ABODE November 2024 by HAA Publishing

Whether personally or professionally, it’s all about the people for 2024 HAA Hall of Fame recipient

Jackie Rhone Greystar

November 2024

ON THE COVER 34

2024 Hall of Fame Recipient Jackie Rhone –This month, meet Jackie Rhone, Greystar, the recipient of HAA’s most prestigious honor. Also don’t miss photos from the Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament, Maintenance Appreciation Night and much more.

Cover photo by Mark Hiebert, Hiebert Photography.

FEATURES & PHOTOS

18 On the Scene – Photos from the TAA Fall Quarterly Meeting.

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

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

34 2024 Hall of Fame – Meet HAA 2024 Hall of Famer Jackie Rhone.

42 Navigating Concession Driven Rental Markets – Insights from Smart Chick Megan.

46 Navigating Sales During Disasters –Lessons learned from Houston and Hurricane Beryl.

48 On the Scene – Photos from the HAA Maintenance Appreciation event.

50 On the Scene – Photos from the ACES Luncheon.

52 On the Road – Photos from the Pearland Region meeting.

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

56 On the Scene – Photos from the Supplier Education Program.

68 On Site with ABODE – Take a closer look at one of the HAA Honors Award winning properties.

69 On the Scene – Photos from the Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Press Conference.

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

7 President’s Corner – It’s time for turkey and important business.

8 Patron of the Month – Meet and support Dixie Interiors.

9 Legislative Update – News from the HAA Legislative Chair and the HAA Government Affairs Department.

11 It’s The Law – Domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking issues: Do you know your rights and responsibilities?

14 Resident Relations – A resident disputes charges.

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

58 Go-Getters – Make it Happen!

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

62 The Ambassador ONE Society –The Ambassadors make connections.

66 Portfolio Changes – Property updates from our members.

67 In the News – The latest news from our members.

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

71 MarketLine – The latest area market numbers.

72 BackPage – News from around the community.

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

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

SHELLEY WATSON President-Elect

GINA ERWIN President

RYAN TERRELL Secretary/Treasurer

HOWARD BOOKSTAFF General Counsel

MONICA GRACIA

Vice President at Large –West

DEBORAH HOLCOMBE

Vice President at Large –South

CORRI SMITH Vice President at Large –North

RICHARD WALL

Vice President at Large –East

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS

JOSEPH RODRIGUEZ, CAS President Greenlogic

DEBORAH DEROUEN, CAS Vice President ClutchCity Consulting

CASEY WATTS MORGAN CEO

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mack Armstrong

Julie Batche

Kristen Becker

John Boriack

Kyle Brown

Tina Cavaco

Terri Clifton

Michelle Croasmun

Deborah DeRouen

Derek DeVries

Scott Douglas

Gina Erwin

Tamara Foster

Melissa Friend

Diane Gilbert

Monica Gracia

Stephanie Graves

Elizabeth Castro Gray

Manu Gupta

Clay Hicks

Deborah Holcombe

Karen Hefner

Nathan Kelley

Debbie Kelm

Crystal Jackson

Jacob Kunath

Valerie Lacy

Barby Lake

David Lindley

Betsy Marshall

Joe Melton

Kristin McLaughlin

Candis Mohr

Katy Myrick

David Nargang

Carlos Neto

Jenifer Paneral

Angelee Kumar Parikh

Mark Park

Velissa Parmer

Michelle Pawelek

Kelly Robinson

Christy Rodriguez

Joseph Rodriguez

Ingrid Shultz

Nikki Sekunda

Corri Smith

Penny Sprang

Kelley Suess

Debbie Sulzer

Blaise Spitaleri

Ryan Terrell

Starla Turnbo

Richard Wall

Shelley Watson

Richard WhatcottQuintina

Willis

Tracie Yoder

DIRECTORS EMERITUS

Josh Allen

Ken Bohan

Gary Blumberg

Kathy Clem

Jack Dinerstein

Jenard Gross

Darlene Guidry

Alison Hall

David Hargrove

Larry Hill

Stacy Hunt

Hap Hunnicutt

David Jones

Mel Kieke

Mike Koch

Dick LaMarche

Cesar Lima

Tim Myers

P David Onanian

Jackie Rhone

John Ridgway

Kim Small

Eileen Subinsky

Steve Sweet

Kirk Tate

Suan Tinsley

H J Tollett, Jr.

Pat Tollett

Vic Vacek, Jr.

Beth Van Winkle

Jerry Winograd

ADVISORY

DIRECTORS

Susan Alvarado

Jeff Blevins

Michelle Bridges

Roger Camp

Israel Garza

Billy Griffin

Stacy Lastovica

Mary Lawler

Laura Lestus

Cari Luetge

Bruce McClenny

Monica Morales

Ruth Reyes

Jake Slosburg

Lindsay Torres-Smith

Tony Whitaker

BLAISE SPITALERI, CAS Secretary Gemstar Construction Development

NIKKI SEKUNDA, CAS Treasurer The Liberty Group

STEPHANIE GRAVES Immediate Past President

GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS

Joe Bax

HONORARY

LIFE MEMBERS

Claude Arnold

Kenn Brown

Tina Cavaco

Terri Clifton

Kevin Fenn

Diane Gilbert

Anita Harrison

Dwayne Henson

Mike Koch

Merry Mount

Monette Reynolds

Sherry Stevenson

Kirk Tate

Suan Tinsley

Sonny Unverzagt

Del Walmsley

Nancé Wells

H.P. Paul Young

Jeanne Marie

Zublin Dicks

PATRON MEMBERS

1968

Century A/C Supply

1978

Houston Planned Energy Systems

1982

Cotton Commercial

USA Inc.

1984

AAA Plumbers

1985

Gemstar Construction Development

1986

Craven Carpet

1987

Dixie Interiors

1993

Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search

1994

Camp Facility Services

1997 Apartments.com

1999

FSI Construction Inc.

2006

Lowe’s Pro Supply

CANDIS MOHR, CAS Immediate Past President AAA Plumbers

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL MEMBERS

Susan Alvarado, CAS Redi Carpet Sales of Houston Ltd.

Chris Bell, CAS, Century A/C Supply

Marivel Bownds, CAS, Valet Living

Tammy Broadway, CAS American Fire Systems

Shaun Callaway, CAS, Earthworks

Neal Conant, CAS, Gemstar Construction Development

Sean Cunningham, CAS, Flooring Warehouse

Deborah Derouen, CAS The Phoenix Staffing

Marcelino “Tito"

Estrada, CAS One Source Realty Advisors

Giovanna Gone, CAS, Rent.

Dan James, CAS, Redevelopment Services

Amanda Kelly, CAS

Debra Knight, CAS, Comm-Fit

Stephanie Krop, CAS Emeritus, Poolsure

Liz Levins, CAS Emeritus, Gemstar Construction Development

Jim Martensen, CAS Epic Multifamily Construction

Candis Mohr, CAS, AAA Plumbers

Tracey Moore, CAS, Flooring Warehouse

Karen Nelsen, CAS ALN Apartment

Data

Arely Pena, CAS The Liberty Group

Nikki Sekunda, CAS, The Liberty Group

Joseph Rodriguez, CAS, Greenlogic

Blaise Spitaleri, CAS, Gemstar Construction Development

Amber Whitaker, CAS FSI Construction

ABODE

NOVEMBER 2024 I VOLUME 47, ISSUE 11

Chief Executive Officer and Publisher

CASEY WATTS MORGAN, MPP cmorgan@haaonline.org

EDITORIAL AND DESIGN STAFF

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

Communications Manager MADISON O’BAR mobar@haaonline.org

ADVERTISING

Vice President of Membership and Marketing AMANDA SHERBONDY, CAE asherbondy@haaonline.org

CONTRIBUTING STAFF

Chief Operating Officer SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org

Vice President of Government Affairs BRADLEY PEPPER bpepper@haaonline.org

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

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

Events and Meetings Director KASAUNDRA WRIGHT kwright@haaonline.org

Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org

Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE tdefiore@haaonline.org

Director of IT WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org

Education Manager CINDY DE LA RIVA cdelariva@haaonline.org

Government Affairs Manager ALEX CHADWELL achadwell@haaonline.org

Membership and Marketing Manager MARYANN MARTIN mmartin@haaonline.org

PRINTER TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com

HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES

COMMITTEE CHAIR

Executive Gina Erwin

Nominating Stephanie Graves

Fair Housing Howard Bookstaff

Ethics Michelle Pawelek

Finance Gary Blumberg

Past Presidents Council John Boriack

Legislative Shelley Watson

Political Action

Stacy Hunt

Golf Starla Turnbo

Century Club Nikki Sekunda

Education Advisory Lindsay Torres-Smith

Michelle Bridges

NEXT Monica Morales

Susan Alvarado

Leadership Development Kyle Brown

Community Outreach Joe Melton

Product Service Council

Joey Rodriguez

Expo Exhibitor Deborah DeRouen

Membership Valerie Lacy

Debra Knight

Ambassador ONE Society Tito Estrada

Karen Nelsen

Resident Relations A Jessica Wheeler

Resident Relations B Karah Carrillo

Resident Relations Appeals Darlene Guidry

HAF Fundraiser Neal Conant

Ryan Weis

Property Awards Diane Gilbert

Beth Levine

STAFF ADVISOR

Casey Morgan

Bradley Pepper

Lauren Ragin

Susan Hinkley

Amanda Sherbondy

Matti Luna

Kasaundra Wright

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

ABODE, NOVEMBER 2024, VOLUME 47, ISSUE 11

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 © 2024 by HAA.

Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.

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

January 31

Dtheate

Party with a Purpose

SPONSOR MEMBERS

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

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

1st United Construction LLC

3BeeGuys Bee Removal

A&A Fence & Iron

A+ Aquatic Services

AAA Staffing Ltd

ABC Supply

Achilles Security Services LLC

ACM Contractors of Texas

ACT Security Group

Action Towing Inc

Action Window Coverings Inc

Adams Roofing

Adobe Floors Inc

Adventure Playground Systems Inc

Advocate Construction Inc

Aerwave

Affinity Waste Solutions

Air Express Construction and Plumbing

Air Pro Systems

Alcaraz Lawn Care

Alexander-Rose Associates Inc

All American Mailboxes of Houston Inc

All Power Solutions

Allen Lockers

ALN Apartment Data

Ambassador Services LLC

American Builders Group LLC

American Fire Protection Group

American Fire Systems Inc

American Platinum Builders

Andrews Myers PC

Apartments Services Group

Apex Multifamily

Arborworks TX

ARR Commercial Services

& Sheet Metal

Artisent Floors

ASAP Personnel Inc

Asurety Dryer Vent & Fireplace Inspections

ATSG American Towing Service Group LLC

Audio Images International Inc

AWT Golf Carts

B&G Construction

Bar-B-Clean Southwest Houston

Belfor Property Restoration

Bell’s Laundries

Bettencourt Tax Advisors LLC

BGE Inc/aka Brown & Gay

Engineers Inc

Binswanger Glass

BioTechs Crime & Trauma

Scene Cleaning

Blakan Grey Media

Blue HERON Technologies LLC

Blue Marlin Maintenance Air

Conditioning and Renovation

Blue Star Security LLC

Blue Stream Fiber

BluSky Restoration Contractors

BoldREMO LLC

Brady Chapman Holland & Assoc

BridgePoint Security Inc

Briggs Equipment

Brown & Brown Insurance

Services Inc

BSI

Building Bright Houston

C4 Protection

Cameras Onsite LLC

Cano Electric Inc

Cantrell McCulloch

Capital Disaster Solutions

Catalyst Construction

Centex Construction

Century Fire Protection Houston

CEP Construction Services LLC

Chadwell Supply

Chesapeake Finishing

Chicago Title – Commercial Services

Citi Fence & Concrete

Classic Same Day Blinds

CNM Roofing

Code Red Security Systems PLLC

Comiskey Capital Insurance Agency Inc

Commercial Fire Protection Contractors Inc

Core Multifamily Fabrication

CORT Furniture Rental

CRE Business Solutions LLC

Crossroads Insurance Recovery

Advocates

Crowned Eagle Construction

CSC Serviceworks

Cypress Landscaping & Irrigation Inc

D & S Fire & Safety LLC

D&G Quality Roofing Inc

DeNyse Companies

Designs by Holmes

DNM Contracting Inc

DoodyCalls

Double Oak Erosion

Dry Force Corp

Dryer Vent Wizard

EDT Construction Services

Elite Roofing LLC

Embark Services

Emersyn Electrical Services LLC

Encore Services TX

EnviroSmart Multifamily

Pest Solutions

Epic Multifamily Construction

EPremium Insurance Agency

EV Charge Solutions LLC/

EV Power Kings DBA

Exo Edge

Extollo Construction

Faith J Construction

Fantastic Floors

Featherston Sign Partners, LLC

Fiat Construction LLC

Fidus Construction Services

Finish Factory Inc

Fire Reconstruction Inc

Flavor Finish Resurfacing

FlipLok

Floor Merchant

Frontier Waste Solutions

fun abounds

FW Walton

Gambit Construction

Gateman Inc

Go Pro Contractors

Go-Staff Inc

Gold Star Restoration

Golden's Pro-Wash & Windows

GQ Landscaping

GraphTec Inc

Graviti Fast EV Charging

Great American Business Products

Greater Houston Pool

Management

Green City Security LLC

Green Garbology

Green Leaf Pro

Greenlogic

Grindstone General Contracting

H&R Operator Services Inc

Hallmark Hardwoods

Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents

Higginbotham

Hive Technology

HMS Landscaping LLC

Hoover Slovacek LLP

Houston Home and Patio

Hut Services LLC

Ideal Parking Management

Imperial Construction

Imperial Wallboard Supply/ The Villa Drywall, Inc.

Infinity Power Partners

Interior Logic GroupProperty Services

Ironwood Connection

J&B Carpet Services

J.P. Morin Company LLC

JAK Environmental LLC

Jenkins Restorations

JJ’s Waste & Recycling of Texas LLC

Johnstone Supply

Junk Shot and Doorstep Details of Houston

Kings III Emergency Communications

Laser Answering Service LLC

Leah McVeigh Design and Consulting

Ledge Lounger

Lee & Barrier Builders LLC

Lifeline Roofing Systems

Lift-Texas Construction

Lincoln Jacob Construction

Lithotech Printed Products/ Forms Center

LP Building Solutions

Maid U Shine LLC

Maldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc

Matrix Construction Services

McMahan’s Flooring Inc

MCW Signs Inc Dba Signarama

Magnolia

Mohawk Industries

Monge Contracting Group

MPS Direct

Mueller Water Conditioning Inc

Multifamily Access Control

MX2 Commercial Paving

NEI General Contracting

Nelson Painting and Construction LLC

Norman Roofing and Construction

Northwest Construction Group

Northwood Construction

OnCall Patrol LLC DBA

ParkingPass.Com

OneApp Guarantee

Optima General Contractor LLC

Pace Mechanical Services LLC

Parking Management Company/ PMC Towing

Pasadena Insurance Agency Inc

Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Houston

PCS Creative Surface LLC

Pepco Sales & Marketing

Perfect Parking

Platinum Pool and Spa LLC

Precision Appliance Leasing

Precision Safe Sidewalks LLC

Premium Improvements

Pretty Cleaning Service LLC

Pro-Tex Contracting Group LLC

Property Guardians

Pura Flo Corporation

Quatro Tax LLC

Qwikkit

RAM Construction

Ram Jack Foundation Solutions

Ready 2 Respond

Real Floors Inc

Redevelopment Services

Redwood Private Security LLC

Reliable Roofing of Texas Inc

Reliant

RENCON LLC

Renova Appliance Center Ltd

Rent.

Resident IQ

Revela Inc

REVS (Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions)

Right Scope LLC

Riverway Title

Roadrunner Restoration

Company LLC

Roof Top Innovations

Roto-Rooter Services Co

Rotolo Consultants Inc (RCI)

SafeRent Solutions

Saint Clair & Sons Inc

Sayan Renovations & Construction

Score Construction & Remodeling

SEAL Security Solutions LLC

Secure Insurance

ServiceMaster Recovery

Management

Servpro Friendswood Pearland

Servpro of Sugar Land

Servpro Team Shaw

Sherwin Williams

Sign-Ups & Banners

Signal of Houston

Snappt

Space CT Towing

Spartan Fire Protection

Stealth Renovations

Steward Trash Valet Service

Strata Roofing and Construction LLC

Stripe Lines Inc Dba Grass Lines Inc

STX Roofing

Sunny Pressure Washing LLC

Surface Experts

Swain & Baldwin Insurance & Risk Management

Tex-Star A&I

Texas Apartment Pool Services

Texas Concrete Professional Company

Texas Crime Prevention Agency

Texas Southwest Floors Inc

Texas Window Cleaning Co Inc

The Apartments Concierge

The Dick Law Firm

The Legends Group LLC

The Liberty Group

The Phoenix Staffing

The Window Source of Houston

Tidal Electrical Services Inc

Tillman Roofing Inc

Tradition Services

Trash Butler

Two Brothers Foundation Repair

TX Hydrojet

United Protective Services

Urban Design Constructors

Urban Value Corner Store

USA Patrol Division

Valet Living

Webb Pest Control

Westpark Communications

Whitmans Contracting and Roofing

Wilsonart LLC

WorldVue

XXL Construction Inc

Yellowstone Landscape

Yulf Decoration Group LLC

IS IT TIME TO STUFF THE TURKEY YET? I KNOW YOU ARE ALL COUNTING DOWN THE DAYS UNTIL THE HOLIDAY SEASON BEGINS (OR MAYBE NOT). �� I AM, BUT BEFORE WE CAN PUT THOSE TURKEYS AND PIES IN THE OVEN, WE HAVE SOME IMPORTANT BUSINESS TO ATTEND TO.

Unless you have lived under a rock, you know that November hosts Election Day for local candidates and for the President of the United States. I have said all year, we have the power to GSD and this month is no exception! Voting is your only way to make a change (unless you plan to run for office), so I am expecting to see every HAA member proudly wearing an “I voted” sticker this month whether early voting or casting a vote on election day! Elections affect our industry in more ways than one, so HAA has created a list of local candidates that support our industry that we all love and support. Visit https://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_oct2024/42 for an easy to share list of the HAA Political Action Committee endorsements.

Another important date in November, the next day November 6 is a big day for HAA members! That’s the day we celebrate all things HAA during the 2024 HAA Industry Achievement Awards Luncheon and Annual Business Meeting. HAA will be recognizing our industry honorees, Leadership Lycreum graduates, credential holders and electing our 2025 association leadership, but the big event is our celebration for this year’s Hall of Fame inductee, Jackie Rhone of Greystar! I could be biased (actually I’m very biased), but this year’s recipient is the absolute best and I could not be more thrilled! Jackie is a longtime colleague, but most importantly, a very close and special friend and I cannot wait to celebrate her! She is an icon in our industry and deserves and has earned this recognition for being a force and a powerhouse for decades! I hope HAA members show up for her just like she has shown up for HAA over the years. More event details can be found on Page 16 and visit www.haaonline.org/events to register.

What a busy month with a wonderful close as we move towards Thanksgiving! There will be turkey and pie at the finish line to lead us into December, with both months providing us time with family, friends and blessings after we GSD. Show up on Election Day and then enjoy making your voice heard by celebrating Jackie Rhone at her Hall of Fame induction ceremony. See you there! #GSD2024

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

November Patron of the Month

Houston Planned Energy Systems HAA Member since 1978

Cotton Commercial USA Inc. HAA Member since 1982

Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search HAA Member since 1993

Lowe’s Pro Supply HAA Member since 2006

Craven Carpet HAA Member since 1986

Camp Facilty Services HAA Member since 1994

HAA Member since 1997

Gemstar Construction Development Inc. HAA Member since 1985

AAA Plumbers HAA Member since 1984

FSI Construction Inc. HAA Member since 1999

Dixie Interiors HAA Member since 1987

Century A/C Supply HAA Member since 1968

By SHELLEY WATSON, HAA Legislative Chair, with BRADLEY PEPPER, Vice President of Government

MORE HOT WATER

City of Conroe updates its water/sewer fee for apartments

AS WE REPORTED last month, in August, the City of Conroe City Council unanimously passed an ordinance to apply an additional $30 per unit per month water/sewer fee onto multifamily residents.

The City began exploring ways to raise additional revenue to drill water wells after having to issue a boil water notice in May and to improve infrastructure to service existing development.

In July, in an effort to help plug their budget deficits, the Conroe City Council began discussing potentially adopting an additional water and sewer fee for high usage customers, like hospitals, hotels, restaurants, schools and apartment properties. The preliminary discussion was that this could be roughly $10 per month. This fee would be added each month on top of the monthly utility bill.

A subsequent proposal in early August called for monthly fees of $14 for water and $8 for sewer for each apartment unit in Conroe and a $20 water usage fee for restaurants.

When the ordinance was ultimately drafted and passed, the fee had increased $30 total per unit per month, $15 for water and $15 for sewer, that only applied the fee to apartment properties.

Following the adoption, the HAA General Counsel, on behalf HAA, submitted a letter to the Mayor of Conroe and City Council to address several concerns regarding the fee including the factual premise upon which it was adopted as well as our position that the fee was discriminatory, arbitrary and unconstitutional.

In late September, the City Council held two meetings to revisit the fee and addressed some of the issues we raised with the original fee.

The City Council ultimately voted 5-0 to approve new changes to the water and sewer rates. These changes will be effective December 1, 2024.

The new rates will charge multifamily units at 90% of the single-family rates (apartments are currently charged at commercial rates), with volumetric water charges based on a per-unit basis.

This adjustment includes a 10% reduction due to lower processing costs for multifamily units, such as reduced billing and processing expenses and fewer meters to read, compared to single-family homes.

With the adoption of the rate changes, this means that the previously adopted $30 monthly fee per unit is now rescinded.

They also approved the Multi-family Lifeline Rate, already offered to single-family homeowners, to now include citizens living in multifamily residences. This rate provides a 50% discount on water and sewer base rates for disabled and/or citizens aged 65 and over who reside in apartments.

Additionally, commercial water and sewer rates were increased by 4%. The city says these changes are necessary to cover the rising costs of maintaining and operating the sewer system and to make necessary improvements and modifications to the current water and sewer infrastructure.

It is unclear the extent of how these new rates will affect resident and property water/sewer bills, but it will result in an increase to utility bills for apartments in Conroe.

We are continuing to work to have address numerous questions on the implementation of this fee with the City and will keep HAA members updated moving forward.

New Federal Rule to Replace Lead Service Lines

Last month, the Biden Administration released an update on its Lead Pipe and Paint Action Plan to replace every lead pipe in the U.S. within 10 years. This includes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) final rule issued the same day.

This rule requires covered water systems and governmental entities to update their inventories of lead service lines, identify all unknown service lines, and replace lead service

lines or certain galvanized service lines within 10 years. As part of the final LCRI service line replacement plan requirement, water systems must include a strategy to achieve full replacement of lead and galvanized service lines, including at rental properties and with limited exceptions.

The rule also strengthens drinking water sampling requirements and procedures, notably lowering the lead action threshold from 15 µg/L to 10 µg/L to require more water systems to take action sooner to control corrosion. While the federal government banned the installation of lead service lines in 1986, the EPA estimates that nine million homes are still connected to water mains through lead service lines.

In addition, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) also committed to invest over $420 million in new grants to remove lead hazards from homes and HUDassisted properties which could help governmental entities defray housing providers’ costs. Additional federal funding is available to support lead pipe replacement projects and EPA has developed a website identifying available funding sources.

If you have a regulatory problem or question, call the HAA main line at 713-595-0300 and ask for Government Affairs. If a particular code requirement or issue concerns you, let us know by emailing Bradley at bpepper@haaonline.org.

The Houston Apartment Association Political Action Committee is the PAC of HAA. The HAAPAC participates in local and state political campaigns, helping candidates who support the apartment industry and its supplier businesses. You can participate in the HAAPAC on several levels. For more on HAAPAC, visit www.haaonline.org/haapac.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT AND STALKING ISSUES

Do you know your rights and responsibilities?

STATISTICS SHOW THAT domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking issues are on the rise. The Texas Advocacy Project, whose mission is to end dating and domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, stalking and human trafficking in Texas, reports on its website that:

• One in three Texans will experience domestic violence in their lifetime;

• One in four women and one in 13 men reported being a victim of stalking in their lifetime; and

• More than one in three women and more than one in four men in the United States have experienced rape, physical violence, or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime. A substantial percentage of Houstonians live in apartments. It stands to reason that any issues affecting our society as a whole will also affect your apartment community.

Do you know your rights and responsibilities when a resident requests to terminate a lease because the resident was a victim of family violence, sexual assault or stalking? Texas law gives residents certain rights to terminate their lease obligations if they are the victim of these crimes.

Let’s take a look at what Texas law requires of an owner or manager of an apartment community with respect to these issues.

Family Violence

When does a resident have the right to terminate rights and obligations under a lease if they are the victim of family violence?

Pursuant to section 92.016 of the Property Code, a resident may exercise the right to terminate the lease after all of the

following events have occurred:

1. A judge signs a temporary injunction, temporary ex parte order or protective order pursuant under the Family Code or an order of emergency protection issued under the Code of Criminal Procedure, if the resident obtained any of these orders;

2. The resident provides a copy of one of the orders listed above or a copy of documentation of the family violence against the resident or an occupant of a resident’s unit from a licensed health care services provider or a licensed mental health services provider who examined the victim or an advocate as defined in the Family Code who assisted the victim.

3. The resident provides written notice of termination of the lease to the owner on or before the 30th day before the lease terminates;

4. The 30th day after the date the resident provides notice of termination expires; and

5. The resident vacates the unit.

If the family violence is caused by a cotenant or occupant, does the resident have to give notice of termination?

No. If the family violence is committed by a cotenant or occupant, a resident may exercise the right to terminate the lease under the procedure set forth above except that the resident is not required to provide the 30-day notice.

Sexual Assault or Abuse

When does a resident who is a victim of sexual assault or abuse have the right to terminate the lease?

Pursuant to section 92.0161 of the Property Code, if a resident is a victim or a parent or guardian of a victim of sexual assault or

abuse, or attempted assault or abuse, that takes place during the preceding six-month period in the apartment community, the resident can terminate the lease after all of the following events have occurred:

1. The resident provides a copy of the relevant documentation of the assault or abuse, or attempted assault or abuse, from a licensed health care services provider or a licensed mental health services provider that examined the victim or an individual authorized under the Government Code who provided services to the victim or documentation of a protective order issued under the Code of Criminal Procedure;

2. The resident provides written notice of termination of the lease to the owner on or before the 30th day before the date the lease terminates;

3. The 30th day after the date the resident provided notice expires; and

4. The resident vacates the unit.

Stalking

How does a resident terminate the lease if the resident was a victim of stalking?

Pursuant to section 92.0161 of the Property Code, a resident may exercise the right to terminate the lease for being the victim of stalking that takes place during the preceding six-month period in the apartment community after the following events have occurred:

1. The resident provides a copy of the relevant documentation of a protective order issued under the Code of Criminal Procedure or documentation of the stalking from a licensed health care services provider or licensed mental health services provider that

examined the victim or an individual authorized under the Government Code who provided services to the victim and a law enforcement incident report, or another record maintained in the ordinary course of business by a law enforcement agency;

2. The resident provides written notice of termination of the lease to the landlord on or before the 30th day before the date the lease terminates;

3. The 30th day after the date the resident provided notice expires; and

4.Tthe resident vacates the unit.

Family Violence, Sexual Assault or Abuse or Stalking

If a resident terminates the lease under section 92.016 or section 92.0161, is the resident responsible for the payment of rent through the termination date?

Yes. As long as certain language is included in the lease. The resident’s termination does not affect the resident’s liability for delinquent, unpaid rent or other sums owed before the lease was terminated as long as the lease contains certain language notifying the resident of special statutory rights to terminate the lease

early situations involving family violence, certain sexual offenses or stalking.

Note that section 7.3 of the standard TAA lease contains notice of these special termination rights.

If the unit is occupied by two residents and one of the resident’s obligations is terminated due to being the victim of family violence, a sexual offense or stalking, does the other resident still remain obligated under the lease?

Yes. Nothing in the law allows a leaseholder who is not the victim of the crime to get out of lease obligations. Accordingly, the remaining resident will be obligated to continue to comply with the lease and is subject to being evicted if they are in default.

Can an owner agree to terminate the lease of a person who may be a victim, but did not provide the proper statutory required documentation to terminate the lease?

Yes. However, if you allow the resident to terminate the lease without being obligated to under the law, you would be entitled to ask the resident to sign the appropriate cancellation of lease document which could

contain appropriate release and confidentiality provisions.

Family violence, sexual offense and stalking issues are unavoidable in the apartment industry. Take this opportunity to review the laws so that you can be prepared when these issues arise in your community.

Want more “It’s the Law”?

See current and previous issues of ABODE online at http://issuu.com/haa_abode

The first Thursday of each month, HAA will release a series of videos by legal topic with multiple videos for each chosen theme. Don’t miss this continously building library of legal information, with subscriber access all year long. Cost: $250 per subscriber/per email for one year of access. For more information, visit www.haaonline.org.

LOST WEEKEND

A resident requests charges be removed after moving out after one weekend.

A RESIDENT FILED a complaint with the Houston Apartment Association to dispute charges he received after moving out of his unit after three days. The resident claimed that the unit was not the same unit that he previously toured and that it had a bad odor and damages upon move in. The resident requested the lease contract be terminated. When management said no, the resident vacated the unit and contacted HAA when a charge of $3,637 appeared on his account statement. The resident included photos and text message exchanges between himself and the property manager. HAA then reached out to the apartment property and passed along the information and that response was forwarded to the resident. Enclosed in the management’s response were

copies of the lease, move in condition form and final account statement. Management says that they did walk the exact unit the resident was occupying two days before he moved into the unit. The property also claimed that they had offered to move the resident to a new unit if he was not pleased with the one that he received. After declining their offer and moving out of the unit, management charged the resident the fee for breaking a lease, which was $3,637.

The case was heard during a Resident Relations Committee meeting where the committee decided in favor of management. The committee decided that the charges were justified and that the resident owes the property $3,637 after breaking his lease obligation.

The HAA Resident Relations Committees pro-

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

If you are a manager with a resident relations issue, call HAA at 713-595-0300 for direct assistance. Renters can be referred to HAA to speak to a trained consultant, fluent in English and Spanish, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Residents can also be directed online to www.haaonline.org/renters.

We will also be recognizing our industry achievement honorees, including Leadership Lyceum graduates, and credential holders, and nominating and electing our 2025 association leadership.

Wednesday, November 6

The Westin Memorial City 945 Gessner Rd.

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Table of 10 - $1,000

Individual Seat - $95

Save 20% by registering before October 12:

$800/Table of 10, $75/Individual Seat

On the Scene

Texas Apartment Association Fall Quarterly Board Meeting

Wednesday, September 18 through Friday, September 20

HAA delegates and alternates traveled to Austin for the fall quarterly board meeting. The HAA NEXT Young Professionals Committee was recognized with a community service star award for their successful Barolympics fundraiser for the YMCA Apartment Outreach Program. David Lindley was installed as the Texas Supplier Council (formerly Product Service Council) 1st Vice Chair, 2023 HAA President Stephanie Graves was installed as a VP at Large on the TAA Executive Committee, and 2022 HAA President Christy Rodriguez was installed as the TAA Education Foundation Chair. Mindy Price and Michelle Bridges each received an MVP award, and Joe Melton and Corri Smith graduated from the TAA Leadership Lyceum program. Congratulations to all of our HAA honorees and graduates.

NOVEMBER

4-8

Extreme CAM Course

Monday, November 4 through Friday November, 8

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Held for five consecutive days, CAM enhances the skills of the apartment manager, which can result in better managed and more profitable rental properties, improved resident retention rates and increased employee productivity.

Sponsored by Ameritex Movers, Century A/C Supply, Massey Services, Texscape Services and XXL Construction

6

New Supplier Orientation

Wednesday, November 6

9 a.m. to 10 a.m. Via Zoom

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

6

HAA Board of Directors Meeting

Wednesday, November 6

10 a.m, to 11 a.m.

12-13

Leasing 101

Tuesday November 12 through Wednesday November 13

8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and 8:30 a.m. to Noon on Wednesday From Fair Housing and the TAA lease paperwork, to today’s terminology and techniques, the industry’s most seasoned and dynamic instructors are on hand to educate students on the boundless potential that awaits those who choose the apartment management industry as their career.

13

Resident Relations Committee A Meeting

Wednesday, November 13

2 p.m.

Closed committee meeting Via Zoom

19

PAC Steering Committee Luncheon

Tuesday, November 19 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

See Page 41 for information about the HAA PAC and the Steering Committee.

20

It’s The Law Breakfast

Wednesday, November 20

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

Start your day the legal way! Join HAA's Legal Counsel, Howard Bookstaff, for breakfast and a legal discussion. Sponsored by Hire Priority and Precision Appliance Leasing. This program counts for one CEC.

Sponsored by Hire Priority and Precision Appliance Leasing

Blue Star

Thursday, November 21

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

Tracy Gee Community Center Contact education@haaonline.org for details.

Sponsored by American Fire Systems and EDT Construction

28-29

HAA Offices Closed

Thursday, November 28 through Friday November 29

The HAA Offices will be closed in observance of the Thanksgiving Holiday.

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

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

DECEMBER

2-6

CAPS Course

Monday, December 2 through Friday December 6

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

Enhance your skills as an apartment portfolio supervisor, resulting in better supervised and more profitable rental properties with improved owner relations and increased employee productivity.

Sponsored by Best Plumbing, EDT Construction, Foundation Specialists, Steward Trash Valet and TriArc Construction

4

New Supplier Orientation

Wednesday, December 4

10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Via Zoom

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

5

NEXT Winter Karaoke Night

Thursday, December 5

6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

It’s Holiday Movie Night! See Page 24 for details.

Sponsored by Foundation Specialists and XXL Construction

PAC Meeting

Tuesday, December 10

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

Contact govaffairs@haaonline.org for details.

12

Go-Getter Meet and Greet

Thursday, December 12

4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Cottonwood

Want a chance to win $1,000? See Page 60 for details.

Sponsored by EDT Construction and Massey Services

13

ACES Holiday Brunch

Friday, December 13

10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Morton’s the Steakhouse

See Page 25 for details.

Sponsored by Crestmark Construction and Valet Living

Fair Housing Seminar

Tuesday, December 17

8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Sponsored by ALN Apartment Data and Massey Services

23-January 1

HAA Offices Closed Monday, December 23 through January 1

The HAA/HAF Offices will be closed in observance of the holiday season.

to a new time …

Thursday, April 10 at NRG #haaexpo

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 SafeRent are partnered to expand RCR and include numerous searches in one bundled report.

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

2025 HAA Event Calendar FOR THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP

MARK YOUR CALENDARS for these fabulous networking and professional development events in 2025. Please note that dates and prices are subject to change. Check the calendar pages at www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date information and registration links, or contact members@haaonline.org for more information.

JANUARY

Annual Open House – January 16

#HAAOpenHouse Free for all members

Sponsorship Auction – January 29

#HAAAuction Free for supplier members

Gala presented by Camp Facility Services –January 31 at the Thompson Houston

#HAAGala

$180 individual | $1,850 group of 10

FEBRUARY

State of the Industry Luncheon and Winter Business Exchange – February 11 Hyatt Regency Houston West

#HAASOI

$425 supplier for both events | $125 all members for State of the Industry only | $95 executive level member for both events

State of the IndustryMontgomery County – February 25 at The Woodlands Country Club

#HAASMOCO

$95 prepaid | $125 at door

MARCH

State of the IndustryBrazoria County – March 11

Location TBA

#HAASBRAZCO

$95 prepaid | $125 at door

Go-Getter Happy Hour – March 13

Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters

Sand Volleyball Tournament – March 21 at District 249

#HAAVBall

Team $325 early/$375 regular | Spectator $55 early/$60 regular

APRIL

HAA Education Conference & Expo – April 10 at NRG Center

#HAAExpo

Education Conference $160 early | $185 regular

Credential Holders Pricing $125 early |

$145 regular

Walk up attendee $195

Booth prices for supplier members start at $1,065

*Exhibitors only

State of the IndustryFort Bend County – April 29

Location TBA

#HAASFBCO

$95 prepaid | $125 at door

MAY

Sports Challenge – May 2

Location TBA

#HAAAllStars

$20/spectator | $400 team

Spring HAA Political Action Committee Fundraiser: Top Golf – May 15 at Top Golf Katy

#HAAPAC

$600 to $700 per team

JUNE

Sponsorship Auction – June 18

#HAAAuction Free for supplier members

Honors Awards – Date TBA at the Hilton Americas

#HAAHonors

$125 early | $140 regular |

$1,300 early/$1,450 table of 10 regular

JULY

Go-Getter Happy Hour – July 10

Location TBA Free for all new members and recruiters

Bowling Tournament – July 18 at Copperfield Bowl

#HAABowl

Team $375 early/$500 regular | Spectator $60 early/$75 regular

AUGUST

Summer Business Exchange – August 7 at West Houston Institute

#HAABizX

For suppliers: $425 per person for first two per company | $450 for third person

SEPTEMBER

Go-Getter Happy Hour – September 18

Location TBA

Free for all new members and recruiters

Dinerstein Golf Tournament – Date TBA Sugar Creek Country Club

#HAAGolf

$800 per foursome on competitive course

OCTOBER

Chili Fest – Date TBA at Humble Civic Center Arena

#HAAChili

Prepaid: $40/person | $15 children under 12 | Free children under 5

On site: $55/person | $20 children under 12 | Free children under 5

NOVEMBER

Industry Achievement Luncheon and Annual Meeting – Date TBA

Location TBA

#HAAAchievements

$75 early | $95 regular | $800/$1,000 table of 10

DECEMBER

Go-Getter Happy Hour – December 11

Location TBA

Free for all new members and recruiters

HAA PAC Luncheon

Wednesday, September 18 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center Sponsored by Texas Apartment Pool Services

The HAA Political Action Committee welcomed former Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, candidate for the 18th Congressional District seat formerly held by the late Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee.

WE’RE ALL ABOUT BETTER GOVERNMENT Threats from government are coming at the apartment industry at a rapid pace. The HAA PAC, 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. Committee application forms are available. To join, renew or learn how to become involved with the PAC, see online at www.haaonline.org/haapac or contact govaffairs@haaonline.org.

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

2024 Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament

Monday, September 30 at Sugar Creek Country Club

This year’s tournament raised more than $26,000 for HAA’s PAC!

Thank you to our many generous sponsors:

President’s Team

Crestmark Construction

Guardian Construction

19th Hole Reception

AAA Plumbers

Steward Trash Valet

Wine Pull

Chadwell Supply

Awards

Ameritex Movers

Precision Appliance Leasing

Tidal Electrical

Players Carts

Steward Trash Valet

Tidal Electrical

Breakfast Buffet

Catalyst Construction

Breakfast Beverage Station

Best Plumbing

Blue Team Restoration

Beverage Carts

Blue Stream Fiber

Camp Facility Services

Steward Trash Valet

Scorecards

Perfect Parking

Course Beverage Stations

Earthworks

TriArc Construction

Closest to the Pin

Catalyst Construction

Longest Drive

WeDoTrash

Practice Range

Course Holes

BluSky Restoration Contractors

Brandt Electrical Services

Camp Facility Services

Catalyst Construction

Central Renovation Solutions

Chadwell Supply

Church Foundation Repair

Cotton Commercial USA

Epic Multifamily Construction

Flooring Warehouse

Furniture Options

Guardian Construction

Ideal Parking Management

IKO Industries

Impact Property Solutions

Massey Services

Sherwin Williams

The Liberty Group

Tidal Electrical

Valet Living

XXL Construction

Buildian Construction Services Inc.

For more photos, scroll down to the photo galleries on the home page at www.haaonline.org.

Congratulations to the tournament winners: Longest Drive

JC Reeves, Asset Living

Closest to the Pin

Chris Bell, Century A/C Supply

1st Place Team

Drew Cavell, JD Garcia, Andre Azizi and Ryan Cordill

2nd Place Team

President’s Team: Gina Erwin, Ryan Weis, Eric Lodge and Kyle Smith

3rd place Team

Stacy Hunt, Christian Villareal, Chris Marullo and Nick Waiken

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament

On the Scene

Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf Tournament

2024 Hall Fame of

Whether personally or professionally, it’s all about the people for 2024 HAA Hall of Fame recipient

Jackie Rhone Greystar

Jackie Rhone has built a legacy of success. From the beginning of her career in 1983 leasing apartments part-time in high school, through her long, storied career with Greystar, her success has been driven by a love of the multifamily industry and its people.

After her start in leasing in high school with CRM Realty, Rhone continued to work in leasing part-time through her studies at Sam Houston State University. In 1986, she began working full-time for LBI Management. Rhone worked her way up from leasing to property supervisor in her six years with LBI before joining Greystone and working during its purchase by Greystar. She then moved to positions with Judwin and The Dinerstein Companies before returning to Greystar in 2001. There, she has risen from property supervisor to her current position as Executive Director, U.S. Real Estate Services.

While working at LBI, Rhone met HAA Past President and Hall of Famer Eileen Subinsky, who encouraged her to get involved with the Houston Apartment Association, turning Jackie into a volunteer teacher and long-time champion for industry education, and a tireless association leader. Her presidencies of both HAA and the Texas Apartment Association showed her passion for not only education, but outreach and the recruitment of new talent into the industry she loves.

HAA could not find a more worthy recipient for the association’s 2024 Hall of Fame. In September, ABODE spoke with Jackie at the beautiful new Greystar Town & Country headquarters about her career, volunteerism and what’s next.

How does it feel to be this year’s recipient of the Hall of Fame?

I’m humbled. I’m honored and I’m shocked. I truly am … To be even considered for that elite group of icon legacy leaders of our industry is just a blessing.

You were HAA president in 2015 and spoke with ABODE in our January issue. Tell us about your career trajectory since then. You were just starting to work in the UK.

When Greystar said, “Hey, we need you to go to the United Kingdom,” I thought, “OK, how am I going to juggle both sides of the pond?”

When I first got over there, I was the first operator on the ground. We didn’t even have an office. We were working out of a Pret a Manger (like Starbucks) because it had Wi-Fi. Now it’s grown into a 300-person office. And then I went to the Netherlands and opened an office there. Now we’re in 17 countries across the globe. To even be a tiny part of that, which I’m a very, very tiny part, that’s an incredible honor. It was a great experience. If anybody had told me when I started as a part-time leasing agent in this industry in 1983 that I was going to go help shape

Interviewed by DEBORAH NIX, HAA Staff, Photgraphed by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography

Jackie’s cover an presidential profile for the January 2015 ABODE.

the multifamily industry in the United Kingdom and then in the Netherlands, I wouldn’t have believed it.

I did about three plus years back and forth between here and our London and Amsterdam offices. And then, when I came back from that assignment, that’s when Greystar asked me to head up our active adult brand or senior housing, 55+product. I did that for the last several years and have been really proud of how we’ve grown that business. I think when I started, we had 30 properties and today they have 130, moving us into being the largest provider of 55+ housing across the United States – A great group of people, a great product type that serves an incredible need.

You’re talking about retiring now.

I am. Gosh, I just passed 23 years with Greystar. In all fairness, I’m semi retiring. When I lost Blake (her son, Blake Subinsky) in 2021, I honestly didn’t know if I was going to come back, but I did, because of the people. I think everybody talks about that. I love the people in our industry, but Greystar, they’re my family, and I really felt like I still had more to give. I had more to do. I wasn’t done and I did not want to feel like I had left something undone.

So, I came back and then this past year, my husband, Mark, was diagnosed with cancer. Not once, but twice, and I think after that second time, I just thought, I really need to take time, for once, for me and my family.

Greystar has been a blessing to me, but I asked to take a step back and work two days a week. I don’t have a hobby so I don’t really know if I could just quit cold turkey. At Greystar, we run 150 miles an hour, and that’s all I’ve ever known. I don’t think I could just quit. I said, let’s compromise and, graciously, they have said, absolutely.

What are you going to keep working on?

We always have a new initiative going on at Greystar. I’m going to focus on special projects

“I am so proud of Jackie’s rise to excellence in the apartment industry. I would like to take credit, but it’s all her. I am so happy that she is being recognized with this honor. So well deserved.”

I have known Jackie for so long that it is difficult to capsulize her in a brief comment. However, I will say that her main ingredients include being tough but fair with a healthy amount of flat out love for the people around her, professionally and personally.

She, like many of us, has been through some incredible highs and the lowest of low points in her life. But like the tremendous competitor and caring person she is, she pulls herself back up off the mat after being knocked down and does all she can to make those around her feel better about their lives.

I once challenged Jackie to a free throw shooting contest as she and I both played high school basketball. However, when the time came for the event I conveniently begged off due to pressing business, when, in truth, I knew there was a real good chance I would lose and never hear the end of it.

Jackie is a warrior, and the numerous key roles that she has played in critical positions at Greystar are too many to mention, but suffice to say, she has never backed down from a challenge in business or in life.

She has done it all in our industry and continues to give her time at NAA after serving HAA and TAA remarkably for many years. No one is more deserving of HAA’s highest honor and I am proud to see her installed in the Hall of Fame.

My sister Marilyn has been a remarkable supporter to me through the years, but I consider Jackie as my second sister and appreciate her support more than she will ever know..”

– HAA Past President and Hall of Fame

Recipient Stacy Hunt, Executive Director U.S. Client Services, Greystar

“We are all incredibly proud of Jackie and this honor is well-deserved. She has served the Houston Apartment Association for many years, including leading as President and then later as an important link to both the Texas Apartment Association and National Apartment Association while in leadership positions there as well. The Greystar Houston team is forever grateful for her leadership and commitment to both our organization and HAA. I consider Jackie a great personal friend and I am so blessed to have her as a part of my Greystar and HAA experience. “

– HAA Past President Mack Armstrong, Senior Managing Director, U.S. Central Real Estate Services, Greystar

“Everyone knows how fierce Jackie can be, in life, in her love for family and friends, and her dedication to Greystar and our industry. Within Greystar, Jackie is also known as “Mama Bear.” You don’t want to cross paths with Mama Bear, she’ll protect her tribe fearlessly and you don’t want to ever disappoint her, that’s like letting your own mother down, at least it can feel that way. I can remember many times when the Greystar team was scheduled to attend the TAA Conference and she would give the “expectation pep talk.” We knew to mind our P’s and Q’s or we’d have to answer to Mama Bear. Remembering those moments still makes me smile.

Jackie has a heart of gold, she is truly a generous person. She has such a presence about her that some people may not know, how ooey-gooey she really is on the inside. I hope I’m not giving her secret away, but people need to know she’s what you see and so much more!”

– HAA Past President Michelle Pawelek, Managing Director of Real Estate, Operations, Greystar

Jackie and her mom. Top photo: Jackie with Mack Armstrong and Clay Hicks. Bottom photo: Jackie with Greystar’s Houston team.

“When I first came to Greystar, Jackie welcomed me with open arms. I was terrified, yet there was Jackie reassuring me and including me every step of the way. I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor. Jackie Rhone’s name is synonymous with excellence. She’s a force throughout the country. Jackie is fierce, intelligent, determined and most importantly, loving and loyal. It’s been a privilege to work alongside Jackie. She is truly an inspiration.”

– Executive Director, Property Operations

Toni Eubanks, Greystar

“Jackie is the embodiment of loyalty and fierce friendship. Once you’re a part of her circle, you remain there, no matter how much time may pass. She has been more than just a friend to me: a trusted confidant, mentor, advisor, and unwavering supporter. Through the most challenging and heartbreaking moments, both personally and professionally, she has offered advice, encouragement, and strength. Her dedication to her tribe of friends and colleagues she surrounds herself with is nothing short of remarkable. It’s something to aspire to, both in her friendships and her professional endeavors within our industry. Her commitment is a testament to the power of connection and community. Above all, however, is her unwavering dedication to her family. While her career and friendships are important, it is her love and commitment to her family that truly defines her. She puts them first in everything she does, balancing it all with grace and strength. Her ability to nurture those closest to her is inspiring, and a reflection of the deeply loving and caring person she is. Jackie, you are so deserving of this recognition, and I couldn’t be more proud to know you and honored to call you my friend.”

–

HAA Past PSC President Nicole Williams, CEO, Smart Apartmemt Data

“Jackie has been an exceptional leader at HAA, TAA and NAA as well as at Greystar and other companies where she has worked. But more than that, Jackie is just a good person. She is caring and empathetic. She actually worked for me years ago, but we have become close friends. There are stories from her days at Dinerstein Management along with Gina Erwin, but I can’t repeat them here.”

– Hall of Fame Recipient Gary Blumberg

I have had the pleasure of calling Jackie Rhone a dear friend for more than 34 years. We have watched each other move up through the ranks of our companies, the Association, as well as watched our kids grow up. "Momma Jackie" is her nickname because she is the little angel sitting on your shoulder asking “should you really do this?” So many times we have been to places representing HAA or TAA and Jackie has been the voice of reason talking us out of doing dumb stuff. Her leadership for all levels of the organization (from HAA, TAA and NAA) is legendary. She is not afraid to speak her mind about topics that are uncomfortable to talk about and she always sides with what is best for the Industry as a whole. I have been at hotel lobby bars drinking with industry peers and Jackie has literally pulled some of us out by our ears asking if we are making good choices. There is a “motor-boat” story that happened in a bar many years ago with a big group of us that she will have to tell you about, as I want you to get her version of the story.

I look up to her in so many ways and admire her strength and mental toughness. I am so proud of her being recognized for the Hall of Fame and can not think of a more deserving person.

– HAA Past PSC President Billy Griffin, WeDoTrash

“There is no one more deserving of Hall of Fame recognition than Jackie. From the day she started at Greystar, she has been the ultimate leader, team member, and partner to so many. Jackie’s dedication to her work is unmatched and the nationwide recognition she has within the industry speaks to her accomplishments and her unique ability to connect with people. She truly has a Texas-sized heart and I can’t think of many people who better exemplify our values. I am proud of Jackie for all of her achievements. Congratulations, Jackie!”

– Robert Faith, Chairman and CEO, Greystar

“I have had the privilege of working with Jackie for two decades at Greystar. There is no challenge that she hasn’t overcome and conquered both professionally and personally. Jackie is a teacher and mentor to thousands in our industry over her career. Her impact in making Greystar what it is today cannot be understated. She is an industry titan. More importantly, she is a trusted friend with the biggest heart imaginable. There is nothing she wouldn’t do for those around her, no matter the personal sacrifice. It has truly been one of my greatest joys to work with her.”

– Andrew Livingstone, Chief Operating Officer, Greystar

“I am so excited for Jackie, and it’s well deserved! Jackie was HAA President when I was PSC President in 2015 and was one of my biggest supporters. She is a great mentor that tries to elevate you both professionally and personally. She has shown incredible dedication and passion to our industry and has given about as much as anyone could. I’m sure I speak for many people when I say I am lucky to have her as a friend. I am so proud of her and can’t wait to celebrate her.”

– HAA Past PSC President Mark Park, President, AAA Plumbers

Jackie dances with son, Blake Subinsky, during her Installation & Gala in January 2015.

Jackie with President George W. Bush.

The HAA Executive Officers during the 2014 Gala.

The family during Blake’s 2020 wedding. Granddaughter Kailey and her Gigi.

Jackie and Mark’s wedding day, December 31, 1992.

Mother’s Day with the family.

Gigi and PawPaw with the grandbabies.

Summer in South Padre, 1997.

Erinn, Blake and Megan ski Breckenridge in 2013.

TAA President Jackie Rhone on stage with her family.

Jackie and Mark stroll the beach.

The siblings in 2020.

At a Dallas Cowboys game.

Jackie with son, Blake, and his grandmother, HAA Hall of Famer Eileen Subinsky.

Family photos, left to right from top: The family on vacation in 2017.

that add value to the company, to the team, and to our communities, so I’m pretty excited about that. I’m not retiring until April and taking the month of April off. Mark and I are going to go on a European cruise, and then in May, I’ll come back and start two days a week and do that for as long as they’ll let me.

That leads into your volunteerism with HAA and TAA. You were HAA president in 2015 and TAA President in 2017. Since you’re semi retiring, are you going to keep going?

Yes, I’m National Apartment Association Region 6 RVP now. I have no desire to pull back from my volunteer work. I love HAA, TAA and NAA too much. I think this (semi-retiring) might give me more time to really step back in. Really be here at the local (Houston) level, because as I’ve moved to TAA and NAA, you feel like you get a little bit removed from your hometown, and I’d really like to get back into the groove with HAA. I also want to continue my NAA RVP role. I feel like I can make a difference in this position. I want to. I have every plan to continue.

As HAA President and TAA president, what things did you enjoy the most? And what would you have changed if you could have?

Our industry – no matter how much technology, how much AI, how much anything else they can come up with – we’re always going to be a people industry, a service industry. I think with HAA, I got to know so many more people here in Houston from other companies and it’s so cool. We’re not competitors, we’re friends trying to move the association forward in a common direction, and I love that. I loved getting to know more people.

I loved the difference that we made, and still make, day in and day out with TAA. It was great because I got to know more of the locals. Of the 25 locals, I was able to visit 19, so I really got to know several of those locals and listened to their concerns and tried to make a difference there. I would say with both HAA and TAA, every president that’s ever served would say, “I felt like I was just up to full running speed when my term was over.” I wish I’d had a second year, but that’s the way it’s designed – you get new blood, new eyes and hopefully carry that torch forward. You’re looking at a strategic plan and you’re trying to carry it out together. But, just as I felt I was 100% up to speed, it was over, so that’s maybe one thing I would change. I can’t think of anything else.

What keeps you involved?

The only answer, and I’ve said this multiple times, is this industry has cared and taken care of

myself and my family for decades. This is my 41st year. It’s helped raise my kids, figuratively and literally. I always felt like I had a responsibility to give back. You always pay it forward. As I’ve advanced in my career, I get much more satisfaction now out of seeing others cultivating that next generation of leadership on the local, the state and the national level, because if we don’t invest in those folks coming up – That’s our legacy, right? – We have to continue to nurture that and to move those folks forward and support them. Mentor them. Give them guidance. Be there for them. Give them, I’ll call it wisdom, from the experience that we have, and I have always felt that was incumbent upon myself and others that are my age. That’s why I think NEXT Gen is so important.

Of my three children, I’ve had two that came into the industry, and I’m so proud of that. In my family, there’s a next generation and I couldn’t love that more, because I know not only is it an incredible industry with tons of opportunities, but it’s also a group of people that are going to know and love my kids.

Blake was in the HAA 40 Under Forty Class of 2018 and Megan is doing so well at Dinerstein (The Dinerstein Companies). She’s been there eight years now, which I can’t believe. It’s a great feeling to see your kids thrive in an industry that you love as much as I love this one.

I’m proud of my other child, Erinn, because she’s out saving the world one child at a time as a child therapist and our daughter-in-law Britney is a high school counselor at Angleton High School. Proud of all of our children.

Can you tell us about the Be A Blake Foundation?

Absolutely. On August 31st in 2021, our son, Blake, was tragically killed in a car accident.

At the time, we thought we would never find out why the lady crossed the center line and caused a four-car accident that took his life and her life. About eight weeks after that, I got a phone call. The toxicology report came back, and she was high. She was drug impaired.

The tragedy was already horrific, but to know that he was murdered by someone who made a really bad choice, a very selfish choice, I just couldn’t sit back and do nothing. His wife and his two sisters and I sat down and tried to figure out what we could do, even if it was to prevent one family from not having to go through what we have, and so the Be A Blake Foundation was born.

Mark and I went and talked to the District Attorney in Brazoria County – we know all of them, they all knew Blake, all their kids grew up with him – and I said, what can we do? How do

we make a difference here? … She told us for the first time about a program that police officers can go through and it’s called the Drug Recognition Expert program. Of the 70,000 peace officers in the state of Texas, we only have about 400 on our roads and highways that are DRE certified. Their job is to take all the information from a drug impaired incident all the way through conviction. The DRE program itself is funded through a grant, so any peace officer that wants to take it can and there’s no charge for the class. The problem is that a lot of these smaller municipalities don’t have the funds or budget to send an officer to the DRE class, which is two and half weeks of rigorous training, testing, then on the job training. In most cases, the officers themselves have had to fund lodging, travel and their meals which led to lower participation in the program. That is where the Be A Blake Foundation comes in. We supply scholarships to these folks so that they can attend these classes without having to selffund their expenses. Since our partnership with the DRE program, we have gone from 92 counties with a DRE to 129. There was an Amarillo class back in July where our Scholarship dollars funded over half the class. Getting more DREs out on the road to help them be able to identify drug impaired drivers is critical to our mission. I’ve been partnering a lot with MADD, Mothers Against Drunk Driving. I’m on their legislative committee and working towards coming up with legislation that holds people more accountable for impaired driving of all types. We did get one big bill passed through last session, House Bill 393, which states that someone convicted of intoxication manslaughter, if they kill someone who leaves behind a child or children, they must pay child support through either that child graduating from high school or turning 18. That was a huge win for Texas. This session, we’re going after a couple of different laws, one on the minimum required incarceration for intoxication manslaughter. Today in the state of Texas, the minimum is 120 days. We’re asking for the minimum to be moved to five years. Also, many states across the United States have an oral fluid test that tests for drugs that Texas is not utilizing today. It’s a swab. That’s one of the big things we are working on with one of our state reps right now, to put together draft legislation for Texas to utilize this tool.

So, the mission as I go into semi-retirement is to give the Be A Blake Foundation more time to continue the momentum. I’m in discussions now with a couple of other nonprofit foundations. It’s a group of women who have all lost children, whether it be to distracted driving, intoxication manslaughter and street racing. We just feel like

we can be stronger together. More to come on that, but we are not stopping anytime soon.

What can HAA members do to help?

You know, so many have already helped.

Our big fundraiser is in October, that’s our golf tournament. This is our second year. Many of my friends and Blake’s friends did attend, there wasn’t anybody who met him that didn’t love him and always rallied behind us, you know, as a family, as an industry.

To help with that, I would love to see sober events become the norm. It’s definitely changing, but it’s hard, even at our golf tournament. We offer and we have a sponsorship for sober rides. You don’t want to tell people –who are adults – how to behave, but on the other hand, you know being the foundation that we are, we certainly don’t want to let everybody think that’s OK. So, it’s a double-edged sword.

We can sit back and do nothing, or I can hope and pray that someday, even if it’s just for one family, that you make enough of a difference that it doesn’t happen to anyone else. I’m forever changed.

Blake became a member of the industry, working for HD supply. What recommendations do you have for young people joining the apartment industry like Blake did?

I think the biggest piece of advice that I would give is, that success doesn’t happen overnight. This generation tends to want things to happen quickly. It’s about building relationships on whatever side of the industry, supplier side or the management side. Understand your craft, work your way up. You have to know and understand how to do every job in order to be able to continue to grow. It’s not going to happen in one or two or three years.

There’s so much value in being a part of the association, because that’s how you network and that’s how you build friends and relationships, on both sides of that fence. And you know, management would be nothing without our suppliers, and vice versa. It is a two-way respect street.

Understand your role, understand how each role plays into the other, how suppliers play into the needs that we have every single day, under-

stand all of it. There’s no better industry to be in and so many different opportunities. In management, you have asset management, investment, development, construction, and accounting, just to name a few. For supplier partners, there’s so many different avenues and products and service offerings that play into the needs of our communities, of our businesses every single day.

You must make the investment and what you put into it is what you’re going to get out of it. This is the only thing I’ve ever done. I got my first job in this industry at 16 years old at a brand-new construction property out on Jones Road and 1960. I worked after school, and I worked every weekend. I made $5 an hour and I thought it was the greatest thing in the whole world. It’s truly the only thing I’ve ever done and, honestly, it’s the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do.

There’s something really special about finding someone a home and knowing that’s where their memories are going to be made. We have residents at our properties that been there 30 years and it’s truly rewarding.

As an industry, how do we reach those young people to get them involved, for the association or for our industry or for both?

That’s something that I’ve worked on for years through the TAA Education Foundation. That was one of our biggest pieces of the strategic plan: How do we attract people to our industry, and not have people fall into it the way we all did.

We’ve gone the college educated route.

We have a residential property management, or we did, at University of North Texas. When you go back to that, did it truly meet the needs of our membership? Sure, having someone who’s college educated, who’s been through residential property management degree plan, that’s great, but is it what the members need? Members need leasing professionals. They need maintenance technicians. They need service supervisors. I’m really proud of how we’ve been able to shift. For years we had the Houston Community College program, the leasing program. I definitely feel like those are the type of programs that benefit our industry. Our partnering with Goodwill for maintenance technicians, you have to look back at what / See Jackie Rhone, Page 51

Photos, left to right from top: Jackie interviews Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during the TAA One Conference.

Jackie is inducted as TAA President. Jackie with HAA Past President and Hall of Fame Recipient Beth Van Winkle, far right, and their first mentors in the business, Yvonne Weber and Jill Wilson, center.

Jackie with Beth and Deona James. Jackie with HAA’s 2024 CAS designation scholarship class.

“Jackie is an exceptional human being. She is a great wife (just ask Mark), a great mother, and an even better grandmother/Gigi. She has raised spoiling grandkids to an art form! She has learned to balance her home and business lives so that everyone benefits and receives the attention they need. Her career accomplishments are legendary and her contributions of time, energy and commitment to the improvement of HAA, TAA and NAA are known by literally everyone in those associations. I am proud to have known her and watched her climb to success for the last 40 years. She is a star!”

– HAA Past President and Hall of Fame Recipient Eileen Subinsky

“Jackie Rhone is a visionary leader who has made a profound impact on the multifamily industry. Her commitment to advancing education and championing legislative initiatives sets her apart as a trailblazer, creating opportunities from which we’ve all benefited. Over the years, I have sought her counsel on numerous occasions and deeply value both her expertise and her friendship.”

– HAA Past PSC President Deona James, Spruce

“So many of us know her as just “Momma”… and I think that name in itself sums up who she really is deep down. She leads and she loves. There is no ego… it’s all about helping her “kids”. Whether that be Blake, Megan, and Erinn…or one of her many “work kids” like me. She has an innate ability to see people for who they really are and push them to be the best that they can be, even if they don’t see that potential in themselves yet. But she sees it and wants to help everyone around her flourish.

Jackie is stern but fair, knowing exactly when to discipline those who slip up, offer a comforting hug when someone is in need, and celebrate achievements when they are earned. Her unique ability to balance all of these roles makes her truly one of the most special people I’ve ever come across.

Early on in my career, Jackie saw that potential in me and took me under her wing, pushing me to grow into the leader I am today. Her mentorship and guidance led me to my association involvement, leadership roles at HAA and TAA, and to step out from under her wings to now lead a company on my own. She has always wanted the best for me, whether it’s with her or somewhere else.

I’m so proud to call her a friend, mentor, and “Momma”. Jackie and her amazing family hold a special place in my heart and I am forever grateful for the impact she has made in my life. Love you!“

– HAA Past President Clay Hicks Chief Administrative Officer, TDC The Dinerstein Companies

“Jackie has been and continues to be a great volunteer advocating for our industry on the local, state and national arenas. The work she did as President of the TAA Education Foundation was pivotal in advancing the foundation to what it has now become. She has never shied away from any difficult task in her professional and volunteer work, I know because I had the privilege to work with her at Judwin in the mid 1990's. Congratulations on the well deserved honor, Jackie!”

– HAA Past President and Hall of Fame Recipient Jerry Winograd Judwin Properties

| iStock by Getty Images

Navigating Concession-Driven Rental Markets

Insights from Smart Chick Megan.

By MEGAN ORSER, CALP, HCP, CPM Candidate and Owner of Smart Apartment Solutions and Smart Moves

As a rental property management practitioner with experience across multiple markets, I've observed the challenges and opportunities presented by concession-driven environments, particularly in dynamic cities like Houston. While I'm based in Michigan, my work with Smart Apartment Solutions and Smart Moves has given me a broad perspective on industry trends nationwide. Today, I'd like to share some insights on navigating these complex market conditions.

Understanding the Current Landscape

Many markets, including Houston, are experiencing a significant influx of new inventory due to:

1. Delayed construction projects finally coming online postCOVID, impacting delivery times and challenging the market's ability to maintain high absorption rates.

2. Market fluctuations, particularly in certain sectors. Some markets have been experiencing an influx of up to 30,000 new units per year since Q4 of 2022.

3. Ongoing supply chain resolution, allowing for faster completion of previously stalled projects.

4. Increased migration patterns, driving demand in new areas and influencing development decisions.

For onsite teams, this translates to heightened competition. For executives, it necessitates strategic planning to maintain occupancy rates without compromising long-term asset value.

Historical Context and Its Importance

The last comparable concession-driven market occurred in 2006-2011. Many current team members may lack experience

from that era, presenting both a challenge and an opportunity for mentorship and training.

Onsite teams should view this as a valuable learning opportunity, while executives should consider implementing mentorship programs to transfer knowledge from industry veterans to newer team members.

Mastering the Fundamentals

In today's competitive environment, I cannot stress enough the importance of mastering these fundamentals:

1. Prompt Response: Answering the phone can increase a prospect's chances to tour by over 70%, and answering an email inquiry promptly and accurately can increase a prospect's likelihood to tour by over 90%.

2. Customer Journey Focus: Map and optimize every touchpoint in the leasing process. Look at your product from the customer's point of view. Is it easy to navigate? Do pain points exist? Are you easy to do business with? It's time to get curious about our customers and what drives them.

3. Professionalism: It's important to emphasize that we're not order-takers, but sales professionals managing multi-million dollar assets. We need eagerness and enthusiasm about our brand to show up at every touchpoint and every experience.

4. Continuous Training: Knowledge is power and investing in ongoing sales and customer service training that pushes your teams to get creative and excited over and over and over again.

For onsite teams, these basics are your toolkit for success. For executives, consider implementing mystery shopping programs to ensure consistent application of these fundamentals across all properties and if not, so that you and your team can execute a

Navigating

strategy to help support your onsite teams in this concession driven market.

Addressing Common Objections

In my experience working with properties nationwide, I've found that addressing common objections proactively can significantly reduce the need for concessions. However, overcoming objections is a skill that is learned and practiced by seasoned professionals. Since many teams are newer to this practice, a concession is often offered to compensate for the lack of skill.

The top three renter objections often are:

1. No In-Home Laundry

Solution: Partner with services like Poplin Laundry or a local laundromat in the area. I use Sneidcor's in Michigan and they do drop off and pick ups Tuesday and Thursdays and the resident pays online through an app. If a local partnership isn't available in your area, then consider Poplin which is available in 48 states and growing and advertises they will wash and return in 24 hours for a dollar a pound. You could offer a $25 or $50 Poplin credit in lieu of a concession and overcome this objection.

2. Restrictive Pet Policies

Solution: Our industry knows a lot more on this topic than we did in the past and we are more educated on the fact that how the owner trains and cares for the animal has a lot more impact on damages than the actual

breed. Implementing tools like Pet Screening with risk-based deposits allows leasing to be removed from the policing of ESA's and opens up a larger pool of qualified renters.

3. Lack of Storage

Solution: Built-in closet organizers are more than a luxury, they can maximize the smallest of spaces and add instant value to the asset. These systems can range from $100 to about $500, but stay with the unit. This would also add a feature benefit that is not often addressed in our industry.

Onsite teams should familiarize themselves with these solutions to address objections confidently and help them look at common objections they receive and some out of the box ways they can overcome them.

Executives should consider portfolio-wide partnerships or implementations to address these common objections systematically to help remove these common barriers while also staying in tune to the objections they receive in their own portfolio and actively seek solutions.

The Strategic Role of Concessions

While concessions are often necessary in current market conditions, it's crucial to understand their various applications:

1. Competitive Positioning: Making your property stand out in a crowded market due to low absorption.

2. Compensating for Shortcomings:

Addressing any gaps in service or amenities such as older assets trying to compete with newer assets or poor service.

Onsite teams need to understand the specific reasons for concessions at their property to present them effectively. If everything is on special, then nothing is special.

Executives should regularly review concession strategies across their portfolio, ensuring alignment with each property's specific challenges and market position as well as to determine if this is a need for a concession or a need for additional training.

Strategies for Success in Competitive Markets

1. Emphasize Location Benefits: Highlight proximity to major employers and attractions or neighborhoods in your area. What sets your location apart?

2. Showcase Community Features: Promote events and services that foster resident engagement such as resident events amenities and quantify why these are beneficial to the prospective resident.

3. Target Specific Demographics: Develop strategies for key groups relevant to your market like Esri or Claritas as covered in our sessions. Get curious about your customers. Where are they moving from? Where do they work? What do they spend their extra income on? Do they have extra income? All this data is there for free to give us insights and buying habits of our zipcode demographics.

/ See Navigating Concessions, Page 69

Navigating Sales During Disasters

Lessons learned from Houston and Hurricane Beryl.

By STEPHANE LEVEQUE, Rent.

Selling in disaster-prone areas presents unique challenges, especially for sales professionals in the multifamily industry. Striking the right balance between business objectives and empathy is essential when clients may be facing significant disruptions in their lives. These situations require a thoughtful approach that prioritizes building trust and offering meaningful support.

Living in Houston, I’ve experienced firsthand how disaster impacts both residents and businesses. This past summer, Hurricane Beryl created chaos, disrupting normal operations and leaving many clients with tighter budgets and heightened stress. In these moments, it’s critical to rethink how we approach client relationships.

When Hurricane Beryl hit, our team made a conscious decision to pause all business communications for two weeks. Instead, our first outreach was a simple, heartfelt message: “How can we help?” We recognized that while we couldn’t provide immediate disaster relief like repairs or clean-up services, we could offer something valuable – our time and support. We made ourselves available to assist with anything our clients needed, even over the weekend.

Our offer was met with appreciation, and some of us spent time volunteering on-site, helping out wherever we were needed. This act of service went beyond business; it showed our clients that we genuinely cared and were there to help in a time of need. The relationships we built during this period have only strengthened, underscoring the importance of being a supportive partner, especially in challenging times.

When disaster strikes, the focus for sales professionals should shift away from sales pitches

and towards empathy, assistance, and support. These moments are an opportunity to build long-lasting trust and partnerships that extend far beyond the crisis.

In the end, sales in disaster-prone areas are not just about closing deals – they’re about serving your clients, making a positive impact, and fostering relationships that endure through adversity.

Stephane is a dynamic and results-driven sales executive at Rent, specializing in providing strategic guidance to property management companies. With a keen focus on prop tech, automation, and AI solutions, Stephane empowers his clients to revolutionize their marketing, streamline operations, elevate customer success, and drive unprecedented profitability in the competitive multifamily landscape.

Driven by a genuine passion for fostering thriving communities in the multifamily sector, Stephane sees beyond the bottom line, emphasizing the human aspect of property management. His mission extends beyond individual success, aiming to share his wealth of knowledge, business expertise, and visionary insights with others. By doing so, Stephane is dedicated to creating enduring value for his clients and investors, shaping the future of the multifamily industry through innovation and a commitment to community well-being.

Contact Stephane at sleveque@rent.com.

On the Scene

HAA Maintenance Appreciation Night

Wednesday September 18 at Shell Energy Stadium

Sponsored by AAA Plumbers, BluSky Restoration Contractors. Catalyst Construction, Century A/C Supply, EDT Construction and Tidal Electrical

HAA members showed their appreciation to the back bone of the apartment industry, our maintenance professionals! Attendees enjoyed a great game cheering on the Houston Dynamo.

On the Scene with ACES

ACES Fall Luncheon

Sponsored by Catalyst Construction and Precision Appliance Leasing

Friday, September 13 at Brennan’s of Houston

The Apartment Community Executives and Supervisors enjoyed a luncheon featuring guest speaker David Suson on “Leading to Attract, Retain, Motivate and Inspire Employees to Peak Performance.”

IN PURSUIT OF AN EVER-INCREASING LEVEL OF PROFESSIONALISM,

the Apartment Community Executives & Supervisors group was created to offer executive-level members a way to network and exchange information and knowledge. It offers them an opportunity for educational programs and presentations, along with greater knowledge of the political and legislative needs of the industry. ACES is intended for those on the property management side of HAA membership in an executive or leadership role. For more on ACES, see online at www.haaonline.org or contact education@haaonline.org.

Jackie Rhone, continued from Page 40 the needs are and where we fall short and who we need the most of. Our buildings are getting more complex every day. It’s mid-rises and highrises, and it’s not just garden style conventional and the suburbs. There is a different complexity there which requires a skill set and we must train for that skill … I still think this is one of the few professions where you design your own career path, completely dependent on your will, your wants, your desire, your work ethic, your service. I think it’s a very viable option for everybody.

Who would you like to thank and take note of for helping you through your career?

When I think back on all the people that have played a role in my development, who made a personal investment in me, I’m blessed. I really am. I would go back to the first one. Yvonne Weber was the first one to hire me and she hired me when I was 16. I literally used to skip school to go to meetings in San Antonio. Yvonne was amazing, and she was the first woman that I ever saw as the president of a company. And I thought, “You know, I want to do that. I want to be her.” What a gregarious ball of fire and I was just so impressed with her.

And then of course, Eileen (Subinsky) and you know Eileen is family and pushed me, even when

she didn’t have to, and I could never thank her enough for the times that she did push and always wanted me to be better. She pushed me to get my CPM designation. She pushed me to rise up and taught me what a leader, a role model was. David Hargrove. Gary Blumberg. Stacy Hunt – we’ve been together for over 30 years now and he has always had my back and has always been there for all the highs and all the lows and never wavered in his love or support. I have treasured every minute that he and I have been able to work together. All the people here at Greystar … There’s not a day that goes by that I’m not proud of Greystar and of who we are. What we stand for, what we do and that starts from the top down.

If you look across my volunteer work at TAA and NAA, I’ve been able to meet some amazing leaders. One of my closest friends is Beth Van Winkle. She and I have been such good friends and she is such a blessing to me. I covet and treasure her friendship, and she’s another amazing woman role model and leader that I look up to.

There’s such a plethora of people that I could spend all day talking about it. At any HAA event, there’s not a person there who hasn’t touched my journey in some way, and it’s a journey that we

go on together. I could think of so many supplier partners that have been like brothers/sisters and such great friends to me.

We’ve all grown up together. We’ve watched our kids grow up together and it’s one of the only industries that I know of that would rally around any of our people that needed help.

The love and support that I received after Blake’s passing … I could never thank everybody enough … I know Blake is so proud of me receiving this honor and I know he’s going to be there with me to celebrate. I can picture him sitting there with that great big smile. What I wouldn’t give….

What is one word you would use to describe your career?

Blessed.

The one word to describe yourself? Depends on the day, maybe resilient?

And finally, the one word you would use to describe your future?

Gigi. That’s what my grandkids call me, Kailey, Easton and Barrett. My loves.

Don’t miss honoring Jackie Rhone on November 6. See Page 16 for details.

On the Road with HAA

Pearland Region Meeting

Thursday, September 26

Karaoke!

Come sing your heart out to your favorite holiday jingles with HAA young professionals. Bring out your best holiday movie-themed attire and be grouped with your peers for your holly jolly performances. And don't forget about the costume contest! Winner wins $100!

HAA NEXT

Holiday Karaoke Night

Thursday, December 5

6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Christian's Tailgate Heights

2820 White Oak Drive

$30/person Register online at www.haaonline.org/events

Registration includes networking, heavybites and your first drink. All attendees will be entered into drawings for tickets to the first NEXT Professional Development Breakfast in February 2025! Must be present to win.

Sponsored by Foundation Specialists and XXL Construction

NEXT Professional Breakfast

Tuesday, September 24 at the HAF Education Center

Sponsored by Century A/C Supply and Gemstar Construction Development

The September NEXT Breakfast featured a politically-focused program with a panel discussion between Houson City Council Members Amy Peck – District A and Mario Castillo – District H.

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

Supplier Education Program

Thursday, September 27 at the HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center

Supplier members joined the HAA Product Service Council for an informative program with suggestions on "Selling in a Down Market,” Roundtable discussions featured past PSC presidents.

Thanks to our past presidents and facilitators Michelle Bridges, Century A/C Supply; Kristin McLaughlin, Dixie Interiors; David Lindley, FSI Construction; Beth Rohani, Ameritex Movers; and Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group; pictured at right.

The Go-Getters

MAKE IT HAPPEN!

Join the Go-Getters and help grow your association and your network.

2024 Chairs: Join our Quarterly Meetings! We will be giving away the final grand prize of $1,000 cash in December to a recruiter!

Every new member you recruit this year earns you a chance to be entered into a drawing to win. No purchase necessary.

Recruit one member and get one entry. Recruit five members and get FIVE entries. It’s up to you! Contact the membership department at members@haaonline.org for more details!

Meetings will be held from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Cottonwood, 3422 N Shepherd Drive, Houston, TX 77018

Meeting Dates: December 12 ($1,000 Drawing)

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

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

Valerie Lacy Cushman & Wakefield

Debra Knight Comm-Fit

Go-Getters Meet & Greet

Thursday, September 12 at Cottonwood

Sponsored by EDT Construction Services and The Liberty Group

HAA recruiters introduced new member recruits during the third Quarterly Meeting of the year and won gift cards for their efforts. Don’t miss your last chance to win our $1,000 giveaway! Recruit a new member and join us December 12 for the last meeting of 2024.

OWNERS

Avita Property Management

Karthik Kirupakaran 1717 W. 6th St. #260 Austin, TX 78703 (281) 444-9335

Casa Paz

Finishes Solutions LLC

Kevin Groh 2614 Washington St Waller, TX 77484 (936) 265-8953

Greenville Townhomes Green Gardens Presidential Shores 3 Lakes Castle Street Studio Apartments Orange St Duplex

Finishes Solutions Properties

SIR Properties LLC

Imelda Rogers 7007 Trimstone Drive Pasadena, TX 77505 (713) 202-1713

Turtlewood Manor

Tony Ly 6955 Turtlewood Drive Houston, TX 77072 (832) 316-7997

Turtlewood Manor Condominium

WH Multifamily Management LLC

Jasmine Crosby 8390 LBJ Freeway #565 Dallas, TX 75243 (214) 227-9423

The Taylor at Copperfield

SUPPLIERS

Air Express Construction and Plumbing

Mario Martinez 8410 Helmers St Houston, TX 77022 (713) 393-7264

Plumbing Contractors, Plumbing Drain/Sewer Cleaning

Airbnb

Melanie Rodriguez 888 Brannan San Francisco, CA 94103

Apartment Leasing

All Stars Carpet Cleaning

World Quality

Ervin Yax 3931 Morelos Road Baytown, TX 77521 (832) 339-5656

Carpet Cleaning, Maid Services

AlphaGraphics Spring Northwest

Rachel Steffens 17126 Stuebner Airline Road Spring, TX 77379 (281) 376-4781

Advertising - Outdoor, AdvertisingDirect Mail, Banners, Flags & Pennants, Signs

Apartment Living Locators

Doug Gary Spector 10703 Rampart St Houston, TX 77096-5926 (713) 783-1441

Apartment Leasing, Locators

Blackmon Mooring & BMS CAT

Alix Spratley 10501 Kipp Way Drive Houston, TX 77099 (346) 357-9810

Fire/Water Damage Restoration, Disaster Recovery/Relief Referred by Deborah DeRouen, CAS

Caldwell & Gregory Professional

Laundry Services

Rod Crawford

129 Broad Street Road #A Manakin Sabot, VA 23103 (832) 627-5873

Laundry Equipment & Supplies, Laundry Service

J&B Carpet Services

Ulises Lopez 10616 Hempstead Road #F Houston, TX 77092 (832) 863-6375

Carpet Installation, Vinyl Flooring, Carpet Dealers, Floor Laying, Refinishing & Resurfacing, Floor Materials

Laser Answering Service LLC

Walter Hinkle

3001 Earl Rudder Fwy #500 College Station, TX 77845 (855) 775-4800

Answering Service Referred by Donna Farthing

M&G American Renovations Services

Nancy Calderon 3333 Lake St #17A Houston, TX 77098 (832) 343-2222

Painting Contractors, Resurfacing, Make Ready, Maid Services Referred by Donna Farthing

Northwest Construction Group

Facundo Villarreal 3880 Greenhouse Road #1 Houston, TX 77084 (281) 310-1440

General Contractors, Paint, Roofing Contractors, Building Maintenance Referred by Paola Rodriguez

OurPetPolicy

Logan Miller 950 W Bannock St #860 Boise, ID 83702 (208) 906-8886

Pet Services, Resident Screening Service

ParkM

Bridget Jensen 4950 S Yosemite St

Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Ancillary Revenue Providers, Parking Permits

Payscore

Garrett Rivas

4209 Spring Steubner Road Apt 23107 Spring, TX 77389 (832) 588-3370

Resident Screening Service, Identity Verification

Ready 2 Respond

Jim Hassi 15180 Josh Wilson Road Burlington, WA 98233 (888) 208-5401

Disaster Preparedness Service, Training Consultant

Score Construction & Remodeling

Deblin Diaz 6031 Hwy 6 N Ste 165-146 Houston, TX 77084 (832) 665-0125

General Contractors, Painting Contractors, Resurfacing, Concrete Contractors

Servpro Team Shaw

Ashley Villa 2436 Peyton Road Houston, TX 77032 (713) 231-6308

Fire/Water Damage Restoration, Mold Remediation

Texas Coastal Striping LLC

Mike Garrett 4050 Heathersage Drive Houston, TX 77084 (346) 498-9233

Parking Area Maintenance & Marking, Cleaning Systems - Pressure Referred by Chris Hageney

TX Hydrojet

Joshua Meisel 5338 Prudence Drive Houston, TX 77045 (346) 258-7447

Plumbing Drain/Sewer Cleaning, Plumbing Contractors, BoilersRepairing & Cleaning

Underground Towing & Recovery LLC

Brian Smith 1615 Bowling Green Drive Conroe, TX 77385 (936) 206-7717

Towing Service, Parking Area Maintenance & Marking

VBM Waste LLC

Blake Brown 2736 University Blvd Houston, TX 77005-3440 (210) 865-8419

Trash Service - Valet

Western Verify

Morgan Mower 489 W. Jordan Parkway #254 South Jordan, Utah 84095 (801) 641-6419

Criminal Record Search, Credit Reporting Agencies

ZLS International, LLC dba Liron Lighting

Greg Voskian 737 S Cravens Road Missouri City, TX 77489 (832) 660-0008

Lighting Fixtures & Supplies, Light Bulbs & Tubes Referred by Kristin McLaughlin, CASE

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK

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

Ambassador

Top photo: The “ONE of the Month” was Steve Griffith, Precision

Ambassador ONE Society meetings are held on the first Wednesday of each month: Join us November 6 for the final meeting of the year. The meeting spot is Kirby Ice House, 1015 Gessner Road, Houston, Texas 77055 at 3:30 p.m.

Team photos at left, from top:

First place – Purple Rain with 4,500 points

Second place – Brown SugHAA with 3,694 points

Third place – Orange Crush with 1,007 points

Portfolio Changes

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

• AOG Living: Rosemary's Place, 149 units at 3300 Caroline Street.

• Ascension Commercial Real Estate, LLC: Pecan Square Village, 496 units at 14531 Ella Blvd; The Landings at Northpoint, 292 units at 220 Northpoint Drive; and The Palms on Westheimer, 798 units at 6425 Westheimer Road.

• Asset Living: Somerset Lofts Apartments, 120 units at 8506 Hempstead Road, and Brittany Place Apartments, 236 units at 2338 W 18th Street.

• Broad Management Group: Birdsong Place Villas, 96 units at 1017 Birdsong Drive in Baytown.

• Cardinal Group Management: Gateway on Cullen, 190 units at 1901 Cullen Blvd.

• Christian Church Homes: Woodland Christian Towers, 127 units at 600 E Tidwell Road.

• Cortland Partners: The Southmore, 233 units at 5280 Caroline Street.

• Creative Property Management: The Blakemore Townhomes, 24 units at 810 Dunson Glen Drive.

• Devonshire Real Estate & Asset Management: The Court at Oak Forest, 68 units at 4102 Mangum Road.

• Estes Property Management Group: Sunset Cambridge Apartments, 128 units at 301 Cannan Drive in Angleton.

• Greystar: Duo West Champions Phase 2, 374 units at 12331 N

Gessner; Duo West Champions, 336 units at 12330 N Gessner Road; and Granary Flats, 324 units at 4647 Harvest Corner Drive in Richmond.

• Hawthorne Residential Partners: Hawthorne at Fairmont, 291 units at 8901 W Fairmont Pkwy La Porte.

• Keener Management LLC: Springwood Park, 145 units at 1500 Witte Road.

• Knightvest Residential: San Cierra, 365 units at 15500 Cutten Road.

• Lone Star Communities: Lakes at 610, 344 units at 9111 Lakes At 610 Drive.

• MLDC Management LLC: Candleridge Park Apts, 128 units at 1601 Wooded Pine Drive.

• Mosaic Residential Inc: Amber Oaks, 63 units at 2685 Old Alvin Road in Pearland; Park Place Apts, 101units at 3340 E Walnut Street in Pearland; and Woodforest Chase Apts, 204 units at 12411 Woodforest Blvd.

• Claye Properties Inc: Park Place Apts, 101 units at 3340 E Walnut Street in Pearland.

• Preston Hill Real Estate Services: Oak Arbor, 94 units at 310 Berry Road Houston; Redwood Heights, 96 units at 7320 Jensen Drive; and Freeport Oaks, 100 units at 1702 Skinner Street in Freeport.

• Q10 Property Advisors: Gallery at Katy, 316 units at 1007 S Mason Road in Katy.

• REEP Management: Oaks of Kingwood, 152 units at 3415 Havenbrook Drive in Kingwood.

• RPM Living: LightHaven at District West, 115 units at 22005

Ferguson W Meadow Court in Richmond; Parkland at West Oaks, 323 units at 2600 Westhollow Drive; and Enclave at Woodland Lakes, 340 units at 300 Enclave Drive in Conroe.

• SRAV: SRAV Properties, 10 units at Various Locations.

• WH Multifamily Management, LLC: The Taylor at Copperfield, 504 units at 9125 Hwy 6 North.

• Willow Bridge Property Company: Canvas On Founders Hill, 147 units at 693 Canvas Ave in Fulshear, and The Villas at Tamarron, 164 units at 3702 Mirabeau Drive in Katy.

In the News

AOG Living has been named one of the 50th Fastest Growing Companies by the Houston Business Journal.

Danielle Berryann has been promoted to Regional Vice President at Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search.

The HAA NEXT Young Professionals Committee presented a check to the YMCA at the YMCA Camp Cloud located at Ashford St. Cloud Apartments. NEXT was able to raise more than $9,000 for the YMCA at this year’s Barlympics Fundraiser.

Have something to report from your company or for yourself? Email us your news at comm@haaonline.org.

Berryann

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

Each month, On Site with ABODE takes a closer look at winning HAA Honors Awards properties. This month, we visit one of our 2024 winners. See future ABODEs for more honorees.

CADENCE CREEK AT GOSLING

Senior Living Property of the Year

Property: Cadence Creek at Gosling

Owner/Management: Caldwell Companies/Greystar

Location: 21901 Gosling Rd, Spring, TX 77388

Units: 189

Web: www.cadencecreekgosling.com

Photos provided by Cadence Creek at Gosling

Cadence Creek at Gosling is designed for those 55 and better and offers exceptional living that extends beyond the home. The properties focus is on enriching residents’ lives through various events and amenities. With over 30 years of experience, Caldwell Communities creates top-notch active-adult communities in Texas.

This community prioritizes the holistic wellness of the residents through programs like health seminars, wellness seminars and fitness classes. The maintenance services ensure a worry-free lifestyle with 24/7 emergency support and partnerships for housekeeping services. Cadence Creek’s vibrant community includes arts and crafts workshops, game clubs, book clubs, cooking classes and social events for residents’ furry friends. Amenities like the art studio, theater, library, demonstration kitchen, fitness studio, game room, courtyard, community garden and more, helps foster connections among residents.

To give back to the community around Cadence Creek, they engage in local revitalization projects with local involvement and environmental initiatives. The resident-led initiatives, like the Cadence Creek Cares Club, focus on community service and kindness. Cadence Creek prioritizes excellence in everything the property does, from architectural design to lifestyle programs and amenities. With a focus on wellness, robust lifestyle initiatives, and positive reviews from residents, Cadence Creek offers a harmonious blend of luxury, community and purpose for residents to thrive, connect and flourish in a vibrant community setting.

On the

Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention

Press Conference

Wednesday, October 9

Houston City Hall

HAA participated in Houston City Council Member Twila Carter’s public awareness launch on domestic violence prevention. HAA is proud to partner with the Council Member on these efforts along with Mayor John Whitmire, Harris County Commissioner Leslie Briones, Harris County Sherriff Ed Gonzalez, the Houston Police Department and Clear Channel. This launch complemented HAA’s first ever seminar on domestic violence prevention hosted by the Texas Council on Family Violence at HAA earlier that day.

Navigating Concessions, continued from Page 44

4. Offer Flexible Leasing: In this volatile market renters and property managers are not sure what the future may bring. With so many variables it's always a good idea to question some of our old standing processes. Perhaps short term leases are better received in your market due to large employers. Maybe long term leases with buyout options are better for your marketplace. Maybe utilizing services like flex to help with rent payments options is what your market needs or different options for guarantors or security deposits. My point is to question all of these processes and adapt to what your markets need.

5. Monitor Local Metrics: Track KPIs specific to different submarkets in your area. Many data suppliers in our market like ALN offer submarket and neighborhood data so that you can see how your property stacks up in comparison to competitors as well as industry trends and other markets.

Onsite teams should familiarize themselves with these strategies and how they apply to their specific property. Executives should

consider how these strategies can be implemented across the portfolio and develop training programs to ensure consistent execution and creativity stays fluid.

Navigating concession-driven markets requires a multi-faceted approach combining fundamental leasing skills with strategic thinking. For onsite professionals, this environment offers invaluable experience in highlevel sales and customer service with opportunities to make your skill set razor sharp. For executives, it presents an opportunity to optimize operations and position your portfolio for long-term success. The pressure is already on, now let's make some diamonds!

Remember, our goal extends beyond simply filling units. We're creating value, building communities, and establishing long-term relationships with residents and local businesses alike. By mastering these principles and adapting to market conditions, property management professionals at all levels can drive success in dynamic rental landscapes across the country as well as in the sunbelt markets.

For career growth, I always advise staying informed about market trends, continuously

improving your skills, and being ready to adapt to new challenges. The experience gained in navigating concession-driven markets will be invaluable throughout your career in property management. By embracing these strategies and maintaining a customer-centric approach, we can turn challenges into opportunities for growth and success in any market condition.

Meet Smart Chick Megan, a seasoned Smart Apartment Solutions expert with 26+ years in apartment management, a Marketing and Communications degree from the University of Michigan, and numerous accreditations including two NAA Excel awards, CALP of the Year and Industry Educator of the Year. She leads Smart Apartment Solutions in the Midwest, is actively involved in industry committees, and holds the Chair position and board seat for NAA's Independent Rental Owner committee and a NAA Social Media Ambassador since 2016.

A/C Supplies

Century A/C Supply 23 281-530-2859 www.centuryac.com

A/C Contractors

Gemstar Construction & Development 30 281-821-1195 www.gemstarconstruction.com

Carpet Installation

Dixie Interiors 2 281-261-6334 www.dixieinteriors.com

Texas Southwest Floors 51 800-719-4321 www.texasswfloors.com

Collection Agencies

Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. 67 713-644-4441 www.alexanderrose-inc.com

Cleaning Servicess

MaidUShine 66 936-213-6839 www.maidushine.com

Electric Contractors

Affordable Quality Electric 10 713-695-5992 www.acuityelectric.com

Brandt Electrical A/C & Heating Services 15 281-693-3383 www.brandtelectrical.com

Foundation Repair

Church Foundation Repair 13 713-468-8400 www.churchfoundationrepair.com

Furniture - Outdoor

MPS Direct 45 208-755-3261 www.mpsbuydirect.com

General Contractors

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

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

Gemstar Construction & Development 1 281-821-1195 www.gemstarconstruction.com

Guardian Construction 33 832-672-4196 www.guardianconst.com

MultiFamily Services 66 713-266-9100

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

Glass – Plate, Window, Etc.

Ameristar Screen and Glass 44 713-683-6767 www.ameristarglass.com

Internet Service Provider

Blue Stream Fiber 17 844-416-1000 www.bluestreamfiber.com

Landscape Contractors

Texscape Services 27 281-846-3779 www.texscapeservices.com

Personnel Agency

ASAP Personnel 67 972-432-6667 www.asapdo.com

Plumbing Contractors

AAA Plumbers 41 713-462-4753 www.aaaplumbers.com

Resident Screening Service

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

Screens

Ameristar Screen and Glass 67 713-683-6767 www.ameristarglass.com

Swimming Pool Service

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

HAA Products & Services

Rental Credit Reporting 21 713-595-0300 www.haaonline.org/rcr

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

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

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

www.haaonline.org

Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://issuu.com/haa_abode. Or view this issue on your computer, tablet or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_nov2024.

Join the annual HAA Food Drive!

Join us and collect food during the month of November!

A few ideas for collecting at your community or company

• Identify central and highly visible areas and designate them as your official display/food collection locations.

• Decorate a display/food collection area and a box for food collection (does not need to be from the Food Bank) to draw attention to collection & to make your food drive more fun.

• Place a flier at each resident's door or in your newsletter or place a flier in the mailbox area to announcing you will be collecting food during November and where to donate.

Follow this link for Food Bank logos and a list of most needed items: www.haaonline.org/fooddrive.

Please drop off your food to Cotton Commercial 3010 Claymoore Park Dr. Houston, TX 77043 by Wednesday, December 4. Cotton is generously providing their warehouse to collect and repack the food.

If you can't collect food but want to help, donate money directly to the Houston Food Bank and give HAA credit by scanning the QR Code at right or text to give: SYH20247 to 71777

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. Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation signed and filed with the USPS by Deborah Nix, Editor. 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. Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas. Copyright © 2024 by HAA.

ABODE November 2024

CONTENTS

November 2024

ON THE COVER 34

FEATURES & PHOTOS

COLUMNS & MONTHLY UPDATES

OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP

ABODE

Dtheate

SPONSOR MEMBERS

MORE HOT WATER

New Federal Rule to Replace Lead Service Lines

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, SEXUAL ASSAULT AND STALKING ISSUES

Family Violence

Sexual Assault or Abuse

Stalking

Family Violence, Sexual Assault or Abuse or Stalking

Want more “It’s the Law”?

LOST WEEKEND

On the Scene

NOVEMBER

4-8

6

6

12-13

13

19

20

DECEMBER

4

5

12

13

2025 HAA Event Calendar FOR THE GENERAL MEMBERSHIP

JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

On the Scene

On the Scene

On the Scene

2024 Hall Fame of

Jackie Rhone Greystar

Navigating Concession-Driven Rental Markets

Insights from Smart Chick Megan.

Understanding the Current Landscape

Historical Context and Its Importance

Mastering the Fundamentals

Navigating

Addressing Common Objections

1. No In-Home Laundry

2. Restrictive Pet Policies

3. Lack of Storage

The Strategic Role of Concessions

Strategies for Success in Competitive Markets

Navigating Sales During Disasters

Lessons learned from Houston and Hurricane Beryl.

On the Scene

On the Scene with ACES

ACES Fall Luncheon

IN PURSUIT OF AN EVER-INCREASING LEVEL OF PROFESSIONALISM,

On the Road with HAA

Karaoke!

Supplier Education Program

The Go-Getters

MAKE IT HAPPEN!

OWNERS

SUPPLIERS

THE SUPPLIER NETWORK

Portfolio Changes

In the News

CADENCE CREEK AT GOSLING