ABODE July 2025 by HAA Publishing

Leasing in a

Are we moving beyond in-person tours, or will they remain essential to the leasing experience?

Digital World

July 2025

ON THE COVER 34

Leasing in a Digital World –

Are we moving beyond in-person tours, or will they remain essential to the leasing experience? See Page 34 for more and don’t miss photos from the HAA PAC TopGolf Fundraiser, TAA’s ONE Conference, NEXT Breakfast and much more.

FEATURES & PHOTOS

16 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at the final HAA 2024 Honor Award-winning community as the 2025 winners are selected.

24 On the Road – Photos from the Lake Jackson Region Meeting.

26 On the Scene – Photos from the TAA ONE Conference and Expo.

28 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA PAC TopGolf Fundraiser.

32 On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Breakfast.

34 Leasing in a Digital World – Are we moving beyond in-person tours, or will they remain essential to the leasing experience?

38 Utility Management: Frequently Asked Questions – Here are the top five questions and answers every property management team should know in 2025.

42 The Wonders of Word –Do more faster with these Microsoft Word shortcuts.

44 On the Scene – Photos from the Fair Housing for Maintenance in Spanish seminar.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

7 President’s Corner – July is coming in HOT!

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Apartments.com.

9 Legislative Update – The latest news from the Texas State Legislature and more.

11 It’s The Law – Learn the changes to the eviction process with SB38.

14 Resident Relations – A resident dispute is settled by the committee.

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

46 The Ambassador ONE Society –Meet HAA’s supplier network.

49 Welcome Mat – A list of HAA’s newest members.

50 Portfolio Changes and In the News

– Property updates and industry news.

52 Go-Getters – Learn how to become a Go-Getter.

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

55 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers.

56 Back Page – News from around the community.

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

Cover Image © ArchiViz | iStock by Getty Images

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

RYAN TERRELL President-Elect

SHELLEY WATSON President

MONICA GRACIA Secretary/Treasurer

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

MELISSA FRIEND

Vice President at Large –West

VALERIE LACY

Vice President at Large –South

CORRI SMITH

Vice President at Large –North

RICHARD WALL

Vice President at Large –East

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS

DEBORAH DEROUEN, CAS President Brandt Electrical, A/C & Heating

BLAISE SPITALERI, CAS Vice President Gemstar Construction

CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mack Armstrong

Julie Batche

Kristen Becker

John Boriack

Michelle Bridges

Kyle Brown

Elizabeth Castro Gray

Tina Cavaco

Terri Clifton

Michelle Croasmun

Deborah DeRouen

Derek DeVries

Scott Douglas

Gina Erwin

Tamara Foster

Melissa Friend

Diane Gilbert

Monica Gracia

Stephanie Graves

Billy Griffin

Manu Gupta

Karen Hefner

Clay Hicks

Deborah Holcombe

Crystal Jackson

Nathan Kelley

Debra Knight

Valerie Lacy

David Lindley

Betsy Marshall

Kristin McLaughlin

Joe Melton

Candis Mohr

Katy Myrick

David Nargang

Jenifer Paneral

Mark Park

Velissa Parmer

Michelle Pawelek

Kelly Robinson

Christy Rodriguez

Joey Rodriguez

Nikki Sekunda

Ingrid Shultz

Corri Smith

Blaise Spitaleri

Penny Sprang

Kelley Suess

Debbie Sulzer

Ryan Terrell

Lindsay Torres-Smith

Starla Turnbo

Richard Wall

Shelley Watson

Richard Whatcott

Tracie Yoder

DIRECTORS EMERITUS

Josh Allen

Ken Bohan

Gary Blumberg

Roger Camp

Kathy Clem

Jack Dinerstein

Jenard Gross

Darlene Guidry

Alison Hall

David Hargrove

Larry Hill

Hap Hunnicutt

Stacy Hunt

David Jones

Mel Kieke

Mike Koch

Dick LaMarche

Cesar Lima

Bruce McClenny

Tim Myers

P David Onanian

Jackie Rhone

John Ridgway

Kim Small

Eileen Subinsky

Steve Sweet

Kirk Tate

Suan Tinsley

H J Tollett, Jr.

Pat Tollett

Vic Vacek, Jr.

Beth Van Winkle

Tony Whitaker

Jerry Winograd

ADVISORY

DIRECTORS

Jeff Blevins

Karen Briggs Gwin

Emily Frost

Israel Garza

Pam Higdon

Sara Hinson

Jacob Kunath

Stacy Lastovica

Laura Lestus

Beth Levine

Cari Luetge

Kathy Motis

Carlos Neto

Arely Pena

Ryan Raser

Ruth Reyes

Jake Slosburg

NIKKI SEKUNDA, CAS Secretary The Liberty Group

DEBRA KNIGHT, CAS Treasurer Comm-Fit

GINA ERWIN

Immediate Past President

GENERAL COUNSEL

EMERITUS

Joe Bax

HONORARY

LIFE MEMBERS

Claude Arnold

Kenn Brown

Tina Cavaco

Terri Clifton

Kevin Fenn

Diane Gilbert

Anita Harrison

Dwayne Henson

Mike Koch

Merry Mount

Monette Reynolds

Sherry Stevenson

Kirk Tate

Suan Tinsley

Sonny Unverzagt

Del Walmsley

Nancé Wells

H.P. Paul Young

Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks

PATRON MEMBERS

1968

Century A/C Supply

1978

Houston Planned Energy Systems

1982

Cotton Commercial USA Inc.

1984

AAA Plumbers

1985

Gemstar Construction Development

1986

Craven Carpet

1987

Dixie Interiors

1993

Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search

1994

Camp Facility Services

1997

Apartments.com

1999

FSI Construction Inc.

2006

Lowe’s Pro Supply

JOSEPH RODRIGUEZ, CAS Immediate Past President Ameritex Movers

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL MEMBERS

Grant Almquist, CAS, Texas Apartment Pool Services

Susan Alvarado, CAS, Redi Carpet Sales of Houston Ltd.

Chris Bell, CAS, Century A/C Supply

Marivel Bownds, CAS, Chadwell Supply

Tammy Broadway, CAS, American Fire Systems

Carina Bryars, Valet Living

Shaun Callaway, CAS, Earthworks

Brandon Coleman, CAS, Chadwell Supply

Neal Conant, CAS, Gemstar Construction

Sean Cunningham, CAS, Impact Property Solutions

Deborah DeRouen, CAS, Brandt Electrical, A/C & Heating

Xochitl Flores, Church Foundation & Pool Services

Giovanna Gone, CAS, Century A/C Supply

Dan James, CAS, Redevelopment Services

Debra Knight, CAS, Comm-Fit

Stephanie Krop, CAS, Emeritus, Poolsure

Liz Levins, CAS Emeritus, Gemstar Construction

Jim Martensen, CAS, Epic Multifamily Construction

Tracey Moore, CAS, Flooring Warehouse

Karen Nelsen, CAS, ALN Apartment Data

Arely Pena, CAS, The Liberty Group

Joseph Rodriguez, CAS, Ameritex Movers

Nikki Sekunda, CAS, The Liberty Group

Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Gemstar Construction

Ryan Weis, Crestmark Construction Services

ABODE

JULY 2025 I VOLUME 48, ISSUE 7

Chief Executive Officer and Publisher CASEY WATTS MORGAN, MPP cmorgan@haaonline.org

EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF

Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org

ADVERTISING

Vice President of Membership Development RANDA DICK, CAPS randa@haaonline.org

CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Chief Operating Officer AMANDA SHERBONDY, CAE asherbondy@haaonline.org

Chief Financial Officer TREY WIMBERLY, CPA twimberly@haaonline.org

Vice President of Education LAUREN RAGIN, CMP lragin@haaonline.org

Vice President of Facility Management/RCR TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org

Vice President of Government Affairs BEN MCPHAUL bmcphaul@haaonline.org

Events and Meetings Director KASAUNDRA WRIGHT kwright@haaonline.org

Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org

Director of IT WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org

Government Affairs Manager ALEX CHADWELL achadwell@haaonline.org

Strategic Outreach Manager MORGAN WATERMAN mwaterman@haaonline.org

Education and Events Manager MADELYN SUAREZ msuarez@haaonline.org

Member Services Coordinator BIANCA REYNA breyna@haaonline.org

Member Services Manager JAKKI POSADA jposada@haaonline.org

PRINTER TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES

COMMITTEE CHAIR

Executive Shelley Watson

Nominating Gina Erwin

Fair Housing Howard Bookstaff

Ethics Michelle Pawelek

Finance Gary Blumberg

Past Presidents Council John Boriack

Legislative Ryan Terrell

Political Action

Stacy Hunt

Golf Starla Turnbo

Century Club Debra Knight

Education Advisory Lindsay Torres-Smith

Independent Rental

Owners Connection

Michelle Bridges

Alan Yu

NEXT Young Professionals Emily Frost

Arely Pena

Leadership Development Kyle Brown

Community Outreach Melissa Friend

Product Service Council Deborah DeRouen

Expo Exhibitor Blaise Spitaleri

Membership Brandon Coleman

STAFF ADVISOR

Casey Morgan

Alex Chadwell

Lauren Ragin

Amanda Sherbondy

Randa Dick

Randa Dick Karen Heffner

Ambassador ONE Society Tito Estrada

Randa Dick Karen Nelsen

Resident Relations A Jessica Wheeler

Resident Relations B Karah Carrillo

Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry

HAF Chili Fundraiser Neal Conant

Ryan Weis

Honors Property Awards Beth Levine

Ruha Vohra

Matti Luna

Kasaundra Wright

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MISSION AND VISION: HAA is the leading advocate, resource and community partner for quality rental housing providers in the Houston and surrounding area. HAA develops leadership in the multifamily industry by engaging broadly diverse membership, embracing effective technology and advocating for a geographically inclusive association. ABODE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION serving the multihousing industry in Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Waller and Wharton counties. ABODE, JULY 2025, VOLUME 48, ISSUE 7

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 © 2025 by HAA.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

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

EXECUTIVE SUPPLIER MEMBERS

These companies have generously supported the Houston Apartment Association with their Executive membership

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

1-Tom Plumber Houston

1st United Construction LLC

3BeeGuys Bee Removal

A Crisis Care Biohazard, Death & Hoarding Cleanup

A&A Fence & Iron

A+ Aquatic Services

AAA Staffing Ltd

Achilles Security Services LLC

ACT Security Group

Action Towing Inc

Action Window Coverings Inc

Adams Roofing

Adobe Floors Inc

Adventure Playground Systems Inc

Advocate Construction Inc

Aerwave

Affinity Waste Solutions

Air Express Construction and Plumbing

Alexander-Rose Associates Inc

All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc

All Power Solutions

ALN Apartment Data

Ambassador Services LLC

American Builders Group LLC

American Fire Systems Inc

American Platinum Builders

Andrews Myers PC

Apartments Services Group

Apex Multifamily

AppFolio

Arborworks TX

ARR Commercial Services

& Sheet Metal

Artisent Floors

ASAP Personnel Inc

Asurety Dryer Vent & Fireplace Inspections

ATSG American Towing Service Group LLC

Audio Images International Inc

B&G Construction

Bar-B-Clean Southwest Houston

Beacon Restoration Services

Belfor Property Restoration

Bend Construction

Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC

Beyond Blue Pools

BGE Inc/aka Brown & Gay

Engineers Inc

Binswanger Glass

BioClean

BioTechs Crime & Trauma

Scene Cleaning

Blakan Grey Media

Blue Marlin Maintenance Air Conditioning and Renovation

Blue Stream Fiber

BluSky Restoration Contractors

BoldREMO LLC

Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc

Brazos Commercial Roofing

Briggs Equipment

Brown & Brown Insurance Services Inc

BSI

ByteTime Computing Inc

Cameras Onsite LLC

Cano Electric Inc

Capital Disaster Solutions

Catalyst Construction

Centex Construction

CEP Construction Services LLC

Chadwell Supply

Chesapeake Finishing

ClaimsMate Adjusters

Classic Same Day Blinds

Code Red Security Systems PLLC

Commercial Fire Protection

Compactor Rentals of America

Contractors Inc

Core Distributing

Corey Construction Commercial & Multi-Family Roofing

CORT Furniture Rental

CoverAll Pests

CRE Business Solutions LLC

Crossroads Insurance Recovery

Advocates

Crowned Eagle Construction

CSC Serviceworks-Appliance

Warehouse

Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc

D & S Fire & Safety LLC

D&G Quality Roofing Inc

DeNyse Companies

Designs by Holmes

Diamond Services LLC

DNM Contracting Inc

DoodyCalls

Double Oak Erosion

Dry Force Corp

Dryer Vent Wizard

DVF Company

ECC Exteriors

Eco-Blade

EDT Construction Services

EHEAT

Elite Roofing LLC

Embark Services

Emersyn Electrical Services LLC

Empire Fire and Safety

Encore Services TX

EnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions

Epic Multifamily Construction

EPremium Insurance Agency

Exo Edge

Exterior Inspections

Extollo Construction

Ezee Fiber

Faith J Construction

Fantastic Floors

Featherston Sign Partners, LLC

Fiat Construction LLC

Fire Ant Professionals

Fire Reconstruction Inc

Flavor Finish Resurfacing

FlipLok

Floor Merchant

FSD Protection

fun abounds

FW Walton

Gambit Construction

GM Cleaning Service Pro LLC

Go Painting of N. Houston

Go-Staff Inc

Golden Armor Security and Investigations LLC

Golden’s Pro-Wash & Windows

GQ Landscaping

Grace Painting and Remodeling

Great American Business Products

Greater Houston Pool Management

Green City Security LLC

Green Garbology

Green Leaf Pro

Green Pride Landscaping

Greenlogic

Grindstone General Contracting

GSR Construction Group

H&R Operator Services Inc

Hakimo

Hallmark Hardwoods

Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents

Hive Technology

Hoover Slovacek LLP

Houston Cleaning Crew LLC

Houston Furniture Rental

Houston Granite Marble Center

Houston Home and Patio

Hut Services LLC

Hybrilux LLC

Ideal Parking Management

Infinity Power Partners

Innovative Recovery

Interior Logic Group -

Property Services

Ironwood Connection

J G Amador Construction

J National Contractors

J Turner Research

J&B Carpet Services

JJ’s Waste & Recycling of Texas LLC

Johnstone Supply

Junk Shot and Doorstep Details of Houston

Kings III Emergency Communications

Lanyard Construction Services

Laser Answering Service LLC

Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting

Ledge Lounger

Lee & Barrier Builders LLC

Lift-Texas Construction

Lincoln Jacob Construction

Lithotech Printed Products/ Forms Center

Lopez Carpet Care & Painting

LP Building Solutions

Maid U Shine LLC

Maldonado Nursery

& Landscaping Inc

Matrix Construction Services

Minol USA

Mohawk Industries

Monge Contracting Group

Montana Pavement Group LLC

Mueller Water Conditioning Inc

Multifamily Access Control

Nationwide Energy Partners

NEI General Contracting

Nelson Painting and Construction LLC

New Generation Home Pro Inc

Norman Roofing and Construction

Northwest Construction Group

On Site Towing LLC

OnCall Patrol LLC dba

ParkingPass.Com

OneApp Guarantee

Optima General Contractor LLC

Pace Mechanical Services LLC

Parking Management Company/ PMC Towing Partners

Pasadena Insurance Agency Inc

Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Houston

PCS Creative Surface LLC

Penco Access Control LLC dba

Penco Gate and Fence

Platinum Pool and Spa LLC

PooPrints

Power Services of Texas

Precision Appliance Leasing

Precision Safe Sidewalks LLC

Premier Protective Security

Premium Improvements

Pro-Tex Contracting Group LLC

Professional Resurface LLC

Properteese

Pura Flo Corporation

Quatro Tax LLC

Qwikkit

R&L Global Inc

R4 Solutions

RAM Construction

Ram Jack Foundation Solutions

Ready 2 Respond

Real Floors Inc

Redevelopment Services

Redux Construction

Reliable Roofing of Texas Inc

Reliant

RENCON LLC

Renova Appliance Center LTD

Renova One

Rent.

Resident IQ

REVS (Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions)

Richmond & Associates

Landscaping

Riverway Title

Robles Roofing & More LLC

Roe General Contractors

Roof Top Innovations

Rose Paving

Roto-Rooter Services Co

Royalty Landscape

SafeRent Solutions

Saint Clair & Sons Inc

Sayan Renovations & Construction

Score Construction & Remodeling

SEAL Security Solutions LLC

Secure Insurance

ServiceMaster Recovery Management

Servpro Friendswood Pearland

Servpro Team Shaw

Sherwin Williams

Sign-Ups & Banners

Signal of Houston

Southern Star Building LLC

Spartan Fire Protection

Spire Roofing Solutions

SSC Glass LLC

Stealth Renovations

Steward Trash Valet Service

Stormwater Professionals Group

Strata Roofing and Construction LLC

Strickland Law Firm PLLC

STX Roofing

Superscapes Landscape and Irrigation

Surface Experts

Surface Experts of Katy/ West Houston

Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management

Tejas Softwash

Tex-Star A&I

Texan Landscaping Rivera

Texas Apartment Pool Services

Texas Concrete Professional Company

Texas Southwest Floors Inc

Texas Window Cleaning Co Inc

Texstar Construction LLC

TextByChoice

The Apartments Concierge

The Legends Group LLC

The Liberty Group

The Phoenix Staffing

The Window Source of Houston

Tidal Electrical Services Inc

Tillman Roofing Inc

Top Choice Roofing & Restoration GC

Tower Steel Services

Trash Butler

Tree Care USA LLC

Tri County Specialties LLC

Turbo Pass

Two Brothers Foundation Repair

TX Hydrojet

United Protective Services

Urban Design Constructors

Urban Outreach, Inc

Urban Value Corner Store

Valet Living

Webb Pest Control

Westpark Communications

Whitman's Contracting and Roofing

Woodforest Acceptance Solutions

WorldVue

XTRM Restoration

XXL Construction Inc

Yellowstone Landscape

IT’S JULY AND WE’RE COMING IN HOT! As we are getting this magazine ready for press, one of our hottest events of the year is about to take place, the 2025 Honors Awards. The winners have been chosen, the awards have arrived and the more than 1,100 tickets have already been sold – it’s going to be a sell out folks! Congratulations to all of the winners and nominees! You can see photos from the big event at the link on our home page at www.haaonline.org and we will have full coverage and profiles of the individual winners right here in ABODE in the August and September issues. So stay tuned.

News from the Texas Legislature

Also at press time, the Texas Legislature’s regular session has finished up with 8,719 bills filed, though only 1,213 bills were passed and sent to the Governor for his signature. To find out more about the bills that affect the multifamily industry, make sure to read Ryan Terrell and Ben McPhaul’s legislative update on Page 9 and don’t miss part one of a two-part legal analysis of SB38 and the eviction process by Howard Bookstaff starting on Page 11. And please help us continue our advocacy efforts by supporting the HAA Political Action Committee at www.haaonline.org/haapac: “Just because you do not take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.”

We took it to the Top

Speaking of the HAA PAC, our yearly TopGolf Fundraiser was once again a “swinging” success. Thanks to all of our participants and sponsors for braving the heat for this popular event. We have all the photos, winners and sponsors starting on Page 28.

Find and support the suppliers you need

Property management supervisors and executives: Please join me in supporting our industry and our suppliers for the 19th annual HAA Summer Business Exchange. This is a great free opportunity to learn about the latest industry products and services in a controlled environment, while supporting your association. Find supplier partners that can help with your needs with CapEx projects, renovations, staffing, amenity add ons, technology and more. All the details are on Page 18.

Get your “Glow” on!

On Friday, July 18, grab your fuschia and chartreuse glow sticks and pop on over to Copperfield Bowl for our July Featured Event – the 2025 HAA Bowling Tournament Light it up for the team and individual bowling and costume contest awards, plus plenty of libations, with A/C! See Page 19 for how you can get rolling with us.

Looking at technology

This month, ABODE is taking a closer look at technology. First up, leasing offices have long been the cornerstone of multifamily property management. With the rise of digital tools, immersive virtual experiences and AI-powered services, the leasing process is evolving. Are we moving beyond in-person tours, or will they remain essential to the leasing experience? See the full story starting on Page 34. Also, don’t miss more shortcut tips and tricks from one of HAA’s featured speakers and technology guru Julie Hartman on Page 42.

It’s hot outside, keep cool reading this month’s issue and “Keep on Trucking” HAA!

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

Houston Planned Energy Systems HAA Member since 1978

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. HAA Member since 1982

Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search HAA Member since 1993

Lowe’s Pro Supply HAA Member since 2006

Craven Carpet HAA Member since 1986

Camp Facilty Services HAA Member since 1994

This Month's Exclusive Supplier Member

HAA Member since 1997

Gemstar Construction Development Inc. HAA Member since 1985

AAA Plumbers HAA Member since 1984

FSI Construction Inc. HAA Member since 1999

Dixie Interiors HAA Member since 1987

Century A/C Supply HAA Member since 1968

By RYAN TERRELL, HAA Legislative Chair, with BEN MCPHAUL, Vice President of Government Affairs

LEGISLATIVE RECAP

The 89th Texas Legislature completes its regular session.

THE 89TH TEXAS Legislature completed its regular legislative session on June 2. Governor Abott has signed bills including public education funding and increased teacher pay, school choice/vouchers, increased border security funding and bail reform, an item of particular importance to the Houston region. Governor Abbott outlined seven emergency items during his State of the State address and saw all seven passed by the legislature.

Of course, a litany of other important bills both passed and failed this legislative session, some of which have a direct impact on the multifamily industry.

Two of these, SB 38 and SB 1333, are both sitting on the Governor’s desk awaiting his approval or his veto pen. These two bills aim to codify the owner's rights to possession when dealing with squatters.

I’d like to thank all our legislators and industry representatives who helped shepherd these bills through the legislative process, particularly Chris Newton and his team at TAA for leading the charge in Austin for our industry, as well as HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff and HAA Past President Stephanie Graves, who each spent time testifying before committees on behalf of HAA in support of the legislation.

Governor Abbott has signaled support for these bills in the past so we remain hopeful they will be signed into law by the time this publication is distributed. He has until Sunday, June 22 to veto a bill, sign it, or allow it to become law with no signature. Most new laws will take effect on September 1, 2025, unless otherwise specified in the bill.

Highlighted Multifamily Related Legislation

SB 38, known by many as the “squatter bill” successfully passed both chambers and is on Governor Abbott’s desk awaiting his signature. Governor Abbott has previously signaled support for this legislation so we are optimistic it will be signed into law.

As passed by both chambers, the bill includes the following provisions:

• CARES Act 30 Day Notice To Vacate runs concurrently with state eviction process

• Ability to use other law enforcement if a constable cannot serve a citation or execute a writ within five days

• Simpler process for delivering Notices to Vacate, including electronic delivery. Tenants waive any challenges to delivery of NTV by appearing in court.

• Requirement that all tenants appealing a judgment be required to pay rent into a court registry regardless of whether the judgement is based upon non-payment of rent or other breach of the lease

• 21-day time limit for a County Court at Law to consider an appeal of a judgment from a JP

• Expedited civil process for removing squatters (Summary Disposition)

• Restrict ability of Texas Supreme Court to modify or amend eviction proceedings following a disaster

• Electronic proceedings when approved by both parties

• Clarifies that the preparation of a writ of possession is a ministerial act and not subject to review or delay

(See Howard Bookstaff’s “It’s the Law” article starting on Page 11 for a deep-dive into these bullet points and more.)

SB 1333, a bill that would strengthen property owner rights by providing an initial step for property owners to recover their homes from squatters through a speedy resolution via law enforcement action, was also passed and sent to the Governor’s desk. This bill creates a series of escalating criminal penalties based on damages, along with the authority for law enforcement to arrest, remove, or be present for removal of a squatter.

HB 21 was signed into law by Governor Abbott May 28, 2025 and went into effect immediately. Authored by Representative Gary Gates and sponsored in the Senate by Senator Paul Bettencourt, the bill won bipartisan support. The bill was lauded by supporters whose goal was to cease the usage of so called “travelling HFCs” but is controversial in that its provisions apply retroactively to existing HFCs, both nonjurisdictional (travelling) and jurisdictional. Amendments to Chapter 394 include, but are

not limited to:

• Mandatory city or county approval for every HFC project

- Existing non-jurisdictional HFCs have until January 1, 2027, to obtain local municipality’s approval to retain tax exemptions

• Rent reductions of affordable units equal to at least 50% of the tax savings

• Stricter affordability requirements

• Annual independent audits submitted to the state housing agency

Exciting News for the HAA Leadership Program

Also, in the month of May, HAA’s Leadership Lyceum class was recognized at City Hall for the important role they play within our organization, our industry, and the City of Houston. After being recognized by Councilmember Alcorn in the Council chambers, they had a private reception with many of the members of City Council in the Mayors Conference room. There, they continued a more in-depth conversation about the importance of the multifamily industry and how city policies can both positively and negatively impact our businesses. It was an all-round productive day and much deserved recognition for this hard-working class of rising stars!

Leadership Lyceum is a leadership development program created by HAA to identify highcaliber, effective, well-informed industry professionals and educate them on the mission and strategic objectives of the association and its affiliated associations.

If you are interested in applying, please email asherbondy@haaonline.org for an application.

2025 LEGISLATURE ACTS!

Bill to streamline the eviction process.

THE 2026 TEXAS Legislature’s regular session is over! 8,719 bills were filed, but only 1,213 bills passed and sent to the Governor for his signature. The bills that passed will be adopted into law as long as they are not vetoed by the Governor.

One of the priority bills supported by the Texas Apartment Association was SB38 which was designed to streamline the eviction process. This article is part one of a two-part series highlighting the more significant changes in the law that affect the apartment industry.

The changes in the law become effective January 1, 2026 and provide for a number of revisions to the eviction process. Let’s take a look at what changed (references to code sections are to the Texas Property Code; references to the rules are to the Texas Rules of Civil Procedure).

Content of notice to vacate.

• Current law: An unconditional demand for possession is required. The notice may include a demand that the resident pay the delinquent rent or vacate, but only if there was a previous written notice or reminder to the resident that rent was due and unpaid. (§24.005(i))

• New law: If the eviction is based solely on nonpayment of rent and the resident was not previously late or delinquent in paying rent, a notice must be in the form of a notice to pay rent or vacate. Otherwise, the notice may be given in the form of either a notice to pay rent or vacate or a notice to vacate (New §24.005(a))

CARES

Act.

• Current law: The CARES Act provides that an owner may not require the resident to vacate the unit before the date that is 30 days after the date on which the owner provides the resident with a notice to vacate. (§4024(c) of the CARES Act)

• New law: If a federal law or rule requires an owner to give notice to a resident before the

owner requires the resident to vacate the unit: (i) an owner that satisfies the notice requirements under the state law is not required to delay the filing of an eviction based on the federal requirements; (ii) the federal requirement is not a basis for a court to delay or abate the conduct of the eviction suit; and (iii) a writ of possession may not be served on the resident until the period between the delivery of the notice and the service of the writ equals or exceeds the period prescribed by the federal requirement. (New §24.005(c-1))

Notice of proposed eviction.

One of the priority bills supported by the Texas Apartment Association was SB38 which was designed to streamline the eviction process

This article is part one of a two-part series highlighting the more significant changes in the law that affect the apartment industry.

or by certified mail, return receipt requested, to the unit. As an alternative, under certain circumstances, the owner can serve the notice by affixing it to the outside of the main entry door if certain conditions are met. (§24.005(f) and (f-1))

• Current law: If the lease or applicable law requires an owner to give a resident an opportunity to respond to a notice of proposed eviction, a notice to vacate may not be given until the period provided for the resident to respond to the eviction notice has expired. (§24.005(e))

• New law: If the lease or applicable state or federal law or rule requires an owner to give a resident an opportunity to respond to a notice of proposed eviction, the notice period may, at the owner’s discretion, run concurrently with the period provided for the resident to respond to the notice of proposed eviction and the notice to pay rent or vacate or notice to vacate may include the required opportunity to respond to the notice of proposed eviction. (New §24.005(e))

Delivery of notice to vacate.

• Current law: The notice must be delivered in person or by mail to the unit. Notice in person may be by personal delivery to the resident or any person residing at the unit who is 16 years of age or older or personal delivery to the unit and affixing the notice to the inside of the main entry door. Notice by mail may be by regular mail, registered mail,

• New law: The notice must be delivered using at least one of the following methods: (1) mail, including first class mail, registered mail, certified mail, or a delivery service; (2) delivery to the inside of the unit, in a conspicuous place; (3) hand delivery to any resident of the unit who is 16 years of age or older; or (4) if the parties have agreed in writing, electronic communication, including email or other electronic means. (New §24.005(f-3))

Service of petition.

• Current law: The current law doesn’t require a specific time period for service of a petition.

• New law: A sheriff or constable, including a deputy sheriff or deputy constable, shall make a diligent effort to serve the citation and petition not later than the fifth business day after the date the petition is filed. If the citation or petition are not served on or before the fifth business day after the date the petition is filed, the owner may, but is not obligated to, provide for the citation and petition to be served by any other law enforcement officer, including an off-duty officer with appropriate identification, that has received appropriate training in the service of process, eviction procedures, and the exe-

cution of writs, as determined by the Texas Commission of Law Enforcement. (New §24.0051(f))

Trial date.

• Current law: The date of trial must not be less than 10 days nor more than 21 days after the petition is filed and the resident must be served at least six days before the day set for trial. (Rules 510.4(a)(10), 510.4(b)(2) and 510.7(a))

• New law: The requirement that the trial be set no less than 10 days nor more than 21 days after the petition is filed has been put in the statute and the statute provides that the court may not hold trial earlier than the fourth day after the date the resident is served the petition. (New §24.0051(g))

Motion for summary disposition.

• Current law: A motion for summary disposition is available in justice courts, but the court must not consider the motion until it has been on file for at least 14 days. (Rule 503.2)

• New law: An owner that files a forcible entry and detainer (applicable to squatters cases) may include with the petition, a sworn motion for summary disposition without a trial. The new law provides for the process for this motion for summary disposition which includes a provision that the judge may render a judgment without a trial if the judge finds that there are no genuinely disputed facts that would prevent a judgment in favor of the owner and the resident had at least four days after the date of service to file a response setting out supporting facts, and providing any applicable documents. (New §24.005106)

Criteria for appeal.

• Current law: A party may appeal a judgment in an eviction case by filing a bond, making a cash deposit or filing a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs with the justice court within five days after the judgment is signed and an appeal is perfected when a bond, cash deposit, or a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs is filed in accordance with the rule. (Rules 510.9(a) and (f))

• New law: How and when an appeal is perfected has been put in the statute. However, the statute also includes a statement that a resident who files an appeal must affirm, under penalty of perjury, the resident’s good faith believe that the resident has a meritorious defense and that the appeal is not for the purpose of delay. (New §24.005107(a))

Payment into the court registry.

• Current law: In nonpayment of rent cases, the resident is required to make an initial payment of one month’s rent into the justice court registry if the appeal has been perfected by the resident filing a bond or Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. If the appeal is based upon nonpayment of rent and the resident filed a Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs, the resident must also pay rent into the court registry each month during the pendency of the appeal. (§24.0053 and Rule 510.9(c)(5))

• New law: The resident shall not later than the fifth day after the date the resident files the appeal, pay rent for one rental pay period into the justice court registry and on or before the beginning of each rental pay period during the pendency of the appeal, pay rent for one

/ See Law, Page 37

FOR MANAGEMENT:

��

Snap It. Send It. Win $100!

Show us where ABODE takes YOU!

Snap a photo of your team with ABODE Magazine in your office, on-site, or at a fun location –then send it in!

→ Get featured on HAA social media

→ Appear in a future ABODE issue

→ Be entered to win $100 in cash!

�� Bonus Entry: Send in a video sharing how ABODE helps your community –more chances to win! FOR SUPPLIERS:

3 chances to win $100!

Deadline for submissions is the last day of each of three months: July, August and September. The winners will be announced in the September, October and November ABODE.

Send photo/video to members@haaonline.org.

�� Be Seen. Be Visited. Be Promoted.

Book a 12-month full-page ad, and HAA will:

→ Visit your facility

places abode goes!

�� Film a short promo video

→ Share it across our social platforms

Get exposure. Get traffic. Get seen.

ABODE Magazine isn’t just a publication, it’s a passport to visibility, community, and recognition across our vibrant industry. With more than 5,000 copies in monthly circulation, you or your ad doesn’t just sit on a page – it travels into the hands, offices, lobbies and events of decision-makers, influencers, and on site teams.

THE WHOLE TRUTH

An applicant forfeits her deposit by providing incomplete rental history information.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with HAA to receive a refund of her security deposit. Management responded to HAA, stating that the resident was informed that when applying at a tax credit community, the application process may take longer if thirdparty verifications are pending. The process is stated on the application addendum, which the resident signed.

The TAA application contains a section that asks about any prior rental/criminal history. In that section, the applicant has a chance to verify any prior evictions or debts owed with other apartment communities.

The resident left this section blank. There was also an additional form with more detailed questions regarding credit/criminal history, and the resident checked “no” to all the questions asked.

Rental History Verification

The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide an impartial review of resident complaints using the documentation provided by both the resident and management.

Per management’s rental history requirement, each applicant’s address history for the last two years had to be verified. The applicant had three that needed verification, one of which showed up on her credit report as a bad

debt, another came back stating that management gave her a 60-day notice to move out, and the other noted poor payment history. By not supplying information regarding the rental history with these communities, the resident / Continued Page 15

Resident Relations, continued from Page 14 falsified the application. Management believed they were within in their rights to retain the security deposit. Enclosed were copies of the final account statement and application.

The Committee’s Decision

The committee decided in favor of management. The resident falsified the application, and per the TAA application, management can retain the security deposit as liquidated damages. The resident may wish to pursue this complaint in small claims court.

The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide an impartial review of resident complaints using the documentation provided by both the resident and management. When the committee finds in favor of the resident, we appreciate a direct response from the property to the resident within two weeks and a copy of the payment sent to HAA for our records. When the committee finds in favor of the resident, management may file an appeal. When the committee finds in favor of the property owner, the decision is final.

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 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.

Do you really know your applicant?

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

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

On Site with ABODE

Note: Properties are listed with owner/management at time of the award.

Each month, On Site with ABODE takes a closer look at winning HAA Honors Awards properties. This month, we visit our final winner for 2024. See future ABODEs for honorees from the 2025 Honors Awards.

THE DRISCOLL AT RIVER OAKS

High

Rise Built

2016-2022 Property of the Year

Property: The Driscoll at River Oaks

Owner/Management: The Hanover Company

Location: 1958 W Gray Street, Houston, 77019

Units: 318

Web: https://www.thedriscollatriveroaks.com

Photos from The Driscoll at River Oaks

With over 11,000 sq ft of designated resident-only club room space, the Driscoll at River Oaks is all about luxury and customer service. Amenities include: A full service resident pantry with dining and TV lounge; executive conference rooms with separate meeting spaces; an E-lounge with TV, WiFi and USB connectivity; a 24-Hour fitness center featuring Peloton On-Demand Bikes with a private training room and dedicated outdoor workout lawn; an elevated 18,000 sq ft pool deck with poolside cabanas and in-water loungers; private media room with cinema-style seating; an 8th floor landscaped terrace with firepit and spacious lawn for outdoor activities; bike storage room with fix-it station; pet-friendly living with pet spa and designated dog run; and concierge and valet services available.

The properties’ studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartment homes include modern two and three bedroom penthouse residences with awe-inspiring city views. Unit features include: Grand ceilings with floor to ceiling windows; chef-inspired kitchens with premium appliance package and gas cooktops; soft-close Italian cabinetry with granite and quartz countertops; wood-style flooring in living and dining areas and throughout; spacious bedrooms that accommodate king size beds; spainspired bathrooms with frameless glass showers and large soaking tubs; custom designed walk-in closets with space saving options; private terraces; wine chillers and built-in desks; heat and glare reducing solar shades; and programmable thermostats and energy-efficient lighting.

The property takes part in Hanover Helping Hands Events: Turkey-Syria Earthquake Donation Drive; Shoe drive benefiting Soul Loved; Tree planting in April for Trees for Houston; Book drive and in person volunteering for Books Between Kids; Moustache & beard competition benefiting Movember; and Child Advocate’s Santa’s Wish List program (with in person volunteering and toy drive).

Summer Business Exchange Connect 4

Property management supervisors and executives:

Don’t miss this free networking opportunity that supports our industry.

Join HAA and our event chairs Kristen Becker, Willow Bridge Property Company, and Deborah DeRouen, Brandt Electrical, A/C and Roofing, for the 19th annual HAA Summer Business Exchange, a great opportunity to learn about the latest industry products and services in a controlled environment.

Find supplier partners that can help with your needs with CapEx projects, renovations, staffing, amenity add ons, technology and more!

Thursday, August 7

Event Details:

The Business Exchange is a forum where property management leaders are seated at tables while supplier representatives move around the room, selecting the individuals they wish to visit. Each visit has a four minute limit.

Suppliers will have access to a number of property management leaders from owner executives to maintenance supervisors.

Cost:

$425 each for the first two supplier company representatives.

$450 for a third representative.

Complimentary for management company representatives.

Becker DeRouen

Grab your fuschia and chartreuse glow sticks and pop on over to Copperfield Bowl for the 2025 HAA Bowling Tournament!

Get your glow on as the top bowlers bring home the hardware and pump up your appetite for a bit of lunch and libations.

Light it up for the team and individual bowling and costume contest awards.

Friday, July 18

15615 Glen Chase Drive

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Registration and practice at 1 p.m.

Tournament from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Awards at 4 p.m.

Spectators – $75/person

Team Registration (5 players) – SOLD OUT

Maximum of two teams per company.

Price includes 3 games, shoes and buffet.

JULY 2

New Supplier Orientation

Wednesday, July 2

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Via Zoom

All new supplier members or representatives can attend this online orientation. Learn how to get involved and take advantage of member benefits. Email members@haaonline.org for details.

Ambassador ONE Society

Wednesday, July 2

3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Kirby Ice House Memorial Supplier partners can join this committee for HAA Ambassadors to find out how to promote HAA Events, contact properties to survey them on benefits, and network with other supplier partners. Supplier members only. Email members@haaonline.org for details.

3-4

HAA Offices Closed

Thursday, July 3 through Friday, July 4

8-10

Extreme Certified Apartment Manager Course (CAM)

Week 1: July 8-10

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Week 2: July 15-17

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The CAM credential course offered in an accelerated format to allow property managers to obtain the credential in two weeks.

Sponsored by Ameritex Movers, Century Air Conditioning Supply, Core Distributing, Jet Waste and Precision Appliance Leasing

9

Avenues: Main Street 3

Wednesday, July 9

8:30 a.m. to Noon

The Avenues series of seminars features nationally-acclaimed speakers within the multifamily industry covering topics geared toward every level of multifamily professional. This program counts for 3 CECs. See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Massey Services

Resident Relations Committee A Meeting

Wednesday, July 9

2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed committee meeting Via Zoom

10

Go-Getter Meet & Greet

Thursday, July 10

4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Cottonwood

Reignite your involvement and join the Go-Getter Club! You can help strengthen your association with new members and increase engagement. New & prospective members are welcome to attend to meet current members to build their network and build lasting connections.

Sponsored by Blue Stream Fiber and BluSky Restoration

It's the Law Breakfast: Legislative Update

Tuesday, July 15

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

Start your day the legal way!

Join HAA's Legal Counsel, Howard Bookstaff, for breakfast and a legislative session update focused on new laws affecting the apartment industry.

17

HAA Membership 101

Thursday, July 17

12:30 p.m. to 1:30 p.m. Via Zoom

Whether you work at the corporate office or on-site, this helpful webinar is for all HAA management members and their teams. This presentation will review all HAA benefits available to get engaged and involved. Whether you're new to HAA or have been around and want to get more involved, learn something about HAA that will help you enhance your career.

Sponsored by Precision Appliance Leasing

18

Featured Event:

2025 Bowling Tournament Friday, July 18

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Copperfield Bowl

Get your bowl on at HAA's Annual Bowling Tournament and compete against your multifamily peers for top scores and best costume. See Page 15 for details.

Lunch sponsored by Core Distributing and Ferguson Facilities Supply and Awards sponsored by Valet Living

22

Avenues: Leadership Lane 2 Tuesday, July 22

8:30 a.m. to Noon

29

Excel 101 - Bring Your Own Laptop! Tuesday, July 29 8:30 a.m. to Noon

Learn to conquer your fear of the spreadsheet! This great-for-beginners course offers a detailed look into this multi-faceted, often daunting program. Shortcuts, tips and tricks for all levels. This class counts for 3 CECs.

31

NEXT Summer Social: “Dart It Like It’s Hot” Thursday, July 31 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA members aged 39 and under. Network with your peers at this social. See Page 17 for details. Sponsored by Epic Multifamily Construction and Northwest Construction Group

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/events for an interactive calendar.

AUGUST

5-6

Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO) in Spanish

Tuesday, August 5 through Wednesday, August 6

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Certified Pool Operator certification is a 5-year national certification issued by the Pool and Hot Tub Alliance (PHTA) and is required by the state of Texas.

6

New Supplier Orientation

Wednesday, August 6

10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Via Zoom

All new supplier members or representatives can attend this online orientation. Learn how to get involved and take advantage of member benefits. Email members@haaonline.org for details.

Ambassador ONE Society

Wednesday, August 6

3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

7

2025 Summer Business Exchange

Thursday, August 7

8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

HCC West Houston Institute 2811 Hayes Road

Join us for the 2025 Summer Business Exchange. An opportunity for property management professionals to meet face to face with a number of supplier partners as they move around the room in a speed dating for business format every 4 minutes. See Page 18 for more details.

12

Avenues: Marketing Place 3

Tuesday, August 12

8:30 a.m. to Noon

Resident Relations Committee B Meeting

Wednesday, August 13

2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed committee meeting Via Zoom

IROC Breakfast

Thursday, August 14

8 a.m. to 10 a.m.

The Independent Rental Owners' Connection (IROC) offers customized education and networking programs for independent owners and their teams.

19-20

Leasing 101

Tuesday, August 19 through Wednesday, August 20

8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday

8:30 a.m. to Noon on Wednesday

From Fair Housing and the TAA lease paperwork, to today’s terminology and techniques, the industry’s most seasoned and dynamic instructors are on hand to educate students on the boundless potential that awaits those who choose the apartment management industry as their career.

20

Fulshear/Katy Region Meeting

Wednesday, August 20

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

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 mwaterman@haaonline.org for details. Sponsored by The Liberty Group

26

HAA PAC Luncheon

Tuesday, August 26

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Contact govaffairs@haaonline.org for details.

27

Featured Event: 2025 Maintenance Appreciation Night with the Astros

Wednesday, August 27

7:10 p.m. to 10 p.m.

Daikin Park

Join HAA as we celebrate the maintenance professionals that remain dedicated to our properties and residents. Treat your teams to a night out with the Houston Astros! Register early, space is limited!

2025 Fair Housing Seminar

Wednesday, August 27

8:30 a.m. to Noon

This comprehensive and interactive seminar is packed with Fair Housing compliance information to help you and your team stay proactive, not reactive.

28

Avenues: Main Street 4

Thursday, August 28

8:30 a.m. to Noon

The Avenues series of seminars features nationally-acclaimed speakers within the multifamily industry covering topics geared toward every level of multifamily professional. See Page 22 for details. Sponsored by Massey Services

Discover the Ultimate Roadmap to Success with new speakers for 2025

What is Avenues?

A series of seminars presenting nationally-acclaimed speakers who are experts in their fields, with sessions for every level of multifamily professional.

How can I attend?

We offer two subscription options:

• Annual Property Subscription

• based on the number of units.

• Annual Individual Subscription You can also register for each individual session.

What does this get me?

Once you sign up, you receive access to 13 education sessions throughout the year. All you need to do is respond to the reminder email to confirm attendance.

Pricing:

Property Subscription:

• Fewer than 200 units: $210/annually

• 201-350 units: $410/annually

• More than 351 units: $510/annually

Individual Subscription:

• Corporate or Suppier Individual: $210/annually

• Individual sessions: $60/person Three (3) CEC credits awarded per session.

View the series schedule and register online at www.haaonline.org Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org

Don’t miss our next sessions, with more to come:

Main Street – 3

July 9

Selling Made Simple: How to Help Your Customers “Fall in Love” with Your Community with Rommel Anacan, The Relationship Difference

Leadership Ln – 2

July 22

Maximizing Profitability Beyond Rent Increases with Maria Pietroforte

Marketing Pl – 3, August 12 Screens Front and Center or Roll Out the Red Carpet with Charlotte Pisciotta, Full House Marketing

Main Street – 4, August 28 Mastering Your Memory with Tyler Enslin

Apartment Managers – CAM is the best way to advance your multifamily career!

eXtreme CAM

The Certified Apartment Manager credential is already exceptional. Presented in a super-charged format, Extreme CAM accelerates the education process and allows you to attain the CAM credential via a schedule that works best for you. (Recommended for experienced managers only)

Total Program Cost: $1,300/person Summer Schedule (six days): July 8-10 and July 15-17

Registration for all CAM courses begins at 8:30 a.m. each day and the course instruction begins promptly at 9 a.m. Modules vary in length, and classes will conclude by 5 p.m. or earlier. Breakfast and lunch are provided each day.

Sponsored by Ameritex Movers, Century A/C Supply, Core Distributing, Jet Waste and Precision Appliance Leasing

For a more detailed synopsis of individual course content, please visit the education page of our website at www.haaonline.org/education.

On the Road with HAA

Lake Jackson Region Meeting

Wednesday, May 14

at Reserve at Lake Jackson

Sponsored by Precision Appliance Leasing

HAA hosted a Lake Jackson Region Meeting featuring HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff with Brazoria County Precinct 1 Chief Deputy Ellis, Deputy Houston, and Chief Clerk Zepeda from Constable Fulton’s office. Thank you to our sponsor Precision Appliance Leasing.

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 outreach@haaonline.org to sign up for 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 a Region Meeting. Contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.

The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit trade association representing the area apartment industry. Without political capital, our industry would not be as successful in representing you or your clients’ interests, and thus, your financial well-being. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels.

For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org/haapac

The Houston Apartment Association’s committees and clubs are some of the most productive tools we have to ensure that we remain the nation’s largest and most effective apartment association. Committee and club members face the challenge of getting involved to carry out the duties and purpose of each club and committee.

Some general responsibilities of committee and club members include a commitment to attend all meetings and help develop marketing strategies (i.e. telemarketing, developing handouts, fliers, articles).

To serve on any of these committees and clubs, please contact the HAA office at 713-595-0300, online at www.haaonline.org or email the departments listed here.

Education education@haaonline.org

Education Advisory Committee

NEXT Committee

Government Affairs govaffairs@haaonline.org

HAAPAC*

Fair Housing Committee

Strategic Growth Committee

Membership members@haaonline.org

Ambassador ONE Society

Go-Getter Membership Recruitment Club Expo Exhibitor Committee*

Community Outreach asherbondy@haaonline.org

Community Outreach Committee

Product Service Council*

Resident Relations resrel@haaonline.org

Resident Relations Committee

*Note: These committees have specific requirements for membership. Contact HAA for details.

On the Scene

Texas Apartment Association ONE Conference and Expo

Wednesday, May 7 through Friday, May 9 in Houston

Photos by Rob Greer and HAA Staff

TAA came back to Houston for its 2025 Conference and Expo. Members attended seminars during the day that included HAA member speakers. Festivities included a space-themed gala party and Houston area suppliers showed the best in products and services on the Expo show floor. Congratulations to the Houston TAA Industry Award winners: Mike Clark Supplier Partner Company of the Year FSI Construction Inc. and George Allen Association Executive of the Year HAA CEO Casey Watts Morgan! Congrats also goes to the two TAA Be the Next Room to Grow Ambassadors from Houston Chelsie Simpson, Q10 Property Advisors, and Mystri Nestell, Summit Property Management For more photos, visit the galleries at www.haaonline.org

HAA PAC TopGolf Fundraiser

Thursday, May 15 at TopGolf Katy

HAA’s amazing members went “Vintage” raising $20,400 for the HAA Political Action Committee for the Top Golf PAC Fundraiser.

Thank You to our Event Sponsors and Congratulations to the Winners:

TOP Sponsors

Ticon Texas Construction Services

Valet Living

Beverage Sponsors

Best Plumbing FSI Construction

Best Team Spirit Contest Sponsors

Maldonado Nursery and Landscaping Platinum Pool and Spa LLC

Hole In One Sponsor

Urban Design Constructors

Lunch Sponsors

Northwest Construction Group Platinum Pool and Spa LLC

Welcome Sponsor

Tidal Electrical Services Inc.

Last Place Award

Epic Multifamily Construction

Team Awards Sponsors

Gambit Construction

Gatewise Incorporated

Ideal Parking Management

Best Male & Female Award Sponsors

Ideal Parking Management Resman

TopGolf Team Winners:

1st Place – GWR Management 2nd Place – Gemstar Construction 3rd Place – Greystar

TopGolf Best Male and Female Award Winners: Chris Danna Sr, Dixie Interiors,. and Gina Erwin, GWR Management

TopGolf Last Place Team Award Winner: AAA Plumbers

TopGolf Best Team Spirit Award Winner: Guardian Construction

NEXT Professional Breakfast

Wednesday, May 28 at the HAF Education Center Sponsored by Fun Abounds and Sundek of Houston

More than 50 young professionals attended this developmental breakfast with speaker Kiki Clarke who shared valuable insights on how to burn-out proof their lives.

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

Digital World Leasing in a

Leasing offices have long been the cornerstone of multifamily property management. They’ve served as the place where potential residents step in, ask questions, and finalize their decisions.

But with the rise of digital tools, immersive virtual experiences, and AI-powered services, the leasing process is evolving. The question now is: are we moving beyond in-person tours, or will they remain essential to the leasing experience?

As technology continues to change the way we interact with property management, it’s clear that the multifamily industry is entering a new phase. Virtual tours, automated applications, and 24/7 online communication have made it easier than ever for prospective residents to explore properties from the comfort of their own homes.

The benefits of these tools are undeniable: convenience, accessibility, and speed. But do they signal the end of traditional in-person leasing, or is there still a place for face-to-face interactions?

The Digital Shift: Virtual Tours and Online Tools

The move towards digital leasing tools didn’t happen overnight. It was a gradual transition, fueled by both consumer demand and technological advancements. Virtual tours, once seen as a nice add-on, are now an essential part of the leasing process.

The appeal of virtual tours is clear. Prospects can explore units on their own time, from anywhere, without the need to schedule a physical tour or drive to the property. These digital tools not only offer convenience but also provide a more efficient way for property managers to showcase their units to a wider audience. Selfguided tours are on the rise, giving prospects the freedom to roam the property without being tied to an agent’s schedule.

In addition to virtual tours, property managers are leveraging AI-driven platforms (https://criterionb.com/blog/creative-multifamily-technology) to manage leads, automate follow-ups, and answer questions around the clock. Chatbots and virtual assistants can respond instantly to inquiries, helping prospects move through the leasing process faster and more efficiently. These tools also allow leasing agents to focus on higher-priority tasks, like closing deals and building relationships with residents.

As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, property managers who stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new technologies will be the ones who thrive.

Are In-Person Tours Still Necessary?

Despite the convenience of digital tools, in-person tours are far from obsolete. Many prospective renters still value the personal touch of meeting leasing agents, asking questions on the spot, and experiencing the property firsthand. In fact, a study by the National Multifamily Housing Council found that 58% of renters prefer in-person tours when making their final decision.

In-person tours allow prospective residents to get a feel for the space that virtual tours simply cannot replicate. They can experience the natural light in the living room, feel the texture of the flooring, and get a true sense of the community atmosphere. Leasing agents also have the opportunity to answer detailed questions and address specific concerns, creating a more personalized experience for the renter.

However, as we move toward a more digital world, the role of in-person tours is changing. They no longer need to be the first step in the process. Instead, they serve as a way to close the deal, allowing residents to make a final, personal connection with the property before signing a lease. For many, an inperson tour might be the last step before committing, especially if they’ve already experienced the property virtually.

Blending Digital and In-Person Experiences: The Hybrid Model

Rather than seeing digital tools and inperson tours as competing forces, many property managers are finding success by blending the two into a seamless, hybrid leasing process. Virtual tours and digital tools can handle the initial stages of the leasing journey, allowing prospects to explore properties and submit applications at their own pace. From there, leasing agents can step in to finalize the deal, offering personalized attention, answering specific questions, and providing the human touch that can make all the difference.

The hybrid model offers flexibility for both prospects and property managers. Prospective residents can tour the property virtually, apply online, and then schedule a final in-person visit to review the lease and finalize paperwork. This streamlined

approach makes the leasing process more convenient for everyone involved while maintaining the value of in-person interactions when it matters most.

For property managers, this hybrid model also allows them to manage their time more effectively. Instead of conducting countless in-person tours, they can focus on the most qualified leads and use digital tools to nurture prospects who are still in the early stages of their search. This saves time and increases efficiency, helping leasing teams handle more leads with fewer resources.

The Future of Leasing

The future of leasing offices is undoubtedly digital, but that doesn’t mean the human element is disappearing. In fact, the shift towards digital-first leasing may actually increase the need for personal touches throughout the process. Renters are still looking for a sense of connection and trust, and property managers who can build these relationships, whether digitally or in person, will have the upper hand.

Here are a few ways property managers can embrace the future of leasing while maintaining personal connections:

• Leverage Technology for Efficiency: Use virtual tours, automated applications, and digital document signing to streamline the leasing process and reach a broader audience.

• Offer Hybrid Tours: Combine the convenience of virtual tours with the personal touch of in-person visits. Allow prospects to get a feel for the property digitally, then bring them in for a final, personal tour.

• Personalized Communication: Use digital tools to automate communication, but always follow up with personalized touches. A quick call or email from a leasing agent can go a long way in building trust.

• Focus on Customer Service: With digital tools handling the initial stages of the leasing process, leasing agents can focus on providing exceptional customer service to close the deal.

• Stay Adaptive: The needs and expectations of renters are constantly changing. Keep an eye on new technologies and be willing to adapt to ensure you’re offering the best leasing experience possible.

Moving Forward with a Digital-First Mindset

Leasing offices are evolving, and the digitalfirst model is undoubtedly here to stay. Virtual tours, automated communication, and AI-driven platforms are changing how we engage with prospects and lease apartments. However, in-person tours and human connections still have a critical role to play, particularly when it comes to closing the deal and offering that personal touch that renters value.

The future of leasing isn’t about choosing between digital and in-person; it’s about finding the right balance. Properties that embrace both digital tools and human connections will be well-positioned to meet the changing needs of renters and remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.

As the multifamily industry continues to evolve, property managers who stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new technologies will be the ones who thrive. The question isn’t whether in-person tours will survive, but how can we blend the best of both worlds to create an optimal leasing experience for renters in 2025 and beyond?

The future of leasing is digital, but it’s also personal. The key to success is finding the right balance.

As Criterion.B’s Director of Client Service, Ashley Tyndall leads the corporate communications, public relations, and media relations efforts for the agency. She was formerly Director of Marketing and Business Development for Canonball Creative Inc. She has more than 20 years of agency experience in marketing and account direction roles supporting a diverse industry base. She is an advertising and graphic design graduate of The University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Visit https://criterionb.com and https://beswifty.com for more information.

rental pay period into the justice court or county court registry, as applicable, according to the court in which the case is pending at the time of payment. These payments are required for all types of appeals, not just for nonpayment of rent and not just for appeals perfected by a bond or Statement of Inability to Afford Payment of Court Costs. (New § 24.0053(a-2))

Recovery of possession for nonpayment into court registry.

• Current law: If payment is not made when required in the justice court registry, the justice court shall immediately issue a writ of possession without a hearing. If payment is not made to the county court registry as required, a motion and hearing is required before a writ of possession can be issued. (§24.0054)

• New law: During an appeal, the justice court or county court, as applicable, by request shall immediately issue a writ of possession without a hearing if the resident fails to pay rent into the appropriate court registry as required. (New §24.0054(a))

County court trial date.

• Current law: The current law doesn’t require when the county court is required to have the trial on appeal; however, the trial, as well as any hearings and motions, is entitled to precedence in the county court. (Rule 510.10(c))

• New law: The county court shall hold a trial not later than the 21st day after the date the transcript and original papers are delivered to the county court. (New §24.005107(c))

Service of writ.

• Current law: A writ of possession may not issue more than 60 days after the judgment for possession is signed. For good cause, the court may extend the deadline for issuance to 90 days after a judgment for possession is signed. (Rule 510.8(d))

• New law: A sheriff or constable, including a deputy sheriff or deputy constable, shall serve the writ of possession not later than the fifth business day after the date the writ is issued. If the writ of possession is not served on or before the fifth business day after the date the writ is issued, the owner may, but is not obligated to, have the writ served by any other law enforcement officer, including an off-duty officer with appropriate identification, who has received training by the Texas Commission of Law Enforcement. (New §24.0061(b-1))

The changes in the law apply to an eviction suit in which the petition is filed on or after January 1, 2026. Since we won’t know how courts will react to the changed law or any unintended consequences with respect to various interpretations, it would be beneficial for you to take the months before the changes become effective to adjust your eviction policies and procedures to minimize any problems once the law goes into effect.

Utility Management Frequently Asked Questions

every property management team should know.

By CAROLINE FERGUSON, Southwest Utility Solutions

As a utility management partner for multifamily properties across Texas and beyond, we’ve fielded just about every question property owners and managers can ask about utility billing. The regulatory landscape is nuanced, and the day-to-day logistics of billing, collecting, and managing resident utility charges can quickly get complicated — especially when trying to remain compliant and profitable.

Here are the top five questions we get all the time —and the answers every property management team should know in 2025.

How Can I Bill for Water in Texas?

Texas has some of the most clearly defined utility billing regulations in the country, thanks to oversight from the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). If you own or manage a multifamily property in Texas, there are two primary ways you can legally bill residents for water:

A. Submetering

If your property is equipped with submeters that track actual water usage per unit, you can bill each resident based on their individual consumption.

B. RUBS (Ratio Utility Billing System)

If your property doesn’t have submeters, you can use RUBS to allocate the property's total water bill across units based on factors like unit size, number of occupants, or a hybrid formula. RUBS is legal in Texas but must follow PUCT guidelines.

Important Requirements:

• File with the PUCT: You must file a notice of intent to bill residents for water, stating your billing method.

• Lease Disclosure: The lease must clearly state that the resident will be billed for water and outline the method of billing (submeter or RUBS).

The regulatory landscape is nuanced, and the day-to-day logistics of billing, collecting, and managing resident utility charges can quickly get complicated — especially when trying to remain compliant and profitable.

• Billing Transparency: Bills must be itemized and sent on a monthly basis.

• Administrative Fees: You may charge a regulatory-allowed administrative fee, but it must be disclosed in the lease.

2. Can I Bill for Other Utilities in Texas?

Yes! In Texas, you can bill residents for a variety of utilities beyond just water. These include:

• Sewer and Wastewater

• Trash and Recycling

• Natural Gas

• Electricity

The rules for billing these utilities vary slightly depending on the utility type, whether you’re using submeters or RUBS, and whether your property is mastermetered or individually metered.

Key Considerations:

• Always disclose the utility charges in the lease.

• Keep your billing method consistent and well-documented.

• Understand local municipal ordinances in addition to PUCT rules.

Billing more utilities allows you to recover more of your operating costs — and potentially add a new stream of revenue — but it must be done carefully.

3. How Do I Make Sure My Utility Recovery Is Maximized?

Utility recovery is about making sure you’re recouping as much of your utility expenses from residents as legally and ethically possible. This doesn’t just happen on its own — it requires a well-executed strategy.

Here’s how you can maximize your recovery:

A. Use All Eligible Billable Utilities

Water is just the beginning. Make sure you’re also billing for sewer, trash, gas, and, where possible, electricity.

B. Use an Accurate Billing Method

Whether you’re using submeters or RUBS, accuracy is key. Improper or outdated billing methods lead to under-recovery—and often, resident complaints. We routinely audit billing methodologies for our clients to

ensure they’re optimizing recovery while staying compliant.

C. Audit Regularly

Errors in meter reads, occupancy data, or billing configurations can slowly chip away at recovery over time. We recommend conducting regular billing audits to catch and correct issues early.

D. Stay Compliant

Non-compliance can result in chargebacks, fines, or the inability to bill certain utilities altogether. Maximizing recovery isn’t just about billing more — it’s about billing right.

4. My Leases Aren’t Consistent with My Utility Billing — What Do I Do?

This is more common than you’d think. If your lease says one thing about utility billing but your billing software or vendor is doing something different, you’re exposed to disputes and potential legal challenges.

What to Do:

A. Audit Your Leases

Review your leases to see what utility billing disclosures they include — or fail to include.

B. Compare to Your Current Billing Practice

Identify any discrepancies between the lease terms and the actual billing method. For example, if your lease doesn’t mention RUBS but that’s how you’re billing, you need to revise the lease.

C. Update the Lease Language

Work with your legal counsel or property management team to incorporate clear, compliant utility billing clauses. These should include:

• Which utilities will be billed

• How the amounts are calculated (RUBS, submetering, flat fee, etc.)

• Any administrative or service fees

• Any required regulatory disclosures

D. Roll Out Updates Strategically

Changes may need to wait until the next lease renewal, depending on your jurisdiction. Keep residents informed of any changes and explain how they impact billing.

5. Can I Do Utility Billing In-House?

Technically, yes — but it’s not for the faint of heart.

Managing utility billing in-house involves a range of responsibilities:

• Reading meters (or allocating via RUBS)

• Preparing and sending accurate bills

• Handling resident disputes and inquiries

• Staying compliant with state and local laws

• Managing data, software, and regulatory filings

The workload and compliance risk can be substantial, especially for larger portfolios or properties in heavily regulated areas like Texas.

Why properties outsource utility billing:

• Expertise: A good utility billing partner stays on top of regulations so you don’t have to.

• Efficiency: Automated billing platforms reduce manual errors and speed up collections.

• Scalability: As your portfolio grows, so do your billing and compliance responsibilities.

• Support: Residents get a dedicated customer service team for billing questions, easing the burden on your onsite staff.

Final Thoughts

Utility billing isn’t just a back-office task— it’s a strategic part of property performance. Whether you’re wondering how to bill for water in Texas, looking to expand to other utilities, or figuring out how to clean up your lease language, the right information — and the right partner — makes all the difference.

Caroline Ferguson is the Senior Vice President of Revenue Operations at Southwest Utility Solutions, a company focused on delivering excellence through utility management and invoice processing. She spearheads the growth of revenue, people, processes and systems throughout the organization.

On the Scene with the HAA Expo Committee

Expo Committee Appreciation Party

Thursday, May 29 at Warehouse 72

The 2025 HAA Education Conference & Expo Exhibitor Chair Blaise Spitaleri and the top producing members of the committee enjoyed an afternoon celebration in appreciation of their hard work. HAA honored Blaise and Team Captains Andrew Najar, Sara Hinson, Kathy Motis and Nikki Sekunda (not pictured), along with Top Producers Susan Alvarado, Bo Hang and Victoria Tiemann, and Rookie of the Year Bo Hang.

The Wonders of Word

Do more faster with these Microsoft Word shortcuts.

By JULIE IRVIN HARTMAN, B2G Victory

Julie Irvin Hartman, MBA, CALP is an accomplished entrepreneur, consultant and presenter. She has been in the multifamily industry for 21 years and brings a wealth of experience from both the management company and vendor side. She is active with the Houston Apartment Association and is a Leadership Lyceum graduate Prior to her real estate career, Julie was a Presentation Specialist for Walt Disney World and an Account Executive for Mix 96.5FM. Julie is a frequent speaker at local, state, and national conferences.

LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/julieirvinhartman

Youtube - https://b2gresources.com/Excel

On the Scene

Fair Housing for Maintenance in Spanish

Wednesday, May 21 at the HAF Education Center

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers and Century A/C Supply

Alex Barclay, Hoover Slovacek, presented an informative session for maintenance professionals on minimizing claims for fair housing violations, effective communication with residents, proper record-keeping and more.

Photos by HAA STAFF

Do you really know your applicant?

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK

HAA’s Ambassadors celebrate Cinco De Mayo with

Top Producers:

Team photos at left, from top:

First place – Purple Rain with 488 points

Second place – Orange Crush with 304 points

Third place – Brown SugHAA with 220 points

OWNERS

Airo Properties

John Fitz Chatman 11011 Pleasant Colony Dr Houston, TX 77065 (832) 585-6038

Ascent Capital Management

Alecs Young 1717 W 34th #600-442 Houston, TX 77018 (507) 251-4317 9TWO5 Apartments

Atrium Circle GP

Ruby Wilson PO Box 5295 Kingwood, TX 77325-5295 (979) 233-9130 Creekside Oaks

Draw LLC

Valerie Ward 3306 Cotwald Tr Pearland, TX 77584 (713) 248-0616

Ernesto Contreras

Ernesto Contreras 14 Cloud Brook Dr Missouri City, TX 77459 (310) 614-8696

Shawnee

Kainan Investments LLC

Manne Favor 5607 Autumn Grove Ln Rosharon, TX 77583

Gulfgate Oaks

Referred by Terri Clifton

LPG Residential

Veronica Porcayo 2170 South McClelland St Salt Lake City, UT 84106 (801) 808-8746 The Reveal at Rye

Lunas Properties LLC

Conan Liang 7703 S Hunter Court Dr Houston, TX 77055 (254) 217-6771

Nino Properties

Gloria Nino PO Box 273084 Houston, TX 77098 (713) 212-4820

PV Apartments Inc

Allen Aydogdu 23286 Richards Rd Prairie View, TX 77445 (936) 857-9658

Reserve at Richards

Rely on the Rileys Investment

Amber Riley 28607 Royal Pines Ct Fulshear, TX 77441 (281) 660-1634

SLW Advisors Inc

Stacy Wells 4462 Conrad Drive La Mesa, CA 91941 (619) 743-2983

Tevas Property Management

Jose Torres 11200 Broadway Pearland, TX 77584 (979) 264-2174

Tomball Ranch Apartments

Triscope Corporation

Linus Li 6114 Gessner Rd Houston, TX 77041 (713) 476-1602

Triscope I Apartments

Highland Village Apts Triscope Apartments

SUPPLIERS

A Crisis Care Biohazard, Death & Hoarding Cleanup

Brady Boren 207 Willow St Conroe, TX 77384 (832) 662-4616

Cleaning Specialists - Bio-Hazardous Material, Cleaning SpecialistsTrauma, Odor Control, Disaster Recovery/Relief

AO Cooling & Heating

Abraham Aguirre 1903 Deaf Smith Dr Richmond, TX 77406 (713) 705-6787

A/C Contractors, Make Ready

ByteTime Computing Inc

Marc Ferruzzo 22136 Westheimer Pkwy Katy, TX 77450 (281) 782-9464

Information Technology, IT Services

Diamond Services LLC

Joel Mbanya 1900 West Gray St Houston, TX 77019 (832) 955-5376

Auto - Detailing, Cleaners, Concierge Services, Fences, Janitorial Services, Paint, Parking Area Maintenance & Marking, Pressure WashingEquipment & Service, Trash ServiceValet, Valet Parking Service, Window Cleaning

Done For You Trash Collection LLC

Selin Gutierrez 17350 TX 249 Ste 220 Houston, TX 77064 (346) 385-3461

Trash Service - Valet, Janitorial Services

DVF Company

Damon Melonson 579 County Rd 154 Liberty, TX 77575 (936) 397-9109

General Contractors, A/C Systems Cleaning

Referred by Donna Farthing

Fitzpatrick Insurance Solutions

Eric Fitzpatrick

2900 North Quinlan Park Rd Ste 240-132 Austin, TX 78732 (512) 825-9428

Insurance, Risk Management

FlyLock Security SolutionsHouston

Richard Gomelsky 25807 Westheimer Pkwy #306 Katy, TX 77494 (713) 234-1570

Locks & Locksmiths, Security Control Equipment/Systems, Electrical Gates & Doors, Doors & Door Products, Key Control Systems

Gatby

Ben Thomas

3120 Southwest Fwy #101 Houston, TX 77098 (713) 581-6553

Energy Provider, Ancillary Revenue Providers

Referred by Ryan Terrell

Glass Doctor of Houston

Riley Hartness 4400 W 12th St Houston, TX 77055-7208 (713) 496-3200

Glass - Plate, Window, Mirrors

Go Painting of Bayou City

Brittany Willoughby 1509 Graystone Hills Dr Conroe, TX 77304 (346) 299-1144

Painting Contractors, Paint

Go Painting of N. Houston

Casey Stinson 11802 Sequoia Valley Ln Humble, TX 77346 (281) 703-8469

Paint, Painting Contractors

Green Pride Landscaping

Edgar Martinez PO BOX 16877

Sugar Land, TX 77496 (281) 989-1540

Lawn Maintenance, Tree Services, Irrigation Systems & Equipment

Innovative Recovery

Sharon Palmer

5310 Harvest Hill Rd #277 Dallas, TX 75230 (972) 419-0102

Collection Agencies

IRestify Inc

Charlotte Gummesson 900-1999 Bryan St Dallas, TX 75201 (855) 964-7378

Janitorial Services, SMART Technology NoScrubs Inc

Jim Partee 1107 S 8th St Austin, TX 78704 (737) 321-7722

Laundry Service, Community Services

Power Services of Texas

Brittany Jenkins 36310 Hempstead Rd Hockley, TX 77447 (281) 796-1117

Plumbing Contractors, Plumbing Drain/Sewer Cleaning, Water Heaters & Boilers

R&L Global Inc

Eddie Gonzalez 3527 Mansfield Dt Houston, TX 77091 (281) 900-1474

Remodeling & Repair-Building Contractors, General Contractors, Fire/Water Damage Restoration Referred by Bo Hang

Robles Roofing & More LLC

Lindsey Robles 7819 Lawn Wood Ln. Houston, TX 77086

Surface Experts

Francisco Brito 2422 Park St Houston, TX 77019 (713) 502-0349

Appliances - Refinishing, Bathtubs & Sinks - Repairing & Refinish

Surface Experts of Katy/ West Houston Francisco Brito Katy, TX 77494 (713) 502-0349

Bathtubs & Sinks - Repairing & Refinish, Counter Tops, AppliancesRefinishing

Top Choice Roofing & Restoration GC

Kattie Martin 7544 Fm 1960 Rd E Humble, TX 77346 (832) 557-7797

Roofing Contractors, Electrical Contractors, Painting Contractors, Gutters & Downspouts

Visionary Works

Mario Martinez PO BOX 602

Deer Park, TX 77536 (832) 275-4361

Window-Replacement & Repair, Shower Doors

All Supplier members are listed online at www.haabuyersguide.com, searchable by product/service category or company name.

Portfolio Changes

• Rely on the Rileys Investment: 2103, 4 units at 2103 Daughtrey in Waco, and 2101, 4 units at 2101 Daughtrey in Waco.

• AOG Living: Copperwood Ranch Apts, 280 units at 6833 Lakeview Haven Dr.

• Arise Equity Management: Oaks of Ashford Point Apts, 255 units at 4040 Synott Rd.

• Aroh Asset Management LLC: Northchase Village, 232 units at 4522 Sylvanfield Dr.

• Asset Living: Memorial Hills, 308 units at 4200 Scotland St, and Lake Jackson Landings, 96 units at 294 Abner Jackson Pkwy in Lake Jackson.

• Creative Property Management: White Cliff Apts, 30 units at 3402 Dover St.

• Goat Property Management: Hollyview Apts, 324 units at 5555 Holly View Dr, and Andalucia Apartments, 118 units at 20515 Aldine Westfield Rd in Humble.

• Greystar: The Davy, 366 units at 11117 Signal Way in Stafford; Ten Pines at Summerwood Apts, 240 units at 14700 Woodson Park Dr; Westgrove, 371 units at 3001 W 11th St; and Skymor Pearland, 109 units at 3004 Newloch Lane in Pearland.

• Hamilton Point Investments: The Standard Westlake, 278 units at 12211 Summer Creek Trace.

• Hettig Management Corp: Campanile On Minimax, 117 units at 2727 Minimax Dr.

• Internacional Realty Inc: Rosemary, 384 units at 541 FM 1488 Rd in Conroe.

• PV Apartments Inc: Reserve at Richards, 494 units at 23286 Richards Rd in Prairie View.

• RPM Living: West Creek, 228 units at 2211 Montgomery Park Blvd in Conroe; Harbor Shores II, 140 units at 15630 Walden Rd in Montgomery; and Harbor Shores I, 144 units at 15650 Walden Rd in Montgomery.

• Tarantino Properties Inc: Havenwood Apartments, 291units at 333 Uvalde Rd.

• Texas Inter-Faith Housing Corp: Lofts at Hartsook, 96 units at 10420 Hartsook St.

• Willow Asset Management LLC: Willow at Sierra Vista, 97 units at 10211 Alpine Lake Ln in Rosharon.

• Willow Bridge Property Company: August Friendswood, 249 units at 2911 W El Dorado Blvd in Friendswood.

Heath Campbell has been promoted to Regional Director for Apartments.com.

Marilyn Rivero has returned to Q10 Property Advisors as Director of Procurement and Cap Ex.

David Lindley has started a new position as President of Gambit Construction

Delaney Taylor has joined the Craven Carpet Inc. Sales Team.

Chris Palacios has joined Fairfield Residential as Community Manager.

Nicole Curl has joined Chadwell Supply as Chadwell University Director.

Curl

Have something to report Email us your news at comm@haaonline.org.

Mark your calendars! For the quarterly Go-Getter meetings hosted at Cottonwood, 3422 N Shepherd Drive

Meeting Dates (on Thursdays): July 10 • September 11 • December 11

Campbell

Rivero

Lindley

Taylor

Palacios

2025 Chairs:

“BEE” THE FUTURE

Help the Go-Getters start a buzz by recruiting and networking!

Every new member you recruit this year earns you a chance to draw for gift cards and other prizes. There will be a $250 cash prize awarded to the top recruiter for each quarter and a $1,000 cash prize awarded to top recruiter for the year! In addition to top recruiter prizes, each recruitment earns a chance to select a sealed envelope containing a surprise reward, with

Meetings will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Cottonwood, 3422 N Shepherd Drive

Meeting Dates (on Thursdays): July 10 • September 11 • December 11

Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for more information.

THE GO-GETTERS ARE THE BACKBONE of the Houston Apartment Association. By recruiting new members, the Go-Getter Club helps both new management and supplier companies and the association grow for the future. To join the club and get going on recruitment, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact Randa and Maryann in the Membership Department at members@haaonline.org.

Brandon Coleman Chadwell Supply

A/C Contractors

Gemstar HVAC 25 281-821-1195 www.gemstarconstruction.com

A/C Supplies

Century A/C Supply 1 281-530-2859 www.centuryac.com

Electric Contractors

Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services 10 281-693-3383 www.brandtelectrical.com

Foundation Repair

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

Furniture - Outdoor

Texacraft 2 281-494-1541 www.texacraft.com

General Contractors

Camp Facility Services Back Cover 713-413-2267 www.campfs.com

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. 14 877-511-2962 www.cottongds.com

Guardian Construction 37 832-672-4196 www.guardianconst.com

MultiFamily Services 50 713-266-9100

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

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc.

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

Internet Service Provider

Blue Stream Fiber Inside Front Cover 844-416-1000 www.bluestreamfiber.com

Landscape Contractors

Texscape Services 15 281-846-3779 www.texscapeservices.com

Personnel Agency

ASAP Personnel 51 972-432-6667 www.asapdo.com

Plumbing Contractors

AAA Plumbers 5 713-462-4753 www.aaaplumbers.com

Screens

Ameristar Screen and Glass 51 713-683-6767 www.ameristarglass.com

Swimming Pool Service

Poolsure 12 800-858-POOL www.poolsure.com

HAA Products & Services

Rental Credit Reporting 45 713-595-0300 www.haaonline.org/rcr

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.

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

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

Want

CINDI

Thank you to our members, staff and local community for coming out in support of HAA’s Blood Drive on Thursday, June 5 at the Houston Apartment Foundation Education Center. Thanks to these generous donations, we exceeded our goal for the drive!

ABODE July 2025

Leasing in a

Digital World

CONTENTS

July 2025

ON THE COVER 34

FEATURES & PHOTOS

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

ABODE

EXECUTIVE SUPPLIER MEMBERS

News from the Texas Legislature

This Month's Exclusive Supplier Member

LEGISLATIVE RECAP

Highlighted Multifamily Related Legislation

Exciting News for the HAA Leadership Program

2025 LEGISLATURE ACTS!

Bill to streamline the eviction process.

CARES

Notice of proposed eviction.

Delivery of notice to vacate.

Service of petition.

Motion for summary disposition.

Criteria for appeal.

Payment into the court registry.

FOR MANAGEMENT:

places abode goes!

THE WHOLE TRUTH

Rental History Verification

The Committee’s Decision

Do you really know your applicant?

On Site with ABODE

THE DRISCOLL AT RIVER OAKS

High

2016-2022 Property of the Year

Summer Business Exchange Connect 4

Property management supervisors and executives:

Event Details:

Cost:

JULY 2

3-4

8-10

9

10

17

18

22

29

31

AUGUST

5-6

6

7

12

19-20

20

26

27

28

Discover the Ultimate Roadmap to Success with new speakers for 2025

What is Avenues?

How can I attend?

What does this get me?

Apartment Managers – CAM is the best way to advance your multifamily career!

On the Road with HAA

On the Scene

Digital World Leasing in a

The Digital Shift: Virtual Tours and Online Tools

Are In-Person Tours Still Necessary?

Blending Digital and In-Person Experiences: The Hybrid Model

The Future of Leasing

Moving Forward with a Digital-First Mindset

Utility Management Frequently Asked Questions

How Can I Bill for Water in Texas?

Final Thoughts

On the Scene with the HAA Expo Committee

The Wonders of Word

On the Scene

Do you really know your applicant?

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK