2022 Issue 1 March The ApartMentor

WE'RE NOW IN GEORGIA! Multifamily/ Apartment Management Law

Community Association Management

Commercial & Investment Real Estate

BWPF-LAW.com

Contact us: client@bwpf-law.com @BROWNLEEWHITLOWPRAET Disclaimer: This is an advertisement for legal services.

Education/ Training

Triangle Apartment Association 7920 ACC Blvd., Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617 919.782.1165 • 919.782.1169 FAX taa@TriangleAptAssn.org www.TriangleAptAssn.org

Office Hours

Monday – Friday* 8:30am - 5pm *Appointments are highly encouraged. Team members are working hybrid schedules between the office and remote.

TAA Mission Statement The leading resource committed to the advancement of the rental housing industry through advocacy, engagement, and innovation.

CONTENTS 4

President’s Pen

16

Upcoming Education

6

January Dinner Meeting/Board Installation

20

Legal Issues

15

New Members

22

Calendar of Events

OFFICERS President

Vice President

Treasurer

Secretary

Past President

Craig Nardi CPM, CAPS S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co.

Andy Meador CAMT McDowell Properties, LLC

Berry Craven CAMT Ginkgo Residential, LLC

Franklyn Rodriguez CAPS, CAMT Blue Ridge Companies

Kelli Lea CAM, NAAEI Faculty Greystar

FOLLOW US!

Affiliated with:

DIRECTORS

TAA TEAM MEMBERS Josie H. Eatmon | Executive Director JEatmon@TriangleAptAssn.org

Katy Boone CAPS, CAM Related Management Companies

Natalie Cook-Wooters

Heather Crowley CAM Bell Partners, Inc.

Colleen Doubek Highmark Residential

Reginald Evans Bell Partners, Inc.

Natalie Hart CAS The Liberty Group

Ashley O’Connor MSW King Properties, Inc.

Danielle Parker CAPS, CAM Palms Associates, LLC

Stephanie Smith CORT Furniture

Derek Tarrant CAPS Greystar

Akeshia Thomas SERVPRO of N Raleigh, Wake Forest & N Durham

Norm Praet General Counsel Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

Suzanne Pratt | Director of Professional Development SPratt@TriangleAptAssn.org Danielle Butler | NLOL/TAAEF Executive Director DButler@NLOL-NC.org Dustin Engelken | Government Affairs Director DEngelken@TriangleAptAssn.org Vicki Franciosi | Meetings & Events Director VFranciosi@TriangleAptAssn.org Susan Williams | Finance Director SWilliams@TriangleAptAssn.org Rachel Garavito Young | Communications Manager Rachel@TriangleAptAssn.org Shawna Poteat | Education & Credentials Manager SPoteat@TriangleAptAssn.org Jessica Esposito | Events Coordinator JEsposito@TriangleAptAssn.org Steven Anderson | Membership Specialist SAnderson@TriangleAptAssn.org Sydney George | Administrative Coordinator MemberServices@TriangleAptAssn.org Lily Mather | Accounting Coordinator LMather@TriangleAptAssn.org

COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION (DE&I)

PR & COMMUNITY OUTREACH

EDUCATION

SPECIAL EVENTS

Mary Batten, CAPS Tara Gerberich, CAS

Sydney Bryan, CAS Cindy Nitschke, CAS

GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

XCEL

Kelli Lea, CAM, NAAEI (Interim Chair)

Stephen A. Kenney Amy Timocko, CAPS

MEMBERSHIP

Chelsea Bell, NALP Lolita Wald

Ashley Davoli, CAM Jessica Lei

Heather Crowley, CAM Bobby High

Total Members: 1,158 Total Units: 155,619 Apartment Communities: 683 Suppliers: 239 Management Companies: 173 IRO: 63

TAA Snapshot as of 2/28/22

Magazine Design & Ad Sales: Rachel Garavito Young, TAA

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President's Pen Craig Nardi, CPM, CAPS // S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. 2022 TAA President TAAPresident@TriangleAptAssn.org

The New Normal & What’s in Store for TAA in 2022 As this is my first entry as the President of the Triangle Apartment Association (TAA), I first want to thank everyone for their support and confidence in me!

The TAA means so much to me on both a personal and professional level and I could not be more honored and excited to fill this role as we all move forward into 2022 together!

I cannot begin this year without acknowledging the hard work and dedication of the incredible people that held the position before me. I am so fortunate to have been able to serve on the Board and work closely with eight of the most recent past presidents. Each of whom provided me with inspiration, perspective and unique styles of leadership that will shape and form how I approach the year in front of me and the many paths I will charge down for years to come.

I especially cannot begin this year without recognizing the challenges our Association faced over the past two years. In February of 2020, COVID-19 was a very unknown threat on the verge of becoming a simple meme before we began to see the real impact that began to hit home just one month later. Since that time, COVID-19 has changed the course of history with devastating impact over the entire world taking so many lives and leaving others feeling helpless and scared.

For the TAA, COVID-19 forced us to cease doing the one thing we have excelled at for so long, bringing people 4

together. Through classes, committee meetings, dinner and networking events, the TAA has always found a way to gather and appreciate our career path and build relationships with the people that share our eclectic industry. Without the ability to gather, a sense of panic began to set in.

However, with the introduction of video conferencing, the TAA began to make lemonade out of the big bag of lemons we had just been handed. Not only did meetings begin to resume, but with a virtual format, we began to see some new faces as a video option allowed for people to attend in the comfort of their home or office.

Before long we were offering online classes, networking, and even an online trade show, none of which were ideal, but certainly the best option we had at our disposal.

In 2021, we began to see glimpses of our past as we were able to hold some meetings and events in person. It was becoming evident that as time went on, people were beginning to feel Zoom burnout and longing for human interaction. Several of our in-person events were a huge success.

As we kicked off 2022, the Omicron variant kicked in and suddenly we were back in 2020 only this time we were much more prepared and ready to adapt and adjust. January Meetings were quickly changed to virtual and large events

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such as the Dinner Meeting were quickly rescheduled to February.

This adaptive response is just a glimpse of what I consider to be the ‘New Normal’ that we are living in today. It is such a testament to our industry as well as our association that everyone was able to adjust so quickly and ensure that “business as usual” also includes the need to stay safe and look after one another, yet still provide the events and services as promised. As a result, our Dinner meeting went from less than 200 registered guests to over 300 in just a few short weeks.

On the day of the TAA Dinner Meeting, Governor Cooper encouraged schools and local governments to end their mask mandates. While this is a good sign that the very worst is certainly behind us, we do realize that a new variant or strain may arise tomorrow. While less masks may be worn, I imagine they will remain in the glove compartments of our cars as opposed to just being thrown away.

In 2022, we live in a world where we appreciate human interaction more than ever and hopefully never take it for granted again. We also live in a world where people are becoming more in touch with their feelings, anxieties and mental health and in my opinion, we must become more sensitive and aware of the needs and well-being of others in the wake of the pandemic.

continued on page 21

100

$

OFF

INSPECTION prior to 5/15/22

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Experts in Swimming Pool Safety Support and Inspection Services Pool Lighting GFCI Protection Electrical Systems Bonding Heaters Water Lines Damage or Corrosion Safety Measuress (on the deck around the pool)

Swimming pools are one of the most attractive amenities to your residents, however they do come with ample maintenance that needs to be performed consistently over time.

That’s where we come in.

As experienced and trained swimming pool inspectors, we’ll make sure that your amenities aren’t lacking any key and crucial safety aspects so YOU can relax, too.

Contact us today to perform a swimming pool inspection to ensure your pool is ready for your residents this summer at 919.743.3300 or TidalElectricalServices.com

TRIANGLE AREA: 919.743.3300 • GREENSBORO: 336.855.3300 • HIGH POINT: 336.841.3300 WINSTON-SALEM: 336.725.3300 • FAYETTEVILLE: 910.678.0800 • CHARLOTTE: 844.277.3599

MEMBERSHIP dinner meeting

& Board of Directors Installation February 17, 2022 After more than two years, we were back in-person for our 2022 Kick-Off event, the Membership Dinner Meeting & Board of Directors Installation. Our members and guests enjoyed a night of celebration that included: a Volunteer Reception, Sponsor Recognition, NAAEI Credential Recognition, an amazing Guest Speaker - Denise Ryan with FireStar Speaking, exiting TAA BOD Recognition, the swearing-in of Craig Nardi with S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. as the 2022 TAA President, and installation of three Boards of Directors: Triangle Apartment Association, A New Lease on Life, and Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation.

Photos by Megan Kime Photography

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Strategic Business Partners

Premier Business Partners

Champion Business Partners

TAAEF & NLOL Board Of Directors

Keynote Speaker: Denise Ryan, FireStar Speaking

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2022 Economic Forecast: State of the Triangle Market Thursday, March 31, 2022 8:30 AM - 10:30 AM McKimmon Center $79 Members $99 Non-Member Breakfast is included!

Join us for our annual Economic Forecast, where we will take a look at the economic drivers of the Triangle market. Our distinguished panel of speakers will analyze and forecast the year ahead for the regional economy, the housing market, and the multifamily housing industry.

Panelists: Michael E. Walden, Ph.D. Professor & Extension Economist | NC State University John B. Linderman, Jr, Principal, Managing Director | Avison Young Ashley Rogers, Senior Market Analyst | CoStar Group Moderator: Kelli Lea, Regional Property Manager | Greystar

WWW.AANCONLINE.ORG

MAY16-18,2022 K E Y N O T E

RALEIGH,NC

6 CECS

S P E A K E R S

David Arrington Arrington Coaching

Dr. Debbie Phillips The Quadrillion

Save the dates for these upcoming TAA events!

Tuesday, May 10 Chuy's' in Cary

GOLF OUTING AT DRIVE SHACK

Thursday, September 22

JULY 22

The Neuse Country Club

After Work Networking November

Dat Loca e & ti TBA on

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December 1 Embassy Suites in Cary

TAA NEWS

welcome NEW TAA TEAM MEMBERS!

Rachel Garavito Young, CAS Communications Manager Rachel joins the team at TAA after working in the multifamily industry close to 15 years with another local affiliate down the road (PTAA) and the former Marketing Director for Loebsack & Brownlee.

She's no stranger to our association, serving on several TAA committees as well as on the 2020-2021 Board of Directors before becoming a contractor in May of 2021. The contract work helped illuminate the path that led her to joining the team as a full time employee in January!

Rachel's passion is graphic design and marketing, in both digital and print campaigns.

Shawna Poteat Education & Credentials Manager Shawna joins our team with over seven years of experience as an advocate for higher learning and professional development throughout the course of her career.

Her most recent experience was the Military Education Counselor at the University of Maryland-Global Campus in Fayetteville, NC. Shawna holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Shaw University in Raleigh, and a Master’s degree in Education (Education Management) from Strayer University.

Steven Anderson Membership Specialist As a previous Branch Manager, Steven is accustomed to delivering superior customer service. He has over seven years of sales experience including 2 years as a leasing professional in Greenville, NC. Working on-site has given Steven an inside perspective of the multifamily industry.

Steven holds a Bachelor of Science in Interpersonal and Organizational Communications/Business Administration from East Carolina University. In his free time, Steven enjoys watching movies and sports, participating in sports, and reading.

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“Let me clear my throat.”

“Baby let the games begin.” “ I never worry, now that is a lie”

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See updated floor plan on www.TriangleAptAssn.org TriangleAptAssn.org // MARCH 2022 // the ApartMentor 13

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New Members APARTMENT COMMUNITIES

Berkshire Apartments 950 Berkshire Road Smithfield, NC 27577 berkshire@wellingtonadvisors.com (919) 980-2571 Units: 24 Chandler Ridge Apartments 4545 Cary Glen Blvd.

Cary, NC 27519 chandlerridge@winnco.com (919) 661-6262 Units: 228 Creekside Apartments 2121 Eastchester Drive, Suite 103 High Point, NC 27265 Contact: Courtney Poole creekside@wellingtonadvisors.com (919) 584-7753 Units: 41 Forest Glen Apartments 100 Lynn Forest Drive Durham, NC 27713 Contact: Marilyn Perez Rivera forestglencd@highmarkres.com (919) 405-1311 Units: 92 Hawthorne at Holly Springs 6000 Forest Village Walk Drive Holly Springs, NC 27540 Contact: Michael Brinson hhollyspringsmgr@hrpliving.com (919) 899-4315 Units: 185 Historic Boylan Apartments 700 Glenwood Avenue Raleigh, NC 27605 (919) 208-2273 Units: 56 Latitude on Hillsborough 5701 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, NC 27606 Contact: Sara Grover sgrover@peakcampus.com (919) 980-4203 Units: 180 North Forest 835 Stadium Drive Wake Forest, NC 27587 Contact: Sinead Quinn Sinead.Quinn@Greystar.com (919) 556-5656 Units: 112 Regent Place 100 Regent Place Chapel Hill, NC 27514 Contact: Angelica Torres angelica.torres@greystar.com (919) 933-7555 Units: 20 River Oaks Landing 68 Shumard Way Garner, NC 27529 Contact: Karen Green

kgreen@greystar.com (919) 425-5880 Units: 198

Shelton Apartments 20 Mayo Street Raleigh, NC 27603 Contact: Julie Driver cameroncourt@greystar.com (919) 832-5395 Units: 62 The Residences Glenwood Place 3711 Exchange Glenwood Place, Suite 1000 Raleigh, NC 27612 Contact: Chris Garrard cgarrard@grubbventures.com (919) 786-9905 Units: 278 Viceroy Apartments 1700 Chapel Hill Road, #A8 Durham, NC 27707 Contact: Phillip Bowman pbowman@newurbanresidential. com (984) 200-7620 Units: 24 Vintage Jones Franklin 800 Jones Franklin Road Raleigh, NC 27606 Contact: Logan Hodge lhodge@pacapts.com (803) 413-3209 Units: 277

Atlanta, GA 30329 Contact: Amy Swofford aswofford@peakmadere.com (404) 920-5464 Preferred Apartment Communities

3284 Northside Parkway Northwest, Suite 150 Atlanta, GA 30327 Contact: Tim Tackett ttackett@prmapts.com (470) 225-5394 StoneCreek Communities 1808 Chapel Hill Road, Apt A4 Durham, NC 27707 Contact: Lisa Fuller lfuller@stonecreekliving.com (765) 425-5577 Westminster Management LLC 30 Columbia Turnpike, 3rd Flr Florham Park, NJ 7932 Contact: Joel Fox jfox@kushner.com (212) 675-3307

SUPPLIERS AAdvantage Laundry Systems, Inc 101 High Hope Lane Garner, NC 27529 Contact: John Hicks jhicks@aadvantagelaundry.com (919) 710-3589 Appliances: Repair Service; Appliances: Sale/Rental & Part Replacements

Asphalt Restorations 590 South Buckeye Drive Raeford, NC 28376 Contact: Jeffrey Giles West Village Apartments asphaltrestorationworks@gmail.

605 West Main Street, Suite C com Durham, NC 27701 (919) 748-0619 Contact: Tabitha Branthoover Painting Contractors; Parking Lot tbranthoover@bellpartnersinc.com Contractors (919) 682-3690 Units: 608 Community Concierge Services 4904 Linden Forest Lane Charlotte, NC 28270 INDEPENDENT RENTAL Contact: Justine Hill OWNERS justine@go-ccs.com (336) 588-9057 JHPrime Trash or Recycling: Bulk Removal/ P.O. Box 1581 Apartment Clean Out; Trash or RecyCary, NC 27512 cling: Doorstep Collection Contact: Jacqueline Prime jholmes07@mac.com Creative Impressions Media, (415) 596-2527 Corp.

716 Sandra Street MANAGEMENT Garner, NC 27529 COMPANIES Contact: Curtis Adams cadams@creativeimpressionsmeBluestone Property Management dia.com LLC (984) 300-1945 8500 East 116th Street Photography & Video; Advertising; Fishers, IN 46038 Promotions & Apparel Contact: Candace Lytell clytell@bluestone-prop.com Custom Sign Factory Douthit & Company, LLC 1200 Trillium Circle Raleigh, NC 27606 Contact: Charles Douthit cdouthit@douthit.biz (919) 816-0010 Peak Campus 2970 Clairmont Road

1610a Satellite Boulevard Duluth, GA 30097 Contact: Scott Dennis scott@csfsigns.com (770) 717-7755 Design Services (Renovation, Interior, & Exterior); Printing & Signs

FASTSIGNS of Cary 501 James Jackson Avenue Cary, NC 27513 Contact: Cliff Cabral cliff.cabral@fastsigns.com (919) 460-3300 Printing & Signs G&G Landscape and Irrigation 7217 Old Statesville Road Charlotte, NC 28221 Contact: Danny Funderburk danny.funderburk@gandglandscape.net (803) 367-1546 Landscapers/Landscaping Contractors Junk Doctors 10312 Chapel Hill Rd. Morrisville, NC 27560 Contact: Christian Fowler christian@junkdrs.com (919) 466-9322 Trash or Recycling: Bulk Removal/ Apartment Clean Out Junkluggers of The Triangle 2508 Reliance Avenue Apex, NC 27539 Contact: Jon Miller jon.miller@junkluggers.com (919) 244-6914 Trash or Recycling: Bulk Removal/ Apartment Clean Out Leaf & Limb 511 Nowell Road Raleigh, NC 27607 Contact: Patrick Munley patrick@leaflimb.com (919) 987-4898 Landscapers/Landscaping Contractors; Tree Service MirrorMate Frames 9317 Monroe Rd, Suite A Charlotte, NC 28270 Contact: Dustin Murphy dustin@mirrormate.com (704) 390-7374 Building & Construction Supplies; Design Services (Renovation, Interior, & Exterior); General Supplies; Renovation Supplies; Windows/Mirrors/Glass Next Stop Movers 3450 Bush Street, Ste 245 Raleigh, NC 27609 Contact: Joshua Murray nextstopmoversraleigh@gmail.com (919) 249-8351 Moving & Storage SERVPRO of Southwest Raleigh and Holly Springs 4003 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, NC 27607 Contact: Tim Jackson tjackson@servprosouthwestraleigh. com (919) 944-4002 Bio Hazard/Viral/Pathogen Disinfecting & Cleaning; Cleaning: Interior Cleaner Services; Emergency Service/ Restoration Contractors; General Contractors; Mold Remediation Contractors; Odor Control continued on page 21

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Property Financials for Property Managers March 22, 2022 | 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM $149 Members 5 CECs Facilitator: Brandon Negron, CAPS, CAM, NAAEI Faculty, Block & Associates Realty Financials should never be analyzed in fear. Participants of this session will leave satisfied that they’re on a path toward the mastering of financial analysis and can take their newly acquired skills and knowl-

edge back to their properties and portfolios with one motivation in mind. . . show me the money!

During this session, participants will take a fast-track ride through the standard property financial reports and learn how to dissect financial reports from beginning to end, with the end being impactful NOI and positive cash flow. Each attendee will also be provided with a onesheet glossary of permanent financial terms and formulas to work on actual financial problems during this session.

The Fair Housing Gameshow : Have Fun & Test Your Knowledge April 19, 2022 | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM NCSU McKimmon Center, Raleigh, NC $99 Members 3 CECs Facilitator: Wesley Aleshire, Training & Design Consultant at Aleshire Consulting

If you have ever attended a Fair Housing seminar that gave you the impression that it was a boring topic, I’m prepared to prove that theory wrong! We will go on a journey from the history of anti-discrimination legislation through the anticipated changes of tomorrow.

Join us for this unique gameshow approach to fair Housing and test your knowledge. This energetic and live session will comprise a series of interactive game shows that will make you feel like the next contestant of a live TV show.

Certified Pool/Spa Operator Certification Course (CPO) April 21-22, 2022 | May 12-13, 2022 | June 9-10, 2022 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM $350 Members Full Course (Two Days) $285 Members 5-Year Re-Certification (One Day) $140 Members Retest (One Day) 6 CECs

Facilitator: Mark Peele, CAMT, Director of Maintenance and Construction with PRG Real Estate Management, Inc., a multifamily owner-operator firm based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

The two-day course offer instruction in swimming pool/spa maintenance and safety. Participants will need to bring a hand-held battery-operated calculator, pencil, and paper to both classes. The exam will be administered on the 2nd day of the two-day course.

Leasing 101 Fundamentals April 29, 2022 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM TAA/ Response Team 1 Education Center $209 Members 6 CECs Facilitator: Rebecca Rosario, CALP, CAM, NAAEI Faculty, ApartMentor This full-day workshop is ideal for team members who are new to the apartment industry and need industry training, as well as managers,

assistant managers, and leasing veterans who want to brush up on their leasing/sales skills.

• Keeping Customer Confidence: Managing expectations & handling different personalities • P is for Professional: Managing vendor relationships and building a quality reputation • Fair Housing: Know the protected classes and how to keep in compliance without becoming robotic.

Legal Issues May 11, 2022 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM $239 Members 6 CECs Facilitator: Todd Whitlow, Attorney, NAAEI Faculty, Brownlee, Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

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Join us for this informative session to learn all the legalities of operating your property within the law in the state of NC. Get up to speed on the NC landlord-tenant law changes. In addition to learning about the laws, you will learn the legal aspects of property management as well as the eviction process and how to avoid pitfalls. Get up to speed on property management legislative changes with an industry expert lawyer!

Leasing 202 May 24, 2022| 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM $209 Members 6 CECs Facilitator: Rebecca Rosario, CAM, NALP, NAAEI Faculty Member, Full House Marketing

New & Exciting Education Opportunity: Leasing 202, May 24, 2022, details forthcoming, so stay tuned!

Notary Public Course May 25, 2022 | 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM $229 Members 6 CECs Facilitator: Wake Tech Community College Facilitator Are you looking for a new service to offer your clients, residents and potential residents? Are you looking to become a notary public? Look no more!

For those who want to become a notary public, this six-hour instructional course is mandated by the State of North Carolina. This course will provide you with an understanding of the qualifications and requirements to practice as a notary public in North Carolina. Each participant will receive the Notary Public Guidebook for North Carolina, take an exam at the end of class and complete the application for becoming a notary public.

Credential Programs Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) • • •

visit our website!

Fast Track Course July 12 - 15, 2022 | 9:00am - 4:30pm (Each Day) Full Course Cost: $1,429 Members | $1,629 Non-Members

www.TriangleApartmentAssn.org

Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP) • •

August 19, 24-25, 26-27 Full Course Cost: $509 Members | $609 Non-Members

Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) • •

Oct. 24th-28th Full Course Cost: $1,319 Members | $1,519 Non-Members

New NAAEI Credential Holders Congratulations to the following individuals who have earned the Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI).

Catulatis!

Laura Floyd | Bell Partners, Inc. Samuel Trevor Jones | Bell Partners, Inc. Tom O’Rourke | West End Flats Reem Shammari | Treeline Timber Creek Apartments

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TAAEF

Welcome TAAEF 2022 Board of Directors Officers (L-R) • • • •

President Todd Whitlow, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC Vice President Nikki Worthley, CAM, Bell Partners, Inc. Treasurer/Secretary Julie Chu-Zhang, CAPS, CAM Immediate Past President Latoya Patterson, CAPS, CAM, Ginkgo Residential

Directors (L-R) • • • • • • • •

Barry Bobbitt, Overture Cary/Greystar Reginald Evans, West Village Apartments/Bell Partners, Inc Paula Kotarakos, CAM, NoVex Leads Sales and Consulting Angel Oliver, CAPS, CAM, Blue Ridge Companies Reem Shammari, Treeline Timber Creek Apartments/Bell Partners, Inc. Kathryn Stenerson, Litchford 315/ Drucker + Falk Franklin Whittington, Meridian at Nichols Plaza/Bell Partners, Inc. Emma Wingfield, Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC

On Thursday, February 24, the Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation (TAAEF) celebrated their 10th anniversary in the beautiful Shellbrook Apartments Clubhouse (Drucker + Falk) in Raleigh.

Over the past 10 years, TAAEF has awarded over 60 scholarships to an incredibly talented group of TAA members, and close to $55,000 in awards presented.

• • • • •

90% of scholarships have been awarded to owner/operators 10% have been awarded to suppliers 87% have been full scholarships 13% partial scholarships 71% of recipients are still in the industry locally and are TAA members

During the anniversary celebration, every scholarship recipient was recognized and awarded a certificate. There was also a special recognition to Suzanne Pratt, TAA’s Director of Professional Development, for her tireless service and support to the Foundation for the past 10 years.

Thank you to everyone who was able to come out and celebrate with us!

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FE LI

A NEW LEASE ON LIFE Welcome NLOL 2022 Board of Directors

Officers (L-R) • • • •

President Elizabeth Godwin Riley, CAS, The Liberty Group Vice President Katrina Murdock, CAPS, Palms Associates, LLC Treasurer/Secretary Bret Smith, BullHouse Apartments/Lantower Residential Immediate Past President Todd Whitlow, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

Directors (L-R) • • • • • • • • • •

Shanae Auguste, Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC Vail Barnes, Highmark Residential Nicole Coschigano, CAS, Arium Trailwood/CARROLL Chris Fortune, CAS, Red Rhino Group Amanda Graham, 54 Station Apartment Homes/Pegasus Residential, LLC Larry Hinnant, Miracle Movers, Inc. Misti McElwee, Wood Residential Bill McKeown, Surface Experts of North Raleigh Yvonne Telles-Marotta, CAM, Zaremba Management Company Chris Williams, RentPath, LLC

We have a new website! Check it out to join a committee or get your community involved!

www.nlol-nc.org

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Legal Issues

While application fraud has always been an issue in our in our industry, the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the problem.

Application fraud occurs when an individual provides false information to obtain possession of a rental home. For example, an unemployed person may purchase fake paystubs online to prove employment, or an employed individual may purchase software to edit their paystub to a qualifying income. This is a problem that has plagued many industries but appears to be growing in the multifamily industry.

Fraud across the U.S. In 2020 Snappt, a company that assists multifamily renters with application screening, commissioned a study conducted by ReRez Research of 100 property managers who either manage or are directly involved with evaluating rental applications. According to this study, two-thirds of the property managers surveyed confirmed that they had experienced losses due to fraudulent applications. This study also found that the issue has grown in light of the pandemic with 66% percent of landlords reporting being the victims of fraud in 2019 versus 85% in July of 2020. In 2021, Snappt estimated fraud rates in North Carolina at 11.5%, Florida at 12.8%, South Carolina at 15.7 %, Georgia at 19.6%, Kentucky at 28.6%, and the list goes on. This data shows, especially with the increased use of online applications, that this problem is growing and is here to stay.

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How does a fraudulent application get approved?

According to the Snappt study, the typical application processing workload for those interviewed averaged 127 applications per month. However, more than 30% of interviewees processed over 350 applications per month and 15% processed over 1,500 applications per month. All of these applications were submitted online and, therefore, were at a higher risk of fraud. With the many tasks a property management team has every day it is easy to see how a fraudulent application may slip through the cracks.

Proceed with caution As many property managers know, yet many leaseholders fail to appreciate, a lease is a binding contract between the landlord and the resident. This contract, while enforcing payment of rent and other policies, also extends some protections in the basis of contract law.

When a party enters into a Lease based on fraudulent information, if challenged, a court may declare the lease void.

However, the burden is on the landlord to prove that the resident knew of the fraud. Additionally, if fraud is discovered, the NAA lease allows a landlord to declare a default if any portion of the

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potential resident’s application is determined to be fraudulent or a material omission. To get possession of the rental home back a landlord will still have to proceed with a court action, usually for summary ejectment. While this protection should provide some comfort, the reality is that there are more consequences than merely being the victim of fraud for Landlords.

Ways to avoid approving fraudulent applications There will never be a fool proof way to avoid fraudulent applications, but there are a number of ways your team members can help reduce the risk of liability: Utilize screening services for credit and criminal background checks.

•

•

One of the most fundamental resources to avoid fraudulent applications is to complete a credit and criminal background check.

If there is a conditional approval or a denial, make a good faith effort to determine why the application received that outcome.

Require photo identification to be submitted with an application and checking the ID against the individual applying.

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Does the name on the ID match the name on the application?

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Are there inconsistencies on the date of birth?

Complete verifications through contacting employers and previous rental communities.

•

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Do not merely rely on the information provided on the application. As there has been an increase of fraudulent applicants providing friends’ numbers as references, if something seems irregular, take the time to find a contact number independent of the application.

Ask questions that only an employer or previous rental community would know how to answer.

Review documents provided thoroughly

• •

Does the document appear to be an original or a copy?

Does each document of the same type match the expected formatting?

Review the math on paystubs

• •

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Do the pay-stubs match the estimated income provided?

Check the math for the yearto-date earnings to reflect the proper income from statement to statement.

Does the place of business on the pay-stub match the business address?

continued from page 15 Sloan Service Company Inc. 1807 Capital Blvd Ste 107 Raleigh, NC 27604 Contact: Jael Garcia support@sloanservice.com (919) 999-2665 Electric Contractors; HVAC Contractors Surface Experts of North Raleigh 7800 Falls of Neuse Rd #99011 Raleigh, NC 27615 Contact: Bill McKeown bmckeown@surfaceexperts.com (919) 754-4343 Bathtubs, Countertops, Tile: Repairs & Refinishing; Cabinetry: Repairs, Resurfacing, & Refinishing; Turn Service Contractors The Shingle Master 5117 Penny Road Raleigh, NC 27606 Contact: Bryan Yurko bryan@theshinglemaster.com (919) 373-7663 Roofing VerdantViews LLC 2936 Golden Oak Court Raleigh, NC 27603 Contact: Angelo Azevedo angelo@verdantviews.com (919) 665-9463 Landscapers/Landscaping Contractors; Tree Service Zillow Rentals 1301 2nd Avenue, Floor 31 Seattle, WA 98101 Contact: Kaylie Routen rentalsevents@zillowgroup.com (206) 516-2263 Advertising; Apartment Locator Service & Online Reputation

continued from page 4

As we move forward and strive to understand what will be considered normal post COVID-19, it is important to note that it is normal for humans to evolve, adapt and change. We set goals and do what we can to see these goals are met. That is how we ended up on the moon and is how we made it to where we are today. The “New Normal” is reflected in our ability to be able to make those changes and adaptations at a faster pace as more unthinkable challenges are thrown our way. My hope is that as we push forward, we continue to provide help to those that need it and appreciate and celebrate what makes each of us different, even more so than what makes us similar.

The TAA has some incredible plans for 2022 as well as several amazing new committees and initiatives that in certain ways were a product of all we have observed and learned in the past two years. If you are reading this, you likely have a vested interest in both our industry and association. If you have never taken the opportunity to join a committee or even just attend one of the amazing classes or events we offer, I strongly urge you to dip one foot in the pool and make an effort to do so.

Craig Nardi

Consider the whole picture

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Did the applicant mention something that would be a disqualifier, but that is not reflected on their application?

While every community will likely be a victim of fraudulent applications at some time, we hope that the information provided can better prepare your team about the issue and reduce any loss.

This article is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such. You should seek guidance from legal counsel for any specific questions that you may have.

TriangleAptAssn.org // MARCH 2022 // the ApartMentor 21

2022 The Triangle Apartment Association offers many opportunities for our members to learn, connect, and grow professionally and personally.

Learn more about these events and others at TriangleAptAssn.org.

MARCH 4-5 Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO)

TAA-PAC First Quarter Membership 18 Breakfast Property Financials Seminar for 22 Managers 31 Economic Forecast Breakfast

APRIL The Fair Housing Gameshow 19 Independent Rental Owner (IRO) April Meeting 21-22 Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) 27 2022 Trade Show 29 Leasing 101 Fundamentals 19

MAY 10 AWN After Work Networking 11 Legal Issues 12-13 Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) 24 Leasing 202

JUNE 9-10 Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) 21 24

Independent Rental Owner (IRO) June Meeting TAA-PAC Second Quarter Membership Breakfast

JULY 2022 Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) Credential Program 22 Drive Shack 12

22

the ApartMentor // MARCH 2022 // TriangleAptAssn.org

Upcoming

EVENTS & CLASSES

AUGUST Independent Rental Owner (IRO) August Meeting 24 2022 Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP) 16

SEPTEMBER tbd TAA-PAC Third Quarter Membership

Breakfast TAAEF "Take 5" Business Exchange a.k.a.

16 Reverse Trade Show 23 Annual Golf Tournament 29 Legal Issues

OCTOBER tbd Legal Issues

2022 Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS) Credential Program 14 NAA Lease Review & Training Seminar Independent Rental Owner (IRO) 18 October Meeting 24 2022 Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) Credential Program

tbd

NOVEMBER tbd AWN After Work Networking 12 NLOL Leaves to Leases 5K*

DECEMBER 1 9 20

TOPS Awards TAA-PAC Fourth Quarter Membership Breakfast

Independent Rental Owner (IRO) December Meeting

7920 ACC Blvd, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617

SERVING THE CAROLINAS & GEORGIA

L&B FOCUSES EXCLUSIVELY ON PROVIDING ONE SINGULAR SERVICE: SUPPORTING PROFESSIONAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT COMPANIES BY HELPING THEM NAVIGATE THE LEGAL PROCESS OF EVICTIONS. LOEBSACKBROWNLEE.COM

For more information, contact:

(704) 970 - 3900