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NORTH CAROLINA SOUTH CAROLINA GEORGIA
Triangle Apartment Association 7920 ACC Blvd., Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617 919.782.1165 • 919.782.1169 FAX www.triangleaptassn.org TAA Summer Office Hours* (June 7 – September 3) Monday – Thursday: 8:30am-4pm Friday: 8:30am-12:30pm *Appointments are highly encouraged as team members will work hybrid schedules between the office and working remotely. TAA Mission Statement The leading resource committed to the advancement of the rental housing industry through advocacy, engagement, and innovation.
CONTENTS 16 Legal Issues
4 President’s Pen
20-21 New Members
7 Book Drive
22 Calendar of Events
10-11 Upcoming Education
OFFICERS President
Vice President
Treasurer
Secretary
Craig Nardi CPM, CAPS S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co.
Rob Boggs CAM Bell Partners, Inc.
Berry Craven CAMT Ginkgo Residential, LLC
Past President
@TriangleAptAssn @nctaa
Affiliated with:
TAA STAFF MEMBERS
Kelli Lea CAM, NAAEI Faculty Greystar
April Vasta CAPS, CAM Blue Ridge Companies
DIRECTORS
Heather Arndt CAM The Greens at Tryon
Katy Boone CAPS, CAM Related Management Companies
Colleen Doubek Highmark Residential
Chris Fortune CAS Red Rhino Group
Ashley O’Connor MSW King Properties, Inc.
Danielle Parker CAM The Mews
Franklin Rodriguez CAPS, CAMT Blue Ridge Companies
Akeshia Thomas SERVPRO of N Raleigh, Wake Forest & N Durham
Rachel Garavito Young Natalie Hart CAS CAS Loebsack & The Liberty Group Brownlee, PLLC
Josie H. Eatmon, Executive Director jeatmon@triangleaptassn.org Suzanne Pratt, Director of Professional Development spratt@triangleaptassn.org Vicki Franciosi, Meetings & Events Director vfranciosi@triangleaptassn.org Dustin Engelken, Government Affairs Director dengelken@triangleaptassn.org Susan Williams, Finance Director swilliams@triangleaptassn.org Danielle Butler, NLOL/TAAEF Executive Director dbutler@nlol-nc.org Alyssa Clair, Education Coordinator aclair@triangleaptassn.org Jessica Esposito, Events Coordinator jesposito@triangleaptassn.org
Norm Praet General Counsel Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC
COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Education:
Mary Batten Tara Gerberich
Government Affairs: Katy Boone Stephen A. Kenney
IRO:
Dena Daniels
Membership:
Chelsea Bell Natalie Cook-Wooters
This issue of the ApartMentor is designed and published by Moonstone Studio, LLC, proud member of the Triangle Apartment Association.
Judy Wade CAPS, CAM TradeMark Property Services, Inc.
PR & Community Outreach:
Jessica Lei Akeshia Thomas
Products & Services: Chris Fortune Rachel Garavito Young
Special Events: Sydney Bryan Judy Wade
XCEL:
Heather Arndt Carson Woodell
Total Members: 1,098 Total Units: 150,060 Apartment Communities: 662 Suppliers: 215 Management Companie s: 159 IRO: 62
TAA Snapshot as of 5/28/2021 the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 3
President's Pen Hello June! It’s warmer, the birds are singing, the sky is bright, the sun is shining, and I’m feeling alright! (You know you’re a mom when you think of something “summer-ish” to say and immediately quote a “Pete the Cat” book as your opening line!) Well hey, it WORKS! So many studies say that sunshine gets our serotonin flowing and genuinely puts us in better moods and I’ve got to say, I’m here for it!
Supplier partners are out visiting our communities! We’ve missed you guys so much and know that these last 15 months or so have likely been hardest on you!! I encourage all of our on-site teams to welcome these folks with open arms (where allowed) and give them a few minutes to say hello and tell you about their services. We are all entering budget mode and they could just have exactly what you need!
This time of year is the CRAZIEST in our industry. Crazy busy in our offices slammed with traffic and leases, resident event planning, renewal follow-up, budget preparation and capex walks, preventative maintenance, and dare I mention trying to squeeze in a summer vacation?! While I somewhat still feel like we’re in the same blurry long year, there is definitely a bright light coming through the tunnel!
Speaking of budgeting, I’m curious what 2020/early 2021 side effects will stick around as permanent fixtures in our budgets. Will you include a self-guided touring app? Will you assume a higher bad debt? Has outreach marketing fizzled out? Will you be completing capex projects converting old amenity spaces to reimagined ones? My goal is to connect with several companies over the next few months to see any major shifts and update you all by my next article! A GREAT place to become a part of this conversation would be to join me and several peers 7/16 at our next Regional Roundtable where we specifically will discuss these topics.
It’s important to remember that while so much progress has been made in the last several months to get us to where we are, that it may take some time and adjustments to get back to “normal.” I encourage you to take time for yourself. It’s OK to be feeling NOT OK. We’ve all been running, pivoting, changing plans, and staring at our screens for over a year—take a walk, turn your emails off on your days off, schedule a trip—even if months from now, it’ll be something to look forward to! Roll the windows down on the way home and blast your favorite song - YOU DESERVE IT!
We’ve been staying busy here at TAA! Committees are continuing to meet virtually through June, so please join us if you’ve been thinking about it! We literally have something for EVERYONE no matter what your interest may be. One of the most significant updates from the first of the year is that we’ve officially held our first two meetings for our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) task force. the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 4
When I tell you that this group is about to do big things, TRUST ME! We spent an intentional amount of time getting to know each other and sharing why we want to be a part of this task force—bringing 23 people from different walks of life, companies, backgrounds, races, sexual orientations – and most importantly representing our membership. I’m excited to share that our co-chairs Akeshia Thomas of SERVPRO of N Raleigh, Wake Forest & N Durham and Brandon Negron of Landura Management Associates are crushing it as co-chairs. Stay tuned for ways we will partner with committees and existing initiatives within the TAA and what may develop in the upcoming months and years! Not only do you deserve your alone time as mentioned above, but you deserve your IN-PERSON time! Guys, I am so excited to spend time with you in the upcoming weeks and months!! A special shout out to our Special Events Committee who has been adjusting plans and shifting dates to get some REALLY exciting things on the books for later this year! Can’t wait to see you all and meet those of you I’ve only met virtually!
Kelli Lea CAM, NAAEI Faculty TAA President Greystar taapresident@triangleaptassn.org
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SUPPLIER MEMBERS Town Hall Meetings On March 3, over 35 supplier member partners joined us for the first of two virtual Town Hall Meetings. Products & Services Committee (PSC) Co-Chairs, Chris Fortune with Red Rhino Group and Rachel Garavito Young with Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC, served as the moderators. We were also fortunate to have Angi Pusateri Downey, Chairman of NAA’s National Suppliers Council, join us for the session. Those in attendance were able to hear from Panelists Kelli Lea, Greystar Regional Property Manager, and Sherry Yarborough, former Grubb Properties Vice President, on a variety of topics that are important to our supplier partners. The session was packed with great conversation on pre-set topics and then there was time at the end for a Q&A from attendees. This event was very well received and another one is just around the corner.
Make sure you join us for the second virtual Town Hall on Wednesday, June 23 from 10am – 11am. Our PSC Co-Chairs will again serve as the event moderators. And we are pleased to welcome our Panelists Craig Nardi, S.L. Nusbaum Realty Co. Regional Property Manager, and Amy Timocko, Hawthorne Residential Partners, Inc. Regional Vice President. Join these Discussion Leaders to chat about issues and topics that are important to you. The event is free to attend so register now.
Virtual Do’s and Don’ts: 13 Mistakes We Make in Virtual Environments On Friday, May 7, supplier member partners joined us for a seminar to learn about the mistakes we are making and tips to assist us in becoming virtual superstars. We spend so much time “on camera” in virtual meetings and—like it or not—that is not going to change any time soon. So, the Products & Services Committee decided to host a session that would allow us to learn about the annoying things we do and how to correct them. Those in attendance walked away with tips that could immediately be implemented. Mindy McCorkle
A special thank you to Mindy McCorkle, Owner of Enhancement Talent Development, LLC, who served as our instructor.
Products & Services Committee (PSC) Did you know that TAA has a committee solely for Supplier Partners? We do! This group shares industry news among peers, promotes important Trade Show related information for suppliers via online videos and the Trade Show Tips & Tricks seminar, and is overall committed to partnering with Owner/Operator Members for joint success. PSC works to find ways to bring both sides of the membership together such as their event: Inside the Multifamily Mind. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month, with one exception - June. If interested in checking it out, please plan to join us for our July 21 meeting at 9am, via Zoom. Contact Vicki Franciosi at vfranciosi@triangleaptasssn.org.
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Our Book Drive has been extended through the Summer!
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Government Affairs
Application Fraud is on the Rise In recent months, properties in the area have seen an increase in the number of fraudulent applications from perspective residents. Many of these individuals are using similar tactics to beat resident screening processes, so it’s important to stay informed and keep an eye out for these applicants. Here’s a few things to look out for when reviewing applicants:
1. Falsified Paystubs
Falsified paystubs can be identified because they will typically include inconsistent information when they are submitted. For example, the name of the employer will be a real company, but the spelling will be wrong. There may be other inconsistencies such as discrepancies on YTD income or taxes, or on personal information like the applicant’s address. There are now online companies providing falsified paystubs for a nominal fee, so this is becoming a more common issue.
2. Falsified Personal Information
Many applicants will alter their personal information like their social security number or date of birth by changing a number or two in attempt to evade screening. Onsite teams often only receive the last four digits for social security and personal identification numbers, so it will be difficult for the onsite team to know there is a problem rather than it just being an applicant with no credit history.
3. Fake Employment References
Applicants are citing employment at a small company, but a search on the NC Secretary of State website shows that the company was dissolved, or there was no record at all. There will be a very limited internet presence, if there is one at all. The addresses provided on the application will also often be something totally unrelated, like a grocery store in a strip mall.
4. Fake Landlord References
Applicants are often citing a private residence/landlord for their current residence, and when property tax records are pulled, they do not match the information that was provided. These landlords are often unreachable or are unable to provide verification of residence. These are just a few of the methods individuals are using to beat resident screening. The most important step you can take to fight back is to be vigilant when reviewing documentation and look out for obvious inconsistencies that may be an indicator of fraud.
Four Rental Assistance Programs Now Available in the Triangle! Durham Emergency Rental Assistance Program Durham residents who are behind on their rents and facing evictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for financial help to stay in their homes from the new Durham Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP). The program is being managed by the Durham County Department of Social Services. To access additional information, including program requirements, and to apply to the program, visit DurhamERAP.dconc.gov.
Johnston County Rental Assistance Program Johnston County has been awarded the CARES Act for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) to assist Johnston County citizens who qualify with mortgage, rent, electric, water and heating fuel such as LP Gas, Natural Gas and Fuel Oil. The maximum benefit per household will not exceed $2,000.00 for the duration of the grant. Households must meet CDBG HUD Low/Moderate Income levels and income verification is required. To be eligible to participate in the program, applicants must meet the HUD very-low (50%) Income Limits. The Johnston County Department of Social Services is now accepting applications from those who qualify by phone at (919) 989-5320.
House Wake! Eviction Prevention Program The House Wake! COVID-19 Financial Assistance Program focuses specifically on eviction prevention and utility assistance. This program provides financial assistance to tenants, landlords and utility companies to cover rent and utility shortfalls resulting from a financial hardship directly or indirectly due to COVID-19. Qualifying households must have income that does not exceed 80% area median income with priority given to households with incomes below 50% AMI. Landlords and Tenants can apply by visiting www.housewake.org or by calling 919-899-9911.
HOPE Program The HOPE Program is once again taking applications for rental and utility assistance. The state is taking applications from 88 counties, and if you are one of the 12 counties who are handling one of their own programs (this includes Durham, Johnston, and Wake), or you are a registered member of a North Carolina tribe, you will be directed to the right assistance program. This application round is limited to applicants who are 50% of area median income (AMI) or below. This round of applications will cover 12 months of rental payments (9 months of arrears, 3 months of rent). It is crucial to get the word out across the state to make sure that people are aware that the program has re-opened. Visit www.hope.nc.gov or call 888-927-5467 to apply.
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This year’s local elections will have a huge impact on the direction of the region and TAA-PAC needs your help to ensure the right candidates win this fall! During these extraordinary times, we have been working hard with leaders in government to support the industry with critical rental assistance funding and working to blunt the impact of damaging policies like eviction moratoriums. However, we need your help to elect more leaders who will stand with the industry. Join the effort by making a personal donation to TAA-PAC today! TAA-PAC is a North Carolina state-registered Political Action Committee. Investments made to the TAA-PAC support local and state candidates who represent good government and understand the needs and concerns of the rental housing industry.
Thank you to our 2021 TAA-PAC Club Level Members!* President’s Club Amy Timocko Berry Craven Bonnie Moser Chris Loebsack Cliff Rogers Craig Nardi Kellie Falk Norm Praet Todd Whitlow
Vice President’s Club
* alphabetically by first name
Andy Meador April Vasta Chris Fortune Colleen Doubek Curtis Stevens Dustin Engelken Elizabeth Riley Josie Eatmon Katy Boone Kelli Lea Paula Kotarakas Rebecca Kalishek Rob Boggs Seth Wolfman Steve Kenney William MacRae
Senator’s Club
Akeshia Thomas Daniel Eller Franklin Rodriguez Heather Arnt Justin Kempe Meagan Watts Pamela Norris Rachel Garavito Young Rebecca Rosario Scott Marczewski Vicki Franciosi
Representative’s Club Ashley O’Connor Danielle Butler Natalie Hart As of 5/26/2021
Contribute Today!
Regional Roundtable TAA’s Past President’s Council hosts quarterly Roundtables as a vehicle for Management company executives (Regionals, Vice Presidents and Presidents) to network and discuss shared challenges, viable solutions and new opportunities. Pre-pandemic this group met at TAA or a local restaurant; yet, last and this year they had to pivot and embrace the virtual
environment. That platform did not disappoint as it opened up the opportunity for more people to attend, especially our out-of-town executives. Topics over the past few sessions have included: keeping maintenance personnel engaged; eviction moratoriums; handling vaccine challenges; which amenities are open and closed; and employee wellness issues.
Be sure to register for the July 16 session where the topic is the 2022 Budget season, to include: general budgets, best practices, Capex projects, and supply chain issues. Should be a robust conversation!
Thank you!
Thanks to our 2021 facilitators thus far: 2012 TAA President Latoya Patterson (Ginkgo Residential, LLC), 2017 TAA President Andy Meador (McDowell Properties, LLC), and current TAA President Kelli Lea (Greystar). Special thanks to our Champion Business Partners who serve as this year’s sponsors.
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education classes Legal Issues June 15 & 16, 2021 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM $169 Members 6 CECs Instructor: Todd Whitlow, NAAEI Faculty, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC
Join us for this informative two-part webinar 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!
Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) Credential Fast Track Program The Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) credential course was developed for Regional/District Managers, Maintenance Directors, Mid-Upper Level Management, Marketing Directors, and those aspiring to move to that level. Industry experience requirement is either CAM, ARM, RAM with 2 years of apartment management experience OR a Property Supervisor with 2 years of multi-site experience.
August 24 – 27, 2021 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM $1,459 Members Registration Deadline: August 10, 2021 Instructor: Alex Jackiw, CPM, CAPS, Chief Operating Officer Hayes Gibson Property Services
Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) Credential Program The CAM (Certified Apartment Manager) Credential Program curriculum is designed to enhance the skills of the on-site property management professional and provides the highest standard of training, which can result in improved resident retention, increased employee productivity, and a better managed and more profitable asset.
September 9, 15, 16, 23, 28 October 7, 13, 14 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM $1,219 Members Registration Deadline: August 23, 2021
Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS) Credential Program The CAS Course fee includes:
September 9, 15, 23, 28* October 14 9:00am – 5:00am $699 Members Registration Deadline: August 23, 2021 The CAS (Certified Apartment Supplier) Credential Program is designed as an opportunity for suppliers to learn, gain knowledge and become more confident in how to better service their multifamily housing clients. The CAS program is ideal for new salespeople as well as veterans of the industry.
*The Property Financials seminar fee of $129, September 28, 2021. You do not need to register for that course separately. The CAS eBook only. Students will be able to purchase a print version at their own expense from the NAA website for $90 + Shipping. NOTE: The CAS credential program exam is taken in a proctored or via Live Online Proctor (LOP) environment. CAS candidates must also complete the Supplier Success Course.
Legal Issues September 30, 2021 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM $209 Members 6 CECs Instructor: Todd Whitlow, NAAEI Faculty, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC
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! the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 10
Creating a Magical Experience October 20, 2021 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM $109 Members 3 CECs Instructor: Larry Berry, Wizardry Enterprises, LLC
One company is known for exceptional service, and if you have ever visited one of the Disney theme parks or resorts you know what I’m talking about. This interactive workshop was created and designed to cover several key areas that are critical to improving NOI. It is a combination of both property management knowledge and experience and asking yourself, what would Disney do?
NAA Lease Review October 27, 2021 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM $189 Members 6 CECs Instructor: Todd Whitlow, NAAEI Faculty, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC
This interactive session will cover changes/updates made to the NAA Lease and Addenda specific to the laws of the State of North Carolina. In addition, we will take a deep dive into the rights and obligations provided by the NAA Lease. We will walk through several interactive hypothetical situations beginning with the application process through the end of the lease. Walk through the NAA Lease and Addenda step-by-step with an industry expert lawyer!
Legal Issues October 29, 2021 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM $209 Members 6 CECs Instructor: Todd Whitlow, NAAEI Faculty, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC
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!
The Fair Housing Gameshow November 9, 2021 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM $99 Members 3 CECs Instructor: Wesley Aleshire, Training & Design Consultant at Aleshire Consulting
that theory wrong! We will go on a journey from the history of anti-discrimination legislation through the anticipated changes of tomorrow.
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
With a Unique Gameshow Approach! This is the most energetic type of live session you will ever attend. The entire session comprises of a series of interactive game shows that will make you feel like the next contestant of a live TV show. We will play through a series of games keeping the entire room engaged and involved as we compete for first place in the series of games.
Leasing 101 November 16, 2021 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM $199 Members 6 CECs Instructor: Rebecca Rosario, CAM, NALP, NAAEI Faculty, Full House Marketing
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.
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We patiently (or not so patiently) waited for our first in-person event of the year. And, on the evening of April 23, we came together for an awesome family-friendly event at the Triangle Drive In, Triangle Town Center. The movie night allowed us to get to see each other in person, in a safe and socially distanced environment. The 170+ attendees were able to take in a beautiful sunset, network with other members and their guests, and enjoy delicious food from Las Gringas, Magnificent Concessions and The Wandering Moose. Each car received an insulated cooler filled with theater type snacks and food truck vouchers, compliments of our sponsors. When the sun went down, we were entertained by the Strategic Business Partner previews and then the movie, School of Rock. Thanks to everyone who came out and helped make this an evening to remember.
Food Drive
In conjunction with this event, TAA’s PR & Community Outreach Committee held a Food Collection Drive to benefit the Food Bank
of Central & Eastern North Carolina. We came together as an association to collect non-perishable food and hygiene products in the weeks leading up to the event, all to give back to our community and help those in need. We are so proud to share that we collected 504.3 pounds of food/hygiene products! Thank you to everyone who participated for your contributions, and thanks to our volunteers who helped box up all the donations and deliver them to the Food Bank! the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 12
Thank you to our event sponsors, our 2021 Business Partners!
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An Exciting Opportunity to Promote Your Business Save the Date & Stay Tuned! The Triangle Apartment Association’s Education Foundation (TAAEF) Proudly Presents:
“Take 5” Virtual Business Exchange Reverse Trade Show! When: Friday, August 13, 2021 Time: TBD Where: Virtual via Zoom Cost: $500 per vendor/supplier company (includes 2 company representatives) $150 for one extra company representative (limited to 3 total company representatives) This event is an opportunity for vendors to meet virtually in a breakout room setting one-on-one with owner-management company executives who can make a buying decision. In other words, it’s networking and speed-dating with the apartment industry execs! Seating is limited for this popular event & fundraiser!
VIRTUAL BUSINESS EXCHANGE Registration will go live on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, at 10:00 am. Online Registrations Only! To stop any delays in registering, log in to your TAA account before registration goes live. We will not be accepting any pre-registrations or emails for this event participants are accepted on a first-come and first-served basis. Proceeds to benefit the Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation (TAAEF).
NAAEI Alexandra Jackiw Diversity & Inclusion Scholarship Opportunities NAAEI Credential CAPS and CAM Programs To increase diversity and inclusion as people progress along their career paths, Alexandra Jackiw, CAPS, CPM®, Past Chair of NAA, Past President of NAAEI, life-long learner and industry educator has established a scholarship fund to provide professional development opportunities for men and women who are members of a racial/ethnic minority group, lesbian/ gay/bisexual/transgender, or a person with a disability. The Alexandra Jackiw Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship will be awarded to industry professionals each year who are ready to advance their careers through NAAEI credentials. Recipients will have course registration fees covered for these NAAEI credential programs: Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS)
Congrats to the following individuals The Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation (TAAEF) sponsors an Education Scholarship Fund to provide a qualifying candidate or candidates the opportunity to receive funds necessary in obtaining a National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI) credential such as, CAPS, CAM, CAS, CALP and CAMT.
Ashley Grady — Link Glenwood South Jason Moore — Lake Johnson Mews Apartments
Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) Application Deadline: July 12, 2021 Visit the TAA website for information and details.
Application Deadline July 30, 2021 Visit the TAA or the National Apartment Association (NAA) website for information and details!
who earned the National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI).
Congrats to the following individuals
who earned the Certified Apartment Leasing Professional (CALP) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI). Abby Pruczinski — Hawthorne Residential Partners, Inc. Skyler Reak — Brightleaf on Main
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TAA Welcomes New Staff Member TAA welcomed Danielle Butler to the team on April 1, 2021 as the Executive Director for our 501c3 organizations: New Lease on Life (NLOL) and the TAA Education Foundation (TAAEF). Danielle worked with us on a contractual basis for NLOL since December 1, 2020; and served on the NLOL Board of Directors for 5 years. Having her as a vital team member for both organizations will allow those entities to flourish and grow at a more rapid pace. Danielle’s overall responsibilities are to provide day-to-day leadership and management of the organizations. She will work in partnership with the Boards of Directors to forward their strategic plans. For NLOL this includes advancing the mission by increasing the number of partnering agencies and clients served, enhancing the annual fundraising drives, and writing and securing mission-related grants. For TAAEF, this includes increasing awareness of and participation in the foundation’s initiatives,
expanding fundraising efforts to increase revenue, and developing and supporting educational opportunities through industry and community partnerships. Most recently, Danielle has provided teletherapy primarily to youth and adults affected by the current pandemic. Previously, she spent two decades working for nonprofit organizations serving individuals and families experiencing crisis and homelessness. Over the last dozen years, Danielle worked in Wake County for organizations, such as Family Promise of Wake County and Haven House Services. Within these agencies, Danielle managed numerous housing programs, including street outreach, day shelters, emergency shelters, and transitional and permanent housing projects. It was as Family Promise's Executive Director that Danielle was first introduced to TAA and A New Lease on Life. Not only was she impressed by their dedication and compassion to provide housing and household goods to the most vulnerable; she was immediately struck by the fellowship and community created by TAA and its Members.
Save the Date!
In her community service, Danielle has served on the Raleigh/Wake Partnership to End and Prevent Homelessness Board of Directors, and the National Advisory Board for the Runaway & Homeless Youth Training & Technical Assistance Center managed by National Safe Place. Danielle obtained a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate of Non-Profit Management from the University of North Carolina Greensboro in May 2013. In 2002, she graduated from Fordham University with a Master’s Degree in Social Work with a concentration in Children & Families. In 2001 and 1997 respectively, she acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work with a minor in Sociology from Marist College and Associate Degree in Business Administration from Dutchess Community College. She is also a Licensed Clinical Social Worker since 2005. Danielle and her husband Rodney reside in Holly Springs with their two children, Kagan and Capri, and a few four-legged friends. We know you join us in welcoming her to the team!
Welcome
A New Lease on Life (NLOL) is hosting our 3rd annual fundraising race, Leaves to Leases. Where: WakeMed Soccer Park, Cary NC In-Person Race – Saturday, November 13, 2021 Virtual Races – November 6 to November 13, 2021 Registration is currently live at: https://www.leavestoleases.com/. Part of every 5K & 8K registration supports A New Lease on Life. Registration Fee: • Fun Run - $15 • 5K - $30 • 8K - $35 A New Lease on Life (NLOL), a 501(c)(3) organization, is designed to help those who are experiencing homelessness get back on their feet through stable housing. We bridge housing opportunities with local non-profit agencies and provide an available apartment home at a reduced rate with gradual quarterly increases over a 12-24 month period. Proceeds to benefit A New Lease on Life (NLOL). https://www.triangleaptassn.org/a-new-lease-on-life the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 15
Legal Issues
CFPB Has (Another) New Requirement for Landlords and Other Debt Collectors By: Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC In addition to the other requirements imposed upon residential landlords in the past year, there is a new one to become familiar with. On April 19, 2021, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) issued an interim final rule in support of the CDC’s eviction moratorium. The CDC eviction moratorium was extended through June 30, 2021. The CDC Order generally prohibits landlords (and other persons with a legal right to pursue eviction) from evicting tenants for non-payment of rent if the tenant submits a signed written declaration with the (most up to date) elements required by the CDC Order; although, the truthfulness of the declaration may be challenged by the landlord as permitted under state or local law. The CFPB has authority under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA) to “prescribe rules with respect to the collection of debts by debt collectors.” The term “debt collector” is generally defined in the FDCPA as any person who uses any instrumentality of interstate commerce or mail in any business the principal purpose of which is the collection of debts, or who regularly collects or attempts to collect, directly or indirectly, debts owed or due, or asserted to be owed or due, to another. “Debt collector” includes landlords or owners and agents or attorneys acting on behalf of a landlord or owner. The FDCPA interim final rule requires debt collectors to provide written notice to tenants of their rights under the eviction moratorium and prohibits debt collectors from misrepresenting tenants’ eligibility for protection from eviction under the moratorium or falsely implying to a consumer that the consumer is ineligible for temporary protection from eviction under the CDC Order. Specifically, before filing an eviction action for non-payment of rent against a consum-
er, if the CDC Order might reasonably apply to that consumer, a debt collector must disclose that the consumer may be eligible for temporary protection from eviction under the CDC Order. As the legal basis for the issuance of the interim rule, the CFPB found that not notifying residents about this government protection can be a violation of fair debt collection laws (unlike other government protections). The disclosure must be clear and conspicuous and in writing. Phone calls or electronic notice such as text messages or emails are not sufficient. A debt collector must provide the disclosure on the date the debt collector provides the consumer with an eviction notice or, if no eviction notice is required by law, on the date that the eviction action is filed. The term “eviction notice” is defined as the earliest written notice that the laws of any State, locality, territory, or tribal area require to be provided to a consumer before an eviction action against the consumer may be filed. A debt collector may satisfy the requirement to provide the disclosure on the same date as the eviction notice or eviction action by providing the disclosure at the same time that the debt collector provides the consumer with any eviction notice or serves the consumer with any eviction action. For example, a debt collector may provide the disclosure in the same mailing as the eviction action and does not need to provide the disclosure separately on the same date. Failure to provide the required notice to tenants is a violation of the FDCPA. Debt collectors who evict tenants who may have rights under the moratorium without providing notice of the moratorium or who misrepresent tenants’ rights under the moratorium can be prosecuted by federal agencies and state the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 16
attorneys general for violations of the FDCPA and are also subject to private lawsuits by tenants. The FDCPA provides a private right of action against debt collectors, and violators can be held liable for actual damages, statutory damages, and attorney’s fees. Also, class actions may be brought under the FDCPA. Some states and localities have adopted their own eviction moratoria. Debt collectors may also be required to provide notice of these moratoria. The CFPB’s rule does not preempt more protective state law. The CFPB’s Rule took effect on May 3, 2021. The rule is applicable during the effective period of the CDC Order. The CFPB provides the following sample language to satisfy the rule’s disclosure requirements:
Because of the global COVID-19 pandemic, you may be eligible for temporary protection from eviction under the laws of your State, territory, locality, or tribal area, or under Federal law. Learn the steps you should take now: Visit www. cfpb.gov/eviction or call a housing counselor at 800-569-4287.
Ultimately, this CFPB requirement may be challenged and found unenforceable, but it is wise to examine your practices in light of the CDC Moratorium to ensure that they are in compliance and to notify debt collectors working on your behalf of the CDC Moratorium, applicable state or local moratoria, and those parties’ obligations under the FTC Act and the FDCPA, including under the CFPB’s interim final rule. This is not legal advice and should not be relied on as such. You should consult your legal counsel with your specific questions.
2021 TAA Business Partners Strategic
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Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Task Force – Update TAA’s DEI Task Force has held two meetings since its formation in late March. Thank you to the members who expressed interest in participating in this new initiative. Congrats to the 23 Task Force members who are hard at work outlining ways our Association can be impactful in the DEI space for our members and industry. President Kelli Lea appointed Akeshia Thomas with SERVPRO of N Raleigh, Wake Forest & N Durham, and Brandon Negron with Landura Management Associates to lead this dynamic group. They have been charged with developing a list of recommendations, along with strategies for implementation to the TAA Board of Directors by the end of this year.
TAA DEI Task Force Members Akeshia Thomas, co-chair Alicia Poindexter Anthony Thaxton Ashley O’Connor Brandon Negron, co-chair Buddy Bryson Danielle Parker Derek Tarrant Elizabeth (Liz) Newkirk Heather Arndt Jesse Jenkins Judy Wade
Keisha Purvis Kelli Lea Melody Galvez Rachel Garavito Young Rebecca Mahon Reem Shammari Rob Boggs Shauntay Johnson Susan Caulder Sydney Bryan TeJay Smith
Be a TAA Ambassador What’s an Ambassador? We’re glad you asked! Ambassadors serve as ‘buddies’ to new members and help on-board them into the TAA network. Take this opportunity to become acquainted with your colleagues and help be a part of TAA’s success. Owner/Operator, Independent Rental Owner and Supplier members are encouraged to participate. This is a great way to share your industry knowledge and build lasting relationships within the association.
What’s expected of an Ambassador?
Are there criteria to become an Ambassador?
• Be paired with 3-5 non-competing New Members for one (1) year • Make initial contact and self-introduction • Introduce New Member to a minimum of 3 other members at first event • Check in regularly to remind about upcoming events/education • Relay any ideas, suggestions, or concerns to the TAA Staff
• Be a Member in good standing* • Have a minimum of two (2) years of involvement within TAA • Complete participation form and return to TAA to be eligible • Complete brief training webinar on Ambassador guidelines *Member in good standing means the company has complied with all obligations and is not subject to suspension.
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TAA’s popular Tour of Cities member engagement sessions had to pivot this year like so many other offerings. Special thanks to the Membership Committee for being creative in presenting this session in a virtual format, and especially to David Lowery with Thornhill Apartments who served as the MC! Over 35 members jumped on Zoom to hear great marketing tips from Rebecca Rosario with Full House Marketing, along with legal updates from Shanae Auguste with Loebsack and Brownlee, PLLC. The highlight was a video tour of Bull House Apartments in Durham, narrated by Bret Smith with Lantower Luxury Living.
Congratulations The AANC Hall of Fame recognizes individuals in North Carolina for their significant contributions, accomplishments, and service to the multifamily housing industry. The AANC Public Relations & Marketing Committee asked each of the 7 local affiliate Board of Directors to nominate up to 5 deserving members from their market. The criteria is that individuals being nominated should have at least 10 years of membership with at least 1 North Carolina Affiliate. Nomination criteria also focuses on association involvement, character, volunteer service, and industry accomplishments. The AANC Board approved eleven 2021 AANC Hall of Fame Inductees. Congratulations to the 2021 AANC Hall of Fame inductees for your decades of service to the multifamily industry. A special congratulations is extended to the TAA recipients: Kellie Falk, Gordon Grubb, Rebecca Rosario and Sherry Yarborough! We thank you for your lifelong dedication at the local, state and national levels. Well deserved!
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New Members APARTMENT COMMUNITIES 105 Friendly Apartments 1700 Hillsborough Street Raleigh, NC 27605 Contact: Collin Noble 105friendly@tpco.com 919-835-7835 Units: 16 Adobe Geneva 730 Alpine Crystal Way Fuquay-Varina, NC 27526 Contact: Miranda Zolyniak miranda.zolyniak@greystar.com 919-762-5762 Units: 177 Bainbridge Aviation Crossing 4555 McCrimmon Parkway Morrisville, NC 27560 Contact: Rebecca Smith RLSmith@BainbridgeRE.com 919-704-7900 Units: 298 Brea Wendell Falls 5809 State Road, #2502 Wendell, NC 27591 Contact: Bryan Radford info@breawendellfalls.com 984-217-4561 Units: 288 Greenfield Apartments 1046 Turnpike Road Laurinburg, NC 28352 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com 910-276-5791 Units: 48 Griffin Weston 110 Singh Lane Cary, NC 27513 Contact: Catrina Patterson griffinwestonmgr@greystar.com 919-975-3010 Units: 212 Holly Springs Place 1501 Hendricks Hill Lane Holly Springs, NC 27540 Contact: Diane Shortridge kshortridge@hollyspringsplace.com 919-845-3306 Units: 239
Litchford 315 6318 Litchford Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Contact: Kathryn Stenerson kathrynstenerson@gmail.com 919-436-3195 Units: 240
Clay Madding 3012 Pine Street San Francisco, CA 94115 Contact: Clay Madding madding.clay@gmail.com 650-387-8897 Unit: 1
Pirate’s Moor Townhomes 102 Pirates Moor Drive Kill Devil Hills, NC 27948 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com 252-491-5415 Units: 44
Upon a Rock, LLC 5900 High Spring Circle Wake Forest, NC 27587 Contact: Suzanne Brubaker uponarockhomes@gmail.com 252-462-1830 Units: 4
Renew Durham 3554 Weymouth Street Durham, NC 27707 Contact: Adriana Parvanova aparvanova@trinity-pm.com 240-461-4443 Units: 240
MANAGEMENT COMPANIES
The Chateau Apartments 201 North Carolina 54 Carrboro, NC 27510 Contact: Tracey Beck tbeck@aptdynamics.com 919-929-7126 Units: 168 Wild Geese Landing 113 Wild Geese Court Powells Point, NC 27966 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com 252-491-5415 Units: 44
INDEPENDENT RENTAL OWNERS Coelho Investments, LLC 5009 Yorkshire Drive Cypress, CA 90630 Contact: Manuel Coelho manuel@webuyrealestategroup.com 336-777-6038 Units: 42 Fisher Properties 1944 Heath Drive El Sobrante, CA 94803 Contact: Karen Fisher karen@bishopfiduciary.com 510-393-9046 Unit: 1
Lifestyle Communities 100 Core Street Durham, NC 27703 Contact: William Drummond wdrummond@lifestylecommunities.com 919-981-9400 STAN Residential 359 Derby Avenue Woodmere, NY 11598 Contact: Noah Weichselbaum nweichselbaum@stanresidential.com 917-226-7880 Trinity Property Consultants 2101 Wilson Boulevard Arlington, VA 22201 Contact: Adriana Parvanova aparvanova@trinity-pm.com 240-641-4443
SUPPLIERS AppFolio 50 Castilian Drive Goleta, CA 93117-5578 Contact: Mindy Sorenson Mindy.sorenson@appfolio.com 866-648-1536 Property Management Software
Asurety Dryer Vent & Fireplace Inspections 1110 Alpharetta Street Roswell, GA 30075 Contact: Dawn Tapley dawn@asurety.net 866-800-4282 Air Duct/Chimney/Fireplace Cleaning Services
Welcome New Members! the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 2 20
BlueTeam 2320 Presidential Drive, Suite 113 Durham, NC 27703 Contact: Janis Gallagher jgallagher@blueteamcorp.com 951-284-8440 General Contractors; Carpentry Contractors; Consultation Services; Design Services (Renovation, Interior & Exterior); Emergency Service/ Restoration Contractors; Mold Remediation Contractors FirstPoint Background Screening Resources 225 Commerce Place Greensboro, NC 27401 Contact: Diane Smith dgsmith@firstpointresources.com 800-288-7408 Resident and Employee Screening
Inky Advertising, LLC 1215 Bales Chapel Road Jamestown, NC 27282 Contact: Rachel Young Rachel@InkyAdvertising.com 336-312-2280 Advertising; Design Services (Graphics, Logos, Publications); Photography & Video KPS Lawncare and Landscaping 45 Lexington Avenue Zebulon, NC 27597 Contact: Kyle Perkins kpslawncare@hotmail.com 919-434-5488 Landscapers/Landscaping Contractors Kustom, US 2216 Page Road Durham, NC 27703 Contact: Adam Wells Adam.wells@kustom.us 919-995-4220 Flooring Contractors & Carpet/Vinyl Installation; General Contractors; Gutter Cleaning & Pressure Washing Contractors; HVAC Contractors; Plumbing Contractors; Roofing
Mainsail Housing Partners 3205 Hiking Trail Raleigh, NC 27615 Contact: Jason Chern jchern@mainsailhousing.com 919-930-8366 Relocation Services NoVex Leads Sales and Consulting 708 Collington Drive Mebane, NC 27302 Contact: Paula Kotarakos pmkotarakos@outlook.com 310-717-3154 Apartment Locator Service & Online Reputation Tanner’s Tub Repair 208 Sunshine Crest Court Apex, NC 27539 Contact: Tanner Sheckells inbox@tannerstubrepair.com 919-924-5642 Bathtubs, Countertops, Tile: Repairs & Refinishing
WEBINAR
Evolutionary Leadership in Multifamily July 21, 2021
Join AANC for an engaging panel session to learn how seasoned industry leaders are reimagining their leadership approach. Whether your lead a team of 2 or 200, you can’t miss this forward-thinking panel session!
Tuesday, June 29 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM Virtual | Free to Attend
KIM GRAHAM
ANDY MEADOR
LISA TAYLOR
. Enhancement Talent Development
Are you a new member company? Perhaps a new employee at an existing TAA member company? This virtual session is for you! Maximize Your Membership (formerly TAA 101) is the perfect first step in making your presence known in the industry. Find out how to make the most of your membership investment. In other words, how to get started, get connected and get involved! Hear the ins and outs, the nuts and bolts at this orientation and networking session. It is open to new member firms, new employees to TAA member companies or those who want a refresher! In case you didn't know it: if your company is a TAA member, you are automatically a member!
MINDY McCORKLE
. McDowell Properties
SPONSORED BY
C
1 CE
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REGISTER TODAY! www.aanconline.org
. Greater Charlotte Apartment Association
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Affordable Housing 101
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5
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6
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2021 15-16
Legal Issues
16
23
Supplier Town Hall
29
Maximize Your Membership
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listing of TAA classes, events, and meetings including times, locations, and details.
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Apartment Association of North Carolina (AANC)....21 Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC................................2 Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC......................................24 Tidal Electrical Services, Inc.........................................5
Looking for ad space? Contact us for availability and pricing at taa@triangleaptassn.org.
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Strategic Spotlight
SERVPROs are local. SERVPRO of North Raleigh / Wake Forest is locally owned and operated by Tim and Stefanie Stevens. Our teams are ready for disasters, large and small whenever and wherever they might strike. Our warehouse is stocked with industry-leading mitigation and recovery equipment, and our technicians are experts who continually train and pursue educational opportunities to keep their skills sharp. We can handle all aspects of water damage restoration in Raleigh including mitigation and reconstruction, making us a one-stop shop for your restoration needs. From the campuses of local colleges and universities large and small through the bustling residential areas and commercial districts of Greater Raleigh and the Research Triangle, we have the personnel and resources to handle disasters and emergencies of any size. We have the equipment and IICRC—certifications to address effects from water, fire, mold, storms, flooding and even biohazard.
Our customers and clients may be surprised to learn that SERVPRO is the vendor of choice for the Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA). In addition to serving the multifamily industry, SERVPRO offers profit sharing for our team members and a company Chaplain for all employees. We are very proud to give back to our community with charitable work through the SPCA of Wake and Durham Counties.
Mission Statement: To develop a team of quality people who focus on excellent service, fairness and mutual respect. Core Values: Develop and promote from within, Follow the System, Develop Relationships, Help other franchises succeed.
Founded in 1967, we are most known for mitigation of water, fire, smoke, Roof Replacement, Rebuilds, and Remodeling.
TAA Member Since: 2006 Areas Served: North Raleigh, Raleigh, Cary, Apex, Morrisville, Wake Forest, North Durham, Garner, Fuquay Varina, Holly Springs Hashtags: #servpro #remediation #restoration #water #fire #heretohelp
Want more info? Contact: Contact Kelly Goehl at 919-532-9591
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7920 ACC Blvd, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617