New Heights, New Horizons: Celebrating 2024
Dear Related Rentals Team,
As we conclude another remarkable year, I am filled with gratitude reflecting on the milestones that have made 2024 a year of achievement, growth, and resilience. Together, we've continued to raise the bar, even as we've navigated an evolving market and diverse challenges with our signature dedication and professionalism.
This year marked a particularly exciting expansion as we introduced The Laurel in West Palm Beach, our first Florida property, and Riverwalk Heights in New York City, strengthening our presence on Roosevelt Island. These openings represent more than just additions to our portfolio; they embody our commitment to extending the Related Rentals experience to residents across varied, vibrant locales.
Our teams in leasing, concierge services, maintenance, and management once again delivered exceptional experiences for our residents, achieving notable performance metrics across the board. This success is the result of your hard work, unity, and the collective spirit that defines Related Rentals.
As we launch this edition of the Yearbook, I invite each of you to pause and appreciate the efforts and achievements of everyone in our community. Our talented building management teams worked seamlessly alongside our production team to compile this reflection on a truly remarkable year. My heartfelt thanks go to each one of you for your dedication, commitment, and the unparalleled energy you bring to our mission.
Here's to another year of growth, shared success, and many more milestones together.
Sincerely,
Chris Schmidt Executive Vice President
97.0%
Avg. Leased Occupancy
1,546,809 Packages Delivered 60.5% Renewal Rate 89.3% Resident Experience 11% Reduction in YOY Q3 cost-per-lease
38,496 Inquiries
16,587 Phone Calls
8,560 Tours
2,586 New Leases
92,449 Work Orders Completed
4,900 New Units in Development
Looking Back at 2024
Looking Back at 2024
General Manager
Deniss Maksimenko
Tatiana Bermeo
Assistant General Manager
MarcusStollger
KataKatagurutse
Leasing
Lisa Asari
Robin Abramovitz
CrystalMondane
Lobby Team
Nathaniel Rivera
MeliawatiSuryadi
Kahlil DeLeon
JorgeChicas
Congratulations to our winners of the Regents Circle Awards – Related Luxury Rentals’ elite recognition program which honors and celebrates the success of our top performers.
Resident Manager
Peter Matkovic
Oscar Schaffino
Handyperson
JeffreyVargas
HeydmilsomGomes
Mike Mishoe
Eric Jones
Porter
Sam Sanchez
Albert Alvarado
Jose Rivera
RichardPettway
New York
The Caledonia
What was your proudest achievement this year?
I would have to say it’s our Resident survey scores. This year we closed out Resident Experience 91.7% and Service Satisfaction at 100%, which is a significant increase over 2023 (81.8% and 94.3%). Mike, Steven, Simon, Karan, and Gerry have done an awesome job of challenging and leading the team to a successful 2024.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Our biggest challenge was the staff turnover. This year we were faced with several open positions in lobby staff, 4 of the 9 team members were new to the Caledonia. The team was able to overcome this challenge by sharing the culture of Related with the new hires and going the extra mile with all residents to ensure service continuity.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
I would share and remind any new hires that we are in the people business. All roles and positions in our company contribute to the value and service we provide residents. Related is a great company to work for; where your hard work is recognized and valued.
The Tate
What
was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest achievement this year was receiving 100% service satisfaction score in Qualtrics, reflecting our team’s dedication to providing exceptional service. We worked to enhance the resident experience by refining our communication protocols and being proactive in addressing residents’ needs. Achieving these scores as a team shows that our efforts are making a positive impact and that residents truly value the service we provide.
What’s a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
A team-building moment for us this year was welcoming several new staff members. Our team came together to provide a seamless transition, assisting the new members and ensuring that they felt supported and wellintegrated. By working together to bring everyone up to speed, we were able to maintain our service standards without any disruption to residents. This experience reinforced our belief in the strength of our team and our ability to support one another.
What advice would you give to new employees joining the operations team at Related?
Our advice to new team members is to focus on building strong relationships with residents and teammates alike. In operations, attention to detail and communication is essential, and learning the unique preferences of each resident can truly elevate their experience which we focus on here at The Tate.
The Westminster
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest moment this year at The Westminster was the way our team came together to overcome several challenges while maintaining the highest level of customer service. In April 2024, the site experienced a water intrusion event that led to the elevator being out of service for 36 hours. Despite this, our team worked tirelessly to assist residents, ensuring that those who needed additional support were given the care and attention they required. We were able to ensure that no resident faced significant challenges during this time. This experience proved that when we collaborate as a team, we can overcome even the toughest obstacles and continue to provide exceptional service.
What are your goals for 2025?
Our goal for 2025 is to continue enhancing the overall resident experience at The Westminster. We are committed to providing personalized service and hosting more engaging resident events, creating a stronger sense of community and ensuring a higher level of satisfaction for all residents.
What advice would you give to new Related employees?
• Treat residents with the same respect and care you would want as a customer.
• Value your team members, as you will rely on each other to overcome challenges.
• Remember, everyone at Related had a first day. Don’t hesitate to ask for support or guidance we’re all here to help you succeed on your journey.
One Union Square South
What
advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Embrace the Culture and Customer Service: Related places a strong emphasis on excellence and customer focus. Take time to understand the company values and incorporate them with your daily work. Pay attention to details. Always consider how your work impacts the customer experience. A proactive and solution-oriented approach will go a long way!
Maintain Positive Attitude: Working at Related can be fast-paced, with high standards projects. Approaching tasks with a positive attitude will help you manage challenges effectively. Keep Learning: At Related, there is always something new to learn. Ask questions, seek feedback, and take advantage of any training. Everyone at related is willing to share their knowledge!
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Related places a high priority on both customer satisfaction and compliance, which can sometimes create challenges in balancing the two effectively. For instance, compliance with city regulations, like the Local Law 11 project this year, may impact residents' experience by requiring limited access to certain areas, such as terraces or amenity spaces, during essential repairs. The valuable lesson I learned was the importance of clear and open communication with residents about the necessity of these projects.
What are your goals for 2025?
Our primary goal is to successfully renovate all floors in the building while maintaining a high resident and service experience score throughout the process. To achieve this, we’ll keep residents informed with regular updates, minimize disruption by scheduling work in phases, and have a dedicated team ready to address any concerns. Additionally, we’ll offer temporary alternatives, like designated quiet areas, and gather feedback after each phase to improve the process.
One Hudson Yards & Abington House
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Managing a busy year of resident bookings, meetings, and events. The team coming together to ensure the space is prepared and delivering service to residents and guests alike.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Get involved beyond your specific responsibilities to garnish an understanding of the workflows of your team, how the building is managed, and what your residents experience from all facets of the operation.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Managing the sprawling landscaping for the buildings’ terraces, outdoor spaces, and courtyard, which are high-traffic areas. Involving the whole team in frequent walkthroughs and communicating to our residents best practices and reminders has ensured we maintain its condition throughout the year.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
The team has come together on several occasions this year to ensure the standards of our facilities are kept, including a reorganization of routine with the Health Club. As one of the premier amenities for the building, consistently ensuring this upkeep has been a shining moment with how the team works together from shift to shift.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Eclipsing 10 years since the building opened in 2014, we look forward to the next decade of nourishing our community, team building, and resident programming and events.
1214 Fifth Avenue
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Reflecting on 2024, one of our proudest achievements at 1214 has been elevating the resident experience beyond expectations. Through thoughtful upgrades, attentive service, and a dedicated team, we’ve created an environment that feels like home for each resident. This year has truly been a testament to what a commitment to excellence can bring to our community. Here's to building on this success and setting the bar even higher for 2025!
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Our biggest challenge in 2024 was adjusting to being down a handyperson for an extended period due to medical issues. The team came together with a shared commitment to maintain our standards, ensuring that service requests were handled promptly. This experience reinforced the value of teamwork and adaptability in delivering resident satisfaction, even under challenging circumstances.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
A memorable team-building moment this year was when we faced unexpected elevator recalls. Our team quickly rallied together, notifying residents, coordinating with FDNY, and even setting up refreshments to keep everyone comfortable. It was a true team effort, showcasing our dedication to resident care and turning a challenge into a seamless experience for everyone involved.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
One key goal for next year is to enhance accountability within our team, fostering a more cohesive environment where communication is clear, and the mission is understood. By setting higher standards both at work and in personal responsibility, we aim to build a culture where everyone is aligned with our shared commitment to excellence. This will involve regular check-ins, open dialogue, and reinforcing our values so that each team member understands their role in delivering exceptional service.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
At 1214, our advice to new employees joining Related would be to embrace the opportunity to be part of a family where your hard work and diligence are genuinely recognized and rewarded. Bring your best every day, stay committed, and know that your efforts will make a meaningful impact. Welcome to a team that values growth, dedication, and the success we achieve together.
One Carnegie Hill
What was your proudest achievement this year?
One Carnegie Hill reached the apex of a long climb in 2024. We achieved our highest-ever resident experience score since the launch of the Qualtrics platform, following steady gains for the last 5 years. The amount of hard work, dedication, creative problem solving, and heart that went into this from the team is hard to overstate. At One Carnegie Hill, the team is an asset. Our service scores at OCH are the result of proactive recovery, along with an ‘above and beyond’ response to the pains of vertical living. With a core staff constituency entering their 18th year on the hill, they are well versed in every type of plumbing, pest, vertical transport, HVAC, or house rule issue under the sun. There is nowhere I would rather be as a resident facing such an issue than One Carnegie Hill.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
In 2024 we bade farewell to two cherished members of the management team, our Resident Manager of 5 years, Richard Jorge, and our Leasing Manager of 15 years, Sharen Finkel. Both were integral to our operational success and both left to take on new and exciting challenges within RMC. Our biggest challenge was to assemble the right team to take up their mantle. They left OCH in an incredible position, and it is on us to make sure to maintain what they built and continue to grow. Our new team members Oscar Schaffino, RM, Luis Rivera AGM, and Jada White, Leasing, are all hitting the ground running and we are ready for the challenge.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Give yourself grace, and allow yourself to find moments of fun and joy in this work. We work in people’s homes, which is a space of heightened emotional stakes and sensitivity. When a resident has an issue or feels helpless, their anger or frustration is an elemental force. There is no compelling reason to personalize it. Each frustration is an opportunity to help, through empathy and patience, to return a resident to feel empowered, safe, and comfortable in their home. Over time, our victories pile up based on our ability to empathize, our patience to explain, our ability to project optimistic urgency, and our trust in each other. Starting out, it will be hard to not take the intensity reflected by residents’ homes at the end of the day. Please give yourself grace, and know that we succeed as a team by absorbing the difficulties together, taking time to laugh, and sharing the wins.
The Easton
What
was your
proudest achievement this year?
Reflecting on 2024, Our proudest achievement has been enhancing the overall resident experience through improved communication and problem-solving. We faced a few challenges this year, including resident concerns and maintenance issues, what stood out to us was how our team came together to not only address these concerns but also implement proactive solutions. Whether it was addressing online reviews, working closely with residents to ensure their needs were met, or coordinating seamless building-wide initiatives, we managed to elevate the level of service and trust with our residents. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the positive impact our efforts have had on the community. We’re still working every day on this, and we’re feeling great about the progress we’re making. 2025 is shaping up to be a great year ahead!
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
This year, we’ve faced several challenges, one of the biggest being balancing resident’s specific needs with building policies, especially when it comes to maintenance and amenities. It required clear communication and setting expectations early to find solutions that worked for both the residents and the team.
Additionally, we’ve encountered difficulties with our online public reviews, which led to many conversations with potential residents. Explaining the reasons behind the reviews and working to rebuild trust has been an important part of our approach. It has required patience and empathy, but these conversations have ultimately strengthened our ability to showcase the value and care we put into maintaining the building and the resident experience. It’s been a reminder of how crucial transparency and building relationships are, not just with current residents but with those considering making this building their home.
Can you share
a
team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
One team-building moment that truly stood out this year was when one of our team members handled a wellness check with exceptional care and professionalism. A resident had missed an important appointment, and there were concerns about their well-being. Our team members took the initiative to check in, ensuring the residents’ safety and providing the support they needed. Not only did they handle the situation with sensitivity and efficiency, they also kept the team informed throughout the process. It was a powerful reminder of how our commitment to resident care can make a real difference, and it strengthened our sense of teamwork and trust in one another.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
One of our key goals for next year is to further strengthen collaboration and communication within our team, ensuring we work even more seamlessly together to deliver exceptional service to our residents. To achieve this, we plan to implement more regular team checkins, encourage open dialogue about challenges and successes, and provide more opportunities for skill development through training. By focusing on these areas, I’m confident we can continue to elevate our performance, enhance team morale, and maintain the high standards of service that our residents expect and deserve.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
My advice to new employees joining Related would be to embrace a mindset of continuous learning and proactive communication. Our industry moves quickly, and staying informed about building operations, resident needs, and team dynamics is key to success. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, seek guidance, and take the initiative to contribute your ideas. Building relationships with both residents and colleagues will make a huge difference in your experience and ability to excel. Above all, approach each day with professionalism, empathy, and a commitment to excellence. Our residents rely on us to create a seamless, elevated living experience, and we have the privilege of making that happen together.
The Strathmore
What
was your proudest achievement
this year?
Despite the site undergoing a massive transition and conversion, the resident experience scores have remained at an all-time high. This is a testament to our incredible team and their commitment to providing excellent service.
Can we share a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
This year, we started a monthly potluck where different team members would bring home-cooked food. We shared a lot of great moments together and always look forward to the next potluck.
What are your goals for 2025?
In 2025, the Strathmore will undergo a conversion from rental to co-op. This will include a total makeover of our lobby, amenity spaces, and apartment homes. The renderings are beautiful, and we are excited to watch this transformation in real-time while continuing to provide high levels of service to our existing residents and welcoming new owners home.
MiMA
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
2024 brought many challenges to the MiMA team as they found themselves without a General Manager for much of the first half of the year. However, true to form the team stepped up and covered tasks outside of their normal day-to-day routines to keep the building at top operating efficiency. Matt Synan stepped up in his role as AGM, providing leadership and guidance. Joe Strong and PJ Murphy took on additional responsibilities as well as covering additional tasks as the management team lost another member to a career change. In the second half of the year, with a new GM on board, Matt was promoted to another Related site and Ana Cabrera was brought on as the new AGM and Jennifer Giraldo rounded out the team as the new Rental Admin. Joe and PJ were instrumental in helping Ana and Jennifer get up to speed on all things MiMA! Now, fully staffed, along with Enes Huxha (resident manager) and Dilenia Dugbarty (Leasing Manager), the team looks forward to finishing out 2024 strong and has great expectations for 2025!
What
is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
The Mima team prides itself on the reputation for excellence that the building enjoys both within the Related family and in the NYC luxury multi-family market as well. This reputation did not come easy and maintaining it requires a lot of hard work and dedication from all team members. The building has historically enjoyed Qualtrics scores in the low to mid 90’s. Despite the challenges indicated above, despite the transitions of leadership, promotions, and, changes in office personnel, the building staff has remained mission-focused and kept those numbers essentially unchanged. Our goal moving forward in Q4 2024 and into 2025 is to improve those numbers and have them accurately reflect the effort and resiliency that is present each day at MiMA. The team has our eyes set on Qualtrics scores of 95 and higher; that’s where our sights are set, that is where we belong.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
For someone just joining Related I would say “Welcome to the Best in Class organization among multifamily operators”. Get ready to be led and then groomed to become a leader. The resources offered are almost too numerous to count. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and don’t be shy about providing feedback. Hold on, it will be an exciting and rewarding ride if you are willing to put in the work.
The Westport
What was your proudest achievement this year?
We were proud to receive the Customer Service Excellence Award for achieving the highest satisfaction scores in the portfolio. The site historically performs well from a Cx perspective and currently boasts 100% Resident Experience and 98.2% Service Satisfaction scores. As an older building, this is a testament to our tenured team and the work they put in day in and day out connecting with our residents and making them feel at home.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2024, and what valuable lesson did you take away from it?
Local Law 11 projects can present a host of stressors for a site team. We were fortunate to have a smaller scope of work on this cycle but were not spared the typical delays and change orders. We approached the challenge with a positive mindset and provided our residents with a sense of transparency through clear and consistent communication. A good mindset and good communication are key to conquering any challenge.
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Continuing to work together as a team and achieve the same Qualtrics goals as this year.
The Lyric
What was your proudest achievement this year?
We are proud to have gone from an 88.5% resident experience score and 88.7% service satisfaction score in 2023 to a 90.4% resident experience score and a 90.2% service satisfaction score. this is a testament to our tenured team and the work they put in day in and day out connecting with our residents and making them feel at home.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related based on your experiences this year?
Regardless of the age of a building, it’s the team at the building that makes the difference. In a 24year-old building without all the modern amenities of newer buildings, the service is the ultimate factor in having happy residents at the Lyric.
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Continuing to work together as a team and increase our Qualtrics scores to 95% or higher.
Riverwalk Crossing
What was your proudest achievement this year?
1st: Our Riverwalk Crossing Team hosted Maintenance Mania for the 2nd year in a row. Our team did an incredible job of setting up, helping with ordering food, and cleaning up. It was a proud moment to see everyone from RMC visit and enjoy a day on RI.
2nd: Another proud achievement this year is our annual RI Team BBQ. Our Regional Manager Ralph Yoakum and our Resident Manager Oscar Collins with the help of our Resident Manager Fron go above and beyond for our annual employee BBQ on RI. They go to Costco and purchase burgers, seafood, chicken, and more and spend a day seasoning, and setting up. Ralph trailers in his own master BBQ with top-secret recipes for all our staff to enjoy. Oscar even used his truck to power a speaker for the entire day! This BBQ is special, we spend half a day as a team with Crossing, Point, Landing, Park, and Cornell enjoying time together.
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
A big goal for our team next year is to push the envelope even further. We will be pushing our average occupancy to 99% for the year and trying to reduce expenses even further. I plan to achieve this by developing a plan, working closely with our team, continuing our consistent weekly manager meetings, resuming our morning huddles, and continuing our quarterly team meetings. Keeping our team informed weekly of our goals will be the recipe for success in 2025. As they say, “planning without action is futile; action without planning is fatal.”
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related based on your experiences this year?
For any new Related employees joining Related, I would first off congratulate them for joining one of the best companies I’ve ever worked for! I would advise that if you work hard but also have fun, you will enjoy your time with Related, and if you want to grow, you will have no problem doing so. Related loves to promote from within, during my last 2 years with Related, I have seen so many promotions including my own sites.
Riverwalk Point
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest achievement this year at Point would be our performance. Our Resident Manager Fron Ibishaj does an incredible job at always going above and beyond for our community and team. Fron, our tech Lubomir, and even our porter Miro have tackled jobs like a full wallpaper removal and paint job of our leasing office, the re-grouting of our lobby tile, and even the in-house repairs of our PTAC units, saving countless dollars on repairs and maintenance. Our Leasing Manager Lisa Asari has averaged 99% occupancy compared to a budget of 96.50%. Our Porter Team Albert, Clarence, Emir, Eryk, and Miro do an incredible job at keeping our community clean, we always receive great comments from residents. Lastly, we would be nothing without our incredible Concierge, Joseph, Ronald, Elis, William, and Christian. I am so proud to work with such an incredible team that always goes above and beyond each day for our community. Lastly, our AGM Latifa Coy has been instrumental in our financials. Latifa has spearheaded AP, AR, resident communication, and legal activities, while also having fun helping with resident events, and pushing ancillary income.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2024, and what valuable lesson did you take away from it?
One of the biggest challenges we faced was promoting top tier talent from Point to Heights. We worried about how it would affect residents, our overall Qualtrics scores, and the feeling in the community. We worked hard to identify strong candidates to backfill these positions and I would say we were very successful. Our customer service scores continue to stay strong and the overall feeling of a sense of community remains strong.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
This year, our team hosted its 2nd annual Friendsgiving. Our AGM Latifa Coy did a great job promoting the event and coordinating. It was great to see our team come together with our RI properties and enjoy each other’s company and great food.
Riverwalk Heights
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Opening Heights was a great achievement for the entire team this year. Specifically, working with our Resident Manager Fron Ibishaj to hire an entirely new team for the opening was no easy task.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
I was very impressed with our Resident Manager Fron Ibishaj and our Leasing Manager Lisa Asari for their success in opening Heights. Fron did an incredible job punching units for opening and navigated hot water issues, appliance issues, and even door key issues. Lisa and her team did an incredible job pre-leasing Heights without future residents even seeing the property. Lisa exceeded Ownership’s expectations for leasing and continues to push rents and occupancy.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2024, and what valuable lesson did you take away from it?
Our biggest challenge was not having our building ready for opening on the anticipated TCO date. It was all hands on deck, our Leasing Manager Lisa Asari, Leasing Consultant Kelsey Pohl, Leasing Admin Josh Rodriguez, AGM Alex Kam, and Resident Manager Fron Ibishaj all did a tremendous job contacting residents, booking hotel rooms, setting up payment, and coordinating the transition back from hotels to our community. It wasn’t a new lesson I learned, but during these difficult times, I reminded myself and our team that as cliché as it sounds, stormy seas make strong sailors, we are strong together, and with all hands on deck, we will navigate to success, and we did.
261 Hudson
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year? one event that stands out is when our Resident Manager Peter, was grilling away and made lunch for both teams! It was a great time to relax and unwind and enjoy some great food. The only downside is Peter wouldn’t share the secret recipe for his grilled chicken which was a huge hit
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Our goal is to be better than this year. I will challenge myself and my teams and ask “How can we outperform ourselves?” We achieve this by looking back at 2024 to find areas of opportunity and fine-tuning. We must remind ourselves to strive to be better today than we were yesterday.
456 Washington St.
What was your proudest achievement this year?
I think our proudest achievement is how we managed service and site performance this year, through our Local Law 11 project. Although we will not conclude the project in 2024; most of it has been completed after a several-month delay and even so, we achieved 100% on all metrics for resident satisfaction and have won the Money Maker Award for the highest revenue against budgeted goals in the NYC portfolio. I could not be prouder of the entire team and all their efforts in making 2024 such a success.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Our biggest challenge was a delay in the local law 11 project. Our timeline doubled from 6 months to 12, which resulted in many unhappy residents losing terraces and views all through the spring and summer. We learned about some of the unforeseen challenges such a project can present and we also learned about ourselves and how this challenge pushed us to be creative and rise to the occasion.
Can
you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
One event that stands out is when our Resident Manager Peter, was grilling away and made lunch for both teams! It was a great time to relax and unwind and enjoy some great food. The only downside is Peter wouldn’t share the secret recipe for his grilled chicken which was a huge hit
89 Murray
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Completing Apartment Turns and Handling Consistent Leak Issues. It is important to take proactive measures and stay in constant communication.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Organization and communication is the key to success.
What was your proudest achievement this year?
My proudest achievement is building a team that takes their job seriously.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
When we came together to help plan and push out multiple turnovers in a very short period.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
My goal for next year is to get the tools my team needs to help them do their work more efficiently. I plan on doing this by suggesting training in specific areas that can improve on and reaching programs or App to better assist them in their day-to-day work
Tribeca Park
What was your proudest achievement this year?
The team continues to exceed expectations in finance, leasing, resident, and employee goals.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
We renovated six hallways this year and it went smoothly.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Our daytime Concierge of 24 years was on medical leave for 6 weeks and everyone pitched in to pick up the slack.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Our goal is to continue hallway renovations and elevator replacements with zero complaints from residents!
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Don’t be shy about asking questions, everyone here is more than happy to help each other out.
Tribeca Tower
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest achievement this year has been the enhancements made to Tribeca Tower. The building has received a much-needed facelift, and seeing the transformation from where it was when I started to where it is now and hearing the residents’ feedback is incredibly fulfilling. I’m proud of the positive impact it has made on our team, residents, and overall environment.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
This year, the biggest lesson was the importance of prioritizing safety above all else. Each team member plays a vital role in maintaining a secure environment, protecting our team, our residents, and the asset as a whole. Emphasizing safety has reinforced our collective responsibility and strengthened our commitment to each other.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Our Summer BBQ was a standout event this year, bringing everyone together in a fun and relaxed setting and the team loved the food! Additionally, our team massages have been a favorite – they offer everyone a chance to unwind and feel appreciated. These moments have fostered camaraderie and boosted morale.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
A key goal for the team next year is to continue improving communication. We plan to achieve this by implementing regular check-ins, Standup/ team meetings, informing the team of everything going on companywide to keep the team in the know of information that is beneficial to them, encouraging open feedback and fostering an environment where every team member feels heard and valued. Enhanced communication will allow us to work more cohesively and effectively.
What
advice
would you give to new employees joining Related?
My advice for new members is to always strive to be the solution. If you don’t understand something or want to learn, ask. If you notice a problem, don’t hesitate to suggest or implement ways to improve the process or system. You can feel free to speak up or ask for help; if you speak they will listen!
The Set
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
A major team highlight for 2024 was winning the Maintenance Mania 2024 team competition big shout out to Anthony Acosta for his outstanding contribution!
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
My goal for the team next year is to improve teamwork, increase efficiency, and support ongoing development. I plan to do this by setting clear goals, providing regular feedback, and offering training opportunities to help everyone grow their skills. I'm excited about continuing to recognize the team's hard work and holding more regular town hall meetings. This will help boost morale, keep everyone motivated, and improve communication across the team.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related based on your experiences this year?
The best advice for new employees joining Related is to bring positive energy and actively contribute to the change we’re creating. Everyone has a role in fostering a fun, supportive, and motivating environment. Leadership isn't just about one person it's about each team member stepping up, supporting one another, and helping to shape and strengthen our culture every day.
Cornell Tech
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
This year like every year the team at The House at Cornell Tech is faced with turning hundreds of units at the end of the school year and in a matter of only weeks getting all the units ready and moved in with a new set of students. This year the team was faced with turning more apartments than ever and I am happy to say that they performed exceptionally well. The team has learned over the years how to organize and communicate effectively to manage the various vendors and meet the tight deadline.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
The Roosevelt Island annual Cookout is always an event that we look forward to. This year the team at Cornell Tech decided to have some friendly competition with a Mac and Cheese contest. The winner was our AGM Terry McPhee! We look forward to having tougher competition next year as Terry attempts to repeat as Mac and Cheese champion.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
In 2025 I am looking forward to the team continuing to improve on the turn process and simultaneously reduce the overall cost associated with the turn. We are looking to manage our resident transfers more effectively which would eliminate repeated cleanings of the same unit. We are also looking to consolidate the vendors we use to negotiate a more competitive price.
Hunters Point South
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related based on your experiences this year?
Celebrate the wins together. Taking a moment to recognize each other's contributions brings the team together and makes us stronger. Those shared moments build a positive vibe and keep everyone motivated.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2024, and what valuable lesson did you take away from it?
Our biggest challenge this year was handling uncontrolled elevator issues and easing tensions that arose. We focused on solutions and partnered with the tenant association to keep residents informed, knowing that information coming from them had a strong impact. This experience reminded us that building a strong community isn’t just about solving problems but is also about creating trust and collaboration with our residents.
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Next year, we’re focused on continuing to build a strong team and boosting our collaboration with residents. We kicked off some resident events this year, and we want to keep that going, creating more chances for everyone to connect.
Boston
One Back Bay
What was your proudest achievement this year?
We’re incredibly proud of the Clarendon & One Back Bay team’s overall performance throughout 2024. During the second half of this year, we’re ecstatic to have consistently upheld a 99% occupancy rate at One Back Bay! Another highlight of the year includes two internal promotions. Keila Toledo, formerly of the Porter team, has transitioned to a full-time concierge role at One Back Bay. In addition, Katie Fields, previously our Assistant General Manager, is now the Regional Lifestyle Services Director for the Boston portfolio.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Perhaps the biggest challenge we faced this year was a large fire occurring in the wee hours of New Year’s Day. Not only did this fire take place during a major holiday, it also necessitated extensive renovations to the third floor at One Back Bay, involving the temporary displacement of many residents. Our team worked collaboratively and attentively with one another as well as with vendors, contractors, nearby hotels, and moving companies to coordinate every step along the way while preserving our exceptional standards of service. All team members contributed significantly to the overall success of this multifaceted restoration process. We’ve learned that clear and consistent communication is critical in facilitating such a massive undertaking as well as minimizing the burden to our residents during an already challenging chapter.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Early this Spring, The Clarendon, and One Back Bay hosted a Mental Health Awareness Day for all staff, including team members from other Boston sites. Together, we spoke candidly about the shared challenges of stress in the workplace and achieving work/life balance for all team members, regardless of their roles. With honesty and compassion for one another, we shared stories and brainstormed effective methods for stress management and awareness. We recognize that a healthy work environment nurtures a sense of belonging for our team members. This special event inspired us to cultivate trust, lean on one another more meaningfully for support, and serve as a critical reminder that we are truly all in this together.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
One of our goals for the upcoming year is to foster and uphold outstanding communication across the board. This includes communication among team members as well as communication with owners and residents. We recognize that healthy work and living environments prioritize open communication channels to encourage feedback and transparency. We’ve recently finetuned our protocols to establish an elevated standard of communication for team members, owners, and residents alike. As we move forward toward a new year, we will regularly reevaluate these practices to ensure we are fully equipped to consistently exceed the expectations of owners and residents in every way possible.
The Arlington
What was your proudest achievement this year?
We’re exceedingly proud of our entire team for their unwavering efforts and commitment to upholding exceptional service for all Arlington residents. This year, we’re thrilled to have received WELL Certification for The Arlington, officially solidifying its status as a green building! In addition, we’ve maintained an extraordinary retention rate of 65% which represents the combined and unparalleled efforts of our Concierge, Maintenance, Leasing, and Management Teams. By prioritizing strong communication and our collective willingness to go above and beyond for our residents, we will continue enhancing the living experience for Arlington residents in every way possible.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
This year, one of our core team leaders unexpectedly took an extended FMLA leave. In their absence, our staff came together and rose to the occasion, accepting additional responsibilities and further strengthening internal communication to curtail any negative impact or service disruption to the Arlington community. With thoughtful support from team members at other sites, we navigated a challenging chapter without diminishing the living experience at The Arlington. This challenging chapter reinforced our shared commitment to flexibility and preparedness at all times. While we cannot prevent the unexpected, we can and will remain ready to pivot at a moment’s notice to uphold our service standards under any circumstances. Though strenuous in many ways, this experience also reminded us that we are all capable of moving our team forward with grace and efficiency and that each of our roles is essential in our quest to deliver extraordinary service at The Arlington.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
We recently hosted an internal event in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month at The Arlington, complete with a professional salsa lesson for all team members in attendance! Team members from many different sites enjoyed delicious Colombian food, and every single attendee participated in the salsa lesson, regardless of their skill level. This event facilitated meaningful discussions, connections, and joyful participation in a brand-new activity; it also cemented our sense of belonging within the Related Boston portfolio. We look forward to hosting similarly successful, well-attended, and memorable events in the future.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
In 2025, we look forward to further strengthening communication and employee engagement. Effective communication is our best resource in preventing difficulties before they occur, mitigating the impact of unexpected obstacles, and delivering the highest quality service to our residents 24 hours per day. In preparation for the year ahead, we’ve already established a higher standard of communication protocols for both residents and team members. We recognize that engaged employees are empowered employees. Team members are far more likely to contribute to our shared objective of improving the resident experience when they are fully engaged. To achieve this goal, we plan to host more events like the one for Hispanic Heritage Month to inspire greater connection and motivation amongst team members. We will also increase the frequency of one-on-one leadership check-ins for staff to ensure everyone feels heard and supported as we move forward together.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
We encourage new employees to maintain a positive mindset, operate with confidence, and ask for support whenever needed. With positivity, we improve the living and working experience for each other as well as our residents. With confidence, we reassure our residents that they’re in capable hands, reinforcing their sense of comfort and investment in the community. By seeking support when needed, we develop new skills and facilitate our own professional growth while providing the very finest living experience imaginable.
The Harris
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest achievement this year has been comprehensively bolstering our staffing at The Quinn and The Harris. We’ve initiated highly structured hiring protocols to uphold our standards of excellence and we’ve successfully integrated many new team members. In 2024, we’ve welcomed: Kari Francillon as our new General Manager, Carly Coombs as Condominium Administrator, and Steve Fiasconaro as a Leasing Representative. In addition, we’re thrilled to celebrate two significant internal promotions: Tiago DaSilva has transitioned from his role as Porter to Maintenance Technician, and Katie Fields, former AGM of The Clarendon and One Back Bay has joined our team as Lifestyle Services Director. We’ve also strengthened our frontfacing lobby teams with Sicano Eng, Overnight Concierge, Roy Rodgers, and Djuery Rodrigues. By enhancing our team and establishing more specialized roles, we’ve facilitated an elevated level of service for all members of The Quinn and The Harris communities. In addition to staffing improvements, we’ve streamlined communication protocols to deliver robust, real-time updates and follow-ups for our owners and residents daily.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
One of the greatest challenges our team faced this year was the sudden and heartbreaking loss of our beloved longtime lobby team member, Benjamin Daniels, early this spring. Benjamin's passing represented a profound loss for our staff and was deeply impactful for owners and residents who interacted with him daily. Benjamin was a pillar of kindness, always going above and beyond to make others feel seen and valued. To support our team through this difficult time, grief counseling sessions were coordinated to provide the emotional care we all needed as we navigated our collective sadness. In honor of Benjamin’s memory and his unwavering magnanimity, we created custom memorial keepsake notebooks for what would have been his birthday this year. Each keepsake features an image of Benjamin on the inside cover. This small gesture serves as a reminder of his thoughtfulness, particularly his unique ability to remember and celebrate the birthdays of everyone he encountered: staff, residents, children, and even pets By acknowledging and honoring Benjamin in this way, we celebrate Benjamin's legacy and keep his spirit alive in the hearts of our community.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Our team maximizes the value of daily and weekly huddles to foster a strong sense of belonging and support, creating an environment in which open dialogue is encouraged. These meetings provide an opportunity for staff to share ideas, express concerns, and contribute feedback, ensuring every team member’s input is valued, validated, and respected. Our most recent team meeting was so lively and well-attended, that we had to relocate to a larger room so that everyone could comfortably partake in our discussions.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
We’re committed to greater community outreach in 2025. To facilitate this goal, we’re encouraging all team members to become more actively involved in community outreach by connecting with underserved local schools such as Blackstone, businesses such as More Than Words, and a variety of other nonprofit organizations. We plan to facilitate more frequent community service opportunities for owners and residents as well as team members by staying abreast of the needs and happenings in our immediate area and beyond. With renewed urgency, we will continue the tradition of organizing such initiatives as back-to-school drives, coat collections, and similar charitable undertakings with amplified participation. These activities not only provide much-needed support to our community but also cultivate empathy and connection. By giving back, we will make a meaningful difference and strengthen our bond as a team, inspiring owners and residents to act in kind.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Our advice to any new employee joining Related is to fully engage in the onboarding process, as both the in-person and online training courses are engineered to support a seamless transition into the Related family. We encourage new team members to seek assistance and guidance from peers as well as leadership whenever needed, as collaboration is the cornerstone of success. Additionally, we encourage participation in Related events whenever possible. Company gatherings provide invaluable opportunities to connect with colleagues from different sites and build a network of support while deepening our understanding of Related’s core mission and values.
Lovejoy Wharf
What was our proudest achievement this year?
2024 has been an incredible year for our team at Lovejoy Wharf, and we couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve accomplished together. We’ve seen some fantastic internal growth and exciting additions to our team, each new team member contributing in their unique way to our success. We are thrilled to have welcomed Zanini Cineus, our new full-time door attendant with a smile that could light up a room, instantly making everyone feel welcome. Katie Fields, formerly AGM of The Clarendon and One Back Bay has joined us as Lifestyle Services Director for the Boston portfolio, bringing a wealth of specialized expertise and a fresh perspective. We’ve also had the pleasure of adding Eugenio Brito, a Related veteran and passionate pet lover, who came to us from our sister property, The Harris. Eugenio has quickly become an invaluable member of the team. Carly Coombs has also joined our team as a Condominium Administrator, serving as an additional resource for condominium owners in addition to assisting our team leaders with administrative tasks, thereby creating more flexibility and availability for team leaders to engage with staff as well as owners and residents. We’re ecstatic to have welcomed Melody Belanger as our new General Manager, whose leadership and vision are already making a significant impact. With such an incredible team in place, 2025 is shaping up to be our best year yet.
What was the biggest challenge we faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
This year, our team has gone through some changes that presented unique challenges, such as changing our garage operator and staff departures. We recognized that these changes necessitated additional coordination amongst staff and more consistent communication with owners and residents. We streamlined both our communication and hiring protocols to ensure owners and residents are updated frequently and that the best possible staff is in place to serve our residential community. To prevent our service from lapsing during the parking vendor transition, we came together to troubleshoot every detail and ensure owners and residents continue to receive the impeccable level of service they expect from Related. The key takeaway from this experience has been a powerful reminder: never underestimate the strength of a great team. When we collaborate, communicate, adapt, and support one another, there’s no challenge we can’t overcome. We’re incredibly proud of how our team has united to maintain the highest level of service at Lovejoy Wharf.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
We recently facilitated a meet and greet event in the lobby at Lovejoy to introduce Melody to our residential community in person. In partnership with Alcove Restaurant, we hosted an elegant lobby event during which many community members stopped by the lobby to chat with Melody for the first time. Our team worked in tandem to execute a beautiful event that was extremely well-received and well-attended by the Lovejoy community. Each team member contributed to the event’s success, from the concierge team to our maintenance staff as well as Melody herself. The team rallied together to ensure that our new leader, Melody, had the best possible platform to connect with owners and residents. This event also involved support from other new team members, such as Katie and Carly, and served as an unexpected bonding experience in addition to being appreciated by the Lovejoy community. After bolstering our team so profoundly this year, it was great to see all of us in action as a cohesive team. While this event was intended primarily to serve the residential community at Lovejoy, it also truly cemented our bond as a team.
What are your goals for 2024?
One of our goals for 2025 is to expand employee engagement by increasing the regularity of team events, activities, and check-ins. Employee engagement is critical because it positively impacts our company's performance, productivity, and staff retention. In addition, employee engagement also lays the foundation for a constructive work environment. We plan to facilitate more frequent one-on-one check-ins with our team leaders so that we can meaningfully identify the individual needs and concerns of every member of staff. We also plan to provide more opportunities for team members to engage with one another during more frequent team lunches and outings.
The Beverly
What was our proudest achievement this year?
We’re proud of our entire team’s performance in 2024! We’re particularly proud to have successfully established a new garage operator, Towne Park, this year. Our team listened to feedback from the community and identified the need for this changeover to safeguard our standards of exceptional service for residents. While challenging, our team collaborated thoughtfully and effectively to facilitate the transition, maintaining clear communication at all times. Our team also rallied together to provide support for the Towne Park team whenever needed. We are proud to have received such positive community feedback about garage service and our new parking vendor at The Beverly. We recognize that it is always worth our team’s combined extra efforts to validate feedback from our community and enact positive change at The Beverly. With an improved parking vendor, we are well-positioned to continue moving forward and further enhance the living experience at The Beverly in 2025.
What was the biggest challenge we faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Very recently, The Beverly team experienced a highly traumatic resident medical emergency that deeply impacted all staff. By adhering to protocols, strengthening internal communication, and seeking external support as needed, we minimized the impact of this event on our residential community. In addition, we facilitated transparent team discussions to debrief, offer support where needed, and provide a forum for our team to process this highly distressing and disruptive incident. We’ve learned that, with compassion, clear communication, and collaboration, our team is well equipped to manage any such challenge in the future.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Our event honoring Juneteenth, hosted at The Beverly this Spring, was one of our greatest team-building highlights in 2024. This educational and celebratory event was both incredibly engaging and well-attended. Related team members from various sites and roles across the Boston portfolio came together to learn about the history of Juneteenth. Together, we enjoyed delicious Southern Comfort food from a local Black-owned small business and played animated rounds of educational Juneteenth trivia. Mac Borgellas, AGM of The Beverly, was honored to lead this meaningful event for the Related Boston team, truly relishing the opportunity to educate others about the profound significance of Juneteenth in the United States.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
We advise any new Related team member to dive right in and embrace the mission! While onboarding can be a lengthy and challenging process, it’s important to move forward with confidence and to be fearless in seeking support whenever needed. None of us individually has all the answers, but in reaching out to others, we strengthen our skill set, deepen our connection with colleagues, and discover invaluable resources for ourselves and our teams.
What are your goals for 2025?
One of our goals for 2025 is to use our onsite resources, both team members and amenity spaces, to inspire our residents. We plan to facilitate speaking engagements and other elegant, on-brand sponsored events with local businesses to encourage our residents to engage with their immediate surroundings in a more meaningful way. By hosting more frequent events in partnership with local vendors and small businesses, we hope to motivate our residents to explore their local community in addition to taking advantage of our beautiful amenity spaces such as the outdoor terrace. We have already begun planning a collaborative meet-and-greet opportunity with nearby Alcove Restaurant to introduce our new General Manager, Melody Belanger, to more Beverly residents. This event will serve two purposes: to connect residents to Melody in person so they feel more comfortable reaching out whenever needed, and reminding residents that Alcove is a fabulous local restaurant worth exploring. We plan to host educational seminars in our amenity spaces as well, with topics such as mental health and/or wellness.
Chicago
500 Lake Shore Drive
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Earlier this summer, one of our residents met with me regarding his plan to propose to his girlfriend. They both love 500 LSD and he wanted to know if there was a possibility of proposing at the building. It turned out that one of our rare 3-bedroom penthouse apartments was becoming vacant in the early fall, the same time he was planning the proposal, and being an avid architect/high-rise/500LSD fan, he was thrilled with the idea. Over the next couple of months, we worked together to develop the best plan of action, including sourcing the marquee letters, photographer, staging, and strategy. The Penthouse Proposal took place on 10/5 and it was a success – she said YES!! 500 LSD was honored to be a part of this beautiful occasion and wish the happy couple all the best!
Can we share a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
On 9/18 I connected with Andrew regarding a few unfavorable surveys which had drastically reduced our Resident Experience Qualtrics Score to 84.1%. I was under the impression that we had until 10/31 to raise the score to meet our year-end goal of 88%. I was wrong. Andrew informed me that we had until 10/1 – ONLY THIRTEEN DAYS! (insert silent scream here). Team 500 quickly went to work dividing and conquering the remaining non-respondent residents and reaching out to every single one of them. With each survey that came in and boosted our score, I connected with the team via text to inform them of the increasing score. They were so dedicated and motivated, it was amazing! On the evening of 9/30, the final survey came in which brought us to 88%. A group text message celebration ensued! We did it!! The next morning, on the day of the deadline, another survey came in and boosted us to 88.1%. I am so proud of this team – they could have thrown in the towel and decided that raising the score 3+% was unachievable but they didn’t and I wouldn’t let them. Challenge Accepted!
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Take advantage of every learning and training opportunity possible, it not only benefits Related to have such a versatile and well-rounded employee but it benefits YOU as well. The more you know, the more you grow!
One Bennett Park
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Achieving a strong Qualtrics score while having the best leasing year yet for OBP, setting up 2025 to be even better!
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
It’s all about the people, and making sure we have the right people and leaders in place!
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
Our Spring quarterly team meeting was a great meeting with strong participation. Love to hear the team speak with passion about what they do, more importantly, how they do it!
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
Keeping the strong occupancy up while maintaining the highest service satisfaction possible. How we plan to do it is by continuing to empower our team to be their best selves and supporting them with resources and guidance.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Be ready to get out of this role, what you put in! Related rewards for those who represent the brand the right way and always feel confident to ask/learn about the brand as much as possible is the Related ‘secret sauce!’
The Row Fulton Market
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Listening to feedback, big or small, has been our best guide for continuous improvement and helps build trust with our residents.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
To elevate our commitment to excellence, promoting a resident-centric culture where every interaction leaves a lasting positive impact.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Think big, listen closely, and deliver like the game-changers you are. If life gives you lemons, make resident loyalty out of it!
Lake Shore Plaza
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Unveiling our new amenity space to our residents! We expanded our gym, making it twice the size than it was before, added teen and children’s lounges, and a resident lounge, and expanded our business center and added a conference room. We also beat our projected renewal retention which was budgeted for 54.3%, and we ended the year with 61%.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
To value each team member’s skill sets and abilities
Can we share a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
We did a painting contest to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, and we also made Pique for the team to enjoy, it is a Puerto Rican hot sauce. We did a team-building exercise, playing Whirly Ball, and building puzzles. Each experience was a fun way to see how we can use our skills individually, and work collectively as a team, and as competitors.
What are your goals for 2025?
Maintain high occupancy and limit vacancies. Increase customer service skills and maintain relationships with our brokers and tenants. Streamline the leasing process to make it more efficient for prospective tenants and our agents.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Ask questions, be a good listener, and use the resources that are available to you. Cornerstone is a great resource to use!
Los Angeles
The Emerson
What was your proudest achievement this year?
The dramatic improvement in employee satisfaction scores this year, which have significantly surpassed previous years, stands as a testament to our team's dedication and hard work.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
At the beginning of the year, we faced significant challenges, starting short-staffed without essential leasing and assistant property management personnel. We managed nine eviction proceedings and dealt with 22 major plumbing incidents affecting 42 units, which required relocating some residents. Despite these hurdles, we successfully restored and maintained optimal occupancy. These experiences reinforced the importance of fostering strong, reliable team morale, where effective communication and trust among team members proved crucial in overcoming obstacles.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
The celebration of our team’s achievements during the Regent Cercle Award and the memorable Employee Appreciation Week, which included a team outing for bowling, were standout moments. These events not only celebrated our successes but also strengthened our camaraderie.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
A key goal for next year is to proactively address and prevent plumbing issues to ensure resident satisfaction and property integrity. Additionally, we will continue to enhance team bonding through regular engagement activities, fostering a supportive and cohesive workplace.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Encourage new employees to invest time in growing their professional network within Related. Building strong connections will enable you to both provide and receive support, enhancing your professional development and effectiveness within our community. Prioritize taking time for rest and self-care. Embrace a routine that includes breaks and downtime to ensure you are always performing at your best.
Argyle House
Reflecting on 2024: What was your proudest achievement this year?
Reflecting on 2024, one of our proudest achievements at Argyle House has been improving our resident experience Year-to-Date Service Satisfaction Score. This accomplishment is a testament to our dedicated team, particularly the Concierge staff, who have worked hard to provide exceptional service and support to our residents. By fostering a welcoming environment and addressing resident needs promptly, we’ve created a sense of community that truly feels like home. I'm excited to build on this success as we strive for even higher standards in 2025!
Lessons Learned: What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
Our biggest challenge in 2024 was navigating a highly competitive Hollywood market with high vacancy rates, which impacted our resident retention efforts. This experience taught us the importance of adaptability and proactive communication. By staying attuned to market trends and actively engaging with residents, we learned valuable strategies for enhancing satisfaction and loyalty, which will guide our efforts moving forward.
Team Highlights: Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
A standout team-building moment this year occurred when we faced a series of maintenance issues during the holiday season. Our Concierge team quickly stepped up, collaborating to keep residents informed and comfortable while ensuring that all service requests were managed efficiently. This experience demonstrated our commitment to teamwork and highlighted how we can pull together to provide outstanding resident care, even during busy and challenging times.
Goals for Next Year: What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
One key goal for next year is to enhance our resident engagement and programming. We want to create more opportunities for residents to connect and feel a deeper sense of community at Argyle House. To achieve this, we plan to collaborate more closely with our Concierge team to develop a calendar of events that cater to diverse interests and foster participation. By actively seeking resident feedback and involving them in the planning process, we hope to create experiences that not only meet their needs but also strengthen bonds within our community.
Words of Wisdom: What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
At Argyle House, I would advise new employees to embrace every opportunity to learn and grow within our supportive community. Your contributions have a meaningful impact on our residents’ experiences, so bring your best every day. Stay engaged with your team, ask questions, and never hesitate to seek support. Welcome to a place where your hard work is recognized, and together, we can achieve great things!
The Grand
What was your proudest achievement this year?
My proudest achievement was witnessing The Grand's successful transition from a lease-up asset to a stabilized asset in July 2024. This milestone would not have been possible without the dedication and hard work of an exceptional team. The leasing team worked tirelessly to bring in qualified prospects, our concierge team provided impeccable service to residents, guests, and prospects, and our service team ensured the building remained in outstanding condition. This achievement was truly a team effort, and I am grateful to each team member for their commitment and contributions. They are the backbone of The Grand and the reason we are where we are today.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
The biggest challenge I faced was transitioning from Assistant General Manager to General Manager, which was more demanding than I initially expected. Shifting from my previous role required me to trust my team to handle the responsibilities I would normally oversee, which was both an exercise in patience and delegation. Additionally, finding the right replacement for my former position took time, but it ultimately led to an excellent fit for the team. Through this experience, I learned the value of letting go and empowering others, recognizing that trusting and investing in the team strengthens overall success.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
During Employee Appreciation Week, our team had the chance to connect in ways that went beyond the usual work setting. One highlight for me was our bowling event at Lucky Strike. Bringing the SoCal team together in this casual environment allowed us to interact and engage with each other in a meaningful way. It made me appreciate the dedication and hard work each team member contributes, helping to create a stronger, more connected SoCal portfolio. We’re fortunate to have so many intelligent, kind, and talented people on our team, and I truly enjoy opportunities like this to help everyone get to know their peers better.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
For next year, I envision the Southern California portfolio working more collaboratively to establish consistent practices across all properties. With The Grand as the flagship site and 710 Broadway set to open in 2025, we have an exciting opportunity to foster cross-site collaboration. This approach will allow team members to become familiar with the operations at each location, opening doors for growth and transfer opportunities. By aligning our efforts, we can ensure that every team member is working toward a shared goal: delivering an exceptional resident experience across the portfolio.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Related is not your typical property management company. We set the industry standard and consistently deliver exceptional service to our residents. To thrive here, it’s essential to bring an open mind and a creative approach. We aim to think outside the box, finding the best solutions for any challenge that comes our way. This flexibility and commitment to innovation is what drives our success and sets us apart in the market.
San Francisco
Fifteen Fifty
What
was your proudest achievement
this year?
Our greatest achievement as a team has been the significant improvement in both our occupancy rate and Resident Experience scores. At the start of the year, our occupancy was at 85.7%, and we are now at 94.46%, just shy of our 95% target. Similarly, our Resident Experience score, which ended last year at 75%, has risen to 81.1%. These impressive strides reflect the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of every team member. This success wouldn’t have been possible without the collective efforts of the entire team.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
We encountered numerous challenges with leaks in the building, and at times, it felt like we were dealing with one after another. However, our maintenance team demonstrated incredible resilience, responding swiftly to each issue and ensuring the affected residents received prompt attention. Despite the relentless nature of the situation, the team remained positive and never lost focus. The most rewarding moment came when residents expressed their gratitude, acknowledging the efforts we made on their behalf. Their appreciation is what keeps us motivated, even in the face of adversity.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
For our Employee Appreciation Week, we chose to hold our team outing at a smash room. After navigating some tough transitions, it was the perfect opportunity to blow off some steam. The experience allowed everyone to step away from the daily routine and embrace a fun, lighthearted atmosphere where we could be silly and just enjoy ourselves. Working in a demanding industry, it’s important to remind ourselves that we deserve moments of fun and relaxation. Taking time to step back and recharge helps us stay centered and energized.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
The primary goal for the building is to achieve and maintain a 95% occupancy rate. To reach this target, we plan to improve our Qualtrics score, which will directly contribute to higher resident retention. By focusing on enhancing the overall resident experience, we aim to encourage more resident referrals for new leases. Building a strong sense of community will be essential in motivating residents to renew their leases year after year, reducing vacancy rates. We’ve made significant progress this year, maintaining an average retention rate of at least 50%, and continuing this momentum will be critical to achieving our occupancy goals.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
Related has a robust network, and as a new team member, it's important to remember that you have access to a wealth of resources. The first few weeks can feel overwhelming, but there is an entire team locally and in New York ready to support you. One of the best aspects of our portfolio is the collaborative spirit across sites. You can always pick up the phone and connect with a colleague from a sister property, and together we offer valuable support and guidance to one another.
Mason on Mariposa
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
One of the biggest challenges we faced in 2024 was navigating periods of staffing shortages. Despite these challenges, our team truly exemplified resilience and dedication. Everyone stepped up, often going above and beyond their usual roles to ensure seamless operations across departments. This collective effort was instrumental in maintaining our commitment to providing a superior resident experience.
Through this experience, we learned the invaluable lesson of the power of teamwork and adaptability. When faced with adversity, a united and flexible team can overcome obstacles and achieve extraordinary results. It's a testament to the strength and character of our team that we were able to maintain our high standards, even during these challenging times
Can we share a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
Our team had such a fantastic time spending time together during Employee Appreciation Week this year. We partook in a variety of activities, from pizza making in our Sky Lounge using our pizza oven, to exploring Alcatraz! It is always a great time to recognize the hard work everyone on our team puts in throughout the year and spend some quality time together as a team.
What was your proudest achievement this year?
This year, our team received 4 nominations overall for the annual San Francisco Apartment Association awards. It was exciting to see our team be recognized for all their contributions.
The Paramount
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Our proudest achievement this year was seeing two of our outstanding team members recognized at the San Francisco Apartment Association Awards. Lita Lahl received the award for Porter of the Year, and Katherine Wells was honored as Leasing Agent of the Year! This achievement not only highlights the incredible talent we have within our building but also our impact on the greater San Francisco community. We are so proud of Lita and Katherine for their hard work and dedication.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
The biggest challenge we faced was a power outage in February, which required the difficult decision to relocate our residents temporarily. This experience reinforced just how much The Paramount means to our residents and highlighted the value they place on our team’s dedication. We learned the importance of transparency, resilience, and clear communication, as these elements truly helped us rebuild and strengthen our community.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
A primary goal for next year is to enhance collaboration across our sites by cross-training team members. This initiative will allow us to support each other more effectively, particularly in times when sister buildings need extra assistance. Through regular training sessions and shared best practices, we aim to build a network of support that strengthens our team and increases our adaptability.
Words
of Wisdom
Related is an incredible place to work, where we have the privilege of doing great things alongside top talent in our industry. One of the best ways to grow and stay ahead is by asking for help and reaching out to colleagues. Collaboration and knowledge-sharing are key to thriving here don’t hesitate to lean on the expertise around you!
Avery 450
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Reflecting on 2024, our proudest achievement has been our success in creating a thriving, welcoming community. We’ve been able to achieve outstanding resident satisfaction scores and resident retention by prioritizing our services to residents. We have also been successful in promoting a great sense of community between residents with a curated lifestyle events program.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
The biggest challenge this year was adapting to the rapid growth of our building while maintaining our high standards and service. Balancing the demands of new residents with the ongoing needs of existing ones is a delicate act. The key lesson was to stay flexible and prioritize communication within the team by keeping everyone aligned, we could address issues proactively and maintain quality across the board.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
One memorable team-building moment was our San Francisco Luxury Portfolio Summer Event, where we did a mix of fun activities and connected with our team members, as well as team members from other San Francisco properties. The event strengthened our bond and Portfolio and created a sense of camaraderie that has carried into our daily interactions. Events such as this make us make us a stronger, more unified team, which greatly enhances everything our Portfolio can achieve.
What is one goal you have for your team, and how do you plan to achieve it?
A primary goal for 2025 is to further enhance resident engagement through community events and proactive communication. By hosting monthly gatherings and continuing to enhance our communications with residents, we plan to further increase our sense of community and open feedback. This will help us stay attuned to residents’ needs and create a better living experience at Avery.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
My advice for new team members joining the Related family is to be proactive and build relationships across your portfolio. In property management, every role is interconnected, and having a strong network helps you tackle challenges effectively. Also, remember that resident satisfaction is our top priority if you always keep that in mind, you’ll find your work incredibly fulfilling.
Washington DC
One Hill South & 10K
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Reflecting on 2024, our proudest accomplishment was the complete transformation of our rooftop at One Hill South. The new design not only enhanced the aesthetic appeal but also provided a refreshed, inviting space that has quickly become the focal point of our community events. This upgraded setting has brought residents together, creating memorable experiences that have truly enriched our sense of community. Seeing residents enjoy this beautiful space has underscored the value of continuous improvement, and we look forward to continuing the renovations of our rooftop party room for residents to enjoy more of their amenities.
What was the biggest challenge you faced, and what valuable lesson did you take away?
The most valuable lesson we learned in 2024 was the importance of adaptability in the face of change. One of our biggest challenges this year was a significant shift in our team structure, as our site experienced a staffing overhaul. Despite these changes, our team rose to the occasion with professionalism and resilience. Through seamless communication and a shared commitment to excellence, we ensured that residents continued to receive consistent, high-quality service without any disruption. This experience reinforced the value of teamwork and adaptability, showing us that by supporting each other and focusing on our shared mission, we could navigate change effectively while maintaining resident satisfaction.
Can we share a team-building moment that stood out to us this year?
A standout team-building moment this year was a catered “Thank You” bowling event we hosted to celebrate our fully staffed, cohesive team. We’re fortunate to have a group of unique, dedicated individuals who bring their best every day to provide a luxury living experience for our residents. This event was our way of expressing gratitude for everyone’s hard work and commitment to open communication, which has been key to our productivity and success. It was a special occasion where we came together not just as coworkers but as a unified team, sharing in the pride of what we’ve achieved and reinforcing our focus on collaboration and support.
What are your goals for 2025?
Our goal for the coming year is to continue investing in our team, as I believe the strength of our team lies in each member and enhances them as a whole. This approach means actively learning from one another and providing the resources needed to support personal and collective growth. By doing so, we aim to deliver an unparalleled level of service and experience to our residents. I am proud of all that our team has achieved despite the challenges we’ve encountered, and I am committed to furthering the tools and support needed to drive continued success.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related?
The words I live by in this industry come from one of my favorite quotes by Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." I encourage each of us to embody this principle from the moment we step into work because even small gestures make a lasting impact in service. As a new employee myself, I've learned that if you bring genuine care and dedication to what you do, it’s all about making people feel valued. This doesn’t require years of experience, only the decision to approach each interaction with empathy and respect. Related has a strong support system filled with talented individuals, so never hesitate to reach out for help. You may be pleasantly surprised by how quickly the team comes together to support one another.
West Palm Beach
The Laurel
What was your proudest achievement this year?
Opening The Laurel and meeting the expectations of the residents and owners.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in 2024, and what valuable lesson did you take away from it?
Opening before the building was complete and working through the construction conditions. When a new building is open in the market, we will include more of a time buffer so operations can keep up with the leasing team. We will conduct more thorough acceptance inspections and will be more stern on acceptance standards.
Can you share a team-building moment that stood out to you this year?
This team had the benefit of completing onboarding and extensive brand training together as a group, which was a wonderful way to really get to know your colleagues.
What is one goal you have for your team in the upcoming year, and how do you plan to achieve it?
More frequent offsite team building activities, a focus on retention in the first renewal year with an eye on service and event programming.
What advice would you give to new employees joining Related based on your experiences this year?
It is an exciting time to be a part of Related with major growth in several markets. Your career with Related is what you make of it and hard work is greatly valued.
