The ApartMentor 2021 Issue 1

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Triangle Apartment Association 7920 ACC Blvd., Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617 919.782.1165 • 919.782.1169 FAX www.triangleaptassn.org TAA Office Hours Monday through Friday TAA Staff are currently working remotely.

The fastest way to reach us is email.

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

@TriangleAptAssn

CONTENTS 4 President’s Pen

18 Legal Issues

6 Board Installation

20 New Members

12-13 Upcoming Education

22 Calendar of Events

OFFICERS President

Vice President

Treasurer

Secretary

Craig Nardi CPM, CAPS IRO

Rob Boggs CAM Park and Market

Berry Craven CAMT Ginkgo Residential, LLC

Past President

@nctaa

Affiliated with:

Kelli Lea CAM, NAAEI Faculty Greystar

April Vasta CAPS, CAM Blue Ridge Companies

DIRECTORS TAA STAFF MEMBERS Josie H. Eatmon, Executive Director jeatmon@triangleaptassn.org

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 Arium Southpoint

Franklin Rodriguez CAPS, CAMT Blue Ridge Companies

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

Rachel Garavito Young Natalie Hart CAS CAS Loebsack & The Liberty Group Brownlee, PLLC

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 Jennifer Creech, Membership & Marketing Manager jcreech@triangleaptassn.org Dan Pauley, Staff Accountant dpauley@triangleaptassn.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: 1,172 Total Units: 152,635 Apartment Communities: 669 Suppliers: 275 Management Companie s: 166 IRO: 62

TAA Snapshot as of 2/28/2021 the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 3

Where did the first two months of 2021 go? Is it just me or is time flying like it never has before?? It‘s incredibly ironic that this comes on the heels of most of us saying 2020 was the “longest year ever,” yet it now seems we’re in a time warp so fast paced that I can barely catch my breath or remember what day it is— please tell me I’m not alone!

If you’re new to the Triangle Apartment Association, WELCOME! I’m Kelli Lea and I am thankful, honored, and humbled to be your 2021 President! I’m a returning President which is pretty rare, but I’m a firm believer that things happen for a reason and I wasn’t done giving all that I have to give to this great Association!

I have made the best friends and formed meaningful relationships over the many years being involved in TAA that will stick with me for life. If we don’t know each other quite yet, we probably have a lot more in common than you may have initially assumed. My headshot on this article is pretty sweet and formal, but most days you’ll find me on Zoom or Teams with my hair in a bun, chewing on a pen, and muting at the exact right time to “politely correct” my children.

I’m also human. I’m a mom who has struggled balancing work, volunteer efforts, and getting my first and second grade boys through virtual school for almost a year. I’m a leader who wants to keep those on my teams motivated, but often am overwhelmed myself or unsure of how best to provide support for my people. I repeat—I am human.

Relatability and approachability is extremely important to me, and often what I seek in a leader. I’ve got really great examples within my inner circle, and I hope to be that for you, and for this Association as President.

We’ve got a lot on the docket for 2021 and have big shoes to fill from 2020! We made huge progress last year with Rental Assistance through Advocacy, fundraising, partnerships and program awareness and we are continuing to keep that as top priority for our membership. There is an entire page on our website dedicated to rental assistance resources and updated continuously as new details come from Federal funding and local municipalities begin to disperse that funding.

I KNOW we can blow 2020’s volunteer numbers out of the water as we continue to host virtual committee meetings and engagement opportunities. It’s hard to have multiple passionate people at the same site or office and only one can go to the meeting or event. We’ve seen so much more activity from these folks in the same office (suppliers too!) that can log on together. I will continue to encourage this so that everyone can join whichever committee or event piques their interest.

Our educational offerings are filling up quickly and the calendar is jam packed with something for everyone! We’re busy planning drive-in movie nights for family and friends, our massive in person trade show later this year, and so many more ways our membership can engage with each other. We also know that

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many of our supplier partners in particular suffered in 2020 and we will continue to come up with new ways to show how invaluable they are to our membership.

Lastly, but certainly not least, you’ll hear me talk about new initiatives surrounding DE&I, Diversity Equity and Inclusion.

I’m extremely passionate about moving the needle forward and embracing our differences, hearing more voices, and ultimately collaboratively moving this Association forward. Our Board of Directors felt a void about two years ago while working on our long term strategic plan. We ultimately decided a task force was needed to get the conversations going. I’ve been blown away by those of you that have reached out so far to be involved, so stay tuned for updates—I’m so excited to see what comes out of this group!

I’ll be attending various committee meetings and classes virtually in the upcoming weeks and I hope you’ll say Hi!! I also will bring back “Kelli’s Korner” videos, but will have to schedule that on the next day I’ve put makeup on!

With my last sentences, I’m putting it in the Universe—IN WRITING—to bring on the sunny skies and warmer temperatures! See you soon and cheers to an awesome 2021!!

Kelli Lea CAM, NAAEI Faculty TAA President Greystar taapresident@triangleaptassn.org

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Cindy Clare 2017 National Apartment Association Chairman

Elizabeth Godwin Riley 2021 President A New Lease on Life

Kelli Lea 2021 President Triangle Apartment Association

Todd Whitlow 2021 President Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation

The 2021 Boards of Directors Installation had a different look to it this year but was nonetheless a special day for our Association. On February 2, we were able to celebrate virtually with close to 175 members and guests. Cindy Clare, Chief Operating Officer, Bell Partners, Inc. and 2017 National Apartment Association Chairman of the Board kicked things off by sharing a few opening remarks and then swearing in the Presidents of each organization.

Each President was then able to thank the exiting 2020 board members for their service, share the 2021 vision and then swear in each of the respective Board of Directors. Congratulations to those serving on the A New Lease on Life, Triangle Apartment Association, and Triangle Apartment Association Education Foundation Boards. We look forward to working with you and all the amazing things that are in store for us this year.

Throughout the event, we played a game to help those in attendance learn more about the incoming board members. Thanks to everyone who participated and congratulations to those who answered the fun fact questions correctly and won a gift card. To help you get to know all the board members a little better, please check out the fun facts section on the next three pages of this issue.

to our newly installed 2021 Board Members!

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OFFICERS

Kelli Lea, President Greystar FUN FACT: I’m a great 3-point shooter and played basketball for years.

Craig Nardi, Vice President IRO FUN FACT: I once sang the National Anthem at a Major League Baseball game.

Rob Boggs, Treasurer Park and Market-Bell Partners, Inc. FUN FACT: I am a huge nerd for Greek and Roman mythology.

Berry Craven, Secretary Ginkgo Residential, LLC FUN FACT: I won a trip for my wife and I to Paris, France at my first ever NAA Apartmentalize.

April Vasta, Past President Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: I just bought a camper and plan on spending as much time as possible in it this year.

DIRECTORS

Heather Arndt The Greens at TryonBell Partners, Inc. FUN FACT: I play disc golf almost year round every weekend at courses throughout NC.

Katy Boone Related Management Companies FUN FACT: I like to do DIY projects which in the past have included wreath design, bow making wine bottle lamps, trinket bowls, tie dye and furniture refinishing projects.

Colleen Doubek Highmark Residential FUN FACT: I love cozy socks, blankets, pillows and can’t forget sharp pencils.

Chris Fortune Red Rhino Group FUN FACT: I filled in as my high school mascot for a few games.

Rachel Garavito Young Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC FUN FACT: I can recite the alphabet backwards in 5 seconds.

Natalie Hart The Liberty Group FUN FACT: I was a bridesmaid in two different weddings on the same day.

Ashley O’Connor King Properties, Inc. FUN FACT: I have a brand new baby named Lorelei.

Danielle Parker Arium Southpoint-CARROLL FUN FACT: My guilty pleasure is watching 90s sitcoms like I have never seen them before.

Franklin Rodriguez Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: I love sky diving.

Akeshia Thomas SERVPRO of N Raleigh, Wake Forest & N Durham FUN FACT: I am learning to play the acoustic guitar.

Judy Wade TradeMark Property Services, Inc.

Norm Praet, General Council Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

FUN FACT: I bring ham and rolls along with Christmas cookies to my grocery store peeps.

FUN FACT: I owned a restaurant in Chapel Hill called Cluck University Chicken.

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OFFICERS

Elizabeth Godwin Riley, President The Liberty Group FUN FACT: I love to send cards in the mail to friends to let them know I’m thinking about them. I sometimes stuff these cards full of glitter... cause you have to keep people on thier toes.

Katrina Murdock, Vice President Palms Associates, LLC FUN FACT: I have dual citizenship— UK and US.

Paula Kotarakos, Secretary/Treasurer Woodlake Reserve— Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: I have two different color eyes.

Todd Whitlow, Immediate Past President Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC FUN FACT: Two of my baby teeth remain in my mouth.

DIRECTORS

Shanae Auguste Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC FUN FACT: I love the Boston Red Sox.

Nicole Coschigano Sterlling Glenwood Apartments— Grubb Properties FUN FACT: I grew up in New York City and San Francisco

Chris Fortune Red Rhino Group FUN FACT: I filled in as my high school mascot for a few games.

Larry Hinnant Miracle Movers, Inc. FUN FACT: I am in pilot school and working on getting my private pilot’s license.

Leslie Mathis Streamline Multifamily Group FUN FACT: I love to water ski.

Misti McElwee Wood Residential Services FUN FACT: I love karaoke, especially not good karaoke.

Terry Ragland Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: I played the autoharp as a child.

Bret Smith BullHouse Apartments— Lantower Luxury Living FUN FACT: I am named after a Legendary Kansas City Royal baseball player.

Yvonne Telles-Marotta District Station— Zaremba Management Company FUN FACT: I lived in Brazil for 3 years.

Chris Williams RentPath, LLC FUN FACT: I got my first job in this industry by turning in my notice to vacate after college graduation.

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OFFICERS

Todd Whitlow, President Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC FUN FACT: Two of my baby teeth remain in my mouth.

Nikki Worthley, Vice President Bell Partners, Inc. FUN FACT: I love, love Halloween and decorate our yard, house and always have the whole family dress up!

Julie Chu Zhang Secretary/Treasurer FUN FACT: I placed 3rd in the state championship for pole vaulting.

Latoya Patterson Immediate Past President Ginkgo Residential, LLC FUN FACT: I personally met First Lady Michelle Obama.

DIRECTORS

Judy Caldwell The Home Depot Pro FUN FACT: I wrote a children’s book.

Reginald Evans Haven at Patterson Place– Bell Partners, Inc. FUN FACT: I am a former Firefighter and Police Officer.

Jesse Jenkins Valet Living, LLC FUN FACT: When I was 17, one of my first jobs was working for a company that was both a grocery store and sold sand.

I had to answer the phone “Hines Grocery and Sand.”

Deanne Faison Sumpter Square Apartments– Drucker + Falk FUN FACT: I love cashmere.

Paula Kotarakos Woodlake Reserve– Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: I have two different color eyes.

Emma Wingfield Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC FUN FACT: I am allergic to gold.

Angel Oliver Blue Ridge Companies FUN FACT: When I was 20, my best friend and I rented a convertible, took a month off of work, and traveled from NC to CA and back. We had no itinerary.

Rhian Mayhew, General Counsel Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC FUN FACT: I have 3 citizenships—USA, Canada and Britain.

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Tara Gerberich BG Multifamily FUN FACT: I have been in Multifamily for 1/2 of my life and it is the only industry that I have worked in professionally.

TAA Political Action Committee

BECOME A 2021 TAA-PAC MEMBER TODAY! As municipal election season is heating up, TAA-PAC needs your support now more than ever! Last year, TAA-PAC endorsed nine candidates and one bond referendum, all of which were successful, making it the most successful campaign cycle in PAC history. This year, TAA-PAC has set an ambitious goal of raising $40,000, which will allow the association to play an active role in elections across the region. Help us to achieve this ambitious goal by becoming a Club Level Member today and enjoy a number of exclusive member-only benefits.

Representative’s Club: $50 • Invitation to participate in quarterly conference calls.

• Member pricing for quarterly breakfast and other PAC events.

Senator’s Club: $150 • • • •

Invitation to participate in quarterly conference calls.

Member pricing for quarterly breakfasts and other PAC events.

Complimentary admission to one quarterly breakfast event.

Recognition on materials at any TAA-PAC-related functions.

Vice President’s Club: $500 • • • •

•

Invitation to participate in quarterly conference calls.

Member pricing for quarterly breakfasts and other PAC events.

Complimentary admission to two quarterly breakfast events.

Recognition on materials at any TAA-PAC-related functions and special verbal recognition at all TAA-PAC functions.

Membership on the Board of Trustees and one vote.

President’s Club: $1000 • • • •

• •

Invitation to participate in quarterly conference calls.

Member pricing for quarterly breakfasts and other PAC events.

Complimentary admission to all quarterly breakfast events.

Recognition on materials at any TAA-PAC-related functions and special verbal recognition at all TAA-PAC functions.

Membership on the Board of Trustees and three votes.

Eligibility to serve as TAA-PAC Chairperson.

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Government Affairs

Join us for Government Affairs 101: March into Government Affairs!

Have you ever wondered what the Government Affairs Committee does? Are you curious about learning more about TAAPAC? Or TAA’s partnership with AANC and NAA? If so, this is the event for you!

TAA uses to advocate on behalf of membership and the various volunteer opportunities available to members who want to help with these efforts. There will also be an opportunity to win great prizes throughout the event!

Join members of the TAA Government Affairs Committee as they host TAA’s first-ever Government Affairs 101 Session to introduce members to the association’s advocacy efforts. At this free, virtual event, you will learn more about the tools

For more information and to register, please visit: https://www.triangleaptassn.org/events/governmentaffairs-101-march-into-government-affairs

General Assembly Starts Long Session The North Carolina General Assembly recently returned to Raleigh to begin the Long Session, the annual work period in which new bills will be filed and the budget will be debated and approved. The Republican-controlled House and Senate have many issues to address this session, but chief amongst them will be how to spend federal coronavirus relief funds.

The General Assembly has already appropriated $546 million in federal assistance program to the state’s HOPE Program and additional federal dollars are expected in the coming months.

AANC will be focusing on a number of priority issues during this session including changes to Landlord-Tenant Law, Safe Harbor Liability Protections, Emotional Support Animal regulations, Private Process Servers and Property Tax Abatement.

Stay tuned for updates from TAA as Session unfolds. There will be plenty of opportunities to engage with lawmakers and advocate for the industry on these priority issues.

TAA’s Regional Roundtable Free Networking opportunity for Owner/Operator CEOs, VPs and RPMs On February 5, TAA hosted its first of four Regional Roundtable virtual events. These are held quarterly, planned by the TAA Past President’s Council, and open to Regional Managers, Vice Presidents, and CEOs. Those in attendance can exchange ideas and information with other owner/operator professionals in the multifamily housing industry, within the Triangle market.

Interested in attending our next Regional Roundtable? Plan to join us on Friday, April 9, 12:30pm – 1:30pm. Visit the TAA website to register.

Thank you to our Event Sponsors, the 2021 Champion Business Partners.

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education classes Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO) March 12 – March 13, 2021 Online Webinar $325 Members Instructor: Mark Peele Please note: This is a two-day virtual course and certification program offering instruction in swimming pool/spa maintenance and safety.

Conflict Resolution March 16, 2021 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM $59 Members 2 CECs Instructor: Brandon Negron In this course, we will identify some tried and true techniques in

Affordable Housing 101 March 23, 2021 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM $59 Members 2 CECs Instructor: Brandon Negron

Online CPO Certification Process: Once you register for the class, you will receive a confirmation email which will include your Zoom webinar access link. This course will be conducted over two days via Zoom and the exam being conducted online. You will need to have access to a computer with a webcam and microphone for the course/exam, so we can verify identity.

dealing with conflict resolution. We will discuss de-escalation techniques. We will investigate how we as managers may build comfort zones that give residents the freedom to push and cross lines. We will take a look at what you “have to take” versus what you “don’t have to take.” Finally, we will discuss some real-life case scenarios where residents and/or managers went too far, resident retaliation, and managing social media conflict.

In this course, learn some of the complexities of the affordable housing industry. Understand its many layers. From Rural Development to the nuts and bolts of the Low Income Housing Tax Credit, this course will help you navigate the management of an affordable housing community while arming you with the necessary information to feel confident in your decision-making.

ARE YOU LOOKING FOR...

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TAA classes will be conducted via a virtual platform for the first two quarters of 2021, with the exception of CFC.

Certified Pool Operator Course (CPO) April 9 – April 10, 2021 Online Webinar $325 Members Instructor: Mark Peele Please note: This is a two-day virtual course and certification program offering instruction in swimming pool/spa maintenance and safety.

Online CPO Certification Process: Once you register for the class, you will receive a confirmation email which will include your Zoom webinar access link. This course will be conducted over two days via Zoom and the exam being conducted online. You will need to have access to a computer with a webcam and microphone for the course/exam, so we can verify identity.

Fair Housing: Keeping It Fair April 14, 2021 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM $59 Members 2 CECs Instructor: Rich George

CFC/EPA Certification & Testing April 20, 2021 In–Person Session $299 Members Instructor: David Cameron

Take the fear out of Fair Housing laws through a better understanding of their creation, purpose, and implementation. In this Fair Housing program, Rich will cover the basics of Fair Housing for all levels of the multi-family industry. This program is designed for new hires and can be used as a refresher course for veteran industry professionals as well. The course content will help the learner understand what issues, questions, comments, and requests could be governed by fair housing guidelines.

This certification course will include 5 hours of instruction followed by testing for certification in one or all of the following: Type I, Type II, Type III and Universal certification in the use of EPA regulated refrigerant gases. Attendees will be instructed in the rules and regulations that meet compliance with the EPA refrigerant recycle rules. All instruction materials will be provided.

Access to your target audience and exposure for your company?

TAA can help!

We have Education sponsorships for every target audience.

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NAAEI CREDENTIAL HOLDERS CONGRATULATIONS!

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

Christa Briggs - Beaver Creek Apartments Caroline Chappell - Cortland Bull City Clark Jeffreys - The Apartment at Midtown 501 Stacee Anne Perry - Retreat on Lake Lynn Ana Garcia, CAM The Arbors at East Village

Amanda Graham, CAM Ashley Park in Brier Creek

Danielle Parker, CAM Arium Southpoint

Lindsay Zaleski-Sohn - Broadstone Trailside

Congrats to the following individuals who have earned the National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI).

Stephanie Leone - 511 Faye Hitha Rajesh-Rajkumar - CrossTimbers Apartments

Shelby Smith, NALP Legacy at Wakefield

2020 Instructors: Thanks so much for

Thanks a Bunch!

inspiring, guiding, and

(CAM) Certified Apartment Manager/ (CAS) Certified Apartment Supplier

• Genea Closs, NAAEI Faculty • Brandon Negron, NAAEI Faculty

engaging industry

• Todd Whitlow, NAAEI Faculty

professionals in learning and growing to meet their potential. It is with deep

appreciation and gratitude that TAA would like to take this opportunity to say thank

you.

• Kathy Woodard, NAAEI Faculty Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technician (CAMT)

• Mark Cukro, NAAEI Faculty National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP), Virtual Platform

• Terry Ragland, NAAEI Faculty • Rebecca Rosario, NAAEI Faculty the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 14

2021 TAA Business Partners Strategic

Premier

Champion

TAA Supporters

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Government Affairs

Education

Membership Independent Rental Owners Thought about getting involved? Looking for a way to invest in your Association and give back? Joining a committee may be the perfect way to do just that! TAA relies on our volunteers to make our Association a success.

And, with eight different committees, you are sure to find one that best suits your interests.

Some of our committee members have shared how they got involved, why they serve and some general information. Not sure where to start? Reach out to taa@triangleaptassn.org and we will help you get started or answer any questions you may have about the available volunteer opportunities.

Jennifer “ Jenn “ Allen General Manager, Real Floors Raleigh Which committee(s) do you serve on?

Public Relations and Community Outreach Committee How did you get involved? I was referred

by Brandy Rutledge who has volunteered with TAA for many years on a couple different committees.

Why do you serve? I serve because I love serving people. I was new to Raleigh and North Carolina when I relocated for my company and I thought it was a wonderful way to learn my community and my community needs and was searching to find a way to engage with my Multifamily network and give back.

What does your committee do? PR and Community Outreach is responsible for promoting TAA to our local community and the public by helping facilitate awareness for our brand. We are the front lines of volunteering opportunities that help us communicate available community service projects to other TAA members and committees.

Other information you want to share? I have enjoyed being a member of my committee and the wonderful relationships and friendships it’s afforded me. TAA is a wonderful organization that is full of amazing and thriving professionals who love to see our community and industry grow. I’m grateful to be able to invest in RDU through this wonderful outlet of professionals.

Dena Daniels VP Rental Homes & Operations, TradeMark Property Services, Inc.

Majela Fonseca Marketing Director, Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

Which committee do you serve on? Independent Rental Owners Planning Committee (IRO)

Which committee(s) do you serve on?

Products & Services Committee

How did you get involved? As a longtime member of TAA (nearly 20 years), I have been an advocate and active participant of the Government Affairs Committee. Once my career path took me to TradeMark and I was entrenched in the single-family world, I was asked if I would consider Co-Chairing the IRO Committee as independent owners were in fact part of my client base. I jumped at the chance to share my knowledge of the legal world in the rental business and hoped to learn more about the needs of independent owners.

Why do you serve? The rental business has been amazing for me both professionally and personally. I have made life-long friends by being in this organization, had career paths change and doors open thanks to TAA. I took the knowledge I gained and used that to start my own Short-Term Rental real estate business.

I understand the plight of the small, independent owner and the large investor equally. If I can help join people with like goals or bring someone into the group who can teach others or share their story so others may learn, then it is a win-win for all.

What does your committee do? We aim to guide the smaller, independent real estate owner through the hurdles of the legal world, finance, acquisitions, sales, and any other part of rental management/ownership. Large companies have specialized departments to pull a wealth of knowledge from when issues arise. The IRO does not. This group provides support in every way possible to that Owner so they may be successful.

Other information you want to share?

I am seeking a like-minded, driven person to assist with co-chairing this group with me.

There are lots of issues and things we all need to learn and discover especially as we all swim through this Covid-19/pandemic world. I would love and welcome another person’s perspective and assistance with bringing in great speakers, etc. Please let me know if you are interested.

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How did you get involved? I was motivated to join a committee when I started working at Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, as a way to meet other industry peers and be involved in the planning of events.

Why do you serve? Being part of a committee is a way to TAKE ACTION and be a part of the effort that goes into making the association successful. It not only allows you to build stronger relationships with peers but also, contribute to the growth of the industry.

What does your committee do? The committee shares industry news among peers and plans events to bring both sides of the membership together.

Other information you want to share?

Our firm is proud to serve on multiple committees.

Bobby High Business Developer, Ruppert Landscape, Inc. Which committee(s) do you serve on? Xcel and Government Affairs Committees How did you get involved? In 2018 I became a member of the Triangle Apartment Association and I’ve been involved with both committees since January/February of 2018.

Why do you serve? TAA has given me the opportunity to interact, engage, and serve with the most forward-thinking leaders of the Triangle Apartment Market. When serving and engaging, I am most equipped on how to best interact and influence the marketplace as a local landscape contractor.

What does your committee do? The Xcel Committee seeks to ENGAGE with the association, DEVELOP your career, and SERVE our community. Government Affairs seeks to educate and develop professionals in the Triangle Apartment Market of how local & national government is impacting the industry.

Excel

PR & Community Outreach

Special Events Products & Services Other information you want to share?

Those who are consistently involved in TAA are often the most enthusiastic and best performing professionals in their field. It is a huge honor to have been influenced and befriended by so many impressive individuals in TAA but most specifically in the two committees I have had the privilege to serve on!

David Lowery Assistant Community Manager, Thornhill Apartments IRT Management, LLC Which committee(s) do you serve on?

Membership Committee How did you get involved? Moving back to NC after being away for 22 years, and in a different career path altogether, had its challenges with knowing relatively no one here in the Triangle area. I was previously on the Vendor/Supplier side of the industry and joined TAA and volunteered with the Special Events committee to get to know and network more with property management professionals.

Why do you serve? Becoming actively involved with TAA and in its committees and events has proven to be quite beneficial and rewarding as it has been a great way to help build relationships with others in the business.

It also serves as a creative outlet to be able to lend my talents and skills collectively for projects and initiatives. The Association as a whole has many different, valuable attributes from which one can learn, grow and develop.

I stay involved to remain current and prevalent in my field and with hopes to assist others in theirs.

What does your committee do? Our committee is responsible for recruiting, retaining and rewarding the Association’s members. To accomplish this, we lead an annual Membership Engagement Drive campaign; host a Volunteer Appreciation event to reward our active volunteers for all their hard work; and organize the Ambassador Program, while serving as “buddies”, with a focus on new member orientation who may want guidance on using association benefits.

Other information you want to share?

I love volunteering my time and efforts for the Triangle Apartment Association, and sincerely hope others not currently involved could experience and attain the great benefits from doing so.

Stephanie Smith Senior Rental Consultant, CORT Furniture Which committee(s) do you serve on?

Special Events Committee In 2021, I am the Committee Secretary and the Co-Chair for our Drive Shack Golf Outing.

How did you get involved? In 2019 as a part of my professional developmental plan I committed to being more involved with the association. I have a strong interest in Event Curation, so this was the perfect fit!

Why do you serve? I wanted to expand my knowledge of the industry while making both a difference and like-minded friends. I couldn’t have chosen a better way to do this.

What does your committee do? Our committee puts all the small details into place to make sure that the events are a huge success. This includes venues, food, activities, and any other detail that you could think of.

Other information you want to share?

If you are on the fence about becoming more active with the association or joining a committee. I encourage you to visit a few of the committee meetings to see what interests you the most; there is truly something for everyone.

I have experienced so much growth; both professionally and personally since doing so.

Lawrence B. Spivey Community Manager, Autumn Ridge Apartments RealSource Management, LLC Which committee(s) do you serve on? Government Affairs, PR & Community Outreach and Education Committees How did you get involved? I have previously attended classes through the Triangle Apartment Association and enjoyed how well the courses were put together and wanted to be a part of TAA in some way.

Why do you serve? I enjoy helping others and sharing my experiences in Property Management and I hope it will help to build a network of experts in our industry.

What does your committee do? Government Affairs monitors municipal, county, state, and national legislation that impacts our the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 17

industry. At our meetings, we frequently host elected officials and senior municipal staff. We help to identify and set the advocacy agenda for the year, while developing a network of industry leaders and policy makers. PR & Community Outreach is responsible for promoting TAA to the general public and creating brand recognition for the industry and our Association. We also plan and advertise TAA’s ongoing outreach and community service projects. Education provides proactive oversight of TAA’s education programs and oversees the TAA Leadership of Excellence Program. We also promote the TAA Education Scholarship Fund and conduct annual fundraising efforts.

Other information you want to share?

Please, if you have time in your busy schedule, serve on a committee that you are excited or passionate about. There is always a need for help to push the goals and vision of each committee to help the Triangle Apartment Association better serve our industry and community.

Stephanie Tripp Property Manager, Berkshire Ninth Street, Berkshire Residential Investments Which committee(s) do you serve on? Education Committee How did you get involved? I found the interest form on their website and sent it in with encouragement from my Regional Manager.

Why do you serve? Serving on the Education Committee is not only an opportunity to network with many inside our industry, but it’s an opportunity to change and grow our industry—whether it’s by offering unique classes, community service or the annual trade show. The TAA gives so much back to its members and its community, this is a way for its members to give back to the TAA. What does your committee do? The Education Committee focuses on just that: education. We plan and provide input on upcoming classes, seminars, workshops, etc. as well as oversee TAA’s Leadership of Excellence Program. We also raise money for the TAA Education Fund to help members achieve their NAA Credentials and further their careers.

Legal Issues There are many rental assistance programs that residents of Triangle multifamily communities may be eligible for, and they are not equal in terms of what you will receive as the housing provider, and what you must agree to in exchange for the rental assistance funds. Below we take a high-level discussion of a number of the more popular and better funded programs. Many of these programs may also supply utility assistance as well, but for purposes of the article we will only review the rental assistance aspect of the programs.

EMERGENCY RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM-CONSOLIDATED APPROPRIATIONS ACT, 2021 This is the new program where $25 million was allocated to rental assistance programs we have been waiting for since it was signed into law on December 27, 2020. While writing this article on February 22, 2021, a long awaited second FAQ was released, giving further guidance to the grantees (state and local government who received the funds) as to how they should structure their programs to disburse the funds. It is expected these funds at the state level in North Carolina will be administered through the NC Office of Resiliency and Recovery, as the NC HOPE funds were, but that was not certain at the time this article was written.

WHAT IS AVAILABLE: North Carolina will receive approximately $700 million of which Triangle areas may be eligible for: $524 million to NC at a state level, $19 million for Wake County, $14 million to Raleigh, $8.4 million to City of Durham, and $1.2 million for County of Durham.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: These funds can be awarded for an eligible household which satisfies one of the following criteria: • Qualifies for unemployment or has experienced a reduction in household income, incurred significant costs, or experienced a financial hardship due to COVID-19, • Demonstrates a risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability, and • Has a household income at or below 80 percent of the area median.

Also, eligible households that include an individual who has been unemployed for the 90 days prior to application for assistance and households with income at or

NC Rental Assistance and Summary Ejectment Update By: Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC below 50 percent of the area median are to be prioritized for assistance, though not much guidance has been given as to how to prioritize these households.

HOW MUCH: Eligible households may receive up to 12 months of assistance, plus an additional 3 months if the extra months are needed to ensure housing stability and funds are available. Residents may apply for additional funds if funds are needed by the resident and still available under the program.

WHAT TO KNOW: If the landlord does not accept the funds they may be released directly to the resident. With funds in hand, the resident may choose to pay the funds directly to the current community or relocate to a different property. With respect to reaching out to the current landlord the following guidance was provided in the February 22 FAQ: As required by the Act, grantees must make reasonable efforts to obtain the cooperation of landlords and utility providers to accept payments from the ERA program. Outreach will be considered complete if (i) a request for participation is sent in writing, by mail, to the landlord or utility provider, and the addressee does not respond to the request within 14 calendar days after mailing; (ii) the grantee has made at least three attempts by phone, text, or e-mail over a 10 calendar-day period to request the landlord or utility provider’s participation; or (iii) a landlord confirms in writing that the landlord does not wish to participate.

As many of the states and localities were awaiting the February 22, 2021 guidance to complete and release the details of their programs there are no formal details yet for any of the grantees receiving funds identified above, so you will need to review any documentation on the programs that you receive. There is also some concern that if you accept funds from a resident who received funds under this program that you will be subjecting community to various duties or responsibilities, but it is not clear yet how and if these will apply.

FEDERAL CARES ACT FUNDS/NC HOPE WHAT IS AVAILABLE: Approximately $125 million dollars

in federal funds that were appropriated through the CARES Act were administered

by North Carolina Office of Recovery and the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 18

Resilience. Applications for the program were accepted though November 10, 2020, halted for a time until the time to disburse the funds was extended from December 31, 2020 to December 31, 2021.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE: Residents who can demonstrate they are at 80% adjusted median income or less, they are experiencing COVID Hardship and can provide Proof of Residency (General), Current Lease, Past Due Rent/Eviction Notice.

HOW MUCH IS PAID: Up to six months of rent was paid. During the course of this program the calculation changed from actual rent to approximate rent based on a calculated formula.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR: The program has continued to evolve and change while it was being administered.

If you received a prior agreement for a resident and another is sent to you, read it carefully, you may find the new terms acceptable. The most resent change as of the time of writing occurred on January 22, 2021. If you have an older agreement you may ask that a new agreement be sent to you.

LOCAL PROGRAMS

WHERE: The following Triangle counties have rental assistance programs: Wake, Durham, and Orange counties all have separate rental assistance programs in place, as well as the Triangle municipalities of Cary, Chapel Hill, and Durham.

WHAT TO WATCH OUT FOR: Each program is different with very different terms. Each agreement should be reviewed very carefully.

SUMMARY As you can see there are many programs that a resident may present to you.

A few of the programs even require you to forgive base rent. Additionally, a resident may be eligible under different programs, but ineligible once assistance is received from any program. You should review the program carefully and determine whether it is a good business decision for your community.

This article is not legal advice and should not be relied upon as such, nor does it create an attorney client relationship.

Economic Forecast On February 16, just over 100 attendees joined us for TAA’s Economic Forecast: State of Triangle Market. Our Government Affairs Director, Dustin Engelken, served as the Moderator for the virtual event. The panelists covered topics such as the economic outlook, impacts of COVID-19, and an overview of what is currently happening in our market. Whitney Nye, Apartments.com, joined the group at the end to share information from their search analytics as well. Thanks to the generosity and support of our sponsors, we were able to show their commercials between each of the panelist’s presentations.

Thank you to our Panelists:

Thank you Event Sponsors, the 2021 Premier Business Partners.

Michael E. Walden, Ph.D. Professor & Extension Economist | NC State University John B. Linderman, Jr., Principal, Managing Director | Avison Young Victoria Lim, Market Analyst | CoStar

DEI Task Force The Triangle Apartment Association (TAA) is forming a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Task Force. The primary goals will be to:

Create and execute a survey to the membership to assess its DEI capacity and bandwidth; and, based on the survey results, provide recommendations to the TAA Board of Directors on steps to move forward its DEI initiative, which is part of TAA’s Strategic Plan to:

• Create environments where people can excel and advance as their authentic selves, and • Improve business outcomes by being more representative of demographics and by bringing together more variety in ways of thinking to better solve complex issues.

The Task Force aims is to be inclusive of race and ethnicity, yet also of gender identity, sexual orientation, ability, culture, generation, veteran status, tenure, and role, among other characteristics. In whole, a collaboration of a diverse group of TAA members whose goal is to work together for the greater good of the organization and industry. The group will meet monthly from April – October 2021 to do its work.

Thanks to those who submitted an interest form by the deadline of Friday, March 5 at 5pm. The Task Force members will be announced via social media on March 19. the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 19

New Members APARTMENT COMMUNITIES Best Village

911 Savanah Lane Kinston, NC 28501 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 50

Candour House

1050 Slater Road Durham, NC 27703 Contact: Stephanie Rodriguez reservepattersonmgr@greystar. com (919)519-5936 Units: 276

Cleveland Crossing

26 Anvil Peak Drive Garner, NC 27529 Contact: Emily Northrup cdcleveland@liverangewater.com (919)500-3500 Units: 170

Evolve at Heritage Apartments

3761 Raleigh Road Parkway West Wilson, NC 27896 Contact: Jackie Morelli jackie@evolvecos.com (336)253-0792 Units: 144

Lakeside Apartments

111 Cameron Drive Elizabeth City, NC 27909 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 50

Lovett Square Apartments 211 Stokes Street Durham, NC 27701 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 60

Marsh Creek

2410 Brentwood Road Raleigh, NC 27604 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 24

Milburnie Road

901 Sawpit Drive Raleigh, NC 27610 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 50

Pine Ridge Apartments 409 Galveston Court Cary, NC 27513 Contact: Karri Clark kclark@aptdynamics.com (336)884-8853 Units: 60

Savannah Place

1519 Savannah Place Durham, NC 27713 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 84

Sherwood Park

500 McCallie Avenue Durham, NC 27704 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 71

The Arbors

2611 Pine Village Road Raleigh, NC 27615 Contact: Amber Laird amber.laird@greyco.com (317)570-3412 Units: 50

The Line

500 North West Street Raleigh, NC 27603 Contact: Mary Ehrenberger mehrenberger@thelineraleigh. com (919)590-0630 Units: 283

Trails Corner

804-817 McMakin Street Raleigh, NC 27610 Contact: Kim Robinson brookside@wellingtonadvisors. com (919)821-5525 Units: 56

INDEPENDENT RENTAL OWNERS Principal Holdings LLC 2950 White Oak Road Raleigh, NC 27609 Contact: Mark Queen mark@rmqueen.com (919)510-0976 Units: 3

Raleigh Property Management, LLC

2500 Regency Parkway Cary, NC 27518 Contact: Diane Murdock diane@raleighinvestment.com (919)368-3077 Units: 250

Tulip Canyon

360 East Evelyn Avenue Suite #113 Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Contact: Ben Connors ben@tulipcanyon.com (650)400-3374 Units: 5

MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Haven Residential

710 Barret Avenue Louisville, KY 40204 Contact: Kel Eddings kel.eddings@havenresidential. com (502)562-1985

S2 Residential LLC

5950 Berkshire Lane Dallas, TX 75225 Contact: Michele Flores mflores@s2cp.com (972)930-0986

the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 20

Sandhurst Apartment Management

6525 Morrison Blvd Suite 400 Charlotte, NC 28211 Contact: Andrea Bullard abullard@samapartments.com (225)315-5859

SUPPLIERS Alamance Farmers’ Mutual Insurance Company 128 West Harden Street Graham, NC 27253 Contact: Lisa Snyder lisas@afmic.net (336)645-8737 Insurance & Risk Management

BankFinancial

60 North Frontage Road Burr Ridge, IL 60527 Contact: Ashley Helm ahelm@bankfinancial.com (910)286-5659 Financial/Brokerage Services

Centex Construction

23422 Lutheran Cemetery Road Tomball, TX 77377 Contact: Lauren Whitehead lwhitehead@centexconstruction. com (281)682-4336 General Contractors | Renovation & Capital Improvement Contractors | Roofing | Turn Service Contractors

Meridian Waste

103 Rupert Road Raleigh, NC 27603 Contact: Allie Snipes asnipes@meridianwaste.com (910)308-1307 Trash or Recycling: Bulk Removal/ Apartment Clean Out | Trash or Recycling: Doorstep Collection

Mullis Construction Group

514 Woodlawn Street Belmont, NC 28012 Contact: James Mullis jami@mullisconstructiongroup. com (704)798-8419 Fences/Fencing | General Contractors | Mold Remediation Contractors | Painting Contractors | Parking Lot Contractors | Renovation & Capital Improvement Contractors

Strategic Spotlight

Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC focuses on providing one singular service: supporting residential property management companies navigate the legal process of evictions. Founded in 2012 by Chris Loebsack and Will Brownlee, the eviction services firm currently has 5 regional offices throughout North and South Carolina, with about 20 attorneys and 30 team members on staff. In addition to the Carolinas, they also serve the metropolitan areas of Savannah, Augusta and Metro Atlanta in Georgia.

Remember going to events and getting swag!? Good times...

Our Firm has always prided itself on having the best promotional items for our visitors. But seriously, we are also known for the work we do every October raising awareness for victims of Domestic Violence during our annual #PurpleOut campaign. We also provide free Lunch-n-Learn training sessions for our clients, up to twice each year, so their teams can stay up to date on legal issues that matter to their Company.

In addition to serving the multifamily industry, Loebsack & Brownlee offers their employees a culture that makes it so much fun to come to work, despite the long hours. Keeping that culture going has been challenging during the

pandemic, but there are fun things that come up here and there to keep the team connected, like virtual fitness Fridays and a book club.

Mission: We provide full-service legal and business solutions focusing on Multifamily, Community Associations and Transactional Real Estate. Our Firm sets itself apart by providing not only critical legal analysis, but also offering our clients the real-world implications leading to the most meaningful and economically efficient solutions.

Core Values:

• Education. We sponsor as many classes and seminars as we can to support the apartment industry and our current and future leaders. We also encourage our team to continue their education by attending seminars and conferences, as well as NAAEI CAS credentials.

• Outreach. Domestic Violence Awareness is a cause close to our heart, and we dedicate the entire month of October to #PurpleOut, a fundraising initiative raising awareness and monetary donations for DV shelters and organizations in the three (3) states we serve.

TAA Member Since: 2014 Areas Served: North Carolina, South Carolina, and Georgia Hashtags: #LBAgainstDV #PurpleOut #OnFridaysWeWearPurple #EllenB (a nod to our stuffed Unicorn and initials of the Firm) #KnowBetterDoBetter (Something Chris always says, pertinent to Fair Housing) #LBGoesGreen (Will be bringing this back coming up with Earth day 2021!)

Want more info? Contact: Attorney: Chris Loebsack | Chris@LoebsackBrownlee.com | 704-970-3900 Client Services: Michael Bell | Michael@LoebsackBrownlee.com | 843-647-7012 Marketing: Rachel Garavito Young | Rachel@LoebsackBrownlee.com | 704-412-9719 the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 21

March 2021

3

12-13

16

17

Supplier Town Hall

Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO)

Conflict Resolution

Tour of Cities

23

24

26

26

Affordable Housing 101

April

2

Government Affairs 101: March Into Government Affairs

CALP Orientation

Please visit our website for the most up-to-date listing of TAA classes, events, and meetings including times, locations, and details.

9-10

9

TAA Closed, Good Friday

Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO)

Regional Roundtable

20

20

TBD

CFC/CPA Certification & Testing (in-person class)

May

19-20

Legal Issues

TAA-PAC First Quarter Membership Breakfast

14

Fair Housing – Keeping It Fair

Maximizing Your Membership

TAA Night at the Movies (In-person event)

21-22

31

Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO)

TAA Closed, Memorial Day

TBD

TAA Night at the Movies (in-person event)

Advertiser’s Index

PAGE

Apartment Association of North Carolina ___________________________________________________________________________2 Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC ______________________________________________________________________________________24 Tidal Electrical Services, Inc. ______________________________________________________________________________________5 the ApartMentor 2020 | Issue 4 18

Looking for ad space? Contact us for availability and pricing at taa@triangleaptassn.org.

the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 22

mber shd ip: e M r u o Y e olve Maximiz cted and Inv Conne 11am Get Started, 20 | 10am – l ri p A y, a sd Tue

the ApartMentor 2021 | Issue 1 23

7920 ACC Blvd, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617