the ApartMentor May/June 2018 issue by Triangle Apartment Association

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 2

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 8:30am-5:00pm 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

12 Legal Issues

6 Upcoming Education

8 New Members

30 Calendar of Events

Upcoming Events

OFFICERS President

Vice President

Treasurer

Claire Michael

April Vasta

Kelli Lea

Secretary

Immediate Past President

Rita Zepeda

Andy Meador

@nctaa

Affiliated with:

CAM Fairfield Residential, LLC

CAPS, CAM Blue Ridge Companies, Inc.

CAM Greystar

CPM, CAPS, CAM PRG Real Estate Management, Inc.

CAMT McDowell Properties, LLC

DIRECTORS TAA STAFF MEMBERS Josie H. Eatmon, Executive Director jeatmon@triangleaptassn.org Suzanne Pratt, Director of Professional Development spratt@triangleaptassn.org

Rob Boggs

CAM TriBridge Residential, LLC

Julie Chu Zhang CAPS, CAM Bell Partners, Inc.

Berry Craven

Steve Hayworth

Judy Wade

Chris Williams

CAMT Ginkgo Residential, LLC

Drucker + Falk

Kristi Henderson Redi Carpet, Inc.

Craig Nardi

CPM Palms Associates, LLC

Vicki Franciosi, Meetings & Events Director vfranciosi@triangleaptassn.org Dustin Engelken, Government Affairs Director dengelken@triangleaptassn.org Susan Williams, Finance Director swilliams@triangleaptassn.org Candace Patrick, Membership & Marketing Manager cpatrick@triangleaptassn.org Meg Palumbo, Communications Manager mpalumbo@triangleaptassn.org Dan Pauley, Staff Accountant dpauley@triangleaptassn.org Ariel Rosario, Member Services Coordinator arosario@triangleaptassn.org Madeline Gale, Government Affairs Intern intern@triangleaptassn.org

Cindy Nitschke Rebecca Rosario-Bueno CAS Valet Living, LLC

CAM, NALP, NAAEI Full House Marketing

RentPath, LLC

Norm Praet

General Counsel Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC

COMMITTEE CO-CHAIRS Education:

PR & Community Outreach:

Paula Kotarakos Derek Tarrant Kathy Woodard

Bret Smith Akeshia Thomas

Government Affairs:

Products & Services:

Katy Boone Craig Nardi

Chad Anderson

Special Events:

IRO:

Becki Hale Cindy Nitschke

Membership:

Rob Boggs Josh Scholl

Michel Charbonnier Tim Masters Robyn Gastol Elizabeth Godwin-Riley

This issue of the ApartMentor is designed and published by Moonstone Studio, LLC, proud member of the Triangle Apartment Association.

CAPS, CAM TradeMark Residential Properties, Inc.

XCEL:

Total Members: 1,000 Total Units: 129,422 Apartment Communities: 564 Suppliers: 231 Management Companie s: 145 IRO: 60

TAA Snapshot as of 4/25/201 8 the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 3

President’s Pen Spring has finally sprung! And with spring comes longer days, blooming flowers, allergies, and singing birds. In our industry, the onset of sunny skies also means peak leasing season is about to arrive. The Triangle is an exceptionally seasonal market, and a large portion of our market is comprised of colleges and the transient population that occupy these higher education institutions. As a result, the majority of apartment communities structure their lease expirations around the summer months. And if you are part of a proactive team, the summer months can be some of the most successful in the calendar, yielding significant income growth for your company. So how can you prepare for the busy and extremely important next few months ahead? Well, everyone knows that the answer is spring cleaning! Before the arrival of this seasonal influx of would-be renters, it is essential to make sure your teams are trained and have all the necessary tools they need. Be sure to brush up your team on these items: understanding what your community or business has to offer that separates you from the rest, how to tailor a presentation to a prospect that dispels any doubts about why they should choose you, and finally, closing the sale. In the daily bustle of multifamily management, we sometimes lose track of the impact that these basics steps can have on success. And one of those back-to-basics steps is simply cleaning. Check that your curb appeal is immaculate, your amenities pristine, and confirm that your show units are stocked with memorable gifts for potential residents. Your service team members are an integral part of the success of the primary leasing season too. Take steps to make sure they are equipped with a variety of vendors that can help them turn vacant apartments quickly. (Vendors that meet the necessary insurance and contractual terms of your company.) If you are a vendor, now is the time to assess if you have additional teams ready to install flooring and paint units, should a last-minute request arise. The vendor that can yield impeccable results on the fly will always be the one that the team calls. With your spring cleaning completed, you are ready for the busy summer days. Your focus should now turn to guaranteeing you have enough future residents to meet your occupancy. With over half of all renters now depending on their phones to search for a community they call home, it is important you continually evaluate and scrutinize your online message. Whatever your role in our industry, a digital presence is necessary to run a successful business. If you are a manager, make sure your community is listed on the essential websites that apartment seekers scan. Confirm

that your search words are relevant and enticing, and that your website works on a smart phone. Creating digital presence through social media is free, so it’s accessible to those with limited budgets. Daily posts can increase your online presence tremendously, but remember to make them relevant, authentic, and professional. Ultimately, the optimal thing you can do to ensure that your residents and customers are happy, and don’t want to consider moving or finding another vendor, is to provide a sense of community. When a community or business offers outstanding customer service and makes people feel like they are part of something, everything else will fall into place. Encourage your team members to know the residents’ names, and maybe even the names of their pets; this adds a personal touch to every interaction. Take the time to write birthday cards, organize group events that bring together people, and be proud of the community you work for. These small touches result in renewal retention and rent increases that will make you and your company pleased. Here at the TAA we are also getting ready to support you through this hectic leasing season, and we provide all the resources to get you where you need to go. In May we have a CPO class and “After Work Networking” at Tobacco Road Sports Café overlooking the Durham Bulls stadium. June ushers in events on a local, state and national level that should not be overlooked. First is AANC’s Education and Legislative Conference, a three-day event in Raleigh. The TAA is excited to be a featured sponsor for the event which offers an array of speakers, educational opportunities, and ends with an opportunity to lobby the NC Legislature. On the National Level, the NAA hosts its annual Apartmentalize Education Conference in San Diego, CA. Apartmentalize is the largest Educational Conference in the nation and offers over 75 seminars and events over the course of four days in June. Last, and certainly not least, we have TAA’s Casino Night on June 28. This not to be missed event is certainly going to provide a fantastic opportunity to network with your TAA Community. I look forward to seeing you all there! In the meantime, happy spring cleaning!

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 4

Claire Michael, CAM TAA President Fairfield Residential, LLC taapresident@triangleaptassn.org

$25 off

pool electrical repairs or installations

$50 off

pool area lighting repairs or installations

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 5

$250 Special

pool bonding / grounding inspection and testing

education classes

Please visit TAA’s website for full details about each class and to register online for courses and seminars: www.TriangleAptAssn.org. All classes are held in the TAA/Response Team 1 Education Center unless otherwise noted. Registration deadlines are one week prior to course date unless otherwise noted.

Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) May 18 – 19 September 14 – 15

Instructor: Andy Meador, CAMT, Director of Capital Projects with McDowell Properties

8:30am – 5:00pm $265 Members Re-Take Exam Fee: $165 Members

Please note! All CPO courses will be held on a Friday and Saturday. All those seeking CPO re-certifications must attend both days.

TAA 101 May 18 9:00am – 10:30am Fee: FREE Are you a new member company? Perhaps a new employee at an existing TAA member company? This seminar is for you! TAA 101 is the first step in making

your presence known in the industry. Find out how to make the most of your membership investment. Get 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!

Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS) Fast Track July 18 – 21 9:00am – 5:00pm Daily $1,335 Members Instructor: Alex Jackiw, CPM, CAPS, President of Milhaus Management 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. Visit TAA’s website for more information on the CAPS Program.

National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) October 11 – 13 | Course Dates October 23 | Exams November 8 | Presentations Fee: TBA

SAVE

The National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) Credential Program is meant to enhance the skills of the apartment leasing professional, resulting in better-informed, highly professional individuals with increased

the

DATE!

lease activity and improved resident relations. Visit TAA’s website for more information on the NALP Program.

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New Members MANAGEMENT COMPANIES FCA MANAGEMENT, LLC

300 South Tryon Street Suite 420 Charlotte, NC 28202 Contact: Bob Moore Email: bmoore@fcamgmnt.com Telephone: 704-402-3876

COMMUNITIES Bainbridge Lake Crabtree

2599 Evans Road Morrisville, NC 27560 Contact: Pamela Cornelisse Email: lakecrabtree@bainbridgere.com Telephone: 919-727-1963 Units: 200

Campbell Creek Apartments at Campbell University 25 Landis Lane Suite 105 Lillington, NC 27546 Contact: Billy Peterson Email: billy.peterson@livecampbellcreek.com Telephone: 910-893-3225 Units: 82

Crossroads North Hills

120 Ridgewood Drive Raleigh, NC 27609 Contact: Katherine Grove Email: cnhmanager@dasmenresidential.com Telephone: 919-848-3511 Units: 228

Crowne at Cary Park

4000 Brushy Mountain Street Cary, NC 27519 Contact: Morgan Pendry Email: carypark@crowneapartments.com Telephone: 205-328-3120 Units:197

Forest Pointe Apartments

403 West C Street Butner, NC 27509 Contact: Veronica Bardis Email: forestpointeapts@eimc.us Telephone: 915-520-7673 Units: 49

Huntington Manor Apartments

1600 North Tampa Street Goldsboro, NC 27534 Contact: Millie Payne Email: mpayne@gemmanagement.com Telephone: 919-583-8860 Units: 38

Magnolia Apartments

3926 Marcom Street Raleigh, NC 27606 Contact: Philip Eisenhauer Email: downtownraleigh@3pointsproperties.com Telephone: 984-200-7620 Units: 29

One City Center

Epproach Communications

Princeton Villas

Mailboxes/Package Management, Property Management Software, Telecommunications and Cable Services

110 Corcoran Street Durham, NC 27701 Contact: Kristin Misnick Email: onecitycenter@greystar.com Telephone: 919-703-2746 Units: 109 1700 Chapel Hill Rd #A8 Durham, NC 27707 Contact: Philip Eisenhauer Email: durham@3pointsproperties.com Telephone: 984-200-7620 Units: 134

INDEPENDENT RENTAL OWNERS Jason & Kristin Sumner 3909 Phlox Rd Raleigh, NC 27616 Contact: Kristin Sumner Email: ksadro@yahoo.com Telephone: 252-412-4701 Units: 3

SUPPLIERS Bliss Products and Services

1715 Highland Drive Washington, NC 27889 Contact: TJ McDonald Email: tjmcdonald@blissproducts.com Telephone: 252-375-1321 Playground and Park Equipment

Brady Contracting

141 Dory Lane Clayton, NC 27520 Contact: Jason Brady Email: Jason_brady2773@yahoo.com Telephone: 919-795-9502 General Contractor

Capital Upkeep, LLC

8229 Cedar Falls Drive Wake Forest, NC 27587 Contact: Shawn Gordon Email: Shawn@capitalupkeep.com Telephone: 919-659-5337 General Contractors, Renovation & Capital Improvement Contractors, Turn Service Contractors

Carolina Tree Care

520 Webb Road Concord, NC 28025 Contact: Mackenzi Guffey Email: mackenzi.guffey@carolinatreecare.com Telephone: 704-788-8733 Emergency Service Contractors, Tree Service

Ecoscape Solutions Group

1101 Ellis Road Durham, NC 27703 Contact: Matt Brooks Email: mbrooks@ecoscape.com Telephone: 919-596-7672 Landscapers/Landscaping Contractors the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 8

3208 Pennington Drive Wilmington, NC 28405 Contact: Denver Hollingsworth Email: sales@epproach.net Telephone: 910-202-4700

550 Northwest Franklin Avenue Suite 200 Bend, OR 97703 Contact: Jesse Graham Email: jesse.graham@getg5.com Telephone: 541-639-4798 Advertising, Apartment Locator Service, Consultation Services, Market Research & Surveys, Online Leasing, Resident Retention & Events

Gregory Pest Solutions

10806 Reames Road Suite T Charlotte, NC 28269 Contact: Kip Plummer Email: Kplummer@gregorypestsolutions.com Telephone: 704-309-0130 Pest Control Contractors

Mr. Roof

103 Rupert Rd Raleigh, NC 27603 Contact: Samantha Zizzo Email: szizzo@mrroof.com Telephone: 919-516-8080 Renovation & Capital Improvement Contractors, Roofing, Windows/ Mirrors/Glass

Orkin Pest Control

8810 Westgate Park Dr Suite 106 Raleigh, NC 27617 Contact: Tracy Miketa Email: Tmiketa@orkin.com Telephone: 919-609-7713 Pest Control Contractors

PODS

4426 32nd Terrace North Saint Petersburg, FL 33713 Contact: Scott Getz Email: sgetz@pods.com Telephone: 727-304-7573 Moving & Storage

WEICHERT, REALTORS Rebhan & Associates 6000 Fairview Road Charlotte, NC 28210 Contact: Ross Rebhan Email: Ross@wrramail.com Telephone: 704-502-1040

Advertising, Apartment Locator Service, Market Research & Surveys, Real Estate Appraiser/Brokers, Relocation Services

On the Move Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC, would like to welcome and congratulate Rhian C. Mayhew and Kevin J. Wright as their newest Associate Attorneys in their Raleigh office. The Liberty Group would like to welcome and congratulate Kristina Crabtree as their new Staffing Coordinator. Have you had recent changes at your property or company? Keep us in the loop!

• • • • • •

Promotions or New Hires New Billing Contact & Information Management Company Change Company Name Change New Email Address Physical Address Change

If any of these examples have occurred at your property or company, contact us for an Update Form so we can best serve you. For update forms and inquiries, email taa@triangleaptassn.org.

TAA Welcomes New Staff Dustin Engelken joins the team as our Government Affairs Director and will lead and manage TAA’s government affairs efforts and activities, including oversight of the TAAPolitical Action Committee and Triangle Government Alliance, the 527 issues advocacy fund. Dustin is a seasoned government affairs professional with more than five years of experience working first as an aid to an elected official (Council of the City of New York, Office of Council Member Annabel Palma), later as a lobbyist (Director, Government Relations and Lobbying Compliance with Mercury Public Affairs, New York) and finally as an appointed municipal manager (Office of Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz). Throughout his career, he has been charged with developing policy proposals, monitoring pending legislation and working with trade and community groups to develop sound public policy. He is a 2010 graduate of Manhattan College in Riverdale NY with a Bachelor of Arts in International Studies and Religious Studies. Dustin and his wife reside in Raleigh and are the proud parents of three lovely little girls. Contact info: Ph: 919-782-1165 ext. 4 Email: dengelken@triangleaptassn.org

Ariel Rosario joins TAA as its Member Services Coordinator. Her duties include serving as the first point of contact for members; intake and database entry of event registrations; overseeing the rentals of the education center, large and small conference rooms; processing product orders; managing and ordering supplies; and administrative support to the staff team. Ariel may look familiar to many of you as she worked as an intern for TAA the summers of 2013 through 2016, and during holidays while on college break. Ariel graduated in May 2017 from Appalachian State University with a degree in Social Work and Psychology. Some of Ariel’s greatest attributes are her bright and sunny disposition, positive attitude and overall “just do it” work ethic. Contact info: Ph: 919-782-1165 ext. 5 Email: arosario@triangleaptassn.org the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 9

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 10

TAA's Political Action Committee advocates for YOU and OUR INDUSTRY! Remember Raleigh's PROP fees? RememberÂ Orange County's Impact fees? TAA's PAC helped make that happen.

Invest in your future by donating today! Donate online at TriangleAptAssn.org/TAAPAC the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 11

legal Issues

I am Just a Bill

By Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC Last month we discussed law suits on a State and National level that affect the residential rental industry. This month in light of the upcoming AANC Rev It Up - Leadership and Education Conference we are going to let you know what potential laws are pending in North Carolina that will affect the industry if passed. As a little background, the Apartment Association of North Carolina chooses a legislative agenda each year after receiving input from its Board of Directors and the local apartment associations, such as TAA. To assist with the legislative agenda AANC retains an outside lobbyist. For the past several years the lobbyist has been the Kochanek Law Group. As a little more background, a proposed law is called a “bill” and is introduced into one of the chambers of the North Carolina legislature. The chambers are the North Carolina House of Representatives (the “House”) and the North Carolina Senate (the “Senate”). The bill must receive a favorable vote in the chamber it was initially introduced in to move to the other chamber. The bill must receive a favorable vote in the second chamber to be eligible to become a law. The bills are generally referred to one or more committees within each chamber before they are voted on and often are tweaked or drastically changed before they finally pass. Now on to the legislation. The

matters that are currently before the North Carolina State Legislature are: 1) Landlord Liability Issues. House Bill #803. This bill protects landlords when renting to those with criminal records and makes some favorable changes to the deceased tenant law to assist landlords. Based on our review of the case law regarding landlord liability for renting to individuals with criminal records, we believe the NC courts have already established a landlord is not responsible for damage done to another resident by a resident with a criminal history but passage of this bill would make the lack of liability unquestionable. This is important because of the HUD Guidance stating that it is a fair housing violation to automatically reject those with criminal records. 2) Private Process Servers. House Bill #706. This bill clarifies timing of the service of a summons in a summary ejectment action but more importantly would allow private process servers to serve the Summons and Complaint for Summary Ejectment (eviction actions) on residents. Currently only sheriffs and their deputies can do this. Particularly in highly populated counties this has resulted in delays to summary ejectment hearings when a sheriff was unable to serve the Summons and Complaint in time for the hearing. This bill passed in a vote of the House in 2017 and was brought over to the Senate. The Senate decided they wanted further

information on the issue of private process service and created the Legislative Research Commission Committee on Private Process Servers to give an opinion as to whether private process servers were needed. After several meetings, on April 12, 2018 this committee voted unanimously to recommend that private process servers be allowed in counties with more than 900,000 residents (Wake and Mecklenburg at this time). This is a great victory for the industry and though not a complete victory yet, it may very well pave the way for private process service in less populous counties in the near future. This bill will now move to the Senate for consideration and hopefully passage. Now the really exciting news. You can become a part of this process by attending the Government Affairs Committee and the AANC Rev It Up lobby day! Another great way to take part is by donating. Your political action committee donations (both to a PAC which are given by individuals or to a Super-PAC which can be given by companies too) to TAA and/or AANC, help make bills like the ones discussed above into a reality and help keep unfavorable legislation introduced against the residential rental industry from becoming a law. So, make sure to donate generously! Nothing in this article should be relied upon as legal advice.

government affairs National Apartment Association Advocate Conference Recap In mid-March TAA members and staff headed to Washington, D.C. to participate in this year’s Advocate Conference. The Advocate Conference, previously known as the NAA Capital Conference and Lobby Day, is a yearly four-day long schedule of events which includes issue briefings, guest speak-

ers, NAA committee meetings and a Capital Hill Lobby Day in which NAA members have the opportunity to meet with legislators from the House and Senate to discuss issues of importance to our industry. At this year’s conference, TAA held meetings with both North Carolina Senators, as well as five area Representatives. The requests for Congress this year included the renewal and improvement of the the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 12

National Flood Insurance Program, legislation to stem the growing trend of compliance complaints under the Americans with Disabilities Act, a national standard for data security that recognizes the unique nature and needs of the rental housing industry, and an infrastructure investment act that would directly support housing. For more information on this year’s event, visit: https://www.naahq.org/advocate.

Thank you to the 2018 TAA-PAC Contributors Thank you to everyone who has contributed so far this year to TAA’s Political Action Committee! Because of your generosity, we are well on our way to meeting this year’s goal of raising $18,500!

President Club Level $1000+ Ambassador Club Level $500-$999 Craig Nardi Rebecca Rosario Capital Level $200-$499 TAA Members take a break from meetings to give some love to Representative George Holding’s dog, Winston! 2018 AANC’s Rev It Up: Education & Legislative Conference

The AANC Education & Legislative Conference is the annual gathering of our statewide membership to participate in a variety of educational sessions, networking with peers, and advocating for important industry issues at the North Carolina Legislature. This year’s event will be held at the Raleigh Convention Center from May 21-23. For a complete schedule of events, and to register, please visit: https://www.aanc2018.org/. While the AANC Conference will feature many fantastic events for our membership to participate in, there are two events that we would like to highlight. The first event is an invite-only Affordable Housing Luncheon which will be held on Tuesday, May 22 from 11:00am-1:00pm. During this meeting, participants from across the affordable housing industry will have an opportunity to engage with their colleagues and AANC leadership as we work to develop a comprehensive affordable housing proposal. The second event is the annual Lobby Day at the North Carolina Legislature which will be held on Wednesday, May 22 from 9:00am-12:00pm. This year’s action items include pending legislation on the private service of evictions, and legislation affecting landlord liability. If you’re interested in joining the Affordable Housing Luncheon or participating in TAA’s Lobby Day Meetings, please contact TAA’s Government Affairs Director Dustin Engelken at DEngelken@ triangleaptassn.org.

Help TAA-PAC with Casino Night! Casino Night 2018 will be held on

Thursday, June 28 and will offer one of the largest fundraising opportunities of the year for TAA-PAC. Last year, members of the Government Affairs Committee organized a basket raffle for the event that was able to raise over $3,500. This year, our goal is $5,500, but to get there we will need your help! To that end, we are asking our members to donate baskets for the raffle (value approx. $250). If your company is interested in donating a basket for the event, or if you would like additional information, please contact TAA’s Government Affairs Director Dustin Engelken at DEngelken@triangleaptassn. org. (Turn to page 17 for more event information.)

Brenda Brantley Charles Persons Cindy Nitschke Judy Wade Julie Chu Zhang Karen Green Katy Boone Kelli Lea Kristi Henderson Norm Praet Rita Zepeda William MacRae

Goal $18,500

Advocate Level $50-$199 David Smith Kathy and Dan Woodard Kelly Goehl Paula Kotarakos

Member Level $5-$49

$4,477 Raised

April Vasta Berry Craven Jerone Perry Steve Hayworth

Why is the TAA-PAC important? Whether you’re a developer, property manager, or maintenance manager, elected officials make important decisions every day that affect your business, property and livelihood. TAA-PAC acts as your voice in the decisionmaking process and ensures that you can help shape new regulations, laws and ordinances that will affect your business and your residents. By having a seat at the table and good relationships with decision-makers, we are able to proactively solve issues and save our members money! the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 13

Need Space? We have it! Meeting and Event Space | Great for meetings, classes and seminars Located in the heart of Brier Creek | Technology packages available | Presentation materials available No catering restrictions with coffee & drink packages available

Complimentary Wi-Fi TAA/Response Team Education Center Capacity: 82

Large Conference Room Capacity: 20

Small Conference Room Capacity: 10

Contact Ariel Rosario at arosario@triangleaptassn.org for more information or if you’re interested in reserving our rental space!

Winners of Battle of the Baskets Fundraiser WE DID IT! This year’s Battle of the Baskets fundraiser was a win-win! It was a huge success for the Education Committee and for the Triangle Apartment Association’s Education Foundation (TAAEF). The committee tried something new this year to boost their fundraising efforts by pre-selling tickets prior to the event. Anyone that purchased a minimum of $20 by April 13, received a free Green Ticket to have a chance and opportunity to win the $100 worth of NC Lottery Tickets basket donated by Response Team 1. On the evening of April 18, twelve awesome baskets were raffled off, including one from the Education Committee. TAA members had the opportunity to purchase raffles tickets to support the foundation and also potentially be lucky enough to have their name drawn to win one of the baskets. The Education Committee’s monetary goal for this year’s fundraiser was $4,000. They exceeded that goal by raising a phenomenal amount in the sum of $5,709.23. On behalf of the Education Committee, thank you so much for your support and we look forward to 2019.

Congratulations to the two management companies who won in the categories of Most Creative and Best of Show for 2018!

Best of Show Palms Associates, LLC

Most Creative Matrix Residential, LLC

On behalf of TAAEF Board of Directors and the Triangle Apartment Association’s Education Committee members, THANK YOU to the following companies for their generosity and donation of a basket. Ashbrook Apartments, Rich Management, LLC Greystar Makson Fire Protection Matrix Residential, LLC Palms Associates, LLC Response Team 1

Spangler Restoration The Carolinian, Grubb Ventures Services, LLC TradeMark Residential Properties, Inc. Waypoint Residential Management Services Woodcreek Apartments, PRG Real Estate Management, Inc.

The TAA/TAAEF Education Scholarship Fund was established in 2001 to provide qualifying candidates the opportunity to further their career development. Your investment will help to enhance the skills of apartment industry personnel, resulting in better managed and more confident future decision makers of the apartment industry. Since its inception, 60 scholarships have been awarded. Funds from the Education Scholarship Fund underwrite scholarships for TAA members to enroll in the NAAEI (National Apartment Association Education Institute) Credential Programs such as Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS), Certified Apartment Manager (CAM), Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS), National Apartment Leasing Professional (NALP) and the Certificate for Apartment Maintenance Technicians (CAMT). Trade Show Recap continued on page 22.

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 14

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Events Thank you to our Champion Business Partners for serving as the exclusive sponsors for the 2018 After Work Networking events!

After Work Networking Recap TAA held an After Work Networking event on Tuesday, March 13 at the Carolina Ale House in Downtown Raleigh. With over 135 in attendance, it was a great kick off for the first of four to be held this year. Those in attendance were able to enjoy a relaxing evening while networking with friends and colleagues. These events are open to all TAA members, with no cost to attend. And, they are held at different locations throughout the Triangle for conven-

Save the Date

Golf Tourn al

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ience to our members.

TAA

and plan to join us Mark your calendars â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8:30pm at on May 8 from 6pm CafĂŠ in Durham. Tobacco Road Sports eing you there! We look forward to se the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 16

Friday, September 21 The Neuse Golf Club

Save the Date! Maintenance Mania | Thursday, October 18 | PNC Arena Maintenance Mania is a competition in which apartment pros like you from around the country face eight maintenance-focused challenges that test their skills and knowledge to earn the title of Maintenance Mania® National Champion.* Check out the 2017 National Championship video on our website! *You must compete in all seven challenges plus enter a car in the race car competition to be able to qualify for a spot in the National Championship.

Casino Night Thursday, June 28 5:30 – 6:30pm Registration & Networking Hour 6:30 – 9:30pm Event with Food, Casino Games Music & Dancing TAA-PAC Fundraiser Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 17

new lease on life A New Lease on Life (NLOL), a 501(c)(3) organization and a TAA Transitional Housing program, was designed to help families who have become homeless due to no fault of their own get back on their feet. The programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to not offer a hand out, rather a hand up. We are able to bridge member management companies with a local nonprofit agency for a 12-24 month period and provide an available apartment home at a reduced rate with quarterly gradual increases. Our goal at the end of the program is for each family to be self-sustaining and choose to be able to continue to be a renter at market rent. Get involved! In order to move the program forward, we need more units. One unit equals one familyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home. Unable to give a unit? Monetary donations help provide the families with linens, mattresses, household goods, and furniture. For all questions regarding A New Lease on Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s program and how to get involved, please email nlol@triangleaptassn.org.

Thank you to the 2018 New Lease on Life Contributors!

Philanthropist ($500+) Chris Williams Humanitarian ($250 - $499) Benefactor ($100 - $249) Lisa Kane Qualcomm Helping Hand ($1 - $99)

Check us out on Facebook! @taaNLOL the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 18

*Updated 4/24/18

Connect With NAA Learn All About a Hard Day’s Work With Apartmentalize Thursday Keynote Speaker Mike Rowe! By Jeff Lowry, Madera Residential 2018 National Apartment Association Chairman of the Board

rom the Baltimore Opera to QVC shopping channel, Executive Producer and Show Host Mike Rowe has had hundreds of jobs and relished his role as a chronic freelancer. Through his work with the mikeroweWORKS Foundation, traveling as an apprentice on “Dirty Jobs,” and now on Facebook’s groundbreaking series, “Returning the Favor,” Rowe has taught us to appreciate people who aren’t afraid of a hard day’s work. His next job? Keynoting the Thursday General Session at Apartmentalize! Rowe is just one of the reasons to join us to Apartmentalize in sunny San Diego, which means taking your career, your company and the experience your residents receive to the next level. Be at the center of it all and achieve greater success in all three areas by joining us June 13-16 to attend the apartment housing industry’s largest, most important event. Visit www.naahq.org/apt to register.

Legal Services for NAA Members

In 2011, NAA began to significantly invest in an expansion of its legal services. Along with filing a record number of Amicus Briefs, NAA began publication of its own monthly e-newsletter, Apartment Holdings, in April 2012. NAA’s other legal projects include a Legal Symposium as well as the ongoing Legal Assistance Program, which helps protect the rental housing industry by addressing critical industry issues in courtrooms across the nation. For NAA Members, NAA’s filed briefs cover topics such as taxes, lead, mold, wetlands, fair housing, rent control, submetering and immigration. For information on NAA’s legal program, please visit www.naahq.org/member-services/benefits/legal-services or contact Scot Haislip at shaislip@naahq.org or Lauren Shelton at lshelton@naahq.org.

Experience the Savings

As a key benefit of NAA membership, NAA Open Door has a handle on the cost of products and services you use every day. By combining the purchasing power of thousands of NAA members with the excellence and reliability of trusted name brands, it connects you to exclusive savings that make your buying decisions easier. Your access to exclusive savings hinges on your decision to explore NAA Open Door:

• Available exclusively to NAA members • Connect to companies vetted by NAA • Free to access • Save time: NAA’s already negotiated pricing Don’t wait, unlock this valuable benefit today at www.naahq.org/member-services/open-door

The Most Widely Used Lease Product in the Apartment Industry, Exclusive to NAA Members

It can be a constant challenge to create and manage compliant, up-todate leasing documents. NAA Click & Lease offers current and customizable forms to simplify the process and reduce risk. No wonder it’s the most widely used standardized lease program in the apartment housing industry. Join the Click & Lease network and enjoy the many benefits that membership brings by visiting www.naahq.org/ member-services/naa-click-lease.

Stay in the Know: Sign Up for NAA Newsletters

From operations insights to leading-edge marketing strategies NAA’s suite of weekly and monthly e-newsletters are designed to leave readers with the business intelligence needed to be more efficient, effective and profitable in their rental housing operations. To start receiving your free e-newsletters, email newsletters@naahq.org and request receipt of any or all of the following: • Industry Insider • Apartment TECHniques • Apartment Advocate • CampusConnex • Marketing Buzz • Operations Insights

Get Your Career On Track With Professional Credentials

NAA is the leading provider of education for rental housing industry professionals seeking to advance their careers. Earning one gives you valuable insights and real-world skills you can use on the job. Earning a credential demonstrates your commitment to your career and gives you valuable insights and real-world skills you can use on the job. Credentials also validate your knowledge and skills, enhance your credibility, boost your confidence and earn you respect among clients and peers. Browse the suite of credentials available—from the Certified Apartment Manager (CAM) to the Certified Apartment Portfolio Supervisor (CAPS)—at www.naahq.org/education-careers/naaeicredentials to find the one you want to earn.

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 19

Long-Lasting Stain Resistant High Performance

Resilient Flooring

Convenient and Cost Effective

Resilient Flooring has a longer lifespan than carpet. Less replacing means more savings for property management Easy to install and maintain - Both Array and DuraTru styles feature easy installation options and are easy to clean

Superior Performance

Water, Mildew and Stain Resistant - Spills are not a problem with resilient flooring. Liquids stay on the surface and are easily wiped away Superior comfort while minimizing sound transmission thanks to DuraTruâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fiberglass cushion

Design Variety

Resilient vinyl flooring reflects natural woods, tile and stone in stunning high definition Realistic floors enhance any decor

919.405.7189

www.RediCarpet.com the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 20

O U Y E R

in ve ste d

ted i v • involved • in

2018 Membership Drive You've iNVESTED resources in becoming a TAA member. Get

iNVOLVED to reap your membership

benefits! Next, refer new companies and get iNVITED! Submit your referral today and get invited to win prizes at May's After Work Networking Event! For more information, contact Candace Patrick at Cpatrick@triangleaptassn.org the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 21

The Triangle Apartment Association’s

Trade Show

e tions to th Congratula ooth Contest TAA’s B winner of of Theme” , LLC “Best Use roup nsulting G o C y rt e p P&R Pro

e tions to th Congratula ooth Contest TAA’s B winner of Costume” “Best Inc. ure Rental, AFR Furnit

Congra winner o tulations to the f TAA’s “Best Ov Booth Contest A & M Pa erall Booth” per and P rinting

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 22

e tions to th Congratula Prizes 500 Grand $ e th f o winners ntalize! â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Apartme A A N to p & Tri

rator Attendees 1060 Owner/Ope 160 Booths 500 Exhibitors

Visit our website for more pictures from 2018â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trade Show! the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 23

PowerMaster Electric, Inc. for all your electrical needs...

Our services include but are not limited to: Pools (Electrical Testing, Bonding and Grounding) General Electrical Maintenance & Repair Outdoor Lighting | Parking Lots LED Lighting | Tennis Courts

info@powermasterelectric.com 919.557.4477 phone | 732.453.7258 fax the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 24

Hungry to Close the Deal?

Where to take your key decision makers for a meal! Katy Boone Cantina 18 | Parkwest Village, Morrisville What to order? Any of the tacos! They’re all delicious! Berry Craven Pam’s Farmhouse Restaurant | Raleigh What to order? Fried Chicken! Elizabeth Godwin-Riley Vidrio | Raleigh What to order? Everything I’ve tried here has been amazing! You can’t go wrong. Becki Hale Glenwood Grill | Raleigh What to order? Everything is fabulous but I like their shrimp and grits! Steve Hayworth Angus Barn | Raleigh What to order? Filet Oscar Style

Congratulations!

PRO Tips

Andy Meador Poole’s Diner | Raleigh What to order? The menu changes often and is written on chalkboards on the wall so you’re not likely to see a menu online. But, they have some regular dishes like mac and cheese, collard greens and fried green tomatoes. We enjoy the more relaxed atmosphere from the typical high dollar steak restaurants. Rebecca Rosario-Bueno Centro | Raleigh What to order? Poblano Veranero! Their homemade chicken soup and tacos are fantastic too. Be sure and arrive early to go upstairs to Gallo Pelon for one of the best Mezcal selections East of the Mississippi! Bret Smith Page Road Grill | Durham What to order? Pimento Cheese for starts. Turkey Sandwich or Crab Cakes with green tomatoes for lunch. Tuna Carpaccio or Shrimp and Grits for dinner. Dirty Gin Martini with two olives to wash it down.

NAAEI CREDENTIAL HOLDERS

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

Congratulations! Congratulations go out to the following individual who has earned the Certified Apartment Supplier (CAS) credential from the National Apartment Association Education Institute (NAAEI).

Natalie Hart | The Liberty Group the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 25

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 26

TAA’s Online Supplier Directory Associates – Here’s Something Just for You! TAA’s new website offers an amazing Supplier and Member Directory with all new features! Each Associate Member is provided a Basic Directory Profile as part of their membership with TAA. Associate Members are now able to upgrade their company listing for an annual investment. You can upgrade your company’s profile for a full year for only $349. On average, an upgraded profile gets 13 times more pageviews than a basic profile, so upgrade today! Please contact Meg Palumbo at mpalumbo@triangleaptassn.org with any questions. Pro Tip: Make sure you’re logged into the website to be able to view the full Member Directory!

BASIC

Directory Profile Address Phone Special Offer (if applicable)

FEATURED

Directory Profile

Instead of having a basic listing on our member directory, you have the option of upgrading to a “featured” listing in the directory. Featured Members are listed first in the directory and can include:

Logo Company Email Company Description Website Link Listed Areas of Expertise Facebook Feed Twitter Feed Employee List & Headshots Special Offer (if applicable) Annual cost: $349 Limited Time Offer! the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 27

Leasing Tips

Resident Retention Touch Points Resident retention efforts should start the day they sign their lease! Use our handy 12-month guide as a place to start with your new residents. We’ve given you the ideas and taglines to get started. Month 1: “Home Sweet Home!” Welcome home letter signed by staff members. Month 2: “We want to hear from you!” Find out how smoothly your move-in process really is with the help of a move-in survey filled out by your new residents. Month 3: “Quirks Letter” Help your new residents get to know your team by sending them a letter filled with fun facts about each staff member.

Month 4: “We just POPPED in to make your day!” A quick notice to say hello complete with treats for their next movie night. Just to say thanks. Month 5: “We’re BEAR-Y happy that you’re here!” Resident survey to see how everything is going so far. They’ll be glad you asked! Month 6: “Happy Anniversary!” You’re 6 months in, so celebrate and say thanks! Month 7: “We love you bunches!” Flower seed packets are a fun treat for residents. Include a pot and dirt and you’ve given them a pretty home or patio project. Month 8: “Fall in love again and again!” Ask your residents what they’ve enjoyed about your community so far in exchange for a chance to win a prize. Knowing what current residents love is helpful to share with your future prospects. Month 9: “Hello There! Survey” Before your residents’ renewals start coming up, it’s important to get an idea of how they’re feeling. You can prevent turnover by solving problems BEFORE they get renewal notices. Month 10: “Early Bird Lease Renewal” Reward those who renew early with lease extension options or a great bonus for renewing for another year. Month 11: “Anyway you slice it” Renewal pizza parties are a big hit. Invite residents in for dinner and snacks and have the renewal discussion in person. Month 12: “Life is Sweeter with you!” Whether you’re still trying to tempt your residents to stay or thanking those who already renewed, this sweet theme is a fave! Both articles courtesy of Sprout Marketing, Inc.

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and Tricks Up Your Game: The Right Questions Lead to The Right Answers The open-ended questions below will help you determine your customer’s Deal Makers and Deal Breakers. Taking the time to ask the right questions will reveal the information you need to select the perfect apartment to show and discover what is most important to your customer. Once you understand what will motivate and influence a prospective renter, you can tailor your conversation or tour presentation to meet their needs and better serve their interests. This is just a guide, use whichever questions work with your personality and fit the scenario.

✦ “What prompted you to call today?”

✦ “What features are most important to you in an apartment home?” ✦ “What are your top 3 specific needs in an apartment home?” ✦ “Other than ______________, what else is important to you?“

✦ “What is the price range that you are looking to stay within?” ✦ “From which exact advertisement or website did you first view our community?“ ✦ “What specifically about the ad or website made you call?”

✦ “How flexible is your moving time frame?”

✦ “When are you looking to make a decision?”

✦ “Are you working with any time constraints in making your decision?” ✦ “In order for you to make an informed decision, what information will you need from me?” ✦ “What exactly will your final decision be based on?”

✦ “What is a deciding factor for you?”

✦ “What are your non-negotiables when selecting your new home?” ✦ “What amenities do you value the most in a community?” ✦ “Tell me your expectations of an apartment community’s services, features and amenities.” ✦ “What do you love the most about where you live now?“ ✦ “What is important to you after you move into your new home?” ✦ “Why are you moving to a new location?” www.WatchYourBusinessSprout.com

✦ “Other than yourself, who will be assisting you in the decision-making process?” ✦ “What other details can I provide you with to assist you in making your moving decision?“ ✦ “What other questions can I answer that will help you in making your decision?” ✦ “Have you looked at other communities thus far? Tell me what you have liked or not liked.” ✦ “If you find something today that you like—would you move forward with the leasing process?”

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2018

May 8

Legal Issues 9:00am – 5:00pm

Independent Rental Owner Lunch Meeting 11:30am – 1:30pm TAA Large Conference Room

18-19

21-23

Property Financials 9:30am – 3:30pm

Executive/Board of Directors Meeting 8:30am – 11:00am TAA Large Conference Room

TAA Office Closed: Memorial Day

After Work Networking 6:00pm – 8:30pm Tobacco Road Sports Café | Durham

Certified Pool/Spa Operator (CPO) 8:30am – 5:00pm

TAA 101 9:00am – 10:30am TAA Large Conference Room

AANC’s Rev It Up Raleigh Convention Center

All classes are in the TAA/Response Team 1 Education Center unless otherwise noted. Please visit the TAA Website at www.TriangleAptAssn.org for a complete list of Courses, Events & Committee Meeting dates and times.

June 13-16

NAA’s Apartmentalize San Diego, CA

Independent Rental Owner Dinner Meeting 6:00pm – 8:00pm TAA Large Conference Room

Advertiser’s Index

Executive/Board of Directors Meeting 8:30am – 11:00am TAA Large Conference Room

PAGE

Casino Night 5:30pm – 9:30pm Raleigh Marriott Crabtree Valley

PAGE

Apartment Association of North Carolina ...................... 28

PowerMaster Electric, Inc. .............................................. 24

Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC ................................... 31

Redi Carpet, Inc. ............................................................. 20

Full House Marketing ..................................................... 26

Rent Ready...................................................................... 18

Kindberg Contract Services Inc. ..................................... 15

Rite Rug Flooring Company............................................ 10

Loebsack & Brownlee, PLLC ............................................. 2

Tidal Electrical Services, Inc. ............................................. 5

Maintenance Supply Headquarters .................................. 7 Advertising space available! Contact Meg Palumbo for availability and pricing at mpalumbo@triangleaptassn.org or 919.782.1165 ext 1. the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 30

Brownlee Whitlow & Praet, PLLC is a property solutions law firm! We provide full-service legal and business solutions to managers and owners of rental property and communities in North and South Carolina. 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. With offices in Raleigh, Charlotte, and Charleston we assist our clients in all aspects of landlord-tenant law including: PURCHASE AND SALE OF PROPERTY INCLUDING CONTRACT NEGOTIATION AND SEC COMPLIANCE LEASE AND LEASE ADDENDUM PREPARATION AND NEGOTIATION POLICY REVIEW & COMPLIANCE ASSISTANCE DEFENSE OF PROPERTY RELATED CLAIMS COLLECTIONS EVICTION APPEALS FAIR HOUSING COMPLIANCE & DEFENSE MUNICIPAL CODE VIOLATION REPRESENTATION __________________________________________________________________________________ Please contact us at:

WWW.BWPF-LAW.COM E-mail: NPRAET@BWPF-LAW.COM OR TWHITLOW@BWPF-LAW.COM This is an advertisement for legal services

the ApartMentor | May/June 2018 31

7920 ACC Blvd, Suite 220 Raleigh, NC 27617