Issuu

And don’t miss photos from “The Future!”

Taking a Closer Look

June 2025

ON THE COVER

34

Taking A Closer Look – 2025 is off to an encouraging start for the Greater Houston multifamily market. See our June Market Report starting on Page 34 for all the details. And don’t miss photos from the Education Conference & Expo, the NEXT Spring Social, Sports Challenge and much more.

image © SvetaZi | iStock by Getty Images

FEATURES & PHOTOS

16 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at one of HAA’s Honor Award-winning communities

24 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA PAC Luncheon.

25 On the Scene – Photos from the Fort Bend State of the Submarket.

26 On the Scene – Photos from the NEXT Spring Picnic Social.

28 “The Future” was Here! – Photos from the 2025 HAA Education Conference & Expo.

34 Taking A Closer Look – An encouraging start to 2025 for Greater Houston multifamily.

38 Overcoming Employee Burnout –Navigating multifamily workforce challenges in 2025.

42 On the Scene – Photos from the All Stars Sports Challenge.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

7 President’s Corner – This month we have all the photos.

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Camp Facility Services.

9 Legislative Update – News from HAA’s Government Affairs.

11 It’s The Law – Houston adopts ShortTerm Rental Ordinance.

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

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

48 The Ambassador ONE Society –Learn about the HAA Supplier Network.

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

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

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

54 Index of Advertisers – See the advertisers 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

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

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS

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

CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

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

GENERAL COUNSEL

EMERITUS

Joe Bax

VALERIE LACY

Vice President at Large –South

BLAISE SPITALERI, CAS Vice President Gemstar Construction Development

CORRI SMITH

Vice President at Large –North

NIKKI SEKUNDA, CAS Secretary The Liberty Group

RICHARD WALL

Vice President at Large –East

DEBRA KNIGHT, CAS Treasurer Comm-Fit

GINA ERWIN

Immediate Past President

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 Development

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 Development

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 Development

Ryan Weis, Crestmark Construction Services

ABODE

JUNE 2025 I VOLUME 48, ISSUE 6

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

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

Michelle Bridges

Independent Rental

Owners Connection Alan Yu

NEXT Young Professionals Emily Frost

STAFF ADVISOR

Casey Morgan

Alex Chadwell

Lauren Ragin

Lauren Ragin Arely Pena

Leadership Development Kyle Brown

Community Outreach Melissa Friend

Product Service Council Deborah DeRouen

Expo Exhibitor Blaise Spitaleri

Membership Brandon Coleman

Amanda Sherbondy

Randa Dick

Randa Dick Karen Heffner

Ambassador ONE Society Tito Estrada

Karen Nelsen

Resident Relations A Jessica Wheeler

Resident Relations B Karah Carrillo

Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry

HAF Chili Fundraiser Neal Conant

Randa Dick

Matti Luna

Kasaundra Wright Ryan Weis

Honors Property Awards Beth Levine

Ruha Vohra

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, JUNE 2025, VOLUME 48, ISSUE 6

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&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

Alcaraz Lawn Care

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

AWT Golf Carts

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 HERON Technologies LLC

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

CRE Business Solutions LLC

Crossroads Insurance Recovery Advocates

Crowned Eagle Construction

CSC Serviceworks

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

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-Staff Inc

Gold Star Restoration

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

Greenline Landscaping Services LLC

Greenlogic

Grindstone General Contracting

H&R Operator Services Inc

Hakimo

Hallmark Hardwoods

Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents

Hive Technology

HMS Landscaping LLC

Hoover Slovacek LLP

Houston Furniture Rental

Houston Granite Marble Center

Houston Home and Patio

Hut Services LLC

Hybrilux LLC

Ideal Parking Management

Infinity Power Partners

Interior Logic Group -

Property Services

Ironwood Connection

J G Amador Construction

J National Contractors

J Turner Research

J&B Carpet Services

J.P. Morin Company LLC

JAK Environmental LLC

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

MCW Signs Inc dba Signarama

Magnolia

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

Perfect Parking

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

Redwood Private Security LLC

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

Rotolo Consultants Inc (RCI)

Royalty Landscape

SafeRent Solutions

Saint Clair & Sons Inc

Sayan Renovations & Construction

Scoop Troop HTX

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

Stealth Renovations

Steward Trash Valet Service

Stormwater Professionals Group

Strata Roofing and Construction LLC

Strickland Law Firm PLLC

Stripe Lines Inc dba Grass Lines Inc

STX Roofing

Superscapes Landscape and Irrigation

Surface Experts

Surface Experts of Katy/ West Houston

Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management

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

Tower Steel Services

Trash Butler

Tree Care USA LLC

Tri County Specialties LLC

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

Letter from the President

THIS MONTH, WE HAVE ALL THE PHOTOS! I want to once again thank our supplier members who dedicated their time and effort in exhibiting at the 2025 HAA Education Conference & Expo. This event is consistently a great space for ideas, learning and relationship building. We couldn’t do it without the Expo Committee Chair Blaise Spitaleri of Gemstar Construction Development and every dedicated professional member of the Expo Committee. Year after year, our annual show sells out for exhibitors and the waiting list seems to grow longer each year, so sign up as early as you can to reserve a booth for 2026. Contact Randa at randa@haaonline.org to reserve your booth. And don’t miss our recap starting on Page 28 and visit the photo archives on the home page at www.haaonline.org for even more Expo scenes.

And then there’s the All Stars Sports Challenge! HAA members showed up in big ways for adopted charity, Entryway, at this year’s event. Congratulations to 1st place team winner Texscape Services, 2nd place team La Salle Landscaping and 3rd place team RHS Construction. Thanks to your competition and the support of many, HAA was able to raise roughly $14,000 for Entryway. Thanks also to our sponsors who made the charitable event possible. See Page 42 for the list of sponsors and all the photos.

It’s finally here – It’s time for the HAA Honors Awards!

It’s my favorite time of the year! If you nominated a property or an industry professional, we thank you for taking the time to recognize those communities and individuals. Support your teams and properties by joining me and this year’s Master of Ceremonies, the amazing Joel Zeff, on Thursday, June 26 at the Hilton Americas! If you missed out on the nominations, you can show appreciation for your team by treating them to a night of celebration. Aside from congratulating our award winners, we will also be acknowledging new NAA credential holders and Leadership Lyceum graduates. You can also find out more at www.haaonline.org/events. I can’t wait to see all of your excited and happy faces!

“ONE” more bit of award news:

We also have two other major honors to celebrate. At press time, the Texas Apartment Association’s 2025 ONE Conference is underway in Houston at the George R. Brown Convention Center and two of our own are receiving top honors as the best in the state of Texas. HAA member and supporter FSI Construction is receiving TAA’s Mike Clark Supplier Partner Company of the Year Award and HAA CEO Casey Watts Morgan is receiving the George Allen Association Executive of the Year Award! Congratulations to both and watch out for more coverage of the event in next month’s issue of ABODE.

Do you have new info? Got news?

I know it’s only June, but the September information deadline for the 2026 Directory & Buyer’s Guide is going to sneak up on all of us. For all those managers out there, if your property has a new name, unit count, address or any other new information, give HAA a call at 713-595-0300 or email members@haaonline.org to share your changes and help us keep our database up-to-date. The same goes for all members. Have you changed companies? Title change? Any other news? Let us know. Include a photo and you just might make it into ABODE’s “In The News” on Page 51. And speaking of news, HAA has some – Meet HAA’s new Vice President of Government Affairs Ben McPhaul on Page 9.

“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

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

HERE’S THE LATEST

A quick update on the Legislative Session and a new face joins HAA’s Government Affairs staff.

AS YOU ALL KNOW, the 89th Legislature’s regular session began on Jan. 14 and will end on June 2. The Legislature has just a few weeks left in its 140-day lawmaking session, making the time that remains very fluid, contentious, and sometimes, unpredictable. In total, 8,898 bills and joint resolutions have been filed this session. This number exceeds the total bills filed in the 88th Legislative Session by over 700, so it has been a busy session! While SB 38, TAA’s signature piece of legislation focused on squatter prevention and eviction reform, passed the Senate on April 10, we have been closely monitoring HB 32’s progression in the House, a legislative companion bill. In ABODE’s July edition, we will have a full recap of the session results, including an analysis on TAA priority legislation. Stay tuned and thank you to the many who have participated in TAA’s advocacy efforts on behalf of HAA, especially HAA Past President (and current TAA VPAL) Stephanie Graves as well as HAA’s General Counsel Howard Bookstaff. We appreciate your hard work!

A Warm Welcome to A New Advocate

HAA has a new face leading its Government Affairs Department. Political outreach is integral to our association’s advocacy efforts and we are excited to introduce our new Vice President of Government Affairs Ben McPhaul. Here, Ben answers a few questions for ABODE. Make sure to say hello to him at our next HAA Political Action Committee meeting.

Tell us a bit about yourself: Your upbringing, family and education?

I was born and raised in the Dallas suburbs. I have three brothers, two older and one

younger, and an older sister. I attended the University of Texas Arlington for two years before transferring to UT Austin where I studied Government and English.

Tell us about your career and what brought you to HAA?

After college I began working on political campaigns that took me across Texas, to Maine, North Dakota and Virginia, among other places. I moved to Houston in 2015 to run the Harris County GOP and have been involved in local politics in the Houston region ever since.

I most recently was working at a consulting firm, since 2019, and I have desired to enter the Government Affairs world for a few years, so when the opportunity presented itself, I jumped at it. HAA has a great track record of being a well-respected and well-established organization so it was a no brainer to be eager about the potential opportunity.

What are you most looking forward to at HAA?

I’m looking forward to meeting a lot of new people, learning a lot of new things and being a valuable asset and resource to HAA members, leadership and staff!

What are your goals?

My goal is to fit in well with the team and to add value to the HAA team.

Do you have any hobbies or other interests you would like to share?

I enjoy playing golf, so if anyone wants to hit the links, let me know!

What makes a perfect Saturday for you?

Lunch with my wife, doing something fun in Houston (we are big festival people), and hanging out with my dogs.

Favorite place?

Banff, Alberta, Canada FOR SURE!

Favorite food?

Beef tenderloin with veggies.

If you could have a conversation with anyone from the past or present, who would it be and why?

My granny. She was my best friend who played a very integral part in raising me and I miss being able to talk to her.

Join us and meet Ben at our next HAA PAC event. Watch www.haaonline.org/events for details on our next luncheon.

More About the HAA PAC

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.

www.haaonline.org/haapac

KEEPING IT SHORT

Houston adopts Short-Term Rental Ordinance.

ON APRIL 16, 2025, the City of Houston adopted a Short-Term Rental Ordinance stating that it was for the health, safety, and welfare of the general public and for the protection of property owners and residents of the City.

You will need to comply with the newly adopted ordinance if you have any short-term rentals at your property. Whether you lease to a corporate tenant who sublets units on a shortterm rental basis or if you have residents that are permitted to advertise and sublease units on a social media platform, you will need to be in compliance of this ordinance.

Let’s take a look at what the ordinance requires.

What is considered to be a “short-term rental”?

A “short-term rental” means all or any portion of a dwelling unit that is rented out or offered to be rented for a period of less than 30 consecutive days. While there are several exceptions to this term, the term “dwelling unit” includes each unit of an apartment, duplex or multiple dwelling structure designed as a separate habitation for one or more persons.

What is required by the ordinance?

The ordinance states that it is unlawful for any person to operate, rent, lease or advertise a short-term rental within the city limits without a valid certificate of registration. Each owner or operator of a short-term rental operating within the city limits is required to register their shortterm rental with the city in accordance with the ordinance.

What information is required in a certificate of registration?

Each short-term rental is required to register with the city on a form prescribed by the director of the Administrative and Regulatory Affairs Department and be accompanied by a nonrefundable application fee of $275. The application must contain the following information:

• The address of the short-term rental;

• The names, mailing addresses, street addresses, telephone numbers and electronic mail addresses of all owners, operators and agents of the short-term rental;

• Proof of ownership of the property, or a sworn or unsworn declaration from the property owner granting permission for the operation of a short-term rental at the address provided;

• The names and 24-hour telephone numbers of one or more emergency contact persons, who shall be the owner, operator, or designated agents and who shall be authorized to respond to emergency conditions;

• The name and website address of all platforms that facilitated booking transactions for the short-term rental at any time during a twelve-month period prior to the date of application;

• Acknowledgement by the owner that the use of the property as a short-term rental does not violate any covenants, homeowner association rules, bylaws, deed restrictions, condominium agreement terms, rental agreement terms, or other restrictions, including but not limited to minimum occupancy duration requirements, applicable to the property proposed to be used a short-term rental;

• A sworn statement or unsworn declaration that the owner of the short-term rental will comply with the requirements of the ordinance;

• Proof of registration with the city for payment of hotel occupancy taxes or proof of remittance of hotel taxes for the operation for the short-term rental; and

• Any other information that may be reasonable requested by the director.

What

are

the emergency conditions

the emergency contacts listed in the registration will be required to address?

As stated above, the registration is required to include the names and 24-hour telephone numbers of one or more emergency contacts

who shall be authorized to respond to emergency conditions. The term “emergency condition” means any fire, natural disaster, power outage, gas leak, noise violation, or medical emergency. The term also includes certain crimes occurring at the short-term rental including murder, rape, robbery, aggravated assault, burglary, narcotics offenses, human trafficking offenses, weapons offenses, prostitution offenses, arson, vandalism, gambling offenses, and disorderly conduct.

What will the emergency contact be required to do?

Any emergency contact listed in the registration must be available by phone at all times to respond to emergency conditions while any occupants are on the premises of a short-term rental. If called, the emergency contact is required to respond to the emergency condition within one hour after being notified by the City’s emergency response personnel or the director. The emergency contact must be authorized to make decisions regarding the premises, its occupants, and will be required to take reasonable actions to resolve the emergency condition to the extent possible. The owner or operator of the short-term rental is required to post in a conspicuous location of the short-term rental the names and telephone numbers of one or more emergency contacts authorized to respond to emergency conditions.

Must the certificate of registration be displayed on the property?

Yes. A copy of the approved certificate of registration must be posted in a conspicuous location inside the front entrance to the shortterm rental.

Is a separate certificate of registration required each time a unit is used as a short-term rental?

Yes. A separate certificate of registration is

required for each short-term rental. Certificates of registration are valid only at the address of the short-term rental stated on the certificate of registration.

How long will a certificate of registration be valid?

Each certificate of registration is valid for one year from the date of issuance unless revoked or otherwise invalidated. A registrant is required to apply for renewal not more than 90 calendar days prior to the expiration on a form provided by the director.

Can a registration be revoked?

Yes. The director may revoke a certificate of registration for a number of reasons stated in the ordinance including:

• Two or more instances when the City, after providing notice, removes or abates a nuisance at a property operating as a short-term rental;

• Two or more citations are issued over two separate occasions within a 12-month period at the property registered as a short-term rental, whether the citations are issued to the owner, operator, or occupants, resulting in two or more convictions for violations of the City’s noise ordinance; and

• One or more convictions of the owner,

operator, or any occupant of the property registered as a short-term rental for a number of offenses including kidnapping, reckless discharge of a firearm, trafficking of persons, prostitution, compelling prostitution, aggravated assault, sexual assault, aggravated sexual assault, continuous sexual assault, sexual conduct or performance by a child, employment harmful to a child, or disorderly conduct.

What is the penalty for violating the ordinance?

Any person who violates the ordinance commits an offense and upon conviction, is required to be punished by a fine of not less than $100 and not more than $500 for each violation. Each day any violation continues constitutes and is punishable by a separate violation.

Will there be additional rules governing short-term rentals?

Yes. The director is authorized to adopt rules and regulations consistent with the intent and purpose of the ordinance. A copy of all rules and regulations will be maintained at the director’s office and the office of the city secretary for inspection by the public, and copies are required to be made available for purchase.

When does the ordinance go into effect?

January 1, 2026.

What can I do now to prepare for compliance with the ordinance?

Whether, and to what extent, you want to be involved in short-term rental operations at your property is up to you. However, if you have any involvement as an owner of a property where short-term rentals are allowed, an operator of a short-term rental or a manager of a short-term rental operation, you will need to become knowledgeable about, and comply with the terms of, the ordinance. Policies and procedures should be reviewed and adopted as necessary to ensure compliance with the ordinance.

How and the extent to which the City will enforce the new ordinance is anyone’s guess. However, if you are involved in short-term rentals, now is the time to take action to ensure compliance.

Good luck!

the

MIND THE DETAILS

Know the ins and outs of your policies and the laws regarding deposits and other fees.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with HAA to receive a refund of her $190 deposit. She stated that she had applied for an apartment and was assured she would get one and that she was told to bring a money order of $190, which would be the deposit fee. She said she did as directed and that she was assured she would get all of her money back if anything went wrong.

Management responded to HAA stating that the resident applied for an apartment and paid a $150 deposit and a $40 application fee, totaling $190. She was approved with a higher deposit of $988 – due to a judgment

filed against her, several evictions on her rental record and several past-due accounts on her credit – and she refused to pay the higher deposit.

The property’s screening criteria stated that a higher deposit would be required with the issues on this resident’s record, and she signed and agreed to those terms on the application. The criteria also stated that no monies would be refunded, which she also agreed to with a signature. Enclosed was a copy of the application.

The committee decided in favor of management. The resident falsified the applica-

tion by not disclosing her evictions, so management may retain the security deposit as liquidated damages. The resident may wish to pursue this complaint in small claims court.

If you are a manager with a resident relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 for direct assistance. Renters can be referred to HAA 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.

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 Copperfield Bowl

15615 Glen Chase Drive

1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Registration and practice – 12 p.m.

Tournament begins at 1 p.m.

Spectators – $75/person

Team Registration (5 players) – $500

Maximum of two teams per company. Price includes 3 games, shoes and buffet.

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 one of our 2024 winners. See future ABODEs for more honorees.

HIGHPARK APARTMENTS

Lease Up Property of the Year

Property: Highpark Apartments

Owner/Management: Venterra Realty

Location: 20515 Cypress Plaza Pkwy, Cypress

Units: 336

Web: https://venterraliving.com/apartments/highpark

Photos from Highpark Apartments

Highpark Apartments was awarded Lease Up of the Year for their dedication to customer service and quality excellence. The community overcame many challenges and obstacles in 2023, but still managed to achieve a 5-star Google rating, showcasing Venterra’s “Unparalleled Service Excellence.” Faced with construction delays, stiff competition and the speedbumps of being Venterra’s first ground up development, the team banded together as pioneers working towards a common goal while building an impeccable reputation. Both inside and outside teams worked side by side exemplifying Venterra’s “Team First” core value, all while staying versatile and adaptive along the way. Together they managed 2,649 pieces of traffic, welcomed 298 move ins and completed 861 resident work orders. The community held a 5.0 Google rating for the majority of 2023 and still carries a respectable 4.6 rating. It earned a top elite 1% ORA Power Ranking by Multifamily Executive and J Turner Research. The community was also awarded as one of the top 10n lease ups by Multifamily Executive and earned Venterra’s Excellence Community Award for 2023.

Highpark’s amenities include: outdoor lounge areas with gas grills, a resort-style pool with tanning ledge, air conditioned mailroom, formal and informal cubrooms, a clubhouse commercial kitchen, co-working offices and conference rooms, detached garages, covered and reserved parking, resident coffee bar, two Bark Parks, outdoor social and green space, HEB Adjacent, door-to-door trash service, fitness center with functional trainer, community-wide wi-fi, mobile account management and rental payments, mobile service request management, an autopay discount, touch-free SMARTPACKAGE lockers; Amenify Concierge Services and 3-Tap Renewal.

Join us as we recognize the multifamily industry's finest professionals and properties.

2025 Honors Awards

Thank you to our generous sponsors

RECEPTION AND REGISTRATION FROM 4:30 PM TO 6 PM

AWARDS PROGRAM WILL BEGIN PROMPTLY AT 6:30 PM

HILTON AMERICAS-HOUSTON

1600 LAMAR ST., HOUSTON, TEXAS 77010

$140/seat or $1,450 for a table of 10

$160/Walkup Individual Seat

Register by June 1 to take advantage of early bird pricing Tables of 10 may be reserved by company name when paid in full.

Individual Awards sponsored by

Property Awards sponsored by

Reception sponsored by

I BID ON TONIGHT …

Join HAA as we fire up the best in networking opportunities. Events that will light up your marketing include Installation Gala, Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament, Business Exchange, Chili Fest, the Industry Achievement Luncheon and much more, along with a backpack full of educational seminars and courses.

Is this the first time to pitch your tent?

Come early for the Auction 101 session to find out how to bid, what’s for sale and how it all works. If you can’t make the live auction, Proxy bidding is available. Contact randa@haaonline.org. Visit the HAA website for the full Auction Program with the list of events up for bids at www.haaonline.org/sponsor.

There will be “smore’ than enough marketing opportunities for everyone. Gain exposure for your brand by sponsoring an upcoming HAA event or meeting!

Wednesday, June 18

HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center 4810 Westway Park Blvd. off Clay Road just east of Beltway 8 Auction 101: 2:30 p.m. Registration: 3 p.m. Drawings close: 3:45 p.m. Live Auction begins: 4 p.m.

Find out more at www.haaonline.org/sponsor

JUNE

3-4

Leasing 101

Tuesday, June 3 through Wednesday, June 4

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and 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.

4

New Supplier Orientation

Wednesday, June 4

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.

The Woodlands Region Meeting

Wednesday, June 4

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 GM Cleaning Service Pro LLC

Ambassador ONE Society

Wednesday, June 4

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.

5

HAA Blood Drive

Thursday, June 5

HAA Education Center

8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Walk ins welcome. Visit www.haaonline.org/events to book a time slot

ACES Manager Appreciation Luncheon

Thursday, June 5

11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

A special interest group for management executives with quarterly luncheons featuring guest speakers. This summer luncheon welcomes executives and property managers. Visit www.haaonline.org/events for more information and to register. Sponsored by Apartments.com and Century A/C Supply

10

Avenues: Marketing Place 2

Tuesday, June 10

8:30 a.m. to Noon

See Page 22 for more information. Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data

11-13

NAA Apartmentalize

Wednesday, June 11 through Friday, June 13 in Las Vegas Visit www.naahq.org for details.

11

Resident Relations Committee B Meeting

Wednesday, June 11

2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Closed committee meeting Via Zoom

17

It’s the Law Breakfast: Legislative Update

Tuesday, June 17

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 Update. This program counts for 1 CEC. Sponsored by Precision Appliance Leasing and Ticon Texas Construction Services.

18

Sponsorship Auction

Wednesday, June 18

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

Supplier partners can purchase sponsorhips for upcoming HAA meetings and events. Contact randa@haaonline.org for details and see Page 16.

23-27

CAPS: Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor Course

Monday, June 23 through Friday, June 27

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

Enhances the skills of the apartment portfolio supervisor, resulting in better supervised and more profitable rental properties with improved owner relations and increased productivity. Sponsored by Best Plumbing, Renova One and RHS Construction & Services

24-25

CPO: Certified Pool Operator (English)

Tuesday, June 24 and Wednesday June 25

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. Visit www.haaonline.org/events to register.

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

HAA will be closed in observance of Independence Day

Extreme Certified Apartment Manager Course (CAM)

Tuesday, July 8

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

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

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

16

Pasadena Region Meeting

Wednesday, July 16

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.

22

Avenues: Leadership Lane 2 Tuesday, July 22

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 two sessions, with more to come:

Summer Business Exchange Connect 4

Property management supervisors and executives:

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

Join HAA for the 19th annual HAA Summer Business Exchange, a great opportunity to learn about the latest industry products and services in an online, controlled environment and give back to your industry.

Find supplier partners that can help with your needs with CapEx projects, renovations, staffing, pest control, technology and more!

Thursday, August 7

HCC West Houston Institute, 2811 Hayes Road, 77082

8 a.m. – Registration

9 a.m. to 11 a.m. – Exchange

See more at: www.haaonline.org/businessexchange or contact Amanda Sherbondy at asherbondy@haaonline.org or 713-595-0316 for more information.

Registration opens June 16, visit www.haaonline.org/businessexchange

Owners/Property Management:

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. Supplier companies pay for this opportunity and your attendance makes this possible.

To take part in this great fundraising event, contact HAA’s Amanda Sherbondy at asherbondy@haaonline.org.

Suppliers:

You will have access to a number of property management leaders from owner executives to maintenance supervisors. For the cost to participate, visit the link below.

Sponsorships for this event will be sold at the June Sponsorship Auction. See Page 19 for details.

On the Scene with the

HAA PAC Luncheon

Tuesday, April 22 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center

On the Scene

Fort Bend County State of the Submarket

Tuesday, April 29

Sponsored by American Fire Systems Inc. and Reliable Roofing of Texas

The Fort Bend County State of the Submarket brought together local experts to discuss the current and future State of Fort Bend County. Topics discussed included recent economic trends, job growth, forecasts, rental rate and occupancy trends, new construction developments, technology and operation trends. Thank you to our moderator HAA Vice President at Large Melissa Friend, Greystar, and panelists Commissioner Dexter McCoy, Fort Bend County Commissioner Precinct 4; Mayor Joe Zimmerman, City of Sugar Land; and Nichole Williams, CEO of SMART Apartment Data.

Photos by HAA STAFF

NEXT Spring Picnic Social Thursday, August 17 at Powder Keg Sponsored by Epic Multifamily Construction and Northwest Construction Group

The HAA NEXT Committee sipped, snacked and socialized for their yearly Spring Social and enjoyed lawn games and pickleball.

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.

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

HAA 2025 Education Conference & Expo

Thursday, April 10 at NRG Center

It was another record-breaking year as HAA members entered the matrix of “The Future’ for HAA’s annual conference and expo.

Thank you to our generous sponsors:

Expo Grand Entrance Camp Facility Services

Lanyards

Massey Services Inc

Hand Sanitizer Station

Brandt Electrical, A/C and Rooﬁng Services

Best Plumbing

Expo Aisle Signs

AAA Plumbers

American Fire Systems Inc

Ameritex Movers

Core Distributing

Guardian Construction

Hire Priority Stafﬁng & Executive Search

Lowe’s Pro Supply

Massey Services Inc

Expo Bars

Core Distributing

FSI Construction

Gambit Construction

Expo Mobile Device

Charging Stations

Ameritex Movers

Best Plumbing

Education Conference Welcome

Gemstar Construction

Education Conference

Main Track Keynote Luncheon

Brandt Electrical, A/C and Rooﬁng Services

Education Conference

Main Track Breakfast

Ameritex Movers

Chadwell Supply

Education Conference

Main Track Breakout Sessions

Ameritex Movers

Apartments.com

Valet Living

Education Conference Spanish Track Keynote Luncheon

Gemstar Construction

Education Conference Spanish Track Breakout Session 1

AAA Plumbers

Hire Priority Stafﬁng & Executive Search

Education Conference Spanish Track Breakout Session 2

Gemstar Construction

Hire Priority Stafﬁng & Executive Search

Education Conference

Water Station

Chadwell Supply

Expo Sketchbot

American Fire Systems Inc

Gemstar Construction

Expo AI Headshot Photobooths

Blue Stream Fiber Poolsure

Board of Directors Meeting

Jet Waste

Booth Winners: Best in Show Encore Services

1st Place Single Graphic Stylus

2nd Place Single Flooring Warehouse

3rd Place Single Ameritex Movers

1st Place Multiple Crestmark Construction Services

2nd Place Multiple Redi Carpet

3rd Place Multiple Gemstar Construction

“Scan to Win” Prize Winners: Julissa Juarez, Monica Morales and Lizeth Chavez Rodriguez

For

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography HAA

HIEBERT

Taking a Closer Look

An encouraging start to 2025 for Greater Houston multifamily.

By JORDAN BROOKS, Director of Market Analytics, ALN Apartment Data

After a volatile few years brought myriad challenges for the multifamily industry, 2025 has gotten off to an encouraging start for Greater Houston. New supply has remained elevated, but the peak appears to now be in the rearview mirror. Apartment demand has maintained its positive trajectory for more than two years and appears to be gaining momentum. Rent growth has also returned to the typical range after a period of underperformance.

All numbers will refer to conventional properties of at least fifty units.

Supply Down, Demand Up

New supply continued to play a prominent role in industry performance to open the year and will continue to do so throughout 2025. Just more than 7,000 new units were delivered across the market from January through April. This was down moderately from the roughly 7,600 units delivered in the same portion of the calendar last year. However, in the last decade the units delivered in the first four months of 2025 were only eclipsed by last year’s total. Of particular note were three submarkets. The Greater Katy – Cinco Ranch region led the way with just more than 1,100 new units delivered. The Midtown – Museum District area added approximately 900 new units in the period. Lastly, the 1960 West – Jersey Village portion of the market delivered around 800 new units. In all, roughly 40% of Greater Houston submarkets saw some level of new supply in the period.

Arguably the most important development to begin 2025 was the change to apartment demand. Net absorption of nearly 6,300 units was surpassed only by the start of 2021 in recent years. This year’s total more than doubled the net absorption in the same portion of 2024. The robust improvement in apartment demand made Greater Houston the fifth ranked market nationally for net absorbed units through April.

Aside from overall market demand improving notably, the effect was widespread across the price classes. At the top of the market, Class A net absorption improved moderately year-over-year and Class B largely held serve. Class C demand rose by more than 60% compared to last year while Class D followed two straight years with a net loss of

leased units for this portion of the calendar with a net gain of more than 2,500 leased units.

Rent Growth Gained Ground

The decline in deliveries paired with the surge in net absorption resulted in no change to market-level average occupancy through the first four months of 2025. This marked the first time average occupancy avoided a slide in the period since 2021. Overall market average occupancy ended April at about 88% and the stabilized average ended at 91%.

The improvement in the supply and demand relationship as well as a mitigation of the longer-term downward trend in average occupancy helped to fuel rent growth to begin the year. A 0.9% increase in the average effective rent for new leases was higher than last year’s 0.5% gain and was right at the typical level for the period prior to the last handful of volatile years.

There was more of a dichotomy at the price class level with rent performance than was the case for apartment demand. Both the Class A and Class B subsets managed vigorous improvement relative to the last couple of years.

For Class A, two consecutive years with negative rent growth for the period was followed this year by a 1.7% gain this year. Only 2021 and 2022 were higher within the last decade. For Class B, the last two years featured modest gains in the period and this year’s 1.9% rate of appreciation was similarly bested only by 2021 and 2022 among recent years.

The picture was different within the workforce housing segments. A 0.5% average effective rent gain for the Class C group equaled last year’s result and was slightly below the pre-pandemic average for the period. For Class D, respectable gains in 2023 and 2024 were followed by a 1.1% slide in average effective rent this year. However, the silver lining for the Class D portion of the market was that the softening rent performance came alongside the best net absorption in the last ten years.

Takeaways and Looking Ahead

2025 has gotten off to an enviable start for Greate Houston multifamily. The new supply deluge has crested, apartment demand has picked up steam, the occupancy downward slide has winnowed, and rent growth is responding to the improving environment for the market.

A renewed balance between supply and demand would not only mitigate recent annual occupancy declines but bring an actual start to a recovery for market occupancy.

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, these early trends provide some useful signals. Lease starts this year are expected to be in the neighborhood of 14,000 units. This would be the lowest total since 2019. Should the current apartment demand trend hold, Greater Houston should be on the list of Sunbelt markets to see net absorption outpace new supply this year for the first time since 2021.

A renewed balance between supply and demand would not only mitigate recent annual occupancy declines but bring an actual start to a recovery for market occupancy. Getting the market average from 88% to above the 90% threshold may be too much of an ask for this year, but a major step in the right direction is a reasonable possibility. For many Sunbelt markets, a net gain in market average occupancy is much less likely until 2026.

Within this broader picture of tightening market conditions, rent growth momentum has a good chance to continue. Annual average effective rent growth for new leases has been below 3% for each of the last two years. Short of a dramatic downturn in apartment demand, it is difficult to see that trend continuing for a third year. All indicators from other multifamily performance metrics and from the rent growth trend itself point to considerable improvement this year.

However, there is always a caveat. The current geopolitical and economic volatility and associated uncertainty provide some risk. A strong year for Greater Houston multifamily is not guaranteed, but the outlook is arguably brighter than at any point since 2021.

Jordan Brooks is the Director of Market Analytics at ALN Apartment Data. He spearheads the evaluation of performance trends and industry outlook and is responsible for ALN’s client and public-facing analytical content. In addition to speaking at events around the country, Jordan writes ALN’s monthly newsletter and contributes monthly to multiple multifamily publications. He earned a master’s degree from the University of Texas at Dallas in Business Analytics.

Jordan can be reached at jordan@alndata.com and visit www.alndata.com for more information.

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 Council Career and Community Development 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.

Overcoming Employee Burnout

Navigating multifamily workforce challenges in 2025.

By LOA HEMATI, CAO, Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search

From leasing offices to maintenance shops, the multifamily industry runs on high energy and high expectations. It’s fast-paced, demanding, and always “on.” With resident needs, property maintenance, and constant pressure to meet occupancy goals, it’s no wonder teams often feel stretched thin.

Add in budget constraints and economic uncertainty forcing owners to stretch lean teams even thinner and it creates pressure points that can quickly lower morale and increase stress. When those conditions go unchecked, burnout isn’t just a possibility, it’s almost a guarantee.

The tricky thing about burnout is that it rarely shows up all at once. Instead, it creeps in gradually. One day it’s a tired employee. A week later, it’s a team that’s struggling to stay engaged. Productivity slips, motivation wanes and a once-thriving team feels like it’s running on empty.

Burnout doesn’t just impact individuals, it ripples through your entire organization. It affects resident experiences, leasing performance, team culture – and ultimately – your bottom line. But here’s the upside: burnout is preventable, and it starts with understanding what it looks like and how to stop it in its tracks.

So, What Is Burnout, Really?

You’ve probably heard the word “burnout” tossed around a lot and with good reason. In recent years, it’s become a common part of workplace conversations. But far from being a buzzword, burnout is a serious and growing concern.

According to the 2024 NAMI Workplace Mental Health Poll: 52% of employees in the US reported feeling burned out and 37% said they felt so overwhelmed that it

impacted their ability to do their job. These numbers are staggering and they paint a clear picture: burnout is real, and it's affecting your workforce right now, whether you realize it or not.

The World Health Organization defines burnout as a syndrome resulting from chronic workplace stress that hasn’t been successfully managed. That may sound like just another busy day in multifamily, but it goes deeper than that.

Burnout is marked by three main symptoms:

● Persistent fatigue or energy depletion.

● Increased mental distance from one’s job or a growing sense of cynicism.

● Reduced professional efficacy, or feeling like you're no longer effective at your work.

This isn't just about being tired at the end of a long shift. It's about the emotional and psychological toll of being in a constant state of pressure without adequate support. And when it’s not addressed, burnout can lead to long-term consequences like disengagement, high turnover and poor resident experiences.

The Path to Prevention: What Leaders Can Do

The good news? Burnout can be prevented – and even reversed – with the right strategies. As a leader in multifamily, you don’t have to have all the answers, but you do need to create an environment where your team feels supported, heard and empowered.

Here are a few key strategies to keep your team healthy, motivated and resilient.

Prioritize Employee Check-Ins

One of the simplest yet most effective things you can do is check in with your team on a regular basis. Not just

about deadlines or property updates, but about how they’re doing personally and professionally. Think about questions like “What’s been the most stressful part of your week?” “Is there anything you feel you’re struggling to keep up with?” or “What could make your job easier right now?”

By showing genuine care and opening a two-way conversation, you send a powerful message: “I value you, not just your output.” And often, those small check-ins reveal insights you wouldn't otherwise see.

Consider Capacity Before Assigning More

It’s easy to fall into the trap of assuming someone can “just take on one more thing.” But that mindset can quickly lead to overload. Before assigning a new task or responsibility, ask whether your team member has the bandwidth to take it on. If they don’t, work together to problem-solve on how the workload can be reorganized. Do we have enough team members available to handle the growing list of tasks and responsibilities? Is there a task that can be postponed or delegated? Sometimes bringing in temporary help can be the smartest move, especially during peak periods.

Even the most capable, hardworking team has its limits, and recognizing that is a sign of good leadership, not weakness.

Use Team

Meetings to Support, Not Just Assign

Team meetings shouldn’t just be about ticking off deliverables, they’re a chance to build connection, celebrate wins and make sure work is shared in a balanced way. Use this time to check in on how everyone’s really doing. Is

Working in multifamily housing means dealing with a constant stream of demands, shifting priorities and resident expectations and it’s easy to lose sight of how your team is holding up. But the truth is: when burnout takes hold, no one wins.

someone overwhelmed? Is there a teammate with capacity who can step in to help?

These conversations help reset expectations, surface potential roadblocks and strengthen a culture of collaboration and mutual support.

Set Realistic Goals and Deadlines

Multifamily teams are often asked to hit big goals on short timelines, but not everything can be urgent. If you’re seeing signs of burnout, it may be time to reassess the pace you’re expecting. Are goals clearly defined? Are they actually achievable within the time frame given the resources available?

Developing a collaborative action plan with your team builds alignment and commitment. When people feel part of the planning process, they’re more motivated to follow through and far less likely to feel overwhelmed.

Talk About It – Early and Often

The best way to uncover what your team needs? Ask them. Create a culture where people feel safe speaking up about challenges, stress or needs. This doesn’t mean you need to have all the solutions on the spot. Often, the act of listening and validating their experience is the first –and most important – step.

You might even be surprised by the solutions your team already has in mind. After all, they’re the most familiar with the tasks and already know what works and what doesn’t.

Recognize When Overload Is Doing Harm

Sometimes, the signs are subtle: increased mistakes, missed deadlines, more sick days

or a once-outgoing employee becoming distant. These may all point to burnout creeping in.

Heavy workloads without adequate support don’t just reduce productivity, they chip away at morale and engagement. Step in early, redistribute tasks, and make sure team members know it's okay to ask for help.

The Bottom Line: Burnout Affects Everyone Working in multifamily housing means dealing with a constant stream of demands, shifting priorities and resident expectations and it’s easy to lose sight of how your team is holding up.

But the truth is: when burnout takes hold, no one wins.

It affects your team’s well-being, the quality of service residents receive, and the overall health of your property operations. But by staying proactive – checking in, adjusting workloads, communicating openly and leading with empathy – you can build a stronger, more resilient workplace.

At the end of the day, happy employees lead to happy residents. And that’s what creates a community everyone wants to be part of.

Loa Hemati is CAO at Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search. For more information, visit www.hirepriority.com, email houston@ hirepriority.com or call 713-960-9906.

Did you know ABODE is online? Visit us at https://issuu.com/haa_abode

Boonchu

iStock by Getty Images

On the Scene

All Stars Sports Challenge

Friday, May 2 at Bear Creek Park

HAA member teams competed in the 2025 All Stars Sports Challenge and raised $14,000 for HAA’s adopted charity Entryway.

Thanks to our sponsors:

Activity Sponsors:

Redevelopment Services: Corn Hole Platinum Pool and Spa: Giant Pong

Chadwell Supply: Football Toss

AAA Plumbers: Buddy Walk

Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search: Soccer Ball Blitz

Reliable Roofing of Texas: Putting Green Core Distributing: Tug of War

Supporting Event Sponsors:

Apple Termite & Pest Control: Lunch

Ideal Parking Management: Medals

Guardian Construction: Wristbands

BluSky Restoration: Equipment

American Fire Systems: Water Station

Congratulations to our winning teams: 1st Place Texscape Services

2nd Place La Salle Landscaping

3rd Place RHS Construction

For more photos, visit the photo galleries on the home page at www.haaonline.org

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

All Stars Sports Challenge

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK

HAA’s Ambassadors are the pros at outreach to our members.

Mark your calendars and join us!

Ambassador ONE Society meetings: June 4, July 2, August 6, September 3, October 1, November 5 and December 3

The meeting spot is Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, Houston, Texas 77055.

THE AMBASSADOR ONE SOCIETY is an organized network exchange that helps supplier partners build their business contacts within HAA. It’s the perfect way for new suppliers to get started with the association. Group members share leads, make introductions and support HAA and its members. For details, attend an orientation and one of the meetings listed here or email members@haaonline.org.

What is an Ambassador ONE committee member?

The "Organized Network Exchange" is composed of product/service company volunteers. Ambassador ONE society volunteers are representatives of the Houston Apartment Association who focus on networking to bring supplier members together to reinforce relationships and to promote professionalism in the multifamily industry. They are tasked with sharing industry leads and news, and to contact new and current members to inform them of upcoming events and promoting membership benefits and services.

How does my involvement in the Ambassador One Society help me promote my product or service?

You can increase your customer base as you contact HAA members to promote membership benefits. The initial contact is not the time for a hard sell, but it’s a good opportunity to make your presence known. When introducing yourself, use your company name feel free to mention what your company does and say that you are a volunteer for HAA. Be sure to give contacts your business card so they can readily identify you with your company. After tending to HAA business, follow up with a thank-you note and brochure on your company. Plus, networking with fellow supplier partners is a great way to build professional connections.

How do Ambassadors know whom to contact? Each month, HAA supplies the club volunteers with a list of members with contact information to reach out to on behalf of HAA and promote member benefits and events.

What kind of valuable information does an Ambassador exchange? When changes occur at a property, whether it’s a new owner, management company or staff, new business opportunities may become available. Ambassador volunteers working together can find out more information about owner member changes and the product or service needs associated with those changes. Sharing this type of information can be very beneficial Information that is not useful to one volunteer may prove useful to another.

Join the Society! The Ambassador One Society is a perfect way to grow your network, establish a referral system, gain exposure in the industry and get involved in the association. To join, email members@haaonline.org to register for the HAA 101 Orientation held on the first Wednesday of every month. Then attend at least three Ambassador meetings to become a full ONE member.

Questions? Contact the HAA Staff Liaison Randa Dick at 713-595-0319 or email randa@haaonline.org.

Tito Estrada, CAS RealtyCom Partners

Karen Nelsen, CAS ALN Apartment Data

2025 Ambassador Chairs

OWNERS

ASM A-Strategy Management

Xue Dan Xu

1800 Bordeaux Blvd Burlington, KY 41005 (337) 224-2728

Altanova Apartments

Herron Property Management

Regina Johnson 920 N Shadeland Ave #G4 Indianapolis, IN 46219 (346) 309-9331

Kings Reserve Willowbrook Kings Preserve Kingwood

Pinemont Ventures LLC

Ben Aaron 7200 Pinemont Dr Houston, TX 77040 (415) 770-2012

The Grove at Pinemont

Sparrow Adult Living

Dawn Taylor 7414 Jensen Dr Houston, TX 77093-8709 (713) 697-4600

Sparrow Assisted Living Apts

Typhoon Construction

Phillip Webel 19901 Southwest Fwy #161 Sugar Land, TX 77479 (832) 381-7222

Referred by Trey Stone

SUPPLIERS

Advant Solutions LLC

TJ Sisneroz 8602 Fallbrook Dr Ste 200 Houston, TX 77064 (281) 444-4014

Turnkey-Complete, Access Control Systems, Doors & Door Products, Fire Alarm Systems

Brazos Commercial Roofing

JR McHugh 440 Louisana St Houston, TX 77002 (281) 414-5452

Roofing Contractors, Waterproofing Contractors

Calix

Susan Higgins 2777 Orchard Dr San Jose, CA 95134 (408) 514-3000

Telecommunications Services, Computers - Online Services & Internet

Chamberlin Roofing & Waterproofing

Lilly Supplee 4545 Langfield Rd Houston, TX 77040-6642 (832) 963-9053

Waterproofing Contractors, Roofing Contractors Referred by Donna Farthing

EDRAS Consulting LLC

Juan Orosco 1337 W 43rd St #1282 Houston, TX 77018

Construction Mgmt-Consultants, Chill Water Equipment

Fit Amenity

Nicolas Young 1600 Springwoods Plaza Dr #414 Spring, TX 77389 (469) 236-8252

Exercise & Physical Fitness, Event Planning

Flood Proof

Derrick Williams 945 McKinney St Ste 653 Houston, TX 77002 (713) 280-8148

Waterproofing Contractors, Remodeling & Repair-Building Contractors

Hybrilux LLC

Brian Mees 2200 Post Oak Blvd #1000 Houston, TX 77056 (832) 553-3649

Lighting - Outdoor, Lighting Consultants, Lighting Fixtures & Supplies, Solar Energy Equipment & Installation Referred by Xochitl Flores

SUPPLIERS

J & E Remodeling Contractors LLC

Josue Hernandez 11907 Wortham Landing Dr Houston, TX 77065-5221 Paint, Carpenters

MGL Rehab Construction

Moises Guerra 19914 Telegraph Square Ln Katy, TX 77449 (713) 894-6841

Remodeling & Repair-Building Contractors, Handyman Services

One Stop Commercial Services

Christian Naja 18303 Enchanted Rock Trail Humble, TX 77346 (352) 519-7981

Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service, Parking Garages, TurnkeyComplete

Palucho’s Carpet Clean

Juan Carlos Palucho 24327 Emory Green St Katy, TX 77493 (713) 253-2514

Carpet Cleaning, Air Duct Cleaning

Premier Protective Security

Jay Simon 5525 N MacArthur Blvd #160 Irving, TX 75038 (210) 831-5204

Security Consulting Service, Security Guard/Patrol Service

Republic EV Golf Carts

Vanessa Sikes 9210 Hwy 36 #B1 Needville, TX 77461 (346) 762-7970

Golf Cars & Carts

Scoop Troop HTX

Josh Roth 12712 W Lake Houston Pkwy #B #103 Houston, TX 77044 (832) 321-7667

Pet Waste Removal, Pet Services, Waste Reduction/Disposal/Recycling, Lawn Maintenance

Southern Star Building LLC

Salina Holcomb 3138 S Highway 35 Alvin, TX 77511-1404 (409) 655-5957

Roofing Contractors, Painting Contractors, Siding Contractors, Gutters & Downspouts

Spire Roofing Solutions

Shannon Howell

50 William D Fitch Pkwy #410 College Station, TX 77845 (979) 977-3660

Roofing Contractors, Roofing Consultants

SUPPLIERS

TextByChoice

Nizar Bhojani

503 E Jackson St Ste 109 Tampa, FL 33602 (813) 966-6991

Text Message Service, Credit Card

Processing Referred by Ryan Raser

Watterson Solutions

Jarrod Evans

22515 Imperial Valley Dr Ste 180 Houston, TX 77073 (346) 740-1931

Fire/Water Damage Restoration, Mold

Remediation

Wayne-Dalton Sales and Service of Houston

John Gazlay 403 Century Plaza Dr #490 Houston, TX 77073 (281) 821-8572

Garage Doors - Service & Parts, Gates & Gate-Operating Devices

SUPPLIER MEMBERS are listed online at www.haabuyersguide.com, searchable by product/service category or company name.

Portfolio Changes

The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios:

• Abbey Residential Services Inc: Carrington at Park Lakes, 252 units at 4475 Wilson Rd in Humble.

• Ascent Capital Management: 9TWO5 Apartments, 220 units at 925 Northwood Dr in Baytown.

• ASM A-Strategy Management: Altanova Apartments, 238 units at 15414 Kuykendahl Rd.

• Asset Living: Aria at Ralston, 178 units at 14809 Ralston Rd in Humble; Aria at Ella, 136 units at 20525 Ella Blvd in Spring; and NHH Ennis, 102 units at 1887 Ennis St.

• Avenue5 Residential: Allora Cinco Ranch, 351 units at 20020 FM 1093 Rd in Richmond.

• Banyan Equity Management LLC: Tara Hall Apts, 166 units at 1717 College St; Deer Park Gardens Apts, 191 units at 7329 Carrie Ln in Deer Park; and Crossview Courts Apts, 167 units at 2929 Crossview Dr.

• BH Management Services LLC: Marymont, 128 units at 1515 Rudel Rd in Tomball.

• Bryten Real Estate Partners: The Life at Brighton Estates, 248 units at 131 Aldine Bender Rd, and The Life at Westpark, 312 units at 14100 Rio Bonito Rd.

• Ernesto Contreras: Shawnee, one unit at 1302 Shawnee St.

• Fairfield Residential: 1010 Waugh, 340 units at 1010 Waugh Dr.

• Greystar: Casella, 163 units at 18381 Terranova West Dr in Spring; Oasis at Woodland, 158 units at 33200 Forest W St in Magnolia; CO/OP Farmers Market, 327 units at 1690 North Loop; Asher at Towne Lake, 348 units at 12700 Greenhouse Rd in Cypress; Cadence Creek at Towne Lake, 237 units at 11411 Greenhouse Rd in Cypress; and Cadence Creek at Gosling, 189 units at 21901 Gosling Rd in Spring.

• Herron Property Management: Kings Reserve Willowbrook, 359 units at 7575 Willowchase Blvd.

• Kainan Investments LLC: Gulfgate Oaks, 39 units at 7900 S Loop Fwy E.

• Kairoi Residential: Stonewood Apts, 252 units at 701 T C Jester Blvd.

• LPG Residential: The Reveal at Rye, 137 units at 220 Bammel Westfield Rd.

• Oak Leaf Mgmt Co: Memorial Hills Townhomes, 44 units at 1819 C Briarcreek Blvd; Harvest Moon Apartments, 75 units at 1100 US-90 in Dayton; Golfcrest Apts, 29 units at 3045 Golfcrest Blvd; Dismuke Apts, 48 units at 1907 Dismuke St; and The Remington, 146 units at 1010 Magnolia St in Freeport.

• RTR Assets: Pelican Reef, 89 units at 3802 Nasa Rd 1 in Seabrook; and Bay House Apartments, 190 units at 2041 San Sebastian Ct.

• Tevas Property Management: Tomball Ranch Apartments, 48 units at 327 W Hufsmith Rd in Tomball.

• Venterra Realty: Camber Ridge, 312 units at 5900 Texas Heritage Pkwy in Fulshear.

April Cowan was promoted to Area Sales Manager for HD Supply.

HAA’s Past President’s Council and held a special luncheon with Houston Mayor John Whitmire. Thank you to Mayor Whitmire.

In January, during HAA’s Board Installation Gala, “experience” packages were auctioned off in support of HAA’s adopted Charity, Entryway. One of those packages was a “Happy Hour for Hope” with the Executive Committee. Epic Construction was the winner of that auction and proceeds went to Entryway. Thank you, Epic Construction!

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

Cowan

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 50 281-821-1195 www.gemstarconstruction.com

A/C Supplies

Century A/C Supply 41 281-530-2859 www.centuryac.com

Electric Contractors

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

Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services 1 281-693-3383 www.brandtelectrical.com

Foundation Repair

Church Foundation Repair 10 713-468-8400 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 5 713-266-9100

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 27 281-846-3779 www.texscapeservices.com

Law Firm

The Cweren Law Firm PLLC 5 713-622-2111 www.myapartmentlawyer.com

Personnel Agency

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

Plumbing Contractors

AAA Plumbers 47 713-462-4753 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 21 713-595-0300 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

CINDI

ABODE June 2025

Taking a Closer Look

CONTENTS

June 2025

ON THE COVER

34

FEATURES & PHOTOS

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

ABODE

EXECUTIVE SUPPLIER MEMBERS

Letter from the President

This Month's Exclusive Supplier Member

HERE’S THE LATEST

A Warm Welcome to A New Advocate

More About the HAA PAC

KEEPING IT SHORT

What

the emergency conditions

MIND THE DETAILS

On Site with ABODE

HIGHPARK APARTMENTS

Lease Up Property of the Year

2025 Honors Awards

I BID ON TONIGHT …

JUNE

3-4

4

5

10

11-13

11

17

18

23-27

24-25

JULY

2

3-4

9

10

16

22

Discover the Ultimate Roadmap to Success with new speakers for 2025

What is Avenues?

How can I attend?

What does this get me?

Pricing:

Summer Business Exchange Connect 4

Property management supervisors and executives:

Owners/Property Management:

Suppliers:

On the Scene with the

On the Scene

On the Scene

On the Scene

Taking a Closer Look

An encouraging start to 2025 for Greater Houston multifamily.

Supply Down, Demand Up

Rent Growth Gained Ground

Takeaways and Looking Ahead

Overcoming Employee Burnout

Navigating multifamily workforce challenges in 2025.

So, What Is Burnout, Really?

The Path to Prevention: What Leaders Can Do

Prioritize Employee Check-Ins

Meetings to Support, Not Just Assign

Set Realistic Goals and Deadlines

Talk About It – Early and Often

Recognize When Overload Is Doing Harm

On the Scene

On the Scene

On the Scene

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK

OWNERS

SUPPLIERS

SUPPLIERS

SUPPLIERS

Portfolio Changes

“BEE” THE FUTURE