ABODE March 2018

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THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MAGAZINE

ABODE Fro m lead soci a rea attriti l proo l f o in mity, lea n to v to r i mu arketi n the l rtual a n ltifa mil g tips test y in dus for the try.

Hand s-on

Mark eting

March 2018

Changes?

Houston weighs recommendations from a University of Texas report.

We See You at the Installation & New Year Gala, Sponsorship Auction and much more!

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CONTENTS March 2018

ON THE COVER

FEATURES & PHOTOS

42

30 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA Political Action Committee February Luncheon.

Hands-on Marketing – From social proof to lead attrition to virtual reality, learn the latest in marketing tips for the multifamily industry, all starting on Page 42.

Also, don’t miss photos from the Installation & New Year Gala, State of the Industry, Sponsorship Auction and much more.

Cover image © Sawitri Khromkrathok | Dreamstime.com

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

32 On the Scene – Photos from the “Hot & Spicy” Sponsorship Auction.

7 President’s Corner – Lead, market and advocate like a pro with state and national events and this month’s ABODE.

36 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA Open House.

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Presto Maintenance Supply.

38 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA State of the Industry Breakfast.

9 Legislative Update – Houston weighs recommendations from a University of Texas report.

42 Proof Positive – Social proof is the new marketing, but what is it and how is it used?

46 Taking the Lead – What model of lead attrition is the most valuable for multifamily?

50 Start Making Sense – Market your property in a way that makes sense for your future residents with these helpful tips.

52 Immerse Yourself – Learn how virtual reality and augmented reality fit into the multifamily industry.

54 High-Five! – Multifamily residents give the city high marks.

56 2018 NEXT Steering Committee – Meet the young professionals leading one of HAA’s most active committees.

11 It’s The Law – Be careful when delivering a notice to vacate.

14 Resident Relations – A resident questions cleaning charges.

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

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

26 NAA Update – Thank you for your membership.

28 On the Road with HAA – Find out about the latest region meetings.

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

58 On the Scene – Photos from the Installation & New Year Gala.

67 Go-Getters – Celebrating HAA’s membership recruiters!

72 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at one of HAA’s member communities.

68 The Ambassador ONE Society – Come join and network with the teams.

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

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

75 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers.

76 BackPage – News from around the community.

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

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OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP STARLA TURNBO President-Elect

JOHN BORIACK Vice President at Large

MICHELLE PAWELEK President

DIANE GILBERT Vice President at Large

BARBY LAKE Vice President at Large CLAY HICKS Secretary/Treasurer

CHRISTY RODRIGUEZ Vice President at Large

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

JEFF HALL Executive VP

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Kyle Brown, Immediate Past President Josh Allen Mack Armstrong Cyrus Bahrami Jeff Blevins John Boriack Kyle Brown Joe Bryson Tina Cavaco Grant Crowell Scott Douglas Ian Douglas Gina Erwin John Fedorko Israel Garza Diane Gilbert Stephanie Graves Ira Gross Alison Hall Bryan Head Clay Hicks Deborah Holcombe Jacob Kunath Barby Lake Laura Lestus David Lindley Robert Lopes Sonia Lopez Kristin McLaughlin Carlos Neto Dean O’Kelley Michelle Pahl Velissa Parmer Jenifer Paneral Mark Park Michelle Pawelek Jackie Rhone Christy Rodriguez Kelly Scott Kurt Seidel Kim Small Debbie Sulzer Starla Turnbo Shelley Watson Quintina Willis Tracie Yoder

DIRECTORS EMERITUS Ken Bohan Gary Blumberg Kathy Clem Jack Dinerstein Darlene Guidry Jenard Gross David Hargrove Larry Hill Stacy Hunt Hap Hunnicutt David Jones Mike Koch Dick LaMarche Tim Myers P. David Onanian John Ridgway Eileen Subinsky Steve Sweet Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley H.J. Tollett Pat Tollett Vic Vacek Jr. Beth Van Winkle Jerry Winograd ADVISORY DIRECTORS Terri Clifton Brenda Crawford Tamara Foster Billy Griffin Mary Lawler Cesar Lima Karen Nelsen Lindsay Torres Laura Van Dyck Tony Whitaker GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS Joe Bax HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS Claude Arnold Kenn Brown Tina Cavaco Kevin Fenn Diane Gilbert Anita Harrison Dwayne Henson

Mike Koch Merry Mount Monette Reynolds Sherry Stevenson Kirk Tate Suan Tinsley Sonny Unverzagt Del Walmsley Nancé Wells H.P. Paul Young Jeanne Marie Zublin Dicks PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS Grant Crowell, CAS, President The Urban Foresters Jacob Kunath, CAS, Vice President Century A/C Supply Laura Lestus, CAS, Secretary The Liberty Group David Lindley, CAS, Treasurer FSI Construction Inc. Israel Garza, CAS, Immediate Past President Maintenance Supply Headquarters MEMBERS Marivel Bownds, CAS, Valet Waste Dixie Caldwell-Greer, CAS, The Liberty Group Peggy Charles, CASE, Sunny Rock International LLC Dylan Coleman, CAS Camp Construction Services Deborah DeRouen, CAS, Respage Derek DeVries, CAS, Camp Construction Services

Brian Febbo, CAS FSI Construction Dan James, CAS Redevelopment Services Debra Knight, CAS, Valet Waste Stephanie Krop, CASE, Buyers Access Liz Levins, CAS, Rasa Floors Candis Mohr, CAS, AAA Plumbers Doug Oehl, CAS Power Express Joseph Rodriguez, CAS, The Urban Foresters Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Rasa Floors Mat Tilley, CAS, WeDoTrash PATRON MEMBERS 1980 CSC ServiceWorks 1986 Craven Carpet 1987 For Rent Media Solutions 1994 AAA Plumbers Presto Maintenance Supply 1996 Houston Planned Energy Systems 1997 RentPath 1999 FSI Construction Inc. 2003 Cotton Commercial USA Inc. Dixie Carpet Installations 2009 Camp Construction Services 2013 Criterion Brock

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

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

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

Texas Concrete Professional Company 2013 ACTIV Answer by Audio Images Arbor Contract Carpet ASAP Steamers Carpet Cleaning Capitol Wrecker LLC Comcast Gambit Construction Outdoor Elements Pool Works LLC StoveTop FireStop Tidal Renovations LLC 2014 Adventure Playground Systems Inc. Chadwell Supply Classic Same Day Blinds D & G Quality Roofing J National Jonah Systems LLC MX2 Commercial Paving Pathfinder Insurance Group Perma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas Ram Jack Foundation Solutions Texas Apartment Pool Services The Katy Plumbing Co. WCA Waste Corporation Zillow Group 2015 Air Pro Systems America Outdoor Furniture American Painting & Renovations Inc. ASAP Personnel Inc. BSI Cameras Onsite CertaPro Painters Competitive Choice Inc. CSILED.com DeNyse Companies Division-9 Inc. Fix My Slab Foundation Repair Fulton Law Group PLLC Gateman Inc. Goes Heating Systems Greater Houston Pool Management Holder’s Pest Control Infinity Power Partners Kathy Andrews Interiors Lane Law Firm Notifii LLC Pace Mechanical Services Power Express The Allshouse Group LLC Torocon Services LLC Wilsonart 2016 Action Window Coverings Inc. Allied Fire Protection, LP Bath Fitter Cinch – Cabinet Refacing Kits Citi Fence & Concrete E-Systems Pest Management Inc. Ecolo Environmental Inc. Embark Services Fidus Construction Services Fun Abounds Furniture Options Green City Recycler Green City Security Green Days Lawn Care Guardian Chimney Sweep Halo Doors Inc. Hive JLL Johnstone Supply Kastle Systems KONE Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting Liquid Waste Solutions Manning Pool Service McCann Total Security Solutions Murrah & Killough PLLC Paul Davis Restoration North Houston Pet and Playground Products Quantum Fitness RAM Construction RoofTec Ross Fried Consulting Sparkle Wash Pressure Washing Sustain-Ability Solutions Texas Southwest Floors The Home Depot ValencePM WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems WellKept Whitmans Contracting and Roofing 2017 911 Security Cameras, Inc. ACT Security Group Action Gypsum Supply

Advanced Property Services All About Doody Pet Soutions LLC All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc. Allegion American Fire Protection Group Anderson Restoration Apartment Total Services APTexx Inc. Aquatic Training Institute ARK Appliances BioTechs Crime & Trauma Scene Cleaning South Houston Buddy's Roofing & Construction Co Byte Time Computing Cano Electric Inc. City Supply Co. Inc. Classic Towing Continental Adjusters Creative Surface Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc. D&C Painting Designs by Holmes Disaster America Disaster Restore 365 Eagle Restore LLC Energy Ogre Ernie Smith and Sons Roofing LLC Fast Forward Services LLC Finishes Etc LLC Flooring4.Us Frost Insurance Agency Gage Multifamily Services General Recon LLC Genesis Panel Systems Gravely & Pearson LLP Griddy Energy H Town Movers and HVAC Services Henley & Henley PC Houston SEAL Patrol Division LLC Lithotech Printed Products/Forms Center Maven Auto Detailing McMahan's Flooring Inc. Media Nation Outdoor MPS Direct Norman Construction NorthMarq Capital On Site Towing LLC Pack-It Movers Paragon Roofing Inc. Paul Ryan Windows POPIC Quick Relief Restoration Re-Mark Technologies Group LLC RealState Investments Reliable Fire Protection Rent Accelerator Residential Waste Service Richmond Equipment Roof Top Innovations Rutherford Services Inc. SEAL Security Solutions Secure Insurance Securecomm Inc. Special Touch Landscaping State Sign - A Comet Signs Company Student Movers Inc. Swiff-Train Company Symmons Industries TD Waterproofing Inc. Texas Crime Prevention Agency Texas Engineered Roofing & General Contracting Texas Eviction LLC Top Notch Fitness & Wellness USA Patrol Division Vima Decor WBI General Contractor Willbanks & Associates 2018 A Quick Restoration Inc. Archcon Belvoir Real Estate Group LLC Cashflow Pros LLC Centex Construction Core 24/7 Restoration Services Finish Factory Inc. Globus Management Group Homeland Protective Services Poolworx Rent Debt Automated Collections Strickland Law Firm PLLC Technogym Wellman Exteriors Windstorm Restoration

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ABODE MARCH 2018 I VOLUME 41, ISSUE 3 Executive Vice President and Publisher

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

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

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

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

TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com HOUSTON COMMITTEE Executive Program & Budget Nominating Ethics Investment Fair Housing By-Laws Past Presidents Council Strategic Outreach Legislative HAA Political Action Committee Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance Developers Century Club PAC Fundraising Media Relations Golf Leadership Development Product Service Council Community Outreach Resident Relations Appeals Resident Relations A Resident Relations B Membership Ambassador ONE Society 2018 Expo IROC Education Advisory Council Career/Community Development NEXT HAF Fundraiser Property Awards HAA Street Team

APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES CHAIR STAFF ADVISOR MICHELLE PAWELEK JEFF HALL STARLA TURNBO JEFF HALL KYLE BROWN JEFF HALL BETH VAN WINKLE JEFF HALL CLAY HICKS JEFF HALL KAREN NELSON JEFF HALL ALISON HALL JEFF HALL JENIFER PANERAL JEFF HALL CLAY HICKS LAUREN TURNER STARLA TURNBO ANDY TEAS STACY HUNT/JOHN RIDGWAY ANDY TEAS JOHN FEDORKO ANDY TEAS CYRUS BAHRAMI ANDY TEAS DAVID LINDLEY ALPA PATEL DAVID JONES ALPA PATEL DEBORAH HOLCOMBE ALPA PATEL KIM SMALL ALPA PATEL JACKIE RHONE SUSAN HINKLEY GRANT CROWELL SUSAN HINKLEY QUINTINA WILLIS SUSAN HINKLEY DARLENE GUIDRY MATILDE LUNA ELAINE LEEPER MATILDE LUNA KATHY MOTIS MATILDE LUNA TINA CAVACO AMANDA SHERBONDY DEBORAH DEROUEN/DEREK DEVRIES AMANDA SHERBONDY JACOB KUNATH AMANDA SHERBONDY STEPHANIE BRYSON EMILY HILTON STEPHANIE GRAVES/MONICA GRACIA EMILY HILTON KELLY SUESS EMILY HILTON LINDSAY TORRES/DAVID LINDLEY EMILY HILTON MICHELLE PAHL/DAN JAMES EMILY BANNWARTH RICHARD WALL/PENNY SPRANG TINA DEFIORE BRANDON THOMAS LAUREN WOLFSON

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MISSION AND VISION HAA is the leading advocate, resource and community partner for quality rental housing providers in the Houston and surrounding area. HAA develops leadership in the multifamily industry by engaging broadly diverse membership, embracing effective technology and advocating for a geographically inclusive association.

Visit HAA Online at www.haaonline.org ABODE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION. Serving the multihousing industry in Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris, Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Waller and Wharton counties.

ABODE, MARCH 2018 VOLUME 41, ISSUE 3 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 © 2018 by HAA. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

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

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2018 HAA Volleyball Tournament Friday, March 23 Gates open at 11:30 a.m.

Registration and Practice: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Tournament begins at 1:30 p.m. *Each team must have all players present by 1 p.m. to play.

Festivities include a buffet, networking opportunities and checking out the HAA athletes!

Teams are registered on a first-come, first-served basis.

All players must be members of HAA. Form your teams now (two per company).

Teams are not confirmed until payment has been received.

Register your team online with credit card payment at www.haaonline.org.

Third Coast Volleyball Club 5652 Forney Drive (Off Hwy. 59 South, one block west of the Hillcroft and Harwin intersection)

Entrance fee is $250 per team (6 players, 2 alternates).

Spectator fee is $20 per person.

Requests for refunds must be received in writing by end of business day on March 16 and will be subject to a $50 cancellation fee. No refunds will be granted after March 16 or for no shows. No refunds will be given for individual tickets, but tickets are fully transferrable. Contact the Meetings and Events Department at 713-595-0323, by email at events@haaonline.org or see online at www.haaonline.org for more information.

Court Sponsors:

See www.haaonline.org for more details.

Lunch Sponsor: Snack Sponsor:

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President’s Corner

By MICHELLE PAWELEK, CPM, CAPS, 2018 HAA President

MORE DEVELOPMENT

Lead, market and advocate like a pro with state and national events and this month’s ABODE. OUR FOCUS ON leadership training and development for 2018 has started strong.

We all should take pride in the outstanding attendance at the Leadership Training Session facilitated and led by Anne Grady.

The turnout at this event exemplifies our members’ desire to improve as leaders.

Grady, a speaker and professional on resilience, leadership and communication, will be a keynote speaker at the Texas Apartment Association Education Conference & Lone Star Expo this April. She earned rave reviews from everyone who attended her Houston session, so be sure to catch her in San Antonio. For more information on TAA’s expo and to register, visit www.eventscribe.com/2018/TAA. Spring into Leasing Spring’s arrival means it’s time for property owners and managers to start gearing up for the busiest time of year by rejuvenating curb appeal and updating marketing strategies.

Our association has elite professionals with skills and products for improving your physical curb appeal who can offer creative ways to add pop to your property. Don’t miss out on the newest products and services that can maximize your marketing dollars. Last year’s

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marketing strategy is stale and we have a lot of industry With 2017 behind us, certain policy issues such as experts in this field who can tax reform, housing finance and immigration will re-energize your digital prescontinue to be at the forefront for the apartment ence. Rely on the experts for industry throughout 2018, though it might be too new ideas this spring, regardearly to foresee which legislative actions will stick. less of your budget; our supplier partners can help your property perform better. There are a handful of marketing and digital media ing the mortgage deduction, it will create topics throughout this magazine, starting on more income for renters. It’s hard to deterPage 46. mine how the new federal tax reform will impact our business, but here are a few things Advocate Affairs we will get more clarification on at Advocate With 2017 behind us, certain policy issues this year: the application of the 30-year desuch as tax reform, housing finance and impreciation period to existing buildings; the migration will continue to be at the forefront qualification for the 20 percent deduction for for the apartment industry throughout 2018, income of pass-through entities; and the though it might be too early to foresee which three-year hold period for carried interest. legislative actions will stick. With Advocate, Housing finance reform is another topic powered by NAA (previously known as NAA we hope to learn more about. While we don’t Capitol Conference and Lobby Day), aphave much information yet, we do know that proaching in mid-March, we might get some the Senate and the House are working on clarity on a few key topics. housing finance proposals. Immigration has During HAA’s State of the Industry Breakbeen a hot topic since last year and related fast, Ric Campo of Camden shared his proposals could impact the apartment inthoughts on how the new federal tax reform dustry. Lastly, we hope to gain more clarity will benefit our business. He believes that by on the updated definition of lead in paint, doubling the standard deduction and limitdust and soil.

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

Houston Planned Energy Systems

ForRent.com

HAA Member since 1978

HAA Member since 1987

Cotton Commercial USA Inc.

Criterion Brock

HAA Member since 2003

HAA Member since 1985

Presto Maintenance Supply

AAA Plumbers

HAA Member since 1983

HAA Member since 1984

CSC ServiceWorks

FSI Construction Inc.

HAA Member since 1961

HAA Member since 1999

Craven Carpet

Dixie Carpet Installations

HAA Member since 1986

Camp Construction Services HAA Member since 1994

HAA Member since 1987

RentPath HAA Member since 1979

March Patron of the Month

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Legislative Update

By STARLA TURNBO, HAA Legislative Chair, with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs

CHANGES?

Houston weighs recommendations from a University of Texas report.

“OUT OF ORDER: Houston’s Dangerous Apartment Epidemic,” is the title headline of an 80-page report released last month by the University of Texas School of Law Entrepreneurship and Community Development Clinic.

This report was profoundly unsettling to those of us who have worked with City of Houston officials and staff over many years to improve the way apartments are inspected. There are many areas where we disagree with the report’s findings and conclusions, but the report also contains some valid criticisms of Houston’s complex and sometimes inefficient system of regulating the multifamily industry.

The executive summary begins: “Houston is a city of renters, with more than 420,000 rental housing units and the third highest number of occupied apartments in the country. Many of these apartments, however, are unsafe and deteriorating. Following decades of weak building standards and feeble code enforcement, Houston is now in the midst of a dangerous apartment epidemic. The city’s dangerous apartment epidemic is fueled by hundreds of substandard apartment complexes as well as large volumes of apartments with habitually high levels of violent crime. For example, at one apartment complex in Southeast Houston, 284 major crimes were recently reported in a single year – an average of one major crime every 1.3 days. As with several other areas of the City, this part of Houston is riddled with a heavy concentration of high crime apartment complexes, harming not only the tenants of those properties but the surrounding neighbors.”

Let’s Begin Where We Agree Houston has at least a half-dozen separate departments that regulate and/or inspect apartment properties. Dumpster licensing and placement is handled by the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department. Swimming pools and any indoor air quality issues (such as mold) are handled by the Houston Health Department. The Planning and Develwww.haaonline.org

opment Department regulates First, the overall conclusion that “...Houston is now apartment development, platting and planning – even the in the midst of a dangerous apartment epidemic…” configuring of parking strucsimply isn’t supported by the data. The entire study tures and the required number is based on 10 specific apartment properties in one of parking spaces. The Houslow-income part of town. While we have no wish to ton Police Department endiscount any problems faced by residents at these forces the apartment crime properties, this is hardly a representative sample of ordinance, measuring levels of criminal activity at apartment the thousands of professionally-managed properties and working with apartment properties operated by HAA high-crime properties. members in the Houston-area.

Finally, the city’s Multifamily Habitability Inspection Section and the Houston Fire Marshal’s Apartment Inspection Team perform separate, largely duordination between city departments would be plicative inspections of every apartment helpful, the report also contains some findings property in Houston. and recommendations that need some These departments are staffed by well-meanadditional thought. ing professionals, but data isn’t efficiently shared and communication is often lacking.

Now, Where We Do Not Agree Years ago, one HAA member managing a propFirst, the overall conclusion that “...Houston erty in a rough part of town was visited by the is now in the midst of a dangerous apartment police department’s Differential Response Team epidemic…” simply isn’t supported by the data.

(DRT) officers, who ordered him to remove a The entire study is based on 10 specific apartrow of large, beautiful oleanders from the front ment properties in one low-income part of of the property, claiming they provided a hiding town. While we have no wish to discount any place for criminals. He reluctantly complied. problems faced by residents at these properties, The next week, officials from Solid Waste Manthis is hardly a representative sample of the agement informed him he was in violation of thousands of professionally-managed aparttheir ordinance because one of his dumpsters ment properties operated by HAA members in was now visible from a public street. the Houston-area.

Inspectors in most departments are required The study’s conclusions on crime are simito use the city’s antiquated “ILMS” computer larly unsupported. Houston was among the first system, which makes the modern storage and cities in the nation to adopt a multifamily crime sharing of data nearly impossible. A longordinance. Under Houston's ordinance, HPD promised new system is now supposed to be up statistically determines which properties have and running by 2020. Every apartment property excessive levels of crime, labeling them "remein Houston is required to register with the Habdial action-eligible" or "FAST-eligible." Remeitability Inspection Section, listing data that dial action properties are required to pay a fee could prove critically important to fire inspecand meet with HPD experts to determine and tors and – more importantly – fire fighters in the implement a plan to reduce criminal activity. event of an emergency. This data is still not After the first round of plan implementation, available to the fire department. crime on remedial action properties fell by / See Legislative, Page 27 While we agree with the report that better co March 2018

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It’s the Law

By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE DELIVERY Be careful when delivering a notice to vacate.

FAMED FILM DIRECTOR Martin Scorsese once said about comedian Don Rickles, “There’s something truly artful about his delivery.” What Mr. Scorsese didn’t know was that Rickles had something in common with a notice to vacate: A notice to vacate is also is all about the delivery.

Imagine this: You have received a number of complaints about one of your residents.

Nothing dangerous. Nothing criminal. Apparently, this particular resident loves to let loose on weekends. Loud music seems to always be coming from his apartment home on Friday and Saturday nights into the early morning hours. He then constantly piles up trash (mostly beer bottles) outside his door, which your maintenance man has to pick up each Monday morning.

The Monday morning complaints about noise and the trash have become a regular weekly occurrence. You’ve tried everything!

You’ve talked to the resident, sent the resident notices of lease violations and offered to transfer the resident to another unit where the noise might not be so bothersome. Nothing has worked! The trouble is the resident likes to argue. It seems the resident is a thirdyear law student at South Texas College of Law. He loves to debate. However, you are losing residents because of his conduct. You have no choice but to give a notice to vacate.

You fill out the standard TAA notice to vacate form, but you are sick and tired of talking to this resident about noise and you really don’t want to get into another argument with him, which takes a lot of time and energy. To avoid an argument, you put the notice in an envelope and attach the notice to the outside of the door.

When you get back to the office, you fill out the notice to vacate delivery boxes at the bottom of the form. You check the box stating: Securely affixed to the outside of the

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dwelling’s main entry door in Delivery of the notice to vacate is an integral part of a sealed envelope per Texas the eviction process. Without proper delivery, you Property Code Section 24.005.

After the appropriate numrun the risk of losing the case. If you lose, you may ber of days, you file an eviction need to start over. If you lose in the JP court, you’ve petition with the appropriate lost about four weeks. If you lose in the county court, Justice of the Peace court. Of you may lose up to eight weeks or more. course, the resident shows up at court and argues his case. He says all he was doing was having some fun. get to make your case, present your witAlthough the judge feels sorry for the resinesses or display the sample beer bottle you dent, the judge grants you judgment in your took from the pile of trash the previous Monfavor. You win, but wait, there’s more … day morning.

With an eviction on his record, the resident cannot get housing he likes elsewhere. He Let Me Explain What Might appeals the judgment to the county court Have Happened downtown. Although the resident underDelivery of the notice to vacate is an intestands that he may lose again, he wants to gral part of the eviction process. Without delay the proceeding because he has proper delivery, you run the risk of losing the nowhere else to live. case. If you lose, you may need to start over.

Since you have witnesses to the disturIf you lose in the JP court, you’ve lost about bances, your maintenance man agreed to tesfour weeks. If you lose in the county court, tify about the weekly trash cleanup and you you may lose up to eight weeks or more. won in the JP court, you can’t imagine any outIt’s easy to properly deliver the notice, come other than a win in the county court! You don’t make this an issue. go to court poised, confident and prepared. No way to lose, but wait, there’s more …

1. The usual way of delivering The resident shows up to court ready to the notice to vacate: argue. But the resident has a strange looking Section 24.005(f ) of the Texas Property older fellow with him. You don’t know who Code provides that the notice to vacate shall this person is. He then says hi to the judge be given in person or by mail to the unit in and he and the judge start talking. Apparthe following ways: ently, they are old friends from law school, 1) In person by personally delivering the and the old guy with your resident is his law notice to the resident or any person residing school professor. You hear them talking at the unit who is 16 years of age or older; about the case, and much to your surprise, 2) In person by personally delivering the they are not talking about noise disturbances notice to the unit and affixing the notice on or trash. They are talking about your notice the inside of the main entry door of the unit; to vacate.

3) By mail through regular mail to the unit; The judge looks at you and says he is sorry, 4) By mail through registered mail to the but you lose. The judge thanks you for comunit; or ing down and wishes you well.

5) By mail through certified mail, return What the heck just happened? You didn’t receipt requested to the unit.

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2. The alternative notice (only to be used when certain conditions are and can be met): Pursuant to Texas 24.005(f-1) of the Property Code, as an alternative to the procedure set forth above, an owner may deliver the notice by securely affixing the notice to the outside of the main entry door, but only if the following conditions are met: 1) The notice is placed in a sealed envelope on which is written the resident’s name, address, and in all capital letters, the words “IMPORTANT DOCUMENT” or substantially similar language; 2) Not later than 5 p.m. of the same day as the notice is delivered, depositing the notice in the mail in the same county in which the unit is located; and 3) One of the following additional conditions is met: a. The unit has no mailbox and has a keyless bolting device, alarm system, or dangerous animal that prevents the owner from entering the unit to affix the notice on the inside of the main entry door; or b. The owner reasonably believes that harm to any person would result from

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personally delivery to the resident or a person residing in the unit or from personally deliver to the unit by affixing the notice on the inside of the main entry door.

If you are evicting a resident for dangerous behavior, serving the notice on the outside of the door may be a valuable option. If your eviction is not one where circumstances warrant delivery on the outside, you run the risk of losing. You always want to avoid a situation where you fail to properly deliver the notice and would be required to start over after several weeks of an eviction process.

In most cases, the apartment home is served by a mailbox. Consequently, the other conditions must be met in order to serve the notice on the outside of the door. In other words, in most cases, you will need to be able to show that you had a reasonable belief that harm would come to you if you personally served the notice. This could either be under circumstances when there is a dangerous animal in the apartment home or when the resident’s prior conduct causes you concern.

A common mistake has been that a notice is placed on the outside of the door without there being a dangerous animal or a dangerous resident. In most cases, you will not have the right to post the notice on the outside of the door if the resident fails to pay rent or violates a rule that would not reasonably be re-

lated to causing a danger.

If you are evicting a resident for dangerous behavior, serving the notice on the outside of the door may be a valuable option. If your eviction is not one where circumstances warrant delivery on the outside, you run the risk of losing. You always want to avoid a situation where you fail to properly deliver the notice and would be required to start over after several weeks of an eviction process.

Preparation is the key to success in any eviction. Be sure when you go forward, you are prepared to testify about the proper delivery of the notice to vacate. This will save you time and money in the eviction process.

www.haaonline.org

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Resident Relations from the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEE

WHERE CREDIT IS DUE A resident questions cleaning charges.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with

HAA to dispute two cleaning charges. The resident was charged for bathtub resurfacing and a carpet replacement due to bleach stains. The resident claimed she submitted a work order for the bathtub, which was never serviced. The resident felt these charges were unfair. She also requested her security deposit of $450.

Management responded to HAA and that response was forwarded to the resident. Enclosed were copies of the application, lease, move-in condition form, the resident’s notice of intent to move out and the resident ledger.

The committee discovered the resident’s security deposit of $450 was applied to the resident’s ledger twice. The lease provided

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The HAA Resident Relations Committees provide by management states the security deposit an impartial review of resident complaints using should have been a onethe documentation provided by both the resident time charge of $450. and management.

Other than the cleaning charges, the resident’s ledger displayed a utility charge of $54.39 and a rent charge of $38. the remaining charges were justified, manageBecause management failed to supply the ment is to refund the resident $357.61. committee with invoices for the cleaning charges or photographic proof of the damaged If you are a manager with a resident items, the committee ruled in favor of the relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 resident with adjustments. Management is to for direct assistance. Renters can be referred to remove the bathtub resurfacing charge of $150 HAA to speak to a trained consultant Wednesdays and the $560 charge for the carpet replacefrom 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Thursdays and Fridays ment. After the adjustments were made and from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

March 2018

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

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

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

www.haaonline.org

I wasn’t expectin surprised that the said, laughing. “ I business for 15 ye anything. For me, or get it right, I’m don’t need recogn resident and my m owner are happy, good experience, t way. I didn’t know watching!”

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Maintenance Mania pg 16.qxp_11-13_04_0601_BookstaffH 2/15/18 7:57 AM Page 1

Maintenance Mania Competitors: $55 (Entry fee for competition, breakfast and awards luncheon)

Register Now! Thursday, April 5

Spectators: $45 (Access to competition event as spectator, breakfast and awards luncheon)

Houston Marriott Westchase

! a i n a M

e c n a n e t n i a M 2900 Briarpark Drive

Show off yo ur maintenanc cheer on yeoskills and ur best!

8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. – Registr ation, practice 9:30 a.m. to 11 and breakfast :30 a.m. – Ski lls -b as ed co mpetition Noon to 1 p.m . – Awards lunc heon

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS LOCAL SPONSORS: Competition Events: AAA Plumbers Century A/C Supply Ideal Towing The Liberty Group Maintenance Supply Headquarters Presto Maintenance Supply Race Car Competition: Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services Century A/C Supply Post-Competition Awards Ceremony Luncheon: Ameritex Movers Poolsure TPI Construction & Painting Inc.

Cash Prizes for Contestants! The following cash prizes will be given for achievement in Maintenance Mania competition events • $100 for First Place, Individual category • $200 for First Place, Overall • $100 for Second Place, Overall • $50 for Third Place, Overall Attendees will compete against other Maintenance Professionals in a series of skill-based competitions that challenges them to exhibit talents used on the job every day. Compete for a chance at the National Title – one participant from each region will compete at the National Event at the 2018 NAA Education Conference in San Diego, CA, and will receive an all-expense paid trip to attend!

Register online today at www.haaonline.org

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honor nomination pg 18.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/18 7:57 AM Page 1

Nominate the best of the best for the Honors Property Awards!

T

T

T

Awards will be based on size, age and style of the property.

For nomination forms and more information, including award criteria, log on at www.haaonline.org.

T

Hurry! The DEADLINE for property award nominations is Friday, March 30.

T T

E

Then it’s time to nominate your star people!

ach year, HAA selects the top industry professional in each of 14 categories from nominations made by management company executives, supervisors, coworkers, vendors and friends. Any HAA member can nominate a deserving industry professional. The nomination process is a simple one – go to the online nomination forms on the HAA website at www.haaonline.org and fill out the information requested.

All of the nominees and winners will be recognized at the Honors Awards ceremony on June 28, with photos to be published in the ABODE magazine.

The deadline for individual nominations is May 14. See www.haaonline.org for details. For further questions, contact HAA at 713-595-0300.

Owner/Management Executive of the Year

Portfolio Supervisor of the Year

Independent Owner of the Year

Marketing/Training Director of the Year

Supplier of the Year

Administrative Support Professional of the Year

On-site Manager of the Year (in three categories)

Maintenance Supervisor of the Year (in two categories)

Assistant Manager of the Year

Maintenance Technician of the Year

Leasing Professional of the Year

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Upcoming Education

MARCH APPLE: CORE 2 – “How to Deal with Difficult People. So Many People … So Little Time!” with Jackie Ramstedt Tuesday, March 6 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $50 Sponsored by Best Plumbing See Page 22 for details.

CAM: Industry Essentials & Resident Experience Wednesday, March 7 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

New CAM candidates must begin the program with the first course on Wednesday, March 7.

Sponsored by Presto Maintenance Supply This module covers the details of the global state of the apartment industry, the property as an investment, the role as a CAM credential holder, advocating for the resident, different housing types, building relationships with residents and more.

CAS: Industry Essentials & Resident Experience Wednesday, March 7 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Program fee: $625; $125 per module This program is a generalized overview of the role of an apartment property manager.

See previous listing for details.

CAM: Financial Management Thursday, March 8 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

SCHEDULE AND FEES

From the HAA EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

New CAM candidates must begin the program with the first course on Wednesday, March 7.

Sponsored by Brook Furniture Rental Topics include: relating CAM responsibilities to the financial performance of a property; analyzing an income statement; developing and managing a stabilized budget; preventing and solving for bad debt; and performing a property valuation.

CAS: Finance Thursday, March 8 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Program fee: $625; $125 per module Conquer your fears of finance by attending this highly informative module. Topics covered in this section include: investment objectives, how to add value to an existing investment, a basic mathematics refresher, as well as financial statements, budgets and property valuation.

ACES Luncheon Friday, March 9 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: TBD Program fee: $55 Sponsored by The Liberty Group and The Urban Foresters Please note that this program is open only to executives in property management (owners, presidents, regionals, supervisors, marketing/training directors, etc.). Eligible

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

attendees to ACES luncheons are permitted to invite any of their staff to the programs, provided the registration also includes at least one person at the supervisor level or above.

Leasing 101 (Day and a half) Tuesday, March 13 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $65 prior to March 13; $75 after March 13 An in-depth introduction to the apartment industry for new leasing professionals as well as those individuals looking to learn more about the industry as a career. This day and a half program covers topics including: greeting and qualifying the customer, executing the lease contract, overcoming objections and closing techniques, an overview of Fair Housing and more.

Students who complete the course will receive a certificate, as well as a listing of placement agencies and management companies that are members of HAA. If you are not working for a member company of HAA download this registration form www.haaonline.org/images/pro grams/pdf/leasing101_2017.pdf.

Redbook Seminar Tuesday, March 20 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to March 20; $160 after March 20 Sponsored by AAA Plumbers and Ameritex Movers See Page 25 for details.

Redbook Seminar Thursday, March 22 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to

March 20; $160 after March 20 Sponsored by AAA Plumbers and Ameritex Movers.

See Page 23 for details.

CAM: Marketing Wednesday, March 28 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

New CAM candidates must begin the program with the first course on Wednesday, March 7.

Sponsored by RentPath Learn all you need to know about creating an effective marketing plan by using resources to effectively gather and calculate data needed in a marketing plan; analyze a market including competitors, identify the internal market readiness of a property, perform an economic analysis of a property, analyze and draw conclusions from a market plan using the SWOT methodology, add value to a property through use of rental income, rates, and/or adjustments, add value to a property through managing occupancy, select and write an effective recommendation, identify types of promotion, identify types of advertising media, develop a budget for a marketing plan and more.

CAM: Property Maintenance Thursday, March 29 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

New CAM candidates must begin the program with the / See Education, Page 25

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

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

March 2018

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MARCH S M T

Calendar HAA Education, Events and Meetings SCHEDULE

W T 1 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 13 14 15 18 19 20 21 22 25 26 27 28 29

F 2 9 16 23 30

S 3 10 17 24 31

APRIL S M 1 2 8 9 15 16 22 23 29 30

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

MARCH 6

8

20

27

APPLE: CORE 2 – “How to Deal with Difficult People. So Many People …

So Little Time!” with Jackie Ramstedt Tuesday, March 6 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details.

Sponsored by Best Plumbing

CAM: Financial Management Thursday, March 8 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sponsored by Brook Furniture Rental

Redbook Seminar Tuesday, March 20 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to March 20; $160 after March 20 See Page 23 for details.

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers and Ameritex Movers

Legislative Committee Tuesday, March 27 3:30 p.m.

7 CAM: Industry Essentials & Resident Experience Wednesday, March 7 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sponsored by Presto Maintenance Supply CAS: Industry Essentials & Resident Experience Wednesday, March 7 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

New Supplier Member Orientation Wednesday, March 7 3 p.m.

Sherlock’s Baker St. Pub 10001 Westheimer, 77042 All new supplier members welcome.

Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

Ambassador ONE Society Meeting Wednesday, March 7 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Sherlock’s Baker St. Pub 10001 Westheimer, 77042 Contact Amanda at asherbondy@haaonline.org for details.

CAS: Finance Thursday, March 8 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Rosenberg Region Meeting Thursday, March 8 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Formally known as Area Council Meetings, the HAA Outreach department is continuing to bring education to outlying counties with a new title. More information to come.

Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by Texscape Services EXPO Committee Meeting Thursday, March 8 3:30 p.m.

9 ACES Luncheon Friday, March 9 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: TBD Sponsored by The Liberty Group and The Urban Foresters

13 Leasing 101 (Day and a half) Tuesday, March 13 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

14 Resident Relations Committee B Wednesday, March 14 2 p.m.

21 HAAPAC Luncheon Wednesday, March 21 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by The Lane Law Firm Katy Happy Hour Wednesday, March 21 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Calling all Katy and surrounding area apartment and management personnel. Join us for networking and fun. No suppliers, please. More information to come. Contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

22 Redbook Seminar Thursday, March 22 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to March 20; $160 after March 20 See Page 23 for details.

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers and Ameritex Movers

23 HAA Volleyball Tournament Friday, March 23 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Third Coast Volleyball Club 5652 Forney Drive, 77036 See Page 6 for details.

Sponsored by Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services, Maintenance Supply Headquarters, TPI Construction & Painting and CoreLogic Rental Property Solutions

Board Meeting Tuesday, March 27 4:30 p.m.

Sponsored by TPI Construction & Painting

28 CAM: Marketing Wednesday, March 28 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by RentPath Leadership Lyceum Session 3 Wednesday, March 28 9 a.m.

Houston City Hall 901 Bagby St., 77002 By invitation only. Contact Susan at shinkley@haaonline.org for details.

29 CAM: Property Maintenance Thursday, March 29 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Perfect Surface Go-Getters Meeting Thursday, March 29 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

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

Sponsored by ApartmentData.com and Redevelopment Services

30 Offices Closed The HAA offices will be closed Friday, March 30 for Good Friday.

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

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March 2018

www.haaonline.org

calendar pg 20,21.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/18 7:59 AM Page 2

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

APRIL 5

12

17

20

Maintenance Mania Thursday, April 5 Houston Marriott Westchase 2900 Briarpark Drive, 77042 See Page 16 or www.haaonline.org for full details.

Redbook Seminar – The Woodlands Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

See Page 23 or contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by ApartmentData.com and TPI Construction & Painting

Redbook Seminar – Baytown Tuesday, April 17 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

See Page 23 or contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by Apartments.com and Texas Southwest Floors

IROC Breakfast Friday, April 20 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Sponsored by Shaw Industries

CAM: Risk Management Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT

Product Service Council Supplier Education Program Tuesday, April 17 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

See Page 24 or contact Susan at shinkley@haaonline.org for details.

10 APPLE: Core Session 1 – CapEx Strategies for Managers & Maintenance with Mary Gwyn Tuesday, April 10 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details.

Sponsored by Redevelopment Services Redbook Seminar – Lake Jackson Tuesday, April 10 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

See Page 23 or contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by Apartments.com

11 CAM: Legal Wednesday, April 11 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sponsored by The Lane Law Firm CAS: Legal Wednesday, April 11 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Resident Relations Committee A Wednesday, April 11 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.

CAS: Risk Management Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

HAA NEXT: Mix N Mingle Thursday, April 12 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Beaver’s 6025 Westheimer Road, 77057 Sponsored by HD Supply

16 Community Career Night Monday, April 16 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

18 Leasing 101 (Day and a half) Wednesday, April 18 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

24 APPLE: CORE Session 3 – Top 10 Fair Housing Fails with Katie Rigsby Tuesday, April 24 8:30 a.m. to noon See Page 22 for details.

Sponsored by Best Plumbing

25-27 TAA Education Conference & Lone Star Expo Wednesday, April 25 through Friday, April 27 San Antonio See www.taa.org for details.

19 Redbook Seminar – Pearland Thursday, April 19 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

See Page 23 or contact Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search and TPI Construction & Painting Topgolf HAAPAC Fundraiser Thursday, April 19 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

1030 Memorial Brook Blvd., 77084 Come support our local HAAPAC while enjoying an afternoon at Topgolf. Contact Alpa at apatel@haaonline.org or visit www.haaonline.org for details.

The first 2018 Go-Getters Meeting is March 29 at Cafe Adobé, 7620 Katy Fwy. at the Marq E Center

Join the club at our quarterly meetings and learn how you can recruit for HAA. Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win awesome prizes!

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

JOIN A TEAM and build relationships with like-minded members. Get involved with Go-Getters and make lasting industry connections. Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetterscorner to get all the information you need.

www.haaonline.org

March 2018

ABODE

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Professional Development: APPLE Workshop Series

Grow your career with the right ideas, the best advice and go to the head of the class – APPLE features some of the best nationallyacclaimed speakers in the industry.

Individual sessions are priced at only $50 each, a real steal for quality education.

Annual Property Subscriptions are also available with unlimited attendance for all on-site property staff to all sessions at discounted prices: • Only $199 per year per property for properties with fewer than 200 units • Only $399 per year per property for properties with 200 to 350 units.

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

Take a bite out of great education opportunities and enroll for 2018 today. Contact the HAA Education Department at education@haaonline.org or see more information and register online at www.haaonline.org.

APPLE is sponsored by

Grab an APPLE! Don’t miss the next three sessions: APPLE: Core - Session 2 March 6 How to Deal with Difficult People. So Many People…

So Little Time! with Jackie Ramstedt We are living in an incredibly stress-filled world these days and unfortunately horrible, sometimes life altering, situations can occur, and occur quickly in the blink of an eye. Your response in these situations is crucial to the outcome. Some people seem to have that “black cloud” hanging over them, meaning nothing you do could make them happy. We are in an age of people management not necessarily property management; these demanding individuals with increasing needs and problems drain every bit of patience we have. There are so many people our onsite teams have to deal with on a regular basis including residents, prospects, vendors, governmental agencies, law enforcement personnel, shoppers, testers, other teammates and ourselves. How do we prepare for all these different personalities and levels of confrontation and cultivate their ability to think quickly on our feet while helping to not only de-escalate a situation, but actually solve the customer’s problem while maintaining loyalty to our property?

APPLE: Leadership Session I April 10 New! CapEx: Capital Investment Strategies Made Simple for Managers & Maintenance with Mary Gwyn This sessions helps managers and mainte-

22

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March 2018

nance supervisors understand investment strategies and return on investment when budgeting, planning and implementing capital and major property expenditure programs. With insights into various owners’ objectives for real estate investment, attendees will learn how those objectives impact decisions on capital expenditures. The course includes discussions of long range planning, ROI vs. ROE, comparing in-house and contract work, developing scopes of work and tracking replacements. Attendees will leave this session with practical working knowledge that will benefit their owners every day.

APPLE: Core - Session 3 April 24 Top Ten Fair Housing Fails with Katie Rigsby Fair Housing mistakes can be costly and many of the common complaints are avoidable if personnel is knowledgeable and well trained. In this interactive session, attendees will hear 10 of the most common Fair Housing “fails” and learn how to prevent discrimination by handling questions, complaints and resident issues with professionalism and according to Fair Housing guidelines.

Ideal for those new to the industry or needing continuing education, participants will leave with a thorough understanding of the Fair Housing laws and their responsibility as industry professionals.

www.haaonline.org

2018

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All New Redbook Formatting for 2018

SEMINAR

Choose your day.

Choose your location.

March 20 or March 22 in Houston

Location – HAF Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. (off Clay Road and the Beltway)

April 10 in Lake Jackson, location to be announced April 12 in The Woodlands, location to be announced April 17 in Baytown, location to be announced April 19 in Pearland, location to be announced Registration – 8:30 a.m.

Program – 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program Fee (includes lunch) – $125 prepay; $160 invoice Sharpen your knowledge of your legal rights and responsibilities as a rental housing owner or manager by participating in one of the REDBOOK seminars being offered around the state.

Seminars emphasize changes in management practices required by new laws passed during the last legislative session as well as updates on key regulatory issues that affect property management.

Presented by Howard Bookstaff, HAA General Counsel

For more information and to register, see online at www.haaonline.org.

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers, Ameritex Movers, Apartments.com, ApartmentData.com, Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search and TPI Construction & Painting

Each section will include an interactive exercise to help you learn how to apply the law to your job. Full of videos and interactive tools, the 2018 REDBOOK seminar will deliver the quality legal instruction you expect from TAA in a totally new way. Here’s your chance to hear from the experts and get answers to your questions.

At the 2018 Apartment & Rental Housing Legal Seminars, you will • Learn the major changes to TAA’s Rental Application, Lease and other major forms • Understand major operational issues • Get comfortable with the newly re-organized REDBOOK Seminar topics include: • Changes to the TAA Rental Application • Changes to the TAA Lease • Changes to key addenda • Fair housing accommodations & modifications • Crime on property • Parking & towing • Ending the Lease • Handling deposits • Evictions, other remedies • Notices to vacate • Identity theft • Workplace safety • Mold • Disaster preparedness • Forward-looking topics • Reputation management • Payment methodologies • and much more

elevate

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Hey Suppliers: Elevate your company by networking with the Houston Apartment Association and your Product Service Council Presented by the PSC twice a year, this program helps new supplier companies and new company representatives gain a better understanding of the opportunities available in the multifamily industry and HAA. Learn how to develop relationships with management personnel that result in business for your company.

Using your membership the right way can help your business grow.

Join us for roundtable discussions with the following industry executives and the HAA Product Service Council: Robert Lopes, NALP, CAM, CAPS, CAMT, Relik Realty Stacie Turner, Milestone Management Jackie Aguirre, CAM, Veritas Equity Management Bryan Head, CAM, DayRise Residential Meilssa Friend, Greystar Keely Park, The Dinerstein Companies Sonia Lopez, Southhampton Management FREE for Suppliers. Register online at www.haaonline.org.

Topics include: Ambassadors One Society Advocacy - Political Action Community Outreach Helpful tips for selling to Multifamily Professionals Management structure and duties Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS) credential HAA: Understanding the Association Events: Which ones to attend and why

Supplier Education Meeting Thursday, April 17 2 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. – Registration 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. – Program 3:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. – Q and A HAF Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd.

(Located off Clay Road and Beltway 8)

Sponsored by the HAA Product Service Council

Educ pg 19, 25.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/18 7:58 AM Page 2

Education, continued from Page 19

first course on Wednesday, March 7.

Sponsored by RentPath Relate CAM credential holders’ responsibilities to the maintenance of a property.

Topics include: overseeing service requests, ensuring employees in all roles receive the appropriate training to ensure service requests are completed accurately, managing inventory, identifying the need for a contractor or vendor, completing the bidding process and signing of a contract, using inspection results to prioritize maintenance and repairs, developing a preventative maintenance program and identifying maintenance needs for green properties.

APRIL Maintenance Mania Thursday, April 5 Houston Marriott Westchase 2900 Briarpark Drive Program fee: $55 per competitor; $45 per spectator See Page 16 or www.haaonline.org for full details.

APPLE: Core Session 1 – CapEx Strategies for Managers & Maintenance with Mary Gwyn Tuesday, April 10 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $50 Sponsored by Redevelopment Services See Page 22 for details.

Redbook Seminar – Lake Jackson Tuesday, April 10 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to April 10; $160 after April 10 Sponsored by Apartments.com See Page 23 for details.

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CAM: Legal Wednesday, April 11 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

Sponsored by Lane Law Firm New CAM candidates must begin the program with the first course on Wednesday, March 7.

Sponsored by The Lane Law Firm Learn how to describe reasonable accommodations and modifications for persons with disabilities; explain compliance with laws that govern applicant screening; explain the purpose and impact of Fair Housing laws; explain how to remain in compliance with fair housing laws; identify a CAM’s responsibilities in providing safe living conditions; summarize the bid process requirements; and explain compliance with laws that govern employment practices.

CAS: Legal Wednesday, April 11 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $625; $125 per module A comprehensive guide to this ever-changing topic.

Discussions include Fair Housing laws and regulations including two case studies, familial status review, occupancy standards, disability provisions, Fair Housing marketing and advertising, as well as federally assisted housing and Section 8 regulations.

Redbook Seminar – The Woodlands Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to April 12; $160 after April 12 Sponsored by ApartmentData.com and TPI Construction & Painting See Page 23 for details.

CAM: Risk Management Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $1,050; Tuition may be paid in full or divided into two payments of $525.

Sponsored by Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT Learn to prevent avoidable accidents and assess risk in advance. Areas of study include: minimizing risks to residents including crime prevention and environmental hazards, minimizing risk to staff, how to effectively handle an emergency and liability and insurance.

CAS: Risk Management Thursday, April 12 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $625; $125 per module See above listing for details.

HAA NEXT: Mix N Mingle Thursday, April 12 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Beaver’s 6025 Westheimer Road, 77057 Sponsored by HD Supply Start the New Year off right by attending the first HAA NEXT Mix N Mingle of the year. This niche group within HAA is dedicated to the networking and professional development needs of HAA members 39 and younger. Network with your peers at this FREE and festive event and grow your career together among the next generation of HAA leadership.

Learn how to get plugged into the powerful HAA network, discover professional development and career enhancement, participate in speed networking activities with young HAA members from across Houston. Includes one complimentary drink ticket, door prizes and more.

Community Career Night Monday, April 16 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Program fee: $250 per exhibitor Exhibit at Community Career Night and help grow the talent pool of future multifamily

professionals. All proceeds go towards education grants, which helps fund the pursuit of credentials for those in need of financial assistance.

Redbook Seminar – Baytown Tuesday, April 17 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to April 17; $160 after April 17 Sponsored by Apartments.com See Page 23 for details.

Leasing 101 (Day and a half) Wednesday, April 18 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Program fee: $65 prior to April 17; $75 after April 17 An in-depth introduction to the apartment industry for new leasing professionals as well as those individuals looking to learn more about the industry as a career. See the March 13 listing on Page 19 for more details. If you are not working for a member company of HAA download this registration form www.haaonline.org/images/pro grams/pdf/leasing101_2017.pdf.

Redbook Seminar – Pearland Thursday, April 19 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Program fee: $125 prior to April 19; $160 after April 19 Sponsored by Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search and TPI Construction & Painting See Page 23 for details.

IROC Breakfast Friday, April 20 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Sponsored by Shaw Industries The Independent Rental Owners' Connection (IROC) offers customized education and networking programs just for you. This month's topic: TBA. APPLE: CORE Session 3 – Top 10 Fair Housing Fails with Katie Rigsby Tuesday, April 24 8:30 a.m. to noon Program fee: $50 Sponsored by Best Plumbing See Page 22 for details.

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

THANK YOU MEMBERS The National Apartment Association thanks you for your membership.

AS AN HAA MEMBER, you are also an NAA member, and an important part of the NAA federation of nearly 160 affiliates, over 73,000 members representing more than 9.25 million apartment homes globally. Be sure to show off your membership with the NAA member decal that you received in units Magazine in January.

As a valued member of NAA, you have access to the most comprehensive range of strategic, educational, operational, networking and advocacy resources available to apartment industry professionals. Make the most of your membership by taking advantage of these benefits: We’re Working for You: NAA works to protect

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your business and the industry at large in Washington, D.C., and across the country, as well as providing your local apartment association research and resources.

Lease With Confidence: Hear why the NAA Click & Lease Program enables you to simplify and efficiently generate legally compliant leasing documents to minimize liability and streamline the leasing process.

Connect with Top Professionals: Maximize your potential by learning firsthand from the best in the biz and connect with premier professionals at live events – Including at the largest, most important annual industry gathering.

Strength in Numbers: It’s an exciting time to be working in the apartment industry, and a great opportunity to help the apartment industry work for you. Only as a unified voice can we affect change – and true leaders know when it’s time to get plugged in.

Your Dollar Goes Further: Enjoy exclusive— and substantial – discounts on products and services you use every day. Enter a new world of savings from trusted retailers and suppliers.

Reach Your Career Goals: Learn, lead and succeed with the broad-based online and classroom education and training.

For more, visit www.naahq.org.

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Legislative, continued from Page 9 more than two-thirds. The more serious FAST properties are subject to civil action in state district court, and can end up with a court-appointed management receiver, or even having the property ordered vacated and closed. We feel Houston's apartment crime manual should be updated to include additional options such as surveillance cameras, for which the technology has advanced a lot since the ordinance was written. However, crime in apartment properties is a tiny fraction of crime citywide, even though apartments are home to nearly half of Houston’s residents.

The study criticizes Houston for not conducting random inspections of the interiors of occupied apartment units. Managing an apartment property is a business, but apartment units are residents’ homes. Inspectors frequently inspect inside vacant units and can always enter an occupied unit with the resident's permission, but having government inspectors enter a citizen’s homes without a warrant or the resident’s consent is a serious civil liberties issue.

The Houston Fire Department’s inspection program was already the subject of a highly critical audit by Houston’s City Controller. HFD has already taken this to heart and is in the process of implementing a risk-based inspection program that will prioritize all Houston buildings, including apartments, according to the risk they present to citizens.

Finally, despite limited resources, Houston’s Habitability Inspection Team has been an innovative and very effective tool for city enforcement. The report criticizes them for the more than five years it took for the first round of apartment inspections. But Houston, unlike many cities, considers properties as small as triplexes to be “apartments,” and the initial inspection rotation included over 6,000 addresses, many of which were no longer apartment properties. The team is well underway with their second pass through the list, which is on pace for completion much more quickly.

While we don’t agree with all the findings and conclusions, we applaud the University of Texas School of Law for undertaking such a thorough study. Houston will certainly use this to find better ways to coordinate apartment inspections and to more efficiently route 311 complaints to the most appropriate department.

HAA will continue to work with city officials to keep Houston the best apartment market for owners and renters alike.

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On the Road with HAA Fort Bend Region Meeting Thursday, January 18 at Lenox Trails Sponsored by Fidus Construction Services The HAA Outreach Committee hosted the second of three outlying candidate screenings in the Fort Bend area where attendees heard from two of the local judges running for office and what their plans would be if elected. Thank you to Alheli and her team at Lenox Trails for hosting the meeting.

Find who you are looking for online:

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Pearland Region Meeting Tuesday, January 23 at Hilton Garden Inn The HAA Outreach Committee held the last of three outlying candidate screenings to “Pick Your Next Judge� in Pearland. HAA invited the local judicial candidates to come meet with the apartment managers in their precinct. The candidates were asked about their plans and took a few questions from the audience. Thank you to the managers who attended our event. We look forward to working with our new judges.

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 Manager Lauren Turner at lturner@haaonline.org to sign up for these FREE, management-only events where you can learn about issues affecting your area and network with your fellow managers. Want to host an event? We are looking for member properties to host a Region Meeting. Contact lturner@haaonline.org. www.haaonline.org

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On the Scene with the HAA PAC 1

HAAPAC Luncheon Thursday, February 1 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by 1 Ameritex Movers The February HAA Political Action Committee luncheon feature guest speaker Council Member Mike Laster (District J) with a City of Houston Update.

WE’RE ALL ABOUT BETTER GOVERNMENT Threats from government are coming at the apartment industry at a rapid pace. The HAAPAC, the political action committee of the Houston Apartment Association, needs your help to fight bad legislation. HAA members can participate in the PAC on several levels. 2018 registration forms are now available! To join, renew or learn how to become involved with the PAC, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact apatel@haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MORGAN TAYLOR, HAA Staff “Hot & Spicy” Sponsorship Auction Wednesday, January 31 at the HAF Education Center Our generous supplier partners attended the January Sponsorship Auction, raising more than $170,000 for HAA’s education, events and meetings. Sponsorships included the PAC Fundraiser, Volleyball, Maintenance Mania, Education Conference and Expo, Honors Awards, Bowling Tournament and numerous educational seminars and courses. New members arrived early for the Auction 101 session to find out how to bid, what was for sale and how it all works. A big thanks to our auctioneers, Alison Hall, Camden, and Mike Koch, Camp Construction Services. Interested in becoming a sponsor? HAA will have another auction on June 21. Visit the HAA website at www.haaonline.org/sponsor for more information.

Thank you to our generous supplier sponsors: TPI Construction & Painting Inc. Ameritex Movers Inc. The Liberty Group AAA Plumbers FSI Construction Texscape Services Guardian Construction Apartments.com Century A/C Supply Maintenance Supply Headquarters Gemstar Construction Development Inc. HD Supply The Urban Foresters LLC Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services Presto Maintenance Supply Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT Flooring Warehouse ApartmentData.com Texas Apartment Pool Services Poolsure Brook Furniture Rental Inc. RentPath Earthworks Inc. Cotton Commercial USA Inc. Dixie Carpet Installations Inc. Shaw Industries Camp Construction Services Redevelopment Services Texas Southwest Floors Inc. Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search Ideal Towing Lane Law Firm Chadwell Supply Perfect Surface LLC American Technologies Inc. Ferguson Facility Supply Power Express Best Plumbing LLC Brookway Horticultural Services Secure Insurance

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On the Scene Photos by MORGAN TAYLOR, HAA Staff “Hot & Spicy” Sponsorship Auction

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On the Scene with HAA HAA Open House Tuesday, January 23 at the HAF Education Center The Houston Apartment Association and Houston Apartment Foundation welcomed members for an Open House held at the HAA offices. Staff from each department and Product Service Council members were available to explain how members can become more involved with HAA and the many ways the association can help them network, learn and grow. For more photos, visit www.haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography State of the Industry Breakfast Sponsored by 1 Guardian Construction and 2 Sentriforce Wednesday, January 24 at the Hilton Houston Post Oak This HAA event featured a comprehensive look at what's happening in the Houston apartment market with moderator Stacy Hunt, Greystar, and panelists Ric Campo, Camden; Cyrus Bahrami, Alliance Residential; John Boriack, Veritas Equity Management; Patrick Jankowski, Greater Houston Partnership; and Bruce McClenny, ApartmentData.com. Topics included Harvey-related issues, recent economic trends, job growth, forecasts, rental rate and occupancy trends, new construction developments, technology and marketing.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography State of the Industry Breakfast

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Social proof is the new marketing, but what is it and how is it used? Learn how it enhances your property’s online reputation.

By

I

LAUREN VENTURA, LeaseLabs

Image © Alekosa | Dreamstime.com

Proof Positive

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t’s not uncommon during an apartment hunt, you’ve most likely checked Yelp, or other reviewing platforms, to see if the property you’re interested in has positive or negative reviews. And guess what: Your potential residents are doing the same exact thing.

According to research by eMarketer, consumer reviews are significantly more trusted (nearly 12 times more) than descriptions that come from manufacturers, according to a survey of U.S. internet users.

This sentiment was echoed by industry experts at Multifamilyfinsiders.com when they write, “If an investor or renter were to look at one of your company’s properties online – what would he or she see? Does your reputation online accurately represent your communities and the hard work that goes into maintaining, improving, and managing them?” These are important questions all property managers should be asking themselves.

Maintaining your relationships online, or reputation management, is often coined “social proof.” Much like the moniker implies, it’s the power of social platforms to offer proof to consumers that a product or entity is, in layman’s terms, legit.

Throughout this post, we’ll delve into the psychology of social proof, how to utilize it properly to power your property’s success and the top ways you can use it to improve your property’s online presence and attract residents through the power of positivity.

The Psychology of Social Proof To put it in simpler terms, Wikipedia offers a pretty good definition of social proof: “Social proof, also known as informational social influence, is a psychological phenomenon where people assume the actions of others reflect correct behavior for a given situation.

This effect is prominent in ambiguous social situations where people are unable to determine the appropriate mode of behavior, and is driven by the assumption that surrounding people possess more knowledge about the situation.”

In other words, we tend to be sheep that follows the herd.

We intrinsically, as humans, trust mass behavior as the norm and assume that if everyone else is in approval of something then by all means, we might as well trust it, too.

Think about it like this. Your best friend since childhood tries out a hot new local restaurant; she/he raves about how wonderful the service was and how delicious the meals were. Next weekend, you find yourself saying, “Hey, I should try that place out…” And so you do. Same goes for those five-star ratings on Yelp and Better Business Bureau’s “A” ratings. We trust these ratings because they fall under the psychological phenomenon of social proof. It’s honestly quite fascinating.

Three Reputation Management Best Practices 1. Encourage Residents to Share Positive Experiences Using Storytelling According to a large-scale study in 2012, social proof is www.haaonline.org

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particularly effective when it involves storytelling. This research on increasing “truthiness” implies that the best way to achieve positive social proof for your business is to “put a face to the words.”

Each year, LeaseLabs and Lincoln Property Company create integrated marketing campaigns and strategize new content ideas for their corporate marketing initiatives. Recently, a campaign we collaborated on was "Share Your LPC Story," an initiative that drove current residents to tell their best story of positive interactions with LPC on-site staff. Not only was this a genuine push to hear about all the amazing stories and good deeds of LPC employees, but we were able to draw out stories that are rarely expressed on review platforms.

As humans, we innately tend to enjoy the power of stories.

From children to seniors, we all like to read or hear a story. It’s one of the oldest forms of communication. Stories have grounded us through the centuries. This is why stories are so powerful. Don’t get me wrong, statistics, data and reputable research studies are also equally important, but read the LPC blog and see how this story makes you feel. Fast Company, a progressive business media brand, offers the same advice, “Individual examples stick with us because we can relate to them. Although statistics can be effective, it can be tougher to really see yourself in the aggregate the way you can with a personal account.”

Maintaining your relationships online, or reputation management, is often coined “social proof.” Much like the moniker implies, it’s the power of social platforms to offer proof to consumers that a product or entity is, in layman’s terms, legit.

2. Social Media & Resident Testimonials Let’s face it, even our parents and grandparents are poking around social media these days. And you can bet your bottom dollar that your prospective residents are using their social media profiles to post comments about your property or write reviews, and especially to research your property. Peter Lamandre of Better by Design Real Estate, offers tips on how to approach resident testimonials in his article for MultifamilyInsiders.com: • “If someone posts a nice comment – thank them, people like to be thanked and it will only encourage more positive comments. It also shows that you care about what your clients think.”

• “Don’t retaliate against negative posts. You are better off taking a deep breath and thinking about the post, admitting fault if there was indeed validity to the post, and demonstrating how you will correct the issue.”

• “Lastly, write a blog fostering comments from clients, or create a Facebook page asking clients to make positive comwww.haaonline.org

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ments on your service. The best way to make bad comments less relevant is to promote the good ones."

One of our clients, EnCasa Living, has an active Facebook page with a five-star rating.

Take a peek at how their site showcases these amazing real-life reviews from folks who’ve interacted or resided at the property.

3. Let Positive Reviews Do the Marketing for You Place your most powerful testimonials on the front page of your website. For instance, one of our clients, Alliance Property Management, offers its reviews and testimonials on the front page of its corporate site in real-time. Reviews can also be placed on flyers, postcards and brochures. Finally, plug your reviews into an email newsletter or leverage automated drip campaigns to your property's interest list to continually create additional touchpoints with positive reviews.

Conclusion Today’s world is becoming increasingly more digitally enhanced, from face recognition on our phones to retargeting and remarketing campaigns that eerily know when you abandoned an online shopping cart. That’s why multifamily marketers must work harder than ever to gain the trust of prospects and residents. Jason Slonimsky of Netintegrity: Property Management Software aptly notes, “Nameless, faceless individuals have the ability to influence others – people they don’t know and have never met – simply by posting about their experiences online.”

Throughout this post, we have offered you several highly effective methods of utilizing social proof to enhance and improve your reputation online, and make sure the faceless and nameless don’t sully your property’s reputation.

The power is truly in your hands to manage your property reputation management by using the psychology of social proof.

LeaseLabs, or Full Stack Marketing by LeaseLabs, is a digital marketing company made up of marketers, designers, SEO pros and technologists proficient in the multifamily business. Did you know LeaseLabs offers a service-based product, Reputation Management, to help property owners and managers, just like you, do this quickly and seamlessly? Interested in learning more? Contact them at info@leaselabs.com for more information.

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What model of lead attribution is the most valuable for multifamily? How do you determine which method drives leads into leases for your property?

By

SIMON HESELTINE, ForRent.com

Taking the Lead T

he goal of any apartment community is to get as many leases as are needed to keep the property as close to full occupancy as possible. In order to do that, most property management companies use many different sources: SEO, paid search, email marketing, internet listing service (ILS) companies, etc. Then there’s the ubiquitous walk-in viewing. So how do you determine which method actually drove the qualified lead that turned into a lease?

One of the most basic answers is to ensure that you track and tag all of your campaigns across all of the different channels you’re using, where you can. Whatever analytics package you’re using can then tell you where you’re getting your traffic and online conversions from. Any ILS or other partnerships should be doing the same for you. Any clicks on conversion events (guest cards, phone numbers, emails sent, etc.) should be trackable, and the source determined.

Now that you have things tracked, is that the end of it? No. You need to ensure that you’re actually attributing those leads correctly, and that will be based on the attribution model you choose.

One-Touch Memory Attribution If you're relying on renters to fill out a form that asks, "Where did you hear about us?" the chances of them accurately remembering and reporting the lead source is low, so this is the

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least reliable model. Anything that actually relies on automatically collected data will inherently be more reliable.

Last-Touch Attribution This model states that the last thing the prospective resident did that caused them to actually visit the property is the one that should get all of the credit. So, when they fill out the “How did you hear about us?” portion of the application process, that’s the one that gets a big check mark next to it. This is regardless of how many touch points they had over the course of their rental investigation process, which may have encompassed several ILS sites, paid search clicks, display ad clicks, organic clicks and visits to the property website. Their mind may have been made up on one site, or it may have taken comparisons across various sources before they made the decision to actually come visit the property and decide on their next home.

First-Touch Attribution This model states that the first site visited should be the one that gets the credit. The reason being that this is where the idea of renting an apartment at this property was first implanted. But if there were later visits that stemmed from other sources, this model completely discounts them, assuming they had no influence on the decision.

Multi-Touch Attribution: Equal Distribution This model looks at every source the potential renter visited prior to actually becoming a genuine lead, and gives each the same share of credit for the lead. So, if the user visited site A, then your site through paid search, then site B, then your site directly before coming in to view the apartment, then each would get one-quarter of the credit for that lead. While this does share the credit, it’s a more simplistic view, in that it assumes that each site is equally responsible for the lead, when that may not be the case.

Multi-Touch Attribution: Time Decay Distribution This model looks at every source the potential renter visited prior to becoming a genuine lead and gives each a share of the credit based on the recency of the visit. So, if a renter had visited site A, your site, through paid search and then your site through organic search, then the latter would get perhaps 50 percent of the credit, the paid search would get maybe 30 percent and site A would get 20 percent. This lends credit to the earlier visits for putting your property in front of the potential renter and gives the lion’s share to the last visit as that’s the one that actually triggered the lead. Avinash Kaushik, a Google evangelist, states that of all of the models, this is his preference (https://www.kaushik.net/avinash/multichannel-attribution-modeling-good-bad-uglymodels/#timedecay).

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Multi-Touch Attribution: Start and End Distribution This model looks at every source the potential renter visited prior to becoming a genuine lead and gives the first and last clicks the main portion of the credit, as the first was the introduction to your property, and the last was where they made the decision to contact you.

Everything else in the middle is considered to be part of the decision making process, but not vitally important. Therefore, they share a smaller amount of the credit but do at least get some.

Which Model Is Right For You? While the first- and last-touch attribution models are the simplest, they ignore the entire journey of the renter during the discovery, investigation and conversion parts of the process, so you don't get the complete picture of the journey they've taken. Therefore, it stands to reason that a multi-touch model is one that you should be looking at if you’ve not already implemented it.

Of the multi-touch models, the time decay model is the one that makes the most sense in my view and is the one that I recommend, because each step of the journey has had some form of influence over the renter. The ones toward the end of the journey are likely to have had the most influence in the potential renter actually taking an action, simply because that's when they did take an action. With this model, you can see more of the picture – not just a snapshot of one portion of it – and from there you can build up a much stronger vision of the value every stage in the renter life cycle prior to viewing an apartment.

This article was first published on www.forbes.com.

Find who you are looking for online:

ForRent.com is one of the nation’s leading online home search destinations, featuring rental listings and relevant information for renters, such as home decorating, apartment hunting tips and more. For Rent Media Solutions provides property managers and owners with diverse marketing and advertising products, services and education.

Simon Heseltine is the vice president of search at ForRent.com.

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

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H

ave you ever watched a commercial that makes no sense at all?

You know, the type that leaves you wondering “What was that commercial even about?” It might have a catchy song or a fun animation, and when the commercial is over you might even get the jingle stuck in your head. But you still want to know, what was that commercial about? Don’t let yourself fall into the trap of wasting your marketing time, efforts and dollars on advertising that doesn’t make sense to your audience. You need to find a way to create a memorable impression in the mind of your target audience to help you effectively sell your product.

Residents today search for their new home online before visiting a few favorites in person to help them make their final decision.

This is good news. Once you have impressed the prospective resident online, it is time to seal the deal in person by showing them all you have to offer. When I say, “all you have to offer,” this is not exclusive to your amenities.

We are discovering residents care more about the way a property and its team makes them feel rather than the amenities that are offered. With that said, you want to make sure your team and community are ready when a prospect comes to your door. You, the property manager, the assistant manager, the leasing professional, are what matters the most, and make sure the prospective resident knows that. You can do this by creating a memorable and lasting impression in the mind of your prospective residents.

Market your property in a way that makes sense for your future residents with these helpful tips.

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ERIKA PIERCE, Celtic Realty Advisors

Image © Oleg Doroshin | Dreamstime.com

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A Memorable First Impression How do you create a memorable and lasting impression that will imbed you, your brand, your product and your community into the memory of your prospects? For starters, you have to be adequately staffed to handle phone calls and greeting prospects as they come in the door. Once your prospects are in the door, make the tour fun and exciting. Set up some silly and creative props as part of your tour. Selfie stations have definitely proven to be fun and memorable. You can add props to the selfie station, such as silly hats, moustaches, sunglasses, a poster of your property on the wall to make for the background, and you can even throw a funky chair in there too. This allows prospects to post and tag your community on social media. It’s a great way to take advantage of some free advertising.

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We are discovering residents care more about the way a property and its team makes them feel rather than the amenities that are offered. With that said, you want to make sure your team and community are ready when a prospect comes to your door. about their fur babies. Consider placing a large stuffed animal in a corner of the model apartment home or in the leasing office with a sign around the neck stating, “pet-friendly community.” Showing you are a pet friendly community can certainly go a long way with today’s residents. It is also another cute photo opportunity for prospects. One of my favorite marketing tools that I use at one of my properties is what I call the “WOW fridge.” It is a fridge and freezer stocked top to bottom with some healthy and mostly unhealthy snacks and drinks. It’s pretty impressive with its fun foods and vibrant colors that when prospects, or anyone for the matter, open the fridge they actually let out a “Wow!”

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Stickers that have your property’s name, e-mail address, website, phone number and a colorful photo of your community are a great calling card for your property.

Prospective residents get to leave with something other than a business card or brochure. They now have something tangible in their hands with your contact information to remember you by. There are a ton of cute, inexpensive props out there.

Coming up with and finding the right ones to suit your community can be a whole lot of fun for you and your team. These ideas can also be fun for your current residents as well. When your residents tag themselves at your community it is another way to take advantage of some additional free advertising and gain some great potential resident referrals.

Simplicity is Effective At the end of the day, I think good old fashioned leasing is always in fashion. Going back

to the basics, such as promptly answering the phone with a smile on your face or standing up to greet a prospect when they walk in the door, can be a great marketing energizer. As a tip, if you spoke to a prospect on the phone or via social media and/or the internet in some capacity, try remembering who he or she is and what they are looking for when they come to visit your property in person.

Always make sure your tour path and model apartment homes are clean and freshened daily, because you never know when a prospect will drop a visit. Whenever you are on a tour, make it a point to introduce your prospects to other team members and residents along the way, and don’t forget to show off your new and fun marketing props.

Now that you have shown them your best, it’s time to close the deal. As Andre Agassi once said, “What makes something special is not just what you have to gain, but what you feel there is to lose.”

Erika Pierce is a 30-year industry vet and a property manager for Celtic Realty Advisors. Pierce was the 2017 Honors Awards On-Site Manager of the Year, 1-150 units.

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Immerse Yourself

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Is multifamily marketing ready for VR and AR? Learn how virtual reality and augmented reality fit into the multifamily industry.

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echnology changes and updates at a rapid speed, making it hard to determine which products will take our apartment homes to the next level for the long haul. Because of the speed at which technology can shift the way we live, certain technological gadgets can go unbudgeted. Today, we will talk about two buzz words in all sectors of technology: virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR). We will analyze if they are useful and/or necessary in our industry, and if so, demonstrate how to implement them.

Virtual Reality Putting on a pair of goggles that transcends you to another space can be exciting. It can also be funny to watch someone whirl around with those big goggles on. But, can we use it for marketing purposes in multifamily? The short answer is yes, as long as we change the way we think about the technology and the words we use to describe it.

Let’s not talk about VR, let’s talk about creating immersive content. Immersive content is about creating imaging and video that allows the user to interact with the space at their direction. I’m talking about 360-degree stills, immersive virtual tours (i.e. Matterport tours) and 360-degree video. All of these elements of technology allow the user, on their computer, tablet or smartphone, to move through a space the way they would if they were physically on a tour of your property.

What we create through this VR visual is a leasing agent-guided 360-degree video. A leasing agent would be narrating the tour while the prospective resident is touring the model, except on their time, at 3 a.m., when their sick child woke up and now they can’t go back to sleep.

All of these products can be used in a VR environment with a viewer, but they don’t have to be used that way. We want to create a product stream that puts usability before technology. If you have a tour on your Facebook feed, YouTube page or on your website, we want people to tour it right there using the 360-degree capable players and the gyroscope in their computer, tablet or smartphone. If they have a VR headset, and they

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VJ ARIZPE, Virtual Leasing Systems

Putting on a pair of goggles that transcends you to another space can be exciting. It can also be funny to watch someone whirl around with those big goggles on. But, can we use it for marketing purposes in multifamily? want to tour it, then all of the content you created needs to have a VR button, so they can switch to VR mode.

If your property is in lease-up and is still under construction, setting up a VR tour in your leasing trailer is the best way to view the content. If they don’t want to wear the headset, they can still get the 360-degree experience on an iPad. Augmented Reality Remember when Pokemon GO hit the market? Admit it, either you played the game or you know someone who has played it. AR allows our smartphones and tablets to take us to a different world through the lenses of our screens. The camera on our smart devices activates and augments the image of what the camera sees. In our world, that could mean different things.

The most useful way to use AR in multifamily that is currently possible is to create AR floor plans for lease-ups. In this scenario, we look at our phones, the camera locks on to the table in front of us and a floor plan of an apartment home appears to be sitting on the tabletop like magic. Can’t we keep it simple and show them the floor plan on a screen or on paper? Of course we can, and that’s what your competitor is going to do too. If what we’re wanting is to stand out, this will surely do it.

We could theoretically use AR for anything we have architecturally modeled, the pool area, the whole building, the clubhouse, all of it can virtually be made to appear on the table of your leasing trailer or on the couch of someone who is visiting your website while binging on Netflix.

Thinking more practically, we can also use AR to make printed materials interactive.

Often times, printed promotional materials get tossed. Why? Because it is easier to visit

the property’s website for more information.

All of the information is in one place and prospective residents don’t have to worry about keeping up with the brochure. AR can’t solve this problem, but it can mesh two worlds: the interactive, feature-rich online world we currently live in and the antiquated print world that we don’t pay attention to anymore. Using AR, someone can hover their phone over the front of the brochure the video you just dropped more money on than you care to admit plays on their phone. Or how is this: You hover your phone over the floor plan page in the brochure and you can swipe through and even tour them from your phone.

AR is an extra branding tool that will add an extra impression on your prospective residents, and maybe even their friends. If you want to play with this technology, check out the Layar – Augmented Reality app in Apple’s app store.

With all that said, will AR and VR be common place in our industry in the future, absolutely. However, knowing that our industry is like Europe with music trends, it’ll be a few years till we all catch on.

VJ Arizpe is the owner and creative director of Virtual Leasing Systems, a boutique imaging and web marketing company that specializes in the multifamily industry, including student housing, as well as the commercial real estate industry. Additional services include copywriting, search engine marketing, Facebook marketing, logo design and digitalization, 2D and 3D floor plan drawings and digital and printed brochure design. Visit their website at www.virtualleasingsystems.com.

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High-Five!

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Multifamily residents give the city high marks.

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ultifamily residents in Houston have a lot to love about their city.

According to a recent study by Apartment List, a pay-per-lease rental marketplace, Houston residents gave the city a favorable B+ grade overall. Houston ranked number 16 out of the 50 largest U.S. cities for overall renter satisfaction.

Millennial residents and residents with kids are equally satisfied with the city, with both groups giving Houston an overall B+ grade. This is a sign that the city is successfully appealing to multiple demographic groups of multifamily residents, with a lively social scene, plenty of family-friendly activities and good local schools.

The Apartment List renter satisfaction grades are based on data from over 45,000 responses collected in the Apartment List renter survey between Oct. 1, 2016 and Dec 6, 2017. The median age of the survey respondents was 33 years old. The renter population skews younger than homeowners.

Overall, the top-rated cities for multifamily residents are Scottsdale, Arizona, Plano, Huntington Beach, California and Cambridge, Massachusetts. In general, small and mid-sized cities received better ratings than large cities: 38 percent of them received an A- or higher, compared to only 24 percent of large cities.

In addition to ranking cities overall, multifamily residents graded their cities on 11 different factors. Those factors included public transit, quality of local schools, commute time and weather.

Houston earned high marks for affordability (A), state and local taxes (A), jobs (A-) social life (A-).

Houston is a highly international city, bringing together people from all over the world. And the city’s diversity is one of the qualities residents love most. Residents in the Apartment List survey gave Houston an A- grade in the social life category and a B for recreational activities.

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, Houston residents really came together and showed that the city is one where people care about each other.

The floods were no match for the Southern hospitality and resilience at the core of Houston life.

But more than Southern hospitality and a healthy list of social opportunities, high-paying jobs are usually a top requirement for choosing a city. Residents, both young and old, need a healthy economy to offer them the career oppor-

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SYDNEY BENNET, Apartment List

Houston, our residents love us! Find out why. tunities they need, and Houston earns especially high scores in this category. Multifamily residents gave Houston a healthy A- grade for jobs and career opportunities.

Jobs and career opportunities are important to renters. But affordability is also equally important, as measured by the cost of living compared to wages. Houston residents gave a rating of A for affordability. Cities such as New York City and San Francisco are famously unaffordable in comparison to Houston.

Houston is one of few cities to earn high marks both for job opportunities and affordability.

Many of the cities with the highest marks for job opportunities, including Washington, D.C., San Francisco and Seattle, earned failing grades for affordability from multifamily residents. State and local taxes also earned an A rating in Houston, helping residents stretch their paychecks a little further.

Houston residents expressed some dissatisfaction with traffic, even though they gave commute time a B- grade overall. Many renters said that it was nearly impossible to find any location in Houston where traffic wasn’t a problem. But the traffic problems are understandable, given the sheer size of the city. Houston is geographically large, covering 656 square miles, much bigger even than New York City.

Houston residents gave most categories high marks. Pet-friendliness and quality of local schools both earned a B+ grade. Safety and crime rate received a B-. Crime in Houston varies by the individual neighborhood, but the city’s crime rate has greatly improved, especially compared to the peak in the 1980s.

Houston is a large metro, with the suburbs offering more options for places to live. In addition to all the neighborhoods within the loop, many renters call the Houston suburbs, including Spring, home. Multifamily residents gave Spring a higher rating than Houston proper, with an overall grade of A+. Spring residents gave most categories A+ or A ratings, including safety and crime rate, quality of local schools and jobs and career opportunities.

Many Spring residents commute into downtown Houston, a drive that can take an hour or

more during rush hour traffic. Commute time received a C+ grade from Spring residents and public transit earned an F, proving that residents are willing to trade quality of life for a lengthier commute to live in Spring.

Houston earned similar scores compared to other cities in Texas, including Austin (A-), Dallas (B) and San Antonio (A-). Texas in general ranked very highly in the Apartment List survey ratings.

At the state level, Texas earned an A grade, ranking eighth out of the 50 states. Texas earned the highest score from renters with kids of all states, followed by Kansas, Minnesota and Maryland.

Texas earned an A+ for jobs and career opportunities and a B+ for affordability. Commute time (C+) and public transit (B-) were the areas of most concern to Texas multifamily residents.

Residents looking for apartments in Houston will likely appreciate property amenities such as well-maintained swimming pools that allow them to beat the heat. Most residents love the city overall but gave the lowest grade (C) to the weather category. Property owners will be happy to know that Houston residents’ greatest unhappiness equally affects everyone and cannot be changed. While property owners and managers may not be able to change the weather, it is certainly possible to help residents be more comfortable at home. The tropical climate may be well-suited to palm trees and driving to the beach at Galveston, but it can certainly be uncomfortable in the city at times.

Houston renters are happy with their city, by and large. With a world-class food scene, more diversity than New York City and professional opportunities galore, there’s a lot to love about life in Houston.

Apartment List is a pay per lease advertising platform with a month to month contract and 30-day out. Their site is designed to pre-qualify leads before they send them to your communities and solely rely on their technology partnerships to streamline the entire lead to lease process for their clients.

Apartment List works with over 900 properties in the Houston metro area.

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2018 NEXT Steering Committee

Chair David Lindley, CAS FSI Construction david@fsi construction.com

Chair Lindsay Torres, CAM Bell Partners ldtorres17@gmail.com

Kristina Andrus, NALP Francis Property Management krisand88@ hotmail.com

Phillip Barasebescu Atlas Equity phillip@atlas-equity.com

Johnnie Buchanan, CAPS, CAM Q10 Property Advisors jbuchanan@ q10pa.com

Shaun Callaway Earthworks shaun@earth.works

Brandon Coleman, CAPS, CAM, NALP Pinnacle kirbyplacemgr@ pinnacleliving.com

Dylan Coleman, CAS Camp Construction dcoleman@camp construction.com

Sean Cunningham Flooring Warehouse sean@myflooring warehouse.com

Caroline Ferguson Southwest Utility Billing cferguson@swutility billing.com

Richard Hester, CAM Southhampton Management manager@1300 northpostoak.com

Amber Hyde, CAM CWS Apartment Homes amber_ostrander@ yahoo.com

Samantha Hoffer Hoffer Furniture samanthah@ hofferfurniture.com

Liz Levins, CAS Rasa Floors lizlevins@rasafloors. com

Robert Lopes, CAPS, CAM, NALP, CAMT Relik Realty robert@relik realty.com

Patrick Magnuson Greystar patrick.magnuson@ greystar.com

Patricia Ortega, NALP LumaCorp triciaht128@gmail.com

Chris Palacios, CAM, NALP Francis Property Management midtownmanager@ francispm.com

Arely Pena The Liberty Group arelyp@theliberty group.com

Phillip Price HD Supply charles.price@ hdsupply.com

Joey Rodriguez, CAS The Urban Foresters joseph@theurban foresters.com

Nikki Sekunda The Liberty Group nikkis@theliberty group.com

Not Pictured: Roman Castro Pinnacle eldridgemgr@pinnacle living.com

Kevin Cronin Watchtower Security kcronin@watchtower security.com

Matthew Cire Hoover Slovacek LLP cire@hoover slovacek.com

Blaine Patagoc Axiom Residential assistant.lamonte@ axiomresidential.com

Miguel Segura Parawest Management msegura.parawest management@ live.com

Kendra Targac Icon Bank of Texas ktargac@iconbank tx.com

Clint Tullar JLL clint.tullar@am.jll.com

Ashley Wendt, CAS Arbor Contract Carpet awendt@arbor carpet.com

NEXT Mission Statement: A team devoted to developing themselves and the young professionals around them to become the next leaders of our industry.

We will accomplish this through education, engagement and encouragement.

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BE A PART OF 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 and is open to all members. 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. www.haaonline.org

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

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Installation & New Year Gala Sponsored by 1 Presenting Sponsor Camp Construction Services and Premier Sponsors 2 Century A/C Supply, 3 Crestmark Construction Services, 4 Impact Floors and 5 Redi Carpet Sales of Houston Friday, January 19 at the Hilton Americas More than 1,000 members filled the Hilton Americas Hotel Downtown for HAA’s gala celebration installing incoming 2018 President Michelle Pawelek, the Executive Committee, Board of Directors and Product Service Council Officers. For more photos, visit www.haaonline.org.

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography Installation & New Year Gala

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On the Scene Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography Installation & New Year Gala

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Welcome Mat OWNERS

Ado Bamberg Ado Bamberg 719 Live Oak St. Houston, TX 77003 347-678-7370

Holden Chang Holden Chang 7426 Greatwood Lake Drive Sugar Land, TX 77479 512-796-0455

JED Properties James Davis P.O. Box 97 Lake Jackson, TX 77566-0097 979-482-0596

KW Management Karina Urruela 448 W 19th St. #450 Houston, TX 77008 281-918-9057 Monterrey Vista Apartments

RDYTX LLC Devika Kapoor P.O. Box 66009 University Place, WA 98464 713-589-9947 Castle Court I Apartments Castle Court II Apartments

Salim Nuriddin 7901 Findlay St. Houston, TX 77017-1569 832-506-1022 Salim Nuriddin Properties

Stan Warren Properties Stan Warren 1323 Hyde Park Blvd.

Houston, TX 77006 713-826-5808 Bramblebury Property Valerio Rental Properties Maritsa Valerio 11907 Ryewater Drive Houston, TX 77089 832-689-3059 5646 Lyndhurst 5015 Willow Glen 2821 - 2831 Ralston

Introducing HAA’s NEW MEMBERS

Ventana Oaks Apartments Nataly Vargas 8524 Hwy 6 N. #521 Houston, TX 77095 979-826-8500 Circle K Apartments

SUPPLIERS

Amtex Associated Contractors Inc Leonard R. Nunez 8014 Yale St. Houston, TX 77037-3729 281-447-5555 Roofing Contractors, General Contractors

Belvoir Real Estate Group LLC Reggie Shipman 15835 Park Ten Place #150 Houston, TX 77084 713-332-8214 Real Estate, Real Estate Commercial/Indust.

CenterPoint Energy Services Rebecca Hale 1111 Louisiana St. Houston, TX 77002 713-207-2076 Utility Companies, Energy Provider Referred by Terri Clifton

Centex Construction Carol Taylor 23422 Lutheran Cemetery Road Tomball, TX 77377 512-789-9550 Building Contractors, Roofing Contractors Referred by Laura Lestus, CAS City Clean Solutions Cedric L. Johnson P.O. Box 631164 Houston, TX 77263-1164 713-202-9227 Pressure Washing - Equipment & Service Coast Precast LLC Lindsay Munson 11261 Meador Road Conroe, TX 77303 936-890-5500 Concrete Products, Stairs

ALL SUPPLIER MEMBERS are listed online

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

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Core 24/7 Restoration Services Douglas Jones 3510 E. TC Jester Blvd.

Houston, TX 77018 281-356-6333 Cleaning Specialists - Trauma, Fire/Water Damage Restoration, Cleaning Specialists - BioHazardous Material, Mold Remediation Referred by Debbie Andreozzi DECRA Roofing Systems Trevor Underwood 1230 Railroad St. Corona, CA 92882 877-463-3272 Building Contractors, Building Materials, Roofing Contractors, Roofing Materials

Finish Factory Inc Isabel Betancur P.O. Box 19218 Houston, TX 77224 281-813-3080 Bathtubs & Sinks - Repairing & Refinish, Counter Tops, Resurfacing Referred by Marcy Holmes, CAPS

First Co Bradley Miller P.O. Box 270969 Dallas, TX 75227 214-388-5751 A/C Contractors, A/C Supplies & Parts Grandbridge Real Estate Capital LLC Jason Bartlein 2200 W. Loop South #600 Houston, TX 77027 713-993-1300 Mortgages, Financing Homeland Protective Services Tommy Mao 13105 Northwest Fwy #1230 Houston, TX 77040 877-981-7866 Courtesy Patrol, Security Guard/ Patrol Service

Houston Harris County Patrol Billy G. Vaughn Sr. 13311 White Oak Landing Houston, TX 77065 281-897-9128 Pest Control Services, Termite Treatment, Exterminators MyHart Communications Becky Myers P.O. Box 924963 Houston, TX 77292

281-844-2725 Marketing Consultants & Services, Public Relations Referred by Raedean Mitchem

Poolworx Joseph E. MacDonald 3275 W. Alabama St. Houston, TX 77098 832-452-8295 Swimming Pool Contractors, Swimming Pool Repair & Resurfacing Promo Retailer Mariah August 2499 Judiway St. #925332 Houston, TX 77292 832-244-7186 Advertising-Specialties, Marketing Products, Promotional Products Referred by Richard Wall, CAM, CAPS Rent Debt Automated Collections Ian Ferguson 2802 Opyland Drive Nashville, TN 37214 925-872-0331 Collection Agencies, Credit Reporting Agencies Referred by Angi Pusateri Renters Legal Liability LLC Bret Brockbank 280 S. 400 West #220 Salt Lake City, UT 84101 801-994-0237 Insurance, Risk Management The Container Store Stephanie French 500 Freeport Pkwy Coppell, TX 75019 972-978-6192 Amenities, Cabinets Wellman Exteriors Briana Linville 8025 Allisonville Road Indianapolis, IN 46250 317-414-5865 Gutters & Downspouts, Chimney Cleaning, Dryer Vent Cleaning Windstorm Restoration Jason Lavrack 27 E. Cartouche Circle Spring, TX 77382 713-548-6851 General Contractors, Construction Mgmt-Consultants Referred by Angie Lavrack, CAM, CAPS I wasn’t expecting it at all. I was surprised that they nominated me!” he said, laughing. “ I’ve been with this business for 15 years. I never expect anything. For me, if I get my job done or get it right, I’m satisfied with that. I don’t need recognition. As long as my resident and my management and the owner are happy, I’m happy. It was a good experience, though, feeling that way. I didn’t know that someone was watching!”

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

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

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

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

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The Go-Getters HAA’s MEMBERSHIP RECRUITERS

CELEBRATING GO-GETTERS! Recruit all year round and become part of the Go-Getter Club.

g n i t a r b e l Ce etters!

G o G Join our Quarterly Meetings!

Be the top recruiter for each quarter and win one of four fabulous prizes!

1st Quarter: Echo Show 2nd Quarter: Samsung Smart TV 3rd Quarter: iRobot Roomba 690 Vacuum 4th Quarter: $500 Holiday Cash Plus, for each new member you recruit, you’ll earn a chance to win gift cards ranging from $25 to $250!

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

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

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

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

Mark your calendars!

Recruit all year long!

Go-Getter meetings are now quarterly: March 29 July 12 September 27 December 5 Visit www.haaonline.org/gogetters for details

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

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

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The Ambassador ONE Society HAA’s WELCOMING COMMITTEE

STARTING STRONG

The Ambassadors begin the new year with lots of outreach and community support.

1. The Ambassador “ONE of the Month” is Vince Mallace, Roto-Rooter Services Co with 21 points.

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Ambassador ONE Society members with at least 10 points, ranked by points earned: Vince Mallace Angel Lopez Marivel Bownds

Roto-Rooter Metropolitan Staffing Solutions Valet Living

21 11 10

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

THE AMBASSADOR ONE SOCIETY is an organized network exchange that helps supplier partners build their business contacts within HAA. It’s the perfect way for new suppliers to get started with the association. Group members share leads, make introductions and support HAA and its members. For details, attend an orientation and one of the meetings listed here, or contact Amanda in the Membership Department at 713-595-0316, or email asherbondy@haaonline.org.

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2. First Place Team “The Cool Kids Corner” with 88 points 3. Second Place “Ambassador Strong” with 52 points 4. Third Place Team “Cash ME Onsite” with 34 points

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Portfolio Changes The following owner/management companies have added the listed properties to their portfolios: • Ascension Commercial Real Estate LP: Dickinson Pines Apartments, 58 units at 600 Deats Road Dickinson.

• Ashford Communities: Ashford Pecan Grove Apartments, 58 units at 2 Rodney Lane Baytown.

• Matthew D Bagzis: Prime Custom Homes Inc, 2 units at various locations; Kalahari Investments Inc, 3 units at various locations; Springwood Investor Group, 2 units at various location; and Addo Investements Inc, 4 units at various locations.

• Capstone Real Estate Services Inc.: Oaks at Mustang Apartments, 125 at 2101 Mustang Road in Alvin.

• FDI Management Group LLC: North Park Townhomes, 154 units at 22720 Imperial Valley Drive.

• Gatesco: Cedar Creek Apartments, 42 units at 612 Charles St. in Pasadena; Rama Apartments, 232 units at 9290 Woodfair Drive; and Village of Fondren Apartments, 72 units at 6255 W. Airport Blvd.

• GPI Real Estate Management Corp.: Estates at Fountain Lake Apartments, 306 units at 10498 Fountain Lake Drive in Stafford.

• GWR Management: Trails at Corinthian Creek Apartments, 420 units at 8655 Jones Road and Trails at Eldridge Parkway Apartments, 390 units at 10000 N. Eldridge.

• Hettig Management Corp.: Adele and Ber Pieper Family Place, 84 units at 7625 Hammerly Blvd. and Jane Cizik Garden Place Apartments, 88 units at 1839 Jacquelyn Drive.

• Imperion Investments Management LLC: Donovan Village Apartments, 78 units at 601 W. Donovan St. and Residence at the Heights Apartments, 97 units at 611 W. Cavalcade St. • Karya Property Management: The Establishment, 313 units at 2235 Winrock Blvd.

• Knightvest Management: Stonebrook Apartments, 376 units at 619 Rollingbrook Drive in Baytown.

• KW Management: Monterrey Vista Apartments, 28 units at 4503 Wener St. • Monument Real Estate Services: Timber Run Apartments, 120 units at 13000 Woodforest Blvd.

• Mosaic Residential Inc.: Club at Stablechase Apartments, 148 units at 13504 Schroeder Road and Oak Falls Apartments, 144 units at 4545 Louetta Road in Spring.

• Nolan Real Estate Services: Imperial Lofts, 254 units at 2 Stadium Drive in Sugar Land.

• Roscoe Properties: The Grand at LaCenterra Apartments, 271 units at 2727 Commercial Center Blvd. in Katy.

• Ventana Oaks Apartments: Circle K Apartments, 32 units at 650 Donoho St. in Hempstead.

• WT Ventures LLC: Ashley St. Apartment, 12 units at 2917 Ashley St.

Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online?

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

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prop news pg 70,71.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/18 8:35 AM Page 2

In the News Jenifer Paneral joined DayRise Residential as the senior vice president of operations.

Paneral

Levins

Liz Levins, CAS, recently accepted a position with Rasa Floors.

ZRS Management is proud to announce Dana Dovell has joined its team as regional manager.

Keystone Resources is excited to announce its new name: AlphaGraphicsHouston Galleria.

In Memoriam Longtime HAA member Mark Moore of NOI Property Management passed away late January.

Moore

Torres

Frances Torres, a 20-year employee of HAA, passed away on Nov. 30. Torres retired from HAA in 2015, and was a hardworking and very loyal member of the HAA team.

Have something to report from your company or for yourself?

Email us your news at comm@haaonline.org.

www.haaonline.org

March 2018

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On Site with ABODE

Photos provided by Rockwell Management

FAMILY FUN Reserve at White Oak is a home for you and your family.

Property: Reserve at White Oak Owner/Management: Rockwell Management Location: 6240 Antoine Drive, near U.S. 290 Units: 339 Built: 1972, rennovated in 2012 Web: www.reserveatwhiteoak.com Interesting features: Located in northwest Houston, Reserve at White Oak is home to many families. Because of this, Reserve at White Oak strives to create a kid-friendly environment that is also condusive to education. This community’s after school program for children in kindergarten through the fifth grade is lead by trained education directors who assist with

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homework and create fun, educational activities such as science projects. The after school program is held in the community’s activity center from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.

This community offers one, two and three-bedroom apartment homes as well as townhome options.

Community amenities include two swimming pools, a playground, an activity center, a business center and a dog park.

The renovation in 2012 included updated, energy efficient appliances, faux hardwood floors and faux granite countertops.

Reserve at White Oak is currently building a fitness center, too, which is anticipated to include cardio machines and weights.

Your family will feel right at home here!

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

www.haaonline.org

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

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

su sa b a o d re

rcr pg 73.qxp_Layout 1 2/15/18 9:12 AM Page 1

Rental Credit Reporting provides Houston’s

apartment industry with the most effective rental credit reporting tool available.

RCR gives your leasing staff immediate access to information about which prospects have fulfilled their leases and who have been residents in good standing. RCR also tells you who hasn’t paid rent, who has broken leases and who has received their deposit refund.

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

National Landlord-Tenant Data – Searches more than 34 million landlord-tenant court records including filings, judgments and liens. Local resident rental history including evictions, amount owed at move-out, broken lease information, NSF checks, deposit disposition.

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Terrorist Check – Automated search tool that identifies known or suspected terrorists and fugitives from various data sources, including the FBI, other federal agencies as well as state and local law enforcement agencies.

Sex Offender Search – Instantly informs your staff if a prospective or current resident is a registered sex offender.

Move-in/Move-out Entry – Submit your property’s rental history data online through RCR's familiar and easy-to-use tools.

Eviction Entry – Protect yourself and other properties by registering your evictions with RCR. Inquiry History – Know where else your applicant is applying.

Quick and Easy – Information is entered into an easy-to-use Web application and a decision is delivered instantly.

Cost Effective – Automated decisions save your staff time.

Immediate Access – Inquiries concerning prospective residents can be made online, 24/7.

Monthly Activity Report – No need to guess if you’re getting what you are paying for – each owner/management company can access a monthly report showing their properties system use.

Subscribe Today – For approximately 32 cents per unit per month, RCR can help make sure you know just who your prospective residents are. * For properties 49 units or less, you have unlimited inquiries for $10 per month.

a service of

in partnership with

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

ad index mar pg 74.qxp_Ad Index pg 74 2/15/18 9:25 AM Page 1

Index of Advertisers By CATEGORY

A/C Supplies

Landscape Contractors

Trash Hauling

Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com

Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 713-955-0990 . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com

Waste Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 713-354-5230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.thinkgreen.com

Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45 281-846-3779 . . . . . . . . . .www.texscapeservices.com

Answering Service On Hold USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 800-755-4142 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.onholdusa.com

Laundry Equipment & Supplies WASH Multifamily Laundry Systems . . . . . . . .70 281-967-9507 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.washlaundry.com

Carpet Installation Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com

Locks & Locksmiths CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com

Countertops Impact Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51 800-951-9462 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.impactfloors.com

HAA Products & Services Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73 713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .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.

Maintenance Supplies HD Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 . . . . . . . . .www.hdsupplysolutions.com/multifamily

Electric Contractors Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services . . . .35 281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com

Movers Ameritex Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 713-484-MOVE . . . . . . . . . .www.stressfreemove.com

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

Pavement Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 281-758-8434 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.nopothole.com

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10 877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottoncompanies.com

Plumbing Contractors

Crestmark Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . .15 713-426-6161 . . . . . . . . . . .www.crestmarkservices.com

AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com

Disaster America . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 888-4-CATUSA . . . . . . . . . . . .www.disasteramerica.com

Resident Screening Service

FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com

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

Gambit Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 832-987-4242 . . . . .www.gambitconstruction.com Gemstar Construction & Development . . . . . .49 281-821-1195 . . . . . .www.gemstarconstruction.com Guardian Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57 832-672-4196 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.guardianconst.com RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover 713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com TPI Construction & Painting Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 713-668-7986 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.tpiinc.com WBI General Contractors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65 281-406-1990 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.wbibuilders.com

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

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

Security Control Equipment/Systems SentriForce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41 888-671-2202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sentriforce.com

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc. Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .48 713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com

Swimming Pool Service Poolsure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44 800-858-POOL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.poolsure.com

Insurance Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71 713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com

www.haaonline.org/rcr

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

Or view this issue on your computer, iPad or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_mar2018.

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MarketLine By BRUCE MCCLENNY, President, ApartmentData.com

HOUSTON

• •

Snapshot 89.3% $1,016/mo.

115.2¢/sq.ft./mo.

882 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 5.0% rental rate growth 17,189 units absorbed

• • • • • • • • • •

98.0 –

– 90.0

– 89.0

96.0 –

– 88.0

•

Recently Opened (12 months): 60 communities 15,401 units

•

•

94.0 –

Under Construction: 35 communities 9,427 units

Occupancy (%)

Operating Supply: 2,733 communities 641,271 units

Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

• • • • • •

• • • •

Jan 18

Dec 17

Nov 17

Oct 17

Sep 17

Aug 17

Jul 17

Jun 17

Apr 17

May 17

Mar 17

Feb 17

Jan 17

Dec 16

Nov 16

Oct 16

Sep 16

Aug 16

Jul 16

Jun 16

Apr 16

May 16

Proposed Construction: 56 communities 16,395 units

Mar 16

Feb 16

– 87.0

History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units

Hottest Submarkets Over the Past Three Months

Concessions

Annualized % of Market Rank Submarket Absorbed 1 Downtown 12.3% 2 1-10 East/Woodforest/Channelview 6.6% 3 Bear Creek/Copperfield/Fairfield 7.4% 4 Greenspoint/Northborough/Aldine 5.0% 5 Brookhollow/Northwest Crossing 3.7%

Rental Rate Growth % 3.7% 2.6% 0.9% 1.7% 1.5%

Total Units Class w/Concessions All 211,137 A 63,941 B 65,538 C 68,874 D 12,784

% of Total Units 33% 43% 29% 33% 24%

Average Special -2.7% -4.9% -1.3% -1.6% -1.5%

Citywide Effect -7.5% -10.4% -4.7% -5.0% -6.3%

One Month Free = -8.33%

THE FIRST TABLE ABOVE GIVES A SNAPSHOT of the current market conditions. The graph displays the overall occupancy and effective rental rates over the past 24 months. These statistics are derived from a continuous survey of all apartment communities in the Houston region. The effective rental rates are the calculated net of concessions and utility adjustments. The second table lists the five hottest submarkets in the Greater Houston area. There are a total of 42 submarkets, and the ranking is based on the best combination of rental rate growth and absorption over the past three months. The third table distributes and analyzes concessions (specials) by classification. Concessions generally are represented by three types of specials: move-in, months free or floor plans. The effect of these specials is captured and prorated over a lease term to arrive at a percentage reduction in market or street rents.

TEXAS

Dallas/Ft. Worth

San Antonio

Austin

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

Occupancy: Price: Rental Rate: Size:

91.4% $1,071/mo.

122.8¢/sq.ft./mo.

872 sq.ft.

89.7% $909/mo.

107.1¢/sq.ft./mo.

849 sq.ft.

90.1% $1,168/mo.

133.9¢/sq.ft./mo.

872 sq.ft.

Past 12 Months: 3.9% rental rate growth 14,946 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 1.4% rental rate growth 4,161 units absorbed

Past 12 Months: 0.6% rental rate growth 7,255 units absorbed

Operating Supply: 2,974 communities 692,518 units

Operating Supply: 867 communities 182,847 units

Operating Supply: 932 communities 216,647 units

www.haaonline.org

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

ApartmentData.com provides real-time access for property specific information, market surveys and historic submarket data for more than 2.5 million apartment units in Texas, Georgia and Arizona. For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730. © 2018 ApartmentData.com

March 2018

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Back Page

with News from around the COMMUNITY

In Memoriam

Ted Dinerstein 1932-2018 Theodore “Ted” Hubert Dinerstein, 85, passed away in Houston on January 23.

Ted Dinerstein and his brother Bill Dinerstein, a former president of the Houston Apartment Association and Hall of Fame recipient, co-founded The Dinerstein Companies in 1955. Ted, Bill and the Dinerstein Companies were founding members of HAA and are long-time supporters of the association. Ted was very proud that 63 years later the business continues into its third generation of the Dinerstein and Caltagirone families with apartments across the country.

Ted Dinerstein graduated from Texas A&M University, served in the United States Air Force and was involved in and honored by many organizations, including HAA, the Texas Association of Homebuilders, Greater Houston Builders Association, the National Association of Home Builders, JINSA, Anti-Defamation League, St. Joseph Hospital, Christus Foundation, St. Thomas High School, St. Thomas University, Texas A&M School of Business, Jewish Federation of Greater Houston , B'Nai Brith and the Greater Houston Partnership.

From the Houston Chronicle: “First and foremost, Ted was a family man; he adored his wife Lorraine, the love of his life, as well as his children, grandchildren, great granddaughters, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was extremely generous, loving, loyal, and had the best sense of humor; he was absolutely one of a kind. Ted lived his life to the fullest and enjoyed so many friends along the way. …

Ted was preceded in death by his parents Minnie Dinerstein Gerber and Jacob Dinerstein, and his brother Bill Dinerstein. He is survived by his wife Lorraine Valenti Dinerstein, his son Tom Caltagirone and wife Lu, son Jack Caltagirone, grandson John Caltagirone and wife Jill, two great granddaughters Whitney and Brooke, granddaughter Lauren Caltagirone, nephew Dr. Stevan Dinerstein and wife Joan, nephew Jack Dinerstein and wife Nancy, niece Carol Dinerstein Frankel and husband Jimmy, and many grandnieces/nephews and great grandnieces/nephews.

The family gives special thanks to Ted's personal assistant and friend, Albert Escobar.”

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Heart Association, 10060 Buffalo Speedway Houston, TX 77054, or Congregation Beth Israel, 5600 North Braeswood Houston, TX 77096.

Photos above from top: The Dinerstein Companies: Ted Dinerstein, seated bottom right, with the Dinersteins and Caltagirones in 2010.

Jack, Bill and Ted Dinerstein with the NAA Prism award from the 1985 Silver Anniversary ABODE. Ted and Jack Dinerstein with HAA Presidential Citations.

ONLINE STATISTICS for the Houston Apartment Association Website and Social Media www.haaonline.org Total visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16,366 Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10,761 Most visited pages: 1. Jobline Board 2. Rental Credit Reporting 3. Rental Owner Complaint Form

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HAA Jobline Apply button cicks . . . . . . . . .4,023 Job postings for the month . . .94 Resume postings . . . . . . . . . . . .250 Job seeker signups . . . . . . . . . . .283

Twitter @HAAOnline www.twitter.com Followers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5,472

Facebook http://tinyurl.com/2ae7gnq

Houston Apartment Association Group members . . . . . . . . . . . .2,163

Linkedin http://tinyurl.com/2667ppr Houston Apartment Association Group followers . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,850

www.haaonline.org

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Houston Apartment Association 4810 Westway Park Blvd.

Houston, Texas 77041

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