tour an apartment home, cabinets can make a powerful impression, especially in an unfurnished space, setting the tone for the entire apartment home (along with the window coverings, flooring and fixtures).

There comes a time in the life of every apartment community when cabinets become a drag. They eventually get old, out-of-fashion, worn out or damaged. And cabinets are important. When prospect residents tour an apartment home, cabinets can make a powerful

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impression, especially in an unfurnished space, setting the tone for the entire apartment home (along with the window coverings, flooring and fixtures).

If cabinets aren’t aesthetically appealing prospect residents will more than likely choose to lease at another community, and if they are failing, current residents will notice and they can eventually choose to live elsewhere. The old cabinets drag down occupancy, effective rents and cash flow. Something needs to be done. But what?

Cabinets can be intimidating. They are the core of a kitchen – supporting the countertops, surrounding the flooring, entangled with the plumbing. If you start messing with the cabinets, where does it end? How long will it take?

And how much will it cost? There are a lot of questions associated with cabinet renovation.

All those questions are a big reason why cabinet-related projects are sometimes delayed.

Property managers don’t understand their choices, and they don’t have a lot of time for research.

Let’s start with a big picture overview. There are three basic choices for cabinet renovation: Repaint the old cabinets (more commonly known as resurfacing), remove and replace the cabinet boxes or reface the cabinets with new doors and drawer fronts. These three routes have different advantages and weaknesses. The best solution depends on the circumstances at each community. Here is a table with an overview of each of the three options at right:

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Cabinet Repainting (Resurfacing)

Full Box Cabinet Replacement

Cabinet Refacing (Replacing Doors and Drawer Fronts)

Cost

• Least expensive

• Most expensive • Requires removal and replacement of sink, countertop, cabinets and often flooring and backsplash

• Half the cost of full box replacement • Twice the cost of resurfacing

Speed

• Fastest (can be done in one day)

• Slowest • Takes time to demo old cabinets, install new cabinets, reinstall countertops, paint walls and repair/replace flooring

• Fast • It generally takes one day to paint existing cabinet boxes and half a day to install new doors and drawer fronts

Resulting Look

• Newly painted surface on old cabinets • Cannot create a wood grain finish • Limited to the shape of the existing doors

• Wide variety of looks and quality available at a wide range of costs

• A variety of styles, colors, door shapes and wood grain finishes are available

Cons

• Often smelly • Doesn’t easily allow hinge replacement • Requires more ongoing maintenance than refacing or full box replacements

• More construction waste to dispose of • Often multiple trades involved

• Cabinet interiors remain unchanged, unless they are also painted

Especially Suitable When

• Budget is super tight • This is often determined by the rent potential of the project location

• Cabinet boxes aren’t structurally sound

• Countertops are high quality • Old hinges are face mounted or otherwise unfashionable • Existing cabinet doors are damaged or have an unfashionable shape • Cabinets are structurally sound

Less Suitable When

• Door shape is unfashionable (e.g., slab doors with j-pull) • Existing finish is peeling off (whether paint, vinyl or some other finish) • Old doors are water damaged, swollen or falling apart • A high-end look is the desired result

• Countertops are high quality • Flooring or backsplash would be difficult to patch or replace

• Old cabinets are not structurally sound

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These basic choices in cabinet renovation have been unchanged for decades. Repainting cabinets is easy to understand, as is removing old cabinets and replacing them with new ones. Cabinet refacing is a less understood option, but it’s a viable choice for many projects. And now a new door technology has the potential to make cabinet refacing a more popular choice than ever before.

For more than 20 years, many kitchen cabinets for both apartments and single-family homes were made with a technology called “thermofoil.”

These doors are a one-piece, fiberboard core glued to a vinyl face with a heat-activated glue. The backs of these doors are generally melamine or paper as opposed to vinyl. Over the years, many of these doors have failed, with the vinyl face “delaminating” or coming loose from the core because of heat exposure or glue failure over time.

A new cabinet door choice offers property managers another option for refacing, an alternative to thermofoil. The new door technology is a fivepiece foil door in which four pieces of molding surrounds a center panel, the way most cabinet doors have been made for centuries. This style of door can be made with vinyl or any other film, and has the same options finishes and colors that thermofoil doors offer. A five-piece door is constructed so the face of the door can’t peel off. The critical joints are tucked in where the moldings meet the center panel, to prevent failure. And because the front of the door is the same material as the back, these doors are unlikely to warp.

This five-piece foil door style dominates the popular priced cabinet market in Europe and Canada, and is growing rapidly in the United States.

Many manufacturers offer it. Examples include some styles in the Marta Stewart Living collection at The Home Depot.

Another choice facing property managers is whether to hire a contractor for the renovation or do the work in-house. A renovation contractor generally costs more, but will have more experience. An in-house maintenance team offers a lower cost and is easier to manage. However, the work requires a maintenance team’s time, there may be a learning curve and the maintenance team may not be motivated to take on new responsibilities.

Some supplier partners in the cabinet refacing space send market kits directly to property managers, with many or all the items required for a refacing project, including doors, fronts, matching paint for cabinet boxes, hinges, pulls, screws and other accessories and tools to simplify installation. These kits simplify the management of the project. They can be installed either by a contractor or the property’s maintenance team.

Although several choices must be made to choose the right approach to cabinet renovation, the payoff is big. The return on investment from cabinet renovation can be huge. For example, if you spend $1,000 on a cabinet renovation in an $800 per month apartment home, and as a result you get a $30 amenity fee and raise occupancy from 89 percent to 91 percent, you will get $4,676 more in rent over the next nine years. The return on your $1,000 investment is $520 per year, and it starts as soon as the apartment home is leased. The annualized return is 67 percent over a nine year period. That is a fantastic investment by any measure.

Cabinet renovation is a challenge, but it often pays off with happier residents, quicker leasing, higher rents and a great financial return.

Brooks Laser is the vice president of sales for Cinch Cabinet Refacing Kits, a Houston manufacturer of cabinet doors and fronts.

Cinch delivers complete kits for cabinet refacing in seven days and offers free demonstration kits for large projects with approved budgets. Cinch’s European door technology never delaminates. For more information, visit www.CinchKit.com, call Brooks at 844-4-A-Cinch, or email him at B.Laser@CinchKit.com. Cinch is a member HAA, TAA, NAA and BBB.

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Good or Bad?

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Smart or Dumb?

Learn the difference between good, bad, smart and dumb data, and how to use it.

By

L

ike many industries, the multifamily industry has embraced and developed technologies to make our decision-making processes more efficient and our businesses more profitable.

At the very core of all of this technology is information – data. No matter where you are collecting your data from (whether it be property management software, utility billing providers, utility companies, financial institutions, third-party information technology providers, vendors, Google, etc.), data is available to us in quantities, and qualities, unlike ever before.

So much data…So now what?

Well…is it any good?

To simplify how to qualify data, here are two questions to consider: 1. Is this good data or bad data?

2. Is this smart data or dumb data?

The first question seems simple, but the answer can be ridiculously complex.

Good Data or Bad Data?

Obviously, we don’t want to make any decisions based on bad data. But how do you know if it is bad data? The scary thing is, you often don’t. Start thinking about where this data is coming from, why this is data being used this way and how does this data meet your objectives. Let your supplier partner explain themselves. It’s not enough to hope you are not using bad data. For whomever is providing your data, even if it’s your own data, these systems need to have measures in place to protect your decision-making process from bad data before it is ever received. Warning, most supplier partners and software systems don’t have meaningful protections. Bad data is frightening because it is hard to locate and hard to see.

Here is an example: Most property management software systems will let you post a sin-

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ANDREW LEACH, Southwest Utility Billing

gle rent payment more than once within the same period. So instead of having a $950 rent payment properly credited to a resident’s rent obligation, many software systems will allow different employees to post the same rent payment, resulting in a $950 credit due resident.

This same credit is picked up by a property’s utility billing company and next month this resident can march into a leasing office demanding his money or refusing to pay his next month’s rent and he has the proof in his hand, his monthly convergent bill. There are a lot of typical processes in this example and yet bad data sailed right into your resident’s hand.

All because the property management software did not have a failsafe to prevent this.

Smart Data or Dumb Data?

Dumb data isn’t dumb in the sense that it is stupid, it simply means that this data is not dynamic, it is only a reflection of numbers and values. Dumb data is often found in the form of data files or spreadsheets. A perfect example of dumb data is your rent roll report, a line by line report of every apartment home, resident, lease date and recurring charge on your property. You look at your rent roll report every day. They are full of information and can be used as a great tool. However, if you have a 400-unit property and there is an error in your property management software, good luck finding that one error amongst 400 lines and a dozen columns on your rent roll report, for each property in your portfolio.

Smart data can take many forms but you always start with your goal and what data is important to the decision process. Smart data considers only what is important and is designed to mine through large amounts of data to drill down to specific answers to questions you may have. Smart data can weed through those 400 lines in your rent roll report and find the unit that has an incorrect rent

set-up. Smart data finds and protects you against bad data.

Here is another example: A 300-unit property’s August water bill is $13,500. Last February, this property had a $12,000 water bill. A typical analysis of this $1,500 increase over six months could warn of a 40 percent increase in the property’s water cost over the calendar year. The data is good data, the numbers are accurate, but the analysis is wrong. This data is dumb data and doesn’t consider both what we want to know nor does it consider what is important. In this example, what is important is that the winter, February water bill was $12,000 for a 28-day service period while property occupancy was 92 percent. August’s $13,500 summer water bill was for a 33-day service period and occupancy improved to 95 percent. Smart data that considers what is important in our example would make the decision process very clear. Instead of a 20 percent, six months increase and a seemingly 40 percent annual increase in water costs, it turns out that our property’s August water bill is 7.5 percent lower than February’s bill and seasonally adjusted is 14.4 percent lower.

Starting with good data and then considering what you want to know to create smart data, can help you make educated and powerful decisions. Demand more from your supplier partners, your software and billing providers. It should be each party’s responsibility to safeguard from bad data and to enhance our decision-making processes with smart data.

Andrew Leach is the president and owner of Southwest Utility Billing, a Houston based company specializing in utility billing, data software and auditing and water conservation.

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On the Road with HAA

Annual Montgomery and San Jacinto County Justice of the Peace and Constable Appreciation Luncheon Thursday, November 9 at BRIO Tuscan Grill – The Woodlands It was a packed house for our Fourth Annual Holiday Appreciation Luncheon.

More than 30 HAA members had a chance to meet and talk with their local justices of the peace and constables to discuss certain issues and topics in their precincts. We will be returning to Montgomery County in early January for an elected official screening.

HAA IS REACHING OUT to better serve our members by bringing targeted networking and educational events to different parts of our 12-county service area. Contact strategic growth manager Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org to sign up for these FREE, management-only events where you can learn about issues affecting your area and network with your fellow managers. Want to host an event? We are looking for member properties to host Area Council meetings. Contact lturner@haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament Monday, October 10 at Riverbend Country Club Thank you to our many generous sponsors: President's Cart Sponsor Ameritex Movers Inc. Bag Drop Presto Maintenance Supply Practice Range Guardian Construction Breakfast Sponsor AAA Plumbers Respage Beverage Cart Apartments.com CORT Furniture Rental Beverage Station Ferguson Facility Supply Impact Floors SentriForce Hole Sponsor Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT Brandt Electrical Services Inc. Camp Construction Services Chadwell Supply DNM Contracting Inc. Maintenance Supply Headquarters Orkin Pest Control Inc. Pavecon Ltd. PPG Paints Rasa Floors Richmond & Associates Landscaping Secure Insurance Sunny Rock International LLC WeDoTrash Wilmar Industries Inc. Tiger Drive Camp Construction Services Closest to the Pin Contest ApartmentData.com Longest Drive Contest Valet Living "19th Hole" Sponsor Power Express TPI Construction & Painting Inc. Awards Ceremony All About Doody Pet Solutions LLC Brookway Horticultural Services Camp Construction Services Ferguson Facility Supply Poolsure TPI Construction & Painting Inc.

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Congratulations to the tournament winners: Closest to the Pin Adam Beck Longest Drive Will McGinnis 1st Place Kirk Tate, Roger Camp, Steve Hefner and Matthew Nunn 2nd Place Co Deborde, Scott Berg, Tony Vyoral and Greg Eaux 3rd Place Brian Acome, Ryan Campbell, Brian Farrell and Greg Boyt

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament

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On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Retreat at Westpark

151-300 UNITS Garden, Built 2000-2015

Property: Retreat at Westpark Owner/Management: Francis Property Management Location: 10575 Westpark Drive, located on the corner of Sam Houston Tollway and Westpark Tollway Units: 156 Built: 2003 Web: www.apartmentswestchasetx.com Interesting features: Nestled in peaceful Hill Country, residents at the Retreat at Westpark still have access to all of the conveniences of Westchase being just minutes from the Galleria and Downtown Houston.

Rich with elegant souther charm, the generously-sized one and two bedroom apartments are designed for gracious living with distinctive features and options that make them the perfect canvas for your personal style. Each apartment home comes with 9 feet ceilings, elegant crown molding, spacious and private balconies or patios that extend your living area into the lush landscape of the Retreat at Westpark, gourmet kitchens, full-sized washers and dryers, walk-in closets and much more.

Community amenities include a resort-style pool deck and poolside cabana, featuring gas grills for fun and festive alfresco meals, a 24-hour, state-of-the-art fitness center, a business center, assigned and covered parking 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!”

December 2017

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

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

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 al surprised that they nomin said, laughing. “ I’ve been business for 15 years. I nev anything. For me, if I get m or get it right, I’m satisfied don’t need recognition. As resident and my managem owner are happy, I’m happ good experience, though, way. I didn’t know that so 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!”

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Green Meadows

151-300 UNITS Built 1980-1989

Property: Green Meadows Owner/Management: Rockstar Capital Management Location: 17310 Kieth Harrow Blvd., on the corner of Kieth Harrow Boulevard and Queenston Boulevard just miles from Highway 6 Units: 240 Built: 1983 Web: www.greenmeadowshouston.com Interesting features: The moment residents walk through the front door of Green Meadows, the feeling of comfort and security is immediately felt. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds and a dedicated staff contributes to a higher standard of living.

Convenient shopping, award-winning schools, local museums and parks are all close at hand, with sponsored activities to develop new hobbies while getting to know your neighbors.

Residents have a variety of floor plans to choose from ranging in one to three bedrooms. Square footage starts at 581 square feet. The largest floor plan is a three-bedroom apartment home with 1,193 square feet.

Each apartment home has been rennovated and amenities vary with each apartment home.

Community amenities include a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a business center, a children’s park, zumba classes and more. 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!”

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

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

December 2017

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59

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Park at Voss

MORE THAN 300 UNITS Built before 1980

Property: Park at Voss Owner/Management: Asset Plus/Barvin Group Location: 2424 S. Voss Road, on the corner of South Voss Road and Westheimer Road just miles from the 6-10 Loop and Southwest Freeway Units: 810 Built: 1971 Web: www.parkatvoss.com Interesting features: At Park at Voss, residents enjoy being conveniently located in the Galleria-area of Houston. Their studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartment homes offer spacious floorplans, large closets, vinyl wood floors, Frieze carpet, fireplaces and private patios/balconies. This pet-friendly community’s amazing amenities are only the beginning. Super-sized bedrooms provide ample space to incorporate personal touch, and accent walls lend a stylish touch to every rental home. This is luxury living at its finest.

This apartment community is located close to dining, shopping, museums and entertainment. Work up a sweat in their fitness studio, fitness classes includes yoga, spinning etc., play sand volleyball with friends or just relax in our hot tub. Also featured is an on-site bark park, and families love the large playscape.

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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!”

December 2017

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

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

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

I wasn’t expecting it at a surprised that they nomin said, laughing. “ I’ve been business for 15 years. I ne anything. For me, if I get or get it right, I’m satisfie don’t need recognition. A resident and my managem owner are happy, I’m hap good experience, though, way. I didn’t know that so 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

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Campbell Grove

151-300 UNITS Built before 1980

Property: Campbell Grove Owner/Management: Relik Realty Location: 1515 Campbell Road, just a few miles north of I-10 Units: 184 Built: 1960 Web: www.campbellgrove.com Interesting features: Campbell Grove is a resort-style gated community offering one, two and three bedroom apartment homes nestled amongst wooded and landscaped grounds.

Located in Spring Branch, this community is close to the Katy Freeway, Northwest Freeway and the 6-10 Loop. Campbell Grove is just minutes away from many fine-dining and entertainment options.

Community amenities include a resort-style pool, outdoor kitchen pavilion and barbecue facilities, a playground for children, an internet cafe with Wi-Fi, a business center, a fitness center with fitness classes, premium clothes care and laundry facilities, pet friendly with on-site doggy station, gated remote access, excellent resident service, fantastic monthly Campbell Grove resident events and so much more.

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!”

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!”

December 2017

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On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Palms at Chimney Rock

151-300 UNITS

Property: Palms at Chimney Rock Owner/Management: Rockstar Capital Management Location: 6700 Chimney Rock Road, off Balliare Boulevard just miles from the 6-10 Loop Units: 124 Built: 1964 Web: www.palmsatchimneyrock.com Interesting features: From the moment residents walk enter Palms at Chimney Rock, the feeling of comfort and security is felt. Cutting edge amenities, meticulously-groomed grounds and a dedicated staff contributes to a higher standard of living.

Convenient shopping, award-winning schools, local museums and parks are all close at hand, with sponsored activities to develop new hobbies while getting to know your neighbors.

Residents have a variety of floor plans to choose from ranging in one to three bedrooms. Square footage starts at 575 square feet. The largest floor plan is a three-bedroom apartment home with 1,100 square feet.

Each apartment home has been rennovated and amenities vary with each apartment home.

Community amenities include a swimming pool, laundry facilities, a business center, a children’s park, a 24-hours fitness center 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!”

December 2017

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

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

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!”

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!”

On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by The Grove on Gladstell

LESS THEN 100 UNITS

Property: The Grove on Gladstell Owner/Management: Celtic Realty Advisors Location: 311 Gladstell St., in Conroe just east of I-45 Units: 52 Built: 1970 Web: www.thegroveongladstell.com Interesting features: Conveniently located just minutes from I-45, residents have easy access to Downtown Houston and surrounding colleges such as Sam Houston State University, the University of Houston, Lone Star College and more.

This community was renovated in 2015 and now showcases beautiful vinyl plank floors, granite counter tops, all new black appliances including over-sized microwaves, custom features such as ceiling fans and lighting, plumbing fixtures, tiled showers, hand cut designer cabinets, vaulted ceilings, wood-burning fireplaces, walk-in closets and so much more.

Residents living at The Grove on Gladstell can choose from their three floorplans consisting of one and two bedrooms. A two bedroom with a loft floorplan can easily be converted into a three-bedroom apartment home.

Community amenities include lush landscaping with charming surroundings, parking for residents and guests, a clothing care center, a sparkling, resort-style swimming pool, a barbecue and picnic area and more.

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!”

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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Welcome Mat

Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS

OWNERS

AFA Investments Frank Addivinola 6 Liberty Sq #11 Boston, MA 02109 617-777-5936

Avesta Marlena Leary 5118 N. 56th St. #201 Tampa, FL 33610 813-444-1600 The Edison Apartments

Bascom Jason Hanna 2591 Dallas Pkwy #300 Frisco, TX 75034 972-731-4362 Referred by Diane Gilbert, CPM

DCM Cancun LP Sharika Smith Dixon 3947 Oak Plank Road Fresno, TX 77545 281-451-6045 Cancun Apartments

Green Palm Development LLC Stephen Davis 20426 Apache Lake Drive Katy, TX 77449 713-201-7784 Referred by Trey Stone

JCW Property Management Carl Wilson 5100 Westheimer Road #200 Houston, TX 77056 713-598-5409

Monument Property Management Ishaan Aggarwal 2 Goodson Drive Houston, TX 77060 832-273-4257 Casa Verde Apartments SOLAZ Estates LLC Zeeshan Azmat P.O. Box 841148 Pearland, TX 77584 713-303-1691 West Republic Apartments Timothy Martin Timothy P. Martin 610 E Roosevelt Road #200 Wheaton, IL 60187 630-430-8622

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SUPPLIERS National Church Residences Renee Carver 2335 North Bank Drive Columbus, OH 43220 614-273-3785 Bayou Glen Apartments Evening Star Villa Magnolia Acres Apartments Morning Star Apartments Oak Bluff Village Apartments Oleander Commons Apartments Prairie Village Apartments Tejas Cove Apartments The Management Place LLC Daniel Ellison 1830 Johanna Drive Houston, TX 77055 713-703-0705 La Catalina Apartments 1818 Thonig Apartments Urban Matrix Properties LP Jose Gomez 6125 Luther Lane MB141 Dallas, TX 75225 817-233-8021 Urban Matrix Properties Worth Capital Fernando Moraes 233 E. 62nd New York, NY 10065 212-527-8140 Referred by Diane Gilbert, CPM x3 Properties LLC Rich Slobodnik 7200 Roaring Springs Dr Austin, TX 78736 512-387-1120 Greenbriar Apartments Yates Hawaii Inc M Yates 8310 Kelsey Pass Missouri City, TX 77459 281-444-4868 Referred by Tina Cavaco

Aquatic Training Institute Eric Blevins 6340 N. Eldridge Pkwy Ste. N #135 Houston, TX 77041 832-244-1203 Training Consultant, Educational Consultants Referred by Jeff Blevins, CAS

Best Way Towing Juan A. Contreras 10027 Valley Falls Court Houston, TX 77078-3201 832-413-9834 Wrecker Service, Towing Service Referred by Tina Cavaco

Blue Sky Remodeling Inc Manuel Gonzalez 18111 Holly Thorn Drive Tomball, TX 77375 832-766-0208 Remodeling & RepairBuilding Contractors, Paint

Continental Adjusters Inc Marlene Scheidel 8401 N. Central Expy #106 Dallas, TX 75225 214-373-6600 Adjusters, Insurance Consultants

Houston SEAL Patrol Division LLC Moein Tahani 15807 S Alley Court Houston, TX 77082 832-533-5338 Courtesy Patrol, Security Guard/Patrol Service

Ja-Mar Roofing & Sheet Metal David Phillips P.O. Box 40159 Austin, TX 78704 713-655-7663 Roofing Consultants, Roofing Contractors

Disaster Restore 365 Nathan Evans 8615 Jackrabbit Road #J Houston, TX 77095 281-815-5540 General Contractors, Fire/ Water Damage Restoration

Monument Roofing Systems Lacey Liner 8141 Chemical Road Beaumont, TX 77705 800-580-9343 Roofing Contractors, Roofing Consultants

Encore Printstore Kevin Merkel 21815 Katy Frwy #C110 Katy, TX 77450 281-398-7444 Printers, Banners, Flags & Pennants Referred by Debbie Andreozzi Goulas & Associates Inc Mark Goulas 1505 Whispering Pines Drive Houston, TX 77055 713-667-8774 Architects, Interior & Decorator Service Referred by Tina Cavaco Griddy Energy Scott Corn 11811 North Fwy #546 Houston, TX 77060 818-415-9127 Electricity Providers

December 2017

Kairo’s Construction LLC Rebecca Garcia 675 Bering Drive #590 Houston, TX 77057 713-425-5425 General Contractors Referred by Claude Arnold LMDC Crew LLC Leah McVeigh 7219 Ridge Oak Drive Houston, TX 77088 832-262-7021 Movers, Interior & Decorator Service Referred by Leah McVeigh

Native Services Inc Michelle B. Homminga P.O. Box 1983 Friendswood, TX 77549 713-434-1231 Excavating Contractors, Sewer Contractors Referred by Claude Arnold Quick Relief Restoration Shawna Berger 1771 Upland Drive #102 Houston, TX 77043 713-493-2574 Disaster Recovery/Relief, Fire/ Water Damage Restoration, Remodeling & RepairBuilding Contractors Referred by Maika Esacove, CAS

Signquick Larry Bouley 1908 Hialeah Drive #A Seabrook, TX 77586 281-474-1313 Banners, Flags & Pennants, Signs Slingshot Concierge Group Justin Burke 18600 S Parkview Drive#433 Houston, TX 77084 832-470-9954 Cable Service, TelevisionCable/CATV/Sat Systems Summit Revitalization Group LLC Ray Granda P.O. Box 138 Montgomery, TX 77356 936-449-1345 Electric Contractors, Lighting - Outdoor Swiff-Train Company Kara Carter 10850 Train Court Houston, TX 77041 713-937-1448 Floor Materials, Tile Dealers Referred by Kyle Turney TurnServ Jason Dixon 24771 Leitrim St. Hempstead, TX 77445 713-757-2937 Painting Contractors, Floor Laying, Refinishing & Resurfacing Waste Collection Services Ronald Reese 1102 Sherfield Ridge Drive Katy, TX 77450 281-536-3752 Trash Service - Valet WBI General Contractor Todd Glover 25275 Budde Road #21 Spring, TX 77380 281-406-1990 Asphalt & Asphalt Products, Building Contractors, Construction MgmtConsultants, Disaster Recovery/Relief, Fire/Water Damage Restoration, General Contractors, Remodeling & RepairBuilding Contractors 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!”

s s b a o d r o g w w

I wasn’t expecting it a surprised that they no said, laughing. “ I’ve b business for 15 years. I anything. For me, if I g or get it right, I’m satis don’t need recognition resident and my mana owner are happy, I’m h good experience, thou way. I didn’t know tha watching!”

cinch ad pg 65.qxp_Layout 1 11/16/17 8:31 AM Page 1

Go-gets pg 66.qxp_Layout 1 11/16/17 8:32 AM Page 1

The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS

MAKING MEMBERSHIP MATTER Recruit all year round and become part of the Go-Getter Club.

Meetings are now quarterly!

Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win one of the following items: 4 1st Quarter: Yeti 40 Hopper cooler 4 2nd Quarter: Apple Watch 4 3rd Quarter: Samsung 40” Smart TV 4 4th Quarter: $500 Holiday Cash Plus, for each new member you recruit, you’ll earn a chance to win gift cards ranging from $25 to $250!

JOIN A TEAM and build relationships with like-minded members. Get involved with Go-Getters and make lasting industry connections.

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

Mark your calendar!

HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Members who have recruited more than 100 companies Claude Arnold Monette Reynolds Kenn Brown Sherry Stevenson Tina Cavaco Kirk Tate Kevin Fenn Suan Tinsley Diane Gilbert Sonny Unverzagt Anita Harrison Del Walmsley Dwayne Henson Nancé Wells Mike Koch H.P. Paul Young Merry Mount Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks

The final meeting will be hosted at Cafe Adobe in the Marq-E Center 7620 Katy Fwy, Houston, TX 77024

December 7 3:30 p.m.

Register online today!

Sponsored by Foundation Specialists and Rasa Floors

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 or Lauren in the Membership Department at members@haaonline.org.

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December 2017

www.haaonline.org

naa update pg 26,27,67.qxp_Layout 1 11/16/17 8:04 AM Page 3

Law, continued from Page 12 California Dreamin’ About More Rent Control Rent control continues to be pushed as a way to address housing affordability by tenants’ rights groups and state and local level governments in California.

As AB1506 – a bill to repeal the CostaHawkins Act – has stalled, the Alliance of Californians for Community Empowerment (a spin-off of the now defunct group ACORN) has launched an effort to repeal the CostaHawkins through a statewide ballot measure.

Initial documents were filed with the state Attorney General’s office on October 23rd, and within the next 60 days the proposal will be given a title and summary. After it receives final approval, supporters will need to gather 365,880 valid voter signatures within a sixmonth window to qualify for the 2018 ballot.

At the local level, there has also been a significant amount of rent control activity.

In Santa Cruz, the Lower Ocean Neighborhood Assembly and Santa Cruz Tenant Organizing Committee are both gearing up to bring rent control to the city. Their focus is mobilizing supporters for a ballot measure proposal next year.

Meanwhile, in Glendale, the Glendale Tenants Union presented the City Council with more than 11,000 signatures in support of a rent control initiative in the city. However, a filing error has prevented this measure from advancing forward.

While it appears that the San Francisco Bay Area has been a hotbed of support for rent control advocates, the City of Palo Alto has taken a much different approach than neighboring Mountain View. Three City Council members – Karen Holman, Lydia Kou, and Tom DuBois – requested that rent control measures be studied. The request went down in flames with a final vote of 6-3. In speaking against rent control, Palo Alto Mayor Greg Scharff pointed out that while rent control proponents may have the best intentions, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions.”

For more information, or to seek guidance if a state bill or local proposal to address rent regulation comes up, please contact Robert Melvin, Manager of Government Affairs.

www.haaonline.org

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The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE

ANOTHER GREAT YEAR! The Ambassadors finish out the year strong with outreach and community support.

Ambassador ONE Society members with at least 10 points, ranked by points earned:

1. The Ambassador “ONE of the Month” is Vince Mallace, Roto-Rooter Services Co with 61 points.

1

Vince Mallace Shera Lehman Raedean Mitchem Chelsea Quinteros Angie Lavrack Mat Tilley April Shane Wilton Paul Marks Marivel Bownds Arely Pena Liz Levins Logan Richter Shala Johnson Doug Oehl Shannon Bass Alex Antonov Kristin McLaughlin Keith Sobolik Paul Gilmore Marcus Wheatfall Angel Lopez Will McGinnis Kurt Allshouse Megan Stone David Lindley Ryan Weis Zamara Nitcholas Matt Mistica Juana Estrada Phillip Price Blake Subinsky Marcy Holmes Hector Mendez Peggy Charles Diamela Bravo Jason Norbeck Pete Lopez Chad Emrie Derrick McClain Joey Rodriguez Shaun Callaway Teresa Harrell Whitney Yeakey Kelly Murphy Danyell Wilkerson Kyle Turney

Roto-Rooter Texscape Apartment Data Services Gail Construction The Liberty Group WeDoTrash PrestoX eConserve Valet Living The Liberty Group

378 330 216 157 133 96 92 86 79 64 53 JMI Contractors 53 Redi Carpet 49 Power Express 39 Lee & Barrier Builders 33 Lone Star Pro Services 32 Mohawk Industries 32 Ted W Allen & Associates 30 Vinson Guard Service 26 Triple Seal Insulation 22 Metropolitan Staffing Solutions 21 Incite Energy LLC 21 The Allshouse Group 19 The Liberty Group 19 FSI Construction 18 Impact Floors 18 Greenlogic Lighting & Electric 18 Bio-One 16 American Technologies Inc. 15 HD Supply 15 HD Supply 14 Designs by Holmes Interior Design 14 PPG Paints 13 Sunny Rock International 13 Green City Security 12 Impact Floors 12 HD Supply 12 BH North America 11 Texas Commercial Contractors Inc. 11 The Urban Foresters 11 Earthworks Inc. 11 Brookway Horticultural Services 11 PPG Paints 11 Arbor Contract Carpet 10 ApartmentData.com 10 Impact Floors 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, attend an orientation and one of the meetings listed here, or contact Amanda in the Membership Department at 713-595-0316, or email asherbondy@haaonline.org.

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2

3

4

2. First Place Team “The Cool Kids Corner” with 99 points 3. Second Place “Team HC²” with 34 points 4. Third Place Team “Cash ME Onsite” with 30 points

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Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • Adara Communities: Parkside Place, 384 units at 6220 FM 2920 in Spring.

• Alpha-Barnes Real Estate Services: Lansbourough Apartments, 176 units at 10010 Cullen Blvd.

• Asset Plus Corp.: Redwood Gardens Apartments, 212 units at 910 Redwood Street and Azalea Place Apartments, 290 units at 5900 Bissonnet Street.

• Avesta: The Edison Apartments, 272 units at 11770 Westheimer Road.

• Axiom Residential: Villas at Braeburn Apartments, 80 units at 9600 Braes Bayou Drive; Solano Apartments, 262 units at 535 W. Nasa Parkway in Webster; The Lenox Apartments, 163 units at 6014 Winsome Lane; Lamonte Park Townhomes, 128 units at 3737 Watonga Blvd.; Bay Park Apartments, 124 units at 3520 E. Nasa Parkway in Seabrook and Bay House Apartments, 190 units at 2041 San Sebastian Court.

• City Gate Property Group: Woodglen Village Apartments, 250 units at 11111 W. Montgomery Road.

• CKR Property Management LLC: Sherwood Glen Apartments, 56 units at 3805 Sherwood Lane.

• DCM Cancun LP: Cancun Apartments, 324 units at 1855 Wirt Road.

• Dominium Management Services: Lakecrest Village Apartments, 224 units at 9393 Tidwell Road and Quail Chase Apartments, 248 units at 500 Airtex Drive.

• Falls Apartment Group: Las Villas Apartments, 468 units at 407 S. Richey St. in Pasadena and Falls of Alta Vista Apartments, 514 units at 621 S. Richey St. in Pasadena.

• Fat Property LLC: Riverbrook Apartments, 178 units at 9425 Scott St.

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• Garden Apartment Rental LLC: Wilcrest Garden Condominiums, 84 units at 6289 Wilcrest Drive #5100.

• Gary Homes LLC: Pine Village Apartments, 24 units at 9733 Neuens.

• Gatesco: Timberline Forest Apartments, 66 units at 1503 Sherwood Forest St. • Gire Raj Management: Plaza Azul Apartments, 224 units at 12600 Brookglade Circle.

• Good Harbor Management LLC: Champion Townhomes on the Green, 238 units at 11201 Veterans Memorial Drive; Shadow Ridge Apartments, 260 units at 12200 Old Walters Road and City Parc II at West Oaks Apartments, 192 units at 3530 Green Crest Drive.

• GPI Real Estate Management Corp.: H6 Apartments, 283 units at 14805 Grisby Road.

• Guardstone Property Management: Park on Eldridge Apartments, 57 units at 3995 Eldridge Parkway.

• The Hanover Company: Hanover Hermann Park Apartments, 396 units at 5927 Almeda Road.

• Houston Housing Authority: Forest Green Apartments, 100 units at 8945 Forest Hollow Drive.

• In the Loop Management: 2727 Brazos, 30 units at 2727 Brazos St. • Internacional Realty Inc.: Station at Mason Creek Apartments, 291 units at 21500 Park Row in Katy.

• Kaplan Management Company Inc.: Haven at 11th Apartments, 121 units at 2205 W. 11th St. • Knightvest Management: Knox at Westchase Apartments, 518 units at 12360 Richmond Ave. • Lincoln Property Management: Skyhouse Houston Apartments, 336

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units at 1625 Main St. and Westbrook Apartments, 148 units at 10990 West Road.

• The Lynd Company: The Reserve at Jones Road Apartments, 114 units at 11925 Jones Road.

• Madera Residential Ltd.: Somerset Apartments, 516 units at 8000 W. Tidwell Road.

• The Management Place LLC: La Catalina Apartments, 44 units at 1830 Johanna Drive.

• Nolan Real Estate Services: Virtual Living at Kingwood Apartments, 264 units at 25710 Loop 494 in Kingwood.

• Pawawest Management: Residences 272 Apartments, 171 units at 2727 Elmside Drive.

• The Spruce Collective: Spruce Garrott Apartments, 20 units at 3602 Garrott St. and Spruce Richton Apartments, 20 units at 2322 Richton St. • Strategic Management Partners: Pine Lake Village, 96 units at 1325 Greens Parkway.

• TI Communities: Bridges of Cypress Creek Apartments, 314 units at 17710 Red Oak Drive.

• US Residential: Aston at Cinco Ranch, 228 units 22400 Westheimer Parkway in Katy and Trailpoint at The Woodlands, 271 units at 2301 S. Millbend Drive in The Woodlands.

• Venterra Realty: Coles Crossing Apartments, 370 units at 12500 Barker Cypress Road in Cypress.

• WLS Interests Inc.: Bella Palazzo Luxury Apartments, 242 units at 13098 Westheimer Road.

Correction: Karya Property Management added Tivoli at Vintage Park to its portfolio.

The property was mistakenly mentioned under Kaplan Management Compay Inc. in last month’s magazine. The property has 158 units at 10110 Chaterwood Drive.

In the News Kristin Settles, CAM, NALP, is now part of the FDC Management Team.

Martha Matula, CAPS, has recently joined Integrity Asset Management as regional supervisor.

Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS, is now working for Mosiac Residential as regional director.

Valet Living, formally known as Valet Waste, recently surpassed one million apartment homes in service. To celebrate this milestone, Valet Living will donate $10,000 to the St. Jude Walk/Run to End Childhood Cancer.

Do you have something to report for your company or yourself? Email us your news at comm@haaonline.org. www.haaonline.org

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ger Now with Stop Hun Zters teams up

Estancia San M iguel donation box

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Good Works continued from Page 38 member and founding member of the Houston Furniture Bank. She was able to coordinate with The Mattress Firm and Serta to donate more than 30 truckloads of mattresses for distribution to families displaced after Hurricane Harvey. This equals over 1,800 free mattresses. Through the end of September, 250 mattresses and furniture pieces per day were donated to families. Nino urges anyone who wants to donate furniture to the Houston Furniture Bank to contact them at 713-842-9771.

Veritas Harvey Relief Efforts The Veritas team as a whole was greatly affected by Hurricane Harvey. Several team members, including President John Boriack and his wife Kaitlin, volunteered in their respective areas of town through the following ways: rescuing stranded victims from high water flood conditions via boat, providing and serving breakfast to flood victims at Red Cross shelters, cleaning up and tearing out flood-soaked belongings, drywall and insulation in flooded homes of victims, delivering food and medical prescriptions to victims who were not able to get out of their neighborhood due to flooding and by coordinating deliv-

ery of donations to Tomball Bible Church and nearby shelters.

Zters Putting an End to Hunger Stop Hunger Now, formally known as Rise Against Hunger, is an organization dedicated to putting an end to hunger worldwide by providing food and life-changing aid to vulnerable countries and by creating a global commitment to mobilize the necessary resources. Zters Waste Management teamed up with Stop Hunger Now to influence a positive change in Nicaragua.

Nicaragua is a low-income, good deficit country. Hunger in Nicaragua is one of the many reasons why it is the second poorest nation in Latin America. A study revealed by the World Food Program shows that chronic undernutrition affects over 40 percent of children under five.

Throughout 2017, Stop Hunger Now reached all corners of the globe as they worked to provide immediate nutrition to those in need and implement long-term solutions to hunger and poverty.

The team at Zters Waste Management team bagged and prepared and boxed over 10,000 meals that were sent directly to Nicaragua.

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Estancia San Miguel Supports Their Community Estancia San Miguel, a Francis Property Management community, hosted a pet adoption in partnership with the no-kill pet shelter, Special Pals. The event took place on Feb. 9.

The month before the adoption event, the Estancia San Miguel team raised $186 plus several pet items, such as beds, bowls, collars and more to donate to the pet shelter. During that time, they were able to increase awareness of the need for pet adoptions by sharing the Special Pals website on all their social media platforms.

Estancia San Miguel plans to continue to support Special Pals in the future.

The Estancia San Miguel team supports Green City Recycler, an HAA-member company, and at the same time, promotes sustainability. The apartment community collects and donates old, broken or unwanted textiles, such as linens, belts, purses and etc., to Green City Recycler each quarter. The apartment community provides their residents with free recycling bags to collect those items. Residents can place these recycling bags alongside their valet trash pickup.

This is an easy and impactful way the Estancia San Miguel team promotes a green lifestyle on their property and better serve the environment.

Willow Ridge Apartments Putting the Unity in Community At Willow Ridge Apartments, unity is the pillar of their community. To establish a sense that sense of togetherness, the on-site team hosts resident events throughout the year. This year, they held many community strengthening events. To name a couple, Willow Ridge hosted a Christmas with Santa event and a health fair function.

“These events are a great time to build community camaraderie, and it allows us, the on-site team to get to know our residents,” Community Director Sylvia Ayala said.

The Willow Ridge team dressed up as Mr. and Mrs. Claus and their elves. Each child of the community sat on Santa’s lap and received a present, which were collected earlier in the month. The health fair was a great opportunity to educate residents and children on the latest health trends. The event was sponsored by ABC Dental, Texas Children Health, YMCA and IBC bank.

“Hosting these events for our residents meant a lot to us. We love our community and love to see the smiles from each and every single one of our families here at Willow Ridge,” Ayala said.

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Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY

A/C Supplies Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com

Landscape Contractors

Trash Hauling

Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 713-955-0990 . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com

Waste Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-354-5230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.thinkgreen.com

Laundry Equipment & Supplies

Trash Servoce Valet

Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com

White’s Trash Service LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 832-529-7411 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.whitestrash.com

Locks & Locksmiths

HAA Products & Services

CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com

Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org/rcr

Cabinets Cinch Cabinets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 844-4-A-CINCH . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cinchkit.com

Carpet Installation Arbor Contract Carpet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49 832-384-8232 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.arborcarpet.com Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com

Maintenance Supplies Maintenance Supply Headquarters . . . . . . . . . .29 281-530-6300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.supplyhq.com

Electric Contractors Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services . . . .33 281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com

Movers Ameritex Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39 713-484-MOVE . . . . . . . . . .www.stressfreemove.com

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.

Fire Alarm Systems American Fire Systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53 713-466-9898 . . . . . . . . . . .www.americanfiresys.com

Paving Contractors Pavement Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70 281-758-8434 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.nopothole.com

Foundation Contractors Foundation Specialists . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . .www.foundationexperts.com

Personnel Agency ASAP Personnel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .72 972-432-6667 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.asapdo.com

General Contractors Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . .Back Cover 713-413-2267 . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottoncompanies.com Crestmark Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . .25 713-426-6161 . . . . . . . . . . .www.crestmarkservices.com Disaster America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 888-4-CATUSA . . . . . . . . . . . .www.disasteramerica.com FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com Gambit Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 832-987-4242 . . . . .www.gambitconstruction.com

Plumbing Contractors AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com

Resident Screening Service CoreLogic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover 888-297-8821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.corelogic.com

Resurfacing Perfect Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 713-952-0202 . . . . . . . .www.perfectsurfaceinc.com

RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com

Screens

TPI Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 713-668-7986 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.tpiinc.com

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

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc.

Security Control Equipment/Systems

Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

SentriForce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 888-671-2202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sentriforce.com

Insurance

Swimming Pool Service

Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com

Poolsure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67 800-858-POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.poolsure.com

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_dec2017.

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MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com

HOUSTON

• • • • •

(As of August 2017, pre-Harvey reporting)

Snapshot

•

89.3% $1,010/mo.

114.5¢/sq.ft./mo.

882 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 3.2% rental rate growth 12,870 units absorbed

98.0 – – 90.0

96.0 –

– 89.0

94.0 –

– 88.0

•

Recently Opened (12 months): 66 communities 17,353 units

• • • • • • • • • •

•

Under Construction: 37 communities 9,630 units

Occupancy (%)

Operating Supply: 2,719 communities 637,692 units

Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

• • • • • •

•

– 87.0 Sep 17

Aug 17

Jul 17

Jun 17

Apr 17

May 17

Mar 17

Feb 17

Jan 17

Dec 16

Nov 16

Oct 16

Sep 16

Aug 16

Jul 16

Jun 16

Apr 16

May 16

Mar 16

Feb 16

Jan 16

Dec 15

Proposed Construction: 58 communities 17,130 units

Nov 15

Oct 15

92.0 –

History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units

Hottest Submarkets Over the Past Three Months

Concessions

Annualized % of Market Rank Submarket Absorbed 1 Tomball/Spring 24.3% 2 Highland Village/Upper Kirby/ West U 21.3% 3 Westchase 14.2% 4 Sugar Land/Stafford/Sienna 16.5% 5 Galleria/Uptown 18.6%

Rental Rate Growth % 4.1% 3.9% 3.3% 2.8% 1.7%

Total Units Class w/Concessions All 181,950 A 50,611 B 54,599 C 64,693 D 12,047

% of Total Units 29% 34% 23% 31% 25%

Average Special -2.4% -4.2% -1.1% -1.8% -1.7%

Citywide Effect -7.8% -10.8% -5.0% -5.6% -7.1%

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 41 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:

91.9% $1,076/mo.

123.5¢/sq.ft./mo.

871 sq.ft.

90.3% $912/mo.

107.5¢/sq.ft./mo.

848 sq.ft.

91.3% $1,190/mo.

136.5¢/sq.ft./mo.

872 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 5.7% rental rate growth 13,787 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 2.6% rental rate growth 3,301 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 2.4% rental rate growth 7,141 units absorbed

Operating Supply: 2,953 communities 687,137 units

Operating Supply: 858 communities 181,105 units

Operating Supply: 919 communities 213,082 units

www.haaonline.org

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

ApartmentData.com covers Texas’ four largest metro areas and provides real-time access for property specific information, market surveys and historic submarket data for more than 1.3 million apartment units. For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730. © 2017 ApartmentData.com December 2017

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Back Page

with News from around the COMMUNITY

With HAA’s Jobline, 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.

Employers can post job openings and access resumes.

From the website homepage at www.haaonline.org, access the JobLine and the “Employers” Tab Job Flash Package n Job Emailed to 17,000 Apartment Pros in Houston n Posted for 30 Days Member Price: $299 Premium Job Flash Package n Job Emailed to 17,000 Apartment Pros in Houston n Posted for 30 Days n Remains High in Search Results n Highlighted to Stand Out Member Price: $329 Ultimate Recruitment Package n TalentBoost Upgrade Distributes Job to Network of 1,000+ National, Niche and Local Job Boards n Job Emailed to 17,000 Apartment Pros in Houston n Posted for 30 Days n Remains High in Search Results n Highlighted to Stand Out Member Price: $529

Job seekers can search openings, post their resumes, and create job alerts.

How to post your resume to haaonline.org: n From the website homepage, access the JobLine n and the “Job Seekers” Tab n Select “Post a Resume” n Create a New User Account n At the “Career Account Home” under the n “Quick Links,” select “Post a Resume” n Upload your resume electronically from your PC n or external drive Now that your resume is available to others, explore the other features of JobLine such as creating “Job Alerts” with certain key words and view more than 100+ Houston-area apartment industry jobs typically available at any time.

Visit jobs.haaonline.org today and find your candidate or career for tomorrow.

ONLINE STATISTICS for the Houston Apartment Association Website and Social Media www.haaonline.org Total visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13,405 Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9,322 Most visited pages: 1. Jobline Board 2. Rental Credit Reporting 3. Renter Online Complaint Form

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HAA Jobline Apply button clicks . . . . . . . . .4,221 Job postings for the month . .105 Resume postings . . . . . . . . . . . . .187 Job seeker signups . . . . . . . . . . . .97

Twitter @HAAOnline www.twitter.com Followers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,449

Facebook http://tinyurl.com/2ae7gnq

Houston Apartment Association Group members . . . . . . . . . . .2,099

Linkedin http://tinyurl.com/2667ppr Houston Apartment Association Group followers . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,769

www.haaonline.org

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Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77041

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