abode december 2014
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Brought to you by Rasa Floors. Meet the HAA Forty Under 40! These individuals were selected from more than 125 nominations among multifamily's rising stars. Meet them in this month's ABODE. Also don't miss photos from the Chili Fest and Top Golf!TRANSCRIPT
Reach for the top: Pass this issue along to a colleague.
DECEMBER 2014
The Houston Apartment Association Magazine
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54
December 2014
ON THE COVERPhotos by MARK HIEBERT, HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 3
CONTENTS
Columns7 President’s Corner – I am grateful to HAA members and staff for such a successful year.
9 Legislative Update – Posturing for a busy 2015 session of the Texas Legislature is already underway.
11 It’s The Law – Manage holiday decorations and expectations to avoid complaints and complications.
14 Resident Relations – A resident who falsified an application receives a refund after administrative delays.
26 NAA Industry Update – Industry leaders meet with FHFA director and staff to discuss housing finance.
28 On the Road with HAA – See photos from the Tomball luncheon in late October and read what’s next.
Special Edition34 Meet the Forty Under 40 – Meet the inaugural
class of the Houston Apartment Association’s Forty under 40 honorees.
44 Choose to be Happy – Cultivate a positive outlook to increase productivity and job satisfaction for yourself and your team.
46 Good Works – HAA members encourage childhood literacy, provide school supplies, help rehabilitate homes and raise money to support military veterans.
50 Meet the HAA Staff – Put faces to the names of the people who help your association help you.
Features & Photos30 Photo Album – Scenes from October’s HAA Next:
Professional Development Breakfast.
32 Photo Album – Scenes from the NAA PAC wine tasting fundraiser in November.
54 Photo Album – Scenes from the annual chili cook-off.
68 Photo Album – Scenes from the TopGolf fundraiser.
72 On Site with ABODE – Allusion West University is the newest multifamily addition to an Inner Loop neighborhood ranked by one real estate website as the No. 2 zip code in America.
Meet the HAA Forty Under40! These individuals wereselected from more than 125nominations among multi-family’s rising stars. They arestanding up and standingout in the Houston area,both professionally and per-sonally. These honorees arepassionate about communityservice, their careers andmost of all, the Houstonapartment industry. Meetthem starting on Page 34.
Departments8 PATRON19 EDUCATION20 CALENDARS62 PROPERTY UPDATE63 IN THE NEWS64 AMBASSADORS66 MEMBER RESOURCES67 WELCOME MAT74 ADVERTISERS INDEX 75 MARKET LINE76 BACK PAGE
We welcome your comments and letters.
Write to us at: HAA Communications Dept. 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041 or fax to: 281-582-1506. Or send us an email at: [email protected].
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OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIPBOARD OFDIRECTORSMack Armstrong,Immediate Past PresidentJosh AllenJeff BlevinsKathy ClemJohn FedorkoKevin FennPaula ForsheeIsrael GarzaDiane GilbertClark GreggIra GrossBryan HeadClay HicksDavid JonesBarby LakeRyan McGrathKristin McLaughlinDean O’KelleyMichelle Bridges-PahlJenifer PaneralMark ParkVelissa ParmerJohn RidgwayBeth RohaniKelly ScottKurt SeidelKim SmallSuan TinsleyStarla TurnboVic Vacek Jr.Beth Van WinkleJerold WinogradTracie Yoder
DIRECTORS EMERITUSGary BlumbergKen BohanJack DinersteinDarlene GuidryJenard GrossDavid HargroveLarry HillHap HunnicuttStacy HuntMike KochDick LaMarcheTim MyersJohn MooreP. David OnanianEileen SubinskyStephen SweetKirk TateH. J. Tollett Jr.Patrick J. Tollett
ADVISORY DIRECTORSBilly GriffinCesar LimaPam McGlashenDavid NargangTony Whitaker
GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUSJoe Bax
AFFILIATES
PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERSDean O’Kelley, CAS, PresidentThe Liberty Group
Mark Park, CAS, Vice PresidentAAA Plumbers
Kristin McLaughlin, CASE, SecretaryOutdoor Elements
Israel Garza, CAS, TreasurerMaintenance Supply Headquarters
Beth Rohani, CAS,Immediate Past PresidentAmeritex Movers
MEMBERSMaika Amador, CASFerguson Enterprises Inc.
Rhonda Blodgett, CASPrism Electric
Marivel Bownds, CASValet Waste
Patrick Brothers, CASCentury A/C Supply
Debbie Brueckner, CASDixie Carpet Installations
Peggy Charles, CASMeyer Smith
Arrie Colca, CASECraven Carpet
Wendy Cook, CASTexscape Services
Grant Crowell, CASUrban Foresters
Alan DeBarbieris, CASCotton Commercial
Deborah DeRouen, CASLeaseHawk
Derek DeVries, CASCamp Construction Services
MJ FeatherstonDirect Services
James Gregory, CASPavecon
Jimmie Hotz, CASHD Supply
Dan James, CASGemstar Construction
Alan Jones, CASEPPG Architectural Coatings
Debra Knight, CASFor Rent Media Solutions
David KoenigApartment Data Services
Stephanie Krop, CASBuyers Access
Jacob Kunath, CASCentury A/C Supply
Laura Lestus, CASThe Liberty Group
Erin McCary, CASValet Waste
Brenda NiteCrestmark Construction
HONORARY LIFE MEMBERSClaude ArnoldKenn BrownTina CavacoKevin FennAnita HarrisonDwayne HensonMike KochNora KrakowerMerry MountMonette ReynoldsSherry StevensonKirk TateSuan TinsleySonny UnverzagtDel WalmsleyNancé WellsJeanne Marie Zublin Dicks
PATRON MEMBERS1980Coinmach1982Republic Services1986Craven Carpet1987For Rent Media Solutions1994AAA PlumbersPresto Maintenance Supply1996Houston Planned EnergySystems1997Apartment Guide1999FSI Construction Inc.2003Dixie Carpet Installations2009Camp Construction Services2013Criterion Brock
SPONSOR MEMBERS1968Reliant Energy
1976Mueller Water Conditioning
1978The Liberty Group
1980Great American Business ProductsPenco Construction Co.Marvin Poer & Co.
1981Hoover Slovacek LLP
1982Wallace Garcia Wilson Architects Inc.
1983Webb Pest ControlCort Furniture Rental
1984Brady, Chapman, Holland &Assoc.
1985Criterion BrockGemstar Construction & Development Inc.
1987For Rent Media SolutionsHouston Metro Electrical Corp.Namco Manufacturing Co. Inc.
1988AmRentBig Z Lumber CompanyRedi Carpet SalesSherwin Williams Company
SPONSOR MEMBERS1989AYS Capital & Renovations
1991Apartment Data ServicesCentury A/C Supply
1992Alexander-Rose Assoc. Inc.
1997RENCON
1998AAA Staffing Ltd.Brown & Gay Engineers Inc.
1999Rent.com
2001Keystone ResourcesMorrison Supply CompanyPura Flo Corporation
2002Gexa EnergyGiordano Construction Incorporated
Southwest Painting ContractorsWilmar Industries
2003Sign-Ups & Banners Corp.Southern Wrecker
2004Assessment AdvisorsEmbark Tree & Landscape Services
2005Classic Touch PaintingCoreLogic SafeRent Inc.Gateman Lone Star Roofing of TexasUnited Protective Services
2006Alex Carpet CareBell’s LaundriesN.D. Chandler MechanicalCAD Restoration Services LLCDoodyCallsMasonry Solutions Inc.Roto-Rooter Services Co.Valet Waste
2007Builders Granite & Tile Inc.D&C ContractingSite Reconstruction LLCSuntrust Real Estate Corporation
2008ARE Business Solutions LLCBlue Bay ConstructionFlavor Finish ResurfacingHarco Insurance Services
2009Bio-TechsMoen Inc.Moon Shepherd Baker InsuranceR&E Development Inc.
2010ALN Apartment Data Inc.Amtech Elevator ServicesBAC ProductsBelfor Property RestorationCertified Termite Pest ControlCiti Fence & Access ControlCommercial Global Insurance & PEO Texas
Cotton Commercial USA Inc.Paul Davis Restoration of Greater Houston
Pool Works/Deck WorksFTK Construction ServicesMoveForFree.comThe Gerald A Teel Company Inc.
2011Absolutely OutdoorBader CompanyBlu Sky Restoration ContractorsBuena Suerte Spanish NewspaperDNM Contracting Inc.eVgoFantastic FloorsFulton & White LLCHydro-StopInfinite Energy Inc.Pate Engineers Inc.Pro Gutters LLCRam Jack Central & South TexasSEAL Security SolutionsServpro of Sugar LandSterling Electrical Services LLCSunTerra Landscape ServicesVoice & Data Consultants of America
2012Alex Carpet CareBlack Mountain Construction Co. BIONIC Emergency ServicesC-3 CommunicationC3 SolutionsDrake Construction ServicesEnviroSmart Multifamily Pest Solutions
Final Touch Remodeling Inc.Fire Safe Protection LPGlobal Water TreatmentChemicalsGo-Staff Inc.Landlord StationMaldonado Nursery & Landscaping Inc.
Olympic Compactor Rentals Inc.Roma Kirshbaum & Schmidt Inc.SchlageTAMKO Building Products Inc.Texas Concrete Professional Company LLC
2013ASW All State ConstructionApartments24-7.comArbor Contract Carpet Inc.Arm Strong EnvironmentalAtix AccessCapitol WreckerEFX Corp/RentPaidOnlineeSupply Systems LLCOutdoor ElementsPerma-Pier Foundation Repair of Texas
ProMaster Roofing & GutterRam Jack Central & South TexasRushco Construction LLCSaint Clair & Sons Inc.State Contractors LLCTexas TurfTexscape Tree ServicesTidal Renovations LLCTuttle ConstructionThe Waste Butlers
2014Accent Sign & Awning Co.Adventure Playground SystemsBanyan WaterBugco Pest ControlCXC Talent SolutionsChadwell SupplyClassic Same Day BlindsClean and Green SolutionsCorporate Housing AssociatesCrawford Electric Supply Co. Inc.CulnatD&G Quality Roofing Inc.Dickson Furniture ManufacturersDirect Services, Construction and Design
En-Touch Systems Inc.Gr8 Houston Homes LLCHoakey LLCHold Fast IndustriesHome Pro InsiderJ NationalJD Creative ConcreteJM AC Installer JRSG & Company Jay’s Iron Works and Iron Fence Painting
Jonah Systems LLCThe Katy Plumbing CompanyLSR Construction and Development LLC
Millennium SupplyOn Site Towing LLCParking & Towing Experts Inc.Pathfinder Insurance GroupSLB ConstructionShield International ProtectionSisTerra LandscapeStorage WestState Roofing CompanyTechnogymTexas Contract FloorsTexas Apartment Pool ServicesTexas Roof Cleaning CompanyUnited Gates & Fence VIP RemodelingVirtual Leasing SystemsWCA Waste CorporationZak Ventures Zippy Shell of West HoustonZytech Consulting LLC
TREY STONEPRESIDENT
ALISON HALLVICE PRESIDENT
JACKIE RHONEPRESIDENT-ELECT
KYLE BROWNSECRETARY/TREASURER
GEORGE GRIFFIN IIIVICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE
MICHELLE PAWELEKVICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE
DEBBIE SULZERVICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE
SAL THOMASVICE PRESIDENT AT LARGE
HOWARD BOOKSTAFFGENERAL COUNSEL
JEFF HALLEXECUTIVE VP
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ABODE DECEMBER 2014 5
ABODEDECEMBER 2014 VOLUME 37, ISSUE 12
Executive Vice President and Publisher JEFF HALL, CAE [email protected]
EDITORIAL STAFFDirector of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX [email protected]
Managing Editor RACHEL ZOCH [email protected]
ADVERTISINGDirector of Supplier Services AMANDA SHERBONDY [email protected]
CONTRIBUTING STAFFVice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE [email protected]
Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP [email protected] President of Public Affairs ANDY TEAS, CAE [email protected]
Controller NANCY LI LO, CPA [email protected] of Facility Services LANA SHILLER [email protected] of Form Sales FRANCES TORRES [email protected]
Director of Information Technology ART EIDMAN [email protected] of Member Services LISA BUTLER [email protected]
Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA [email protected] of Events and Meetings KIRSTEN DEAGEN, CMP [email protected]
Director of Rental Credit Reporting TINA DEFIORE [email protected] Credit Reporting Manager LUISA AREVALO [email protected]
Education and Meetings Coordinator KAREN MITCHELL [email protected] Growth Coordinator LAUREN OWENS [email protected] Affairs Specialist MERCEDES SANCHEZ [email protected]
Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO [email protected]
PRINTERTGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com
HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES
COMMITTEE CHAIR STAFF ADVISORProgram & Budget Committee JACKIE RHONE JEFF HALLNominating Committee MACK ARMSTRONG JEFF HALLEthics Committee KATHY CLEM JEFF HALLInvestment Committee KYLE BROWN JEFF HALLLeadership Development Committee JENIFER PANERAL JEFF HALLFair Housing Committee KURT SEIDEL JEFF HALLBy-Laws Committee DAVID JONES JEFF HALLProperty Awards Committee STEPHANIE GRAVES JEFF HALLStrategic Growth Committee ALISON HALL LAUREN OWENSPAC Fundraising Committee SUAN TINSLEY ANDY TEASLegislative Committee JACKIE RHONE ANDY TEASHAA Better Government Fund STACY HUNT/JOHN RIDGWAY ANDY TEASCentury Club ISRAEL GARZA ANDY TEASDevelopers Committee BRIAN AUSTIN ANDY TEASMultifamily Fire Safety Alliance LARRY HILL ANDY TEASMedia Relations Committee GEORGE GRIFFIN ANDY TEASProduct Service Council DEAN O’KELLEY SUSAN HINKLEYCommunity Outreach Committee MICHELLE PAWELEK SUSAN HINKLEYResident Relations Appeals DARLENE GUIDRY MATILDE LUNAResident Relations Committee A JOHNNA KIZER MATILDE LUNAResident Relations Committee B SUSAN DEAR MATILDE LUNAMembership Committee SAL THOMAS LISA BUTLERAmbassador Club JACOB KUNATH/IZZY GARZA/
LAURA LESTUS LISA BUTLERIROC Committee CARLOS NETO EMILY HILTONEducation Advisory Council DEBBIE SULZER EMILY HILTONCareer and Community Development KELLY TREICHEL EMILY HILTONGolf Tournament Committee KIRK TATE KIRSTEN DEAGENHAF Chili Cook-off Fund-raiser ALAN DEBARBIERIS/KURT GILPIN KIRSTEN DEAGENRCR Advisory Committee STARLA TURNBO TINA DEFIORE2014 Expo Committee MARK PARK AMANDA SHERBONDY
HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MISSION AND VISIONHAA is the leading advocate, resource and community partner for quality rental housing providers
in the Houston and surrounding area. HAA develops leadership in the multifamily industry by engaging broadlydiverse membership, embracing effective technology and advocating for a geographically inclusive association.
Visit HAA Online at www.haaonline.org
ABODE IS THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION. Serving the multihousing industry in Austin, Brazoria, Chambers, Colorado, Fort Bend, Harris,
Liberty, Matagorda, Montgomery, San Jacinto, Waller and Wharton counties.
ABODE, DECEMBER 2014, VOLUME 37, ISSUE 12ABODE (USPS 024-962) is published monthly by the Houston Multi Housing Corporation. Publishing, editorial and advertising offices are located at 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041. Telephone 713-595-0300. The $50 annual ABODE subscription rate is included in all member dues and additional subscriptions are available. The annual subscription rate is $50 for members, $65 for non-members. Advertisingrates are available upon request. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of theHouston Apartment Association. Copyright © 2014 by HAA.
Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABODE, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041.
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PREMIER SPONSORSARBOR CONTRACT CARPET
CRESTMARK CONSTRUCTION SERVICESDIRECSUPPLY
SATURDAY, JANUARY 17HILTON AMERICAS
1600 LAMAR, 77010
COCKTAILS at 7 p.m.
DINNER & PROGRAM at 8 p.m.
DANCING from 9 p.m. to Midnight
MUSIC BY THE EMOTIONS
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Tickets $85/person ($850 table of ten with company name)
if payment is received by January 5;$105/person
($1,050 table of 10) after January 5
For more information or to register, please [email protected]
or 713-595-0300
THE HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO WITNESSAND CELEBRATE THE INSTALLATION OF THE 2015 PRESIDENT, OFFICERS, BOARD
OF DIRECTORS AND PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL OFFICERS.
THE 2015 INSTALLATION & NEW YEAR GALA
PRESENTS
M A S Q U E R A D E
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Iwant to thank everyone who has helped makethis a great year for me and for HAA. We haveaccomplished so much! In particular, our effortsto identify and support candidates and electedofficials who support our industry met with
great success in the midterm elections. We were happyto see all but one of our endorsed candidates elected.
I want to thank everyone who supports the HAABetter Government Fund and participates in speakingup for our industry. Without your support, we wouldnot be able to reach out in such a meaningful way. Ifyou haven’t already signed up for the HAABGF fasttrack for next year, contact Mercedes Sanchez, ournewest HAA staff member, at [email protected] fill out the form at www.haaonline.org/haabgf.
BY THE NUMBERSPolitical action is an important part of what we do
as an association, but HAA offers so much more, fromeduction to networking to community outreach.
• Education: More than 100 people earned their des-ignations with HAA this year. Congratulations to thesecommitted professionals, whose names will be listed inthe January ABODE after all the exam results are in.
• Networking: Our third annual HAA Honors Awardsin June drew another record crowd of almost 1,100
people to honor oustanding achievement in theindustry, and almost 300 people turned out to cele-brate in September with our first-ever Forty Under 40young professionals honorees.
• Community outreach: Our HAF chili cook-off wasanother big event, with an estimated, 4,300 people inattendance. With your help, we raised $33,000 for theeducation foundation and $7,400 for the Red Cross.
Thanks are due also to the HAA staff, who providedplenty of assistance and encouragement for me thisyear. Learn more about these individuals and whatthey can do for you beginning on Page 50.
GOOD WORKSTogether we do so much for the greater community,
both through HAA and independently. I am so proudof the Apartment Angels holiday gift program, now inits third year. Gifts must be delivered by December 12,but it’s not too late to adopt a family! Most wish listsare for basic items like towels, hand lotion or dishes.For details, check out Page 76 or www.haaonline.org/aptangels.aspx. Also, check out a few of our members’“good works” stories beginning on Page 46. Manythanks to these folks for their efforts and for sharingtheir stories, and to everyone who works to build bet-ter communities. Keep up the good work!
Thank YouI am grateful to HAA members and staff for such a successful year.
By TREY STONE, 2014 HAA President
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 7
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Without yoursupport, wewould not beable to reach out in such ameaningful way.
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These companies have generously supported theHouston ApartmentAssociation with theirpatron membership. Please give them carefulconsideration, wheneverpossible, in your business.
PATRON OF THE MONTH
8 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Houston Planned Energy SystemsHAA Member since 1978
Republic ServicesHAA Member since 1982
Presto Maintenance SupplyHAA Member since 1983
CoinmachHAA Member since 1961
Craven CarpetHAA Member since 1986
Camp Construction ServicesHAA Member since 1994
For Rent Media SolutionsHAA Member since 1987
Criterion BrockHAA Member since 1985
AAA PlumbersHAA Member since 1984
FSI Construction Inc.HAA Member since 1999
Dixie Carpet InstallationsHAA Member since 1987
Apartment GuideHAA Member since 1979
DEC
EMBE
R’S
PATR
ON
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Apartment owners and managers in Texasalways have mixed feelings when ourstate Legislature meets. On the onehand, this is our once-every-two-yearsopportunity to solve the occasional
property code problem that impacts the way we dobusiness. On the other hand, it’s an opportunity for181 people who mostly don’t do what we do to getinvolved in our business. Every session, well-meaning legislators file bills that
would increase our taxes and fees, make it harder toevict people who don’t pay their rent and create newregulatory burdens. Next month, the 84th TexasLegislature will begin a five-month session in Austinwith a number of new faces.The lieutenant governor will be Houstonian Dan
Patrick, a former state senator, talk radio host and tel-evision sportscaster. Unlike in Washington, where thevice president’s role in the U.S. Senate is largely cere-monial, the Texas lieutenant governor is the day-to-day presiding officer for the Texas Senate. He tradi-tionally has almost unilateral control over committeechairmanships and assignments and significant con-trol over which bills can be brought up for floordebate. He replaces David Dewhurst, whom he defeat-ed in this year’s Republican Primary election.
NEW IN THE SENATEIn the Texas Senate, two new members from our
area will be a part of next year’s Legislature. HAAmember Paul Bettencourt (Bettencourt Tax Advisors)was the nearly unanimous choice to succeed Sen.Patrick when Patrick decided to run for lieutenantgovernor. The name of our other new area senatorremains to be determined. When Sen. Glenn Hegarwas elected Texas Comptroller last month, his elec-tion forced a special election to replace him. Whilethe election date had not yet been set by the gover-nor at press time, we have a pretty good idea who themajor candidates will be. State Rep. Lois Kolkhorst,
who currently represents the Brenham area, is proba-bly the establishment favorite. HAA member GaryGates (Gatesco) and Fort Bend businessman CharlesGregory are also declared candidates.
NEW IN THE HOUSEIn the Texas House of Representatives, several new
Houston-area members will take office next year. InGalveston, Wayne Faircloth will succeed long-timeRep. Craig Eiland, who did not seek reelection. FromMontgomery County, Will Metcalf and Mark Keoughwill be incoming freshmen. In Pasadena, RepublicanGilbert Peña defeated Mary Ann Perez in one of theonly party-competitive seats in Harris County. In westHarris County, Mike Schofield will succeed BillCallegari, who represented the Katy area for six termsbefore his well-deserved retirement.
LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIESLegislators have already started “pre-filing” bills for
the upcoming session. Many are routine adjustmentsof existing law. Some are mostly to make politicalstatements. One would make Texas the second state(along with Arizona) to completely do away withDaylight Saving Time (HB 150).The apartment industry will have some work to do
in the upcoming session. In addition to fighting theusual collection of bad bills, we have a few problemswe’re asking the Legislature to fix through affirmativelegislation.You probably remember the problem with paupers’
affidavits and how bad it got before a bill we helpedpass two sessions ago. Some residents would routinelyget evicted, appeal their evictions to County Court,declare themselves “paupers” to avoid paying theappeal bond, then simply ignore the requirement topay a month’s rent into the court registry. In 2011,we helped pass a bill that allows the owner to regainpossession of the apartment if the “pauper” doesn’t
Legislative PreviewEvery session,well-meaning legislators file bills that wouldincrease our taxesand fees, make it harder to evictpeople who don’t pay theirrent and createnew regulatoryburdens.
Posturing for a busy 2015 session is already underway.
By JACKIE RHONE, CAPS, HAA Legislative Committee Chair
with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public AffairsLEGISLATIVE UPDATE
See LEGISLATIVE, Page 27
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 9
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Holiday Cheer or Jeers?You don’t wantto be a Scrooge,but you do wantto protect yourproperty. Don’tlet the holidayseason becomeliability season!
Manage decoration expectations to avoid complaints and complications.
By HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP, HAA General Counsel
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 11
IT’S THE LAW
Happy holidays! Yep, it’s that time ofyear again! Apartment communitiesacross the land are celebratingChristmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah orwhatever makes you happy. Holiday
decorations are sure to be part of the festivities.Unfortunately, apartment owners and managers
may not share in all the fun. Many questions arisebecause of resident needs and desires for holiday dec-orations. What decorations can or should be allowed?Will there be special rules for the holidays? What arethe Fair Housing implications? How will you enforcedecoration rules?You don’t want to be a Scrooge, but you do want to
protect your property. Don’t let the holiday seasonbecome liability season!
HOW CAN HOLIDAY DECORATIONS CREATE LIABILITY ISSUES?
A number of issues may arise as a result of holidaydecorations. Decorations might be unsightly, bright,loud or cluttered – or create a fire hazard. If you allow decorations that are lit but do not
have any rules regarding the hours that the decora-tions can glow, you may run into problems from resi-dents claiming that the lights shine in their units,causing a disturbance. Disturbances may also occur ifholiday decorations have sound capability and create
excessive noise. Flammable holiday decorations clut-tered in a closed-in area such as a balcony or patiocould create a fire hazard and be a potential safetyissue for the entire property.
HOW CAN A FAIR HOUSING ISSUE BE CREATED BY DECORATIONS?
Fair Housing complaints are only made by someonewho is unhappy with what you said or did. Any timeyou adopt a rule that could be offensive to any resi-dent, you might be subject to a Fair Housing com-plaint. Any time you enforce a rule unequally or incon-sistently, a Fair Housing could arise. Any time you haveany type of a contest, you run the risk of persons whodo not celebrate the holidays being offended. Even a lighting contest can turn into a Fair
Housing issue. If you have a contest, be careful tolabel it as a “holiday” lighting contest, not a“Christmas” lighting contest. If you don’t mind therisk, encourage all residents to participate in any con-test, not just those that may celebrate a holiday dur-ing the last week of December.
WHAT TYPE OF ELECTRONIC DEVICES WILL YOU ALLOW?
Given the current state of technology, holiday deco-rations can be elaborate with a lot of moving parts. Willyou allow electronic devices in holiday decorations? If
Come and listen to my storyFa la la la la, la la la laHear me now or you’ll be sorryFa la la la la, la la la la
Balconies are all aglowFa la la la la, la la la laEven at midnight, quite a showFa la la la la, la la la la
Bells and tinsel are everywhereFa la la la la, la la la laSanta and Rudolph, what a pairFa la la la la, la la la la
Sleds a-plenty, reindeer hoppingFa la la la la, la la la laSome self-made, some from shoppingFa la la la la, la la la la
Lights a-blazing, sounds a-blaringFa la la la la, la la la laNot all are for holiday sharingFa la la la la, la la la la
Gifts a plenty, lots of clutterFa la la la la, la la la laStuff from the floor to the gutterFa la la la la, la la la la
Tenants showing lots of joyFa la la la la, la la la laBut some are easy to annoyFa la la la la, la la la la
Keeping the order is your goalFa la la la la, la la la laBut you feel you’ve lost controlFa la la la la, la la la la
You set rules, which are ignoredFa la la la la, la la la laSomehow you’ve got to strike a chordFa la la la la, la la la la
Eviction may be the keyFa la la la la, la la la laTo make offenders wake up and seeFa la la la la, la la la la
Can you, should you, be so stern?Fa la la la la, la la la la’Tis the season, but they must learnFa la la la la, la la la la
You need help, you need to knowFa la la la la, la la la laYou’d rather be under the mistletoe!Fa la la la la, la la la la
DECK THE HALLS – WITH LOTS OF STUFF? (to the tune of “Deck the Halls”)
Law Dec14 pg 11,12_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:20 PM Page 1
12 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
IT’S THE LAW
so, what special rules must residents follow? You probably don’t wantany unprotected wiring exposed to the elements. You may also want torestrict a resident’s ability to plug in to any common-area outlets.
CAN SPECIAL RULES BE ADOPTED FOR THE HOLIDAYS?Yes. If you use the standard TAA lease, Section 18 provides that you
may make reasonable changes to written rules, effective immediately,if they are distributed and applicable to all units in the apartmentcommunity and do not change dollar amounts on Page 1 of the lease.If you are allowing decorative arrangements on patios and balconiesduring the holidays that aren’t allowed during the rest of the year,you can adopt rules that apply on a temporary basis. Pursuant to thelease, you would need to distribute a copy of the rules to all units,and the rules would have to be applied property-wide.
IF A RESIDENT VIOLATES A RULE, IS IT ALSO A VIOLATION OF THE LEASE?
Yes. Pursuant to Section 18 of the TAA lease, the resident and allguests and occupants must comply with any written apartment rulesand community policies, including instructions for care of the prop-erty. The rules are considered part of the lease. Consequently, a vio-lation of the rules is also a violation of the lease.
If decorations are too loud, too bright or a fire hazard, the residentmay also be in violation of sections of the lease regarding the con-duct of all residents. Section 20 of the lease prohibits behaving in aloud or obnoxious manner; disturbing or threatening the rights,comfort, health, safety or convenience of others (including theowner’s agents and employees) in or near the apartment community;disrupting the owner’s business operations; tampering with utilities;or bringing hazardous materials into the apartment community. Tothe extent that decorations do any of these things, the residentwould be in violation of the lease.
CAN A RESIDENT BE EVICTED FOR VIOLATING DECORATION RULES?
Yes. If the resident violates the lease, an owner can exercise itsright to terminate the resident’s right to possession. Similar to aneviction based upon nonpayment of rent, a notice to vacate wouldneed to be sent and the eviction process would need to be pursued.In any eviction proceeding, appropriate witnesses and evidencewould need to be presented to prove that the violation occurred.
MAKE YOUR LIST AND CHECK IT TWICEThe holiday season should be a joyous time for all, but be careful!
Be sensitive to the fact that everyone celebrates in a different way andon a different level. By adopting a plan with respect to what decora-tions will be allowed and knowing how to enforce your rules, you canavoid unnecessary problems. Good luck and happy holidays!
To learn more about this and other legal issues, attend the annual LegalSeminar on Thursday, February 5. Register online at www.haaonline.org.
You may make reasonable changes to writtenrules, effective immediately, if they are distrib-uted and applicable to all units in the apart-ment community.
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Aresident filed a complaint with HAA to receive a refundof her $200 administrative fee. The resident had appliedfor an apartment on August 28 and paid a $200 adminis-trative fee. She had to have a guarantor and provide
proof of the guarantor’s income, which took some time becauseher guarantor lived in Alaska. A few days later, the resident wastold the application was denied because the original applicationwas not submitted and there was conflicting information on theguarantor’s form. The resident stated she has proof from a repre-sentative of the property stating that a photocopy of the applica-tion sent by email would be accepted.
MANAGEMENT’S RESPONSEManagement responded to HAA stating that the resident and her
partner applied for an apartment on August 31 with a scheduledmove-in date of September 9. When the residents reported thatthey needed to postpone their move-in until October 8, the leasingprofessional transferred their application to another apartment. Along with a completed TAA application, income verification
must be submitted as outlined in the qualification acknowledg-ment. Insufficient documents were provided after several attemptsand conversations with the residents. Since they did not qualifybased on their income, an approved guarantor would be required.A guarantor’s application was photographed and submitted onSeptember 5. An original application was requested by the propertyrather than a photocopy or other reproduction. Since the guarantor lived out of state, a copy of the guarantor’s
driver’s license would be required in an effort to authenticate thedetails of the application. The information listed on the guarantor’sapplication did not match the information on the government-issued form of identification, and the resident admitted to com-
pleting the application herself because her father-in-law was in aremote location. After several days, the leasing professional was able to communi-
cate with the guarantor. She expressed her concern about the namedapplicants completing the guarantor’s application without properlyconsulting with him. He verbally agreed and outlined his personalinformation, which varied greatly from the information listed on theapplication. The guarantor stated that he would send in an originalguarantor application, but the property never received such a docu-ment. Management believed the residents falsified the guarantor’sinformation on the application in an attempt to receive approval.Enclosed were copies of the application and final account statement.
THE COMMITTEE’S DECISIONThe committee decided in favor of the resident. The committee
noted that the resident was originally denied for falsification of adocument, but because the property did not notify the residentswithin the allotted seven-day time period per the TAA application,
management is to refundthe resident her $200administrative fee.
If you are a managerwith a resident issue,please call the main HAAline at 713-595-0300 andask for Resident Relations.Please identify yourself asa manager so that we may direct your call appropriately.
Details MatterA resident who falsified an application receives a refund because of administrative delays.
From the RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEESRESIDENT RELATIONS
14 DECEMBER 2015 ABODE
Thanks to commiittee member MarthaMatula, WRH Realty, for representing HAA at a Gulfton neighborhood event in October.
Many thanks to our Resident Relations Committee members for their hard work and dedication in 2014
Johnna Kizer, chair Georgeanne Longoria
Gloria Haney Robin Sample
Sandra Hazelwood Kim Ingram Beverly Norris Heather LaClaire Veronica Roman Elaine Leeper
Michele Swilley Jill Crowley Chris Runyon Joe Kaye
Morgan White Bill Brzozowski
Amber Ostrander-Hyde Jimmie Hotz
Shannon Crumpler
Susan Dear, chairStaci McMillanCarlos Neto
Debbie DeRocheScott Douglas
Tammie HarringtonStephanie LawlessMartha MatulaNatalie RipkowskiLeah Villarreal
Leah MorrisKari CargleKathy Motis
Kristin McLaughlinJames GregoryAngie Lavrack
Deborah DeRouenCynthia RoseRobert Lopes
Resident Relations Committee A Resident Relations Committee B
ResRel Dec14 pg 14_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:23 PM Page 1
015 2015 2015 2015 2015 20
015 2015 2015 2015 2015 201
015 2015 2015 2015 2015 201
015 2015 2015ABODE DECEMBER 2014 17
Questions? For complete details and
registration links, check out the calendar
pages at www.haaonline.org.
January17 – Installation & New Year Gala
22 – Sponsorship Auction
27 – State of the Industry Breakfast
February12 – Spring PAC Fundraiser
18-20 – TAA Legislative Conference/
Board Meeting
26 – ACES Luncheon
March15-18 – NAA Capitol Conference
25 – Maintenance Mania
April10 – Volleyball Tournament
16 – ACES Luncheon
22-25 – TAA Education Conference & Expo
May1 – All Stars Sports Challenge
7-8 – Maintenance Supply Headquarters
Challenge Cup Tournament
14 – HAA Education Conference & Expo
June6 – Fun Run
11 – Honors Awards Ceremony & Dinner
18 – Sponsorship Auction
24-27 – NAA Education Conference & Expo
July17 – Bowling Tournament
August27 – Hall of Fame (tentative)
September10 – ACES Luncheon honoring
Maintenance & Managers
October8 – TopGolf PAC Fundraiser
24 – 25th Annual Chili Fest
November12 – Annual Business Meeting
17-20 – NAA Assembly of Delegates
December4 – ACES Holiday Luncheon
10 – Volunteer Appreciation Party
Plan ahead for a groundbreaking year with your association! Mark your calendars for these great networking opportunities in 2015.
Please note that dates and times are subject to change. Check the calendar pages at www.haaonline.org for details and to register, or text “HAAInfo” to 590-590 for the most up-to-date information.
as of 11/12/14
events 2015 p17_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:26 PM Page 1
Join HAA and industry leaders as we assessthe current and future state of Houston’s multifamily market. Topics will include recenteconomic trends, job growth, forecasts, rentalrate and occupancy trends, new constructiondevelopments, technology, marketing trendsand much more.
State of the Industry BreakfastTuesday, January 27Breakfast and Registration: 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.Program: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.Location: JW Marriott’s brand-new downtown location, 806 Main St. 77002Program cost: $75/person if prepaid with a credit card; $90/person if invoiced
Sponsored by For Rent Media Solutionsand HD Supply
Stateof the
Industry
A comprehensivelook at what’s happening in the Houston multifamily market
state of industry pg 18_Apt Trends flyer 11/17/14 12:27 PM Page 1
From the HAA EDUCATION DEPARTMENTUPCOMING COURSES
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 19
Online registration is fast and easy! All you need is your HAA login ID and password and a credit card. If you do nothave a login ID, request one by emailing [email protected], or call 713-595-0300 during regular business hours.
Schedule and fees are subject to change without prior notification.Notice of cancellation is required two days in advance to receivea refund, less a $15 administrative fee. Seats are guaranteed on a
first-come, first-served basis when payment and registration arereceived in advance of the program. Unless otherwise indicated, coursesare held in either the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room orthe Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Room atthe Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway ParkBlvd. on the second floor of the HAA Office Building. Seating is limited.
You must pre-register. For more information, contact the Education & Meetings Department at 713-595-0319 or 713-595-0314 or [email protected], or register online at www.haaonline.org.
Notice to Attendees: All pre-registered no-shows will be billed. Foradmittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will be required at thedoor if not received prior to the event. Start times listed below includea 30-minute registration period. Notice of cancellation is required twodays prior to the event for a refund, less a $15 administrative fee.
DecemberCAMT: Appliance Maintenance & Repair Wednesdays, December 3 and 179 a.m. to 5 p.m. (registration at8:30 a.m. on Dec. 3 only). Program cost: $795Individual module: $165Sponsored by HD Supply This course teaches students how toinstall, diagnose and repair the keyappliances that they will encounteron the job.
HAA Next: Mix’n’JingleThursday, December 46:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.at SkyHouse Houston, 1625 Main St. 77002Sponsored by Apartment GuideSee www.haaonline.org for locationand registration details for this freeand festive networking event.
CAPS: Full CourseMonday, December 8 through Friday, December 12 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m. on Monday only)Program cost: $1,245 Individual module: $249NOTE: Pre-registration required.Sponsored by Best Plumbing, FSI Construction, MarathonFitness, TXU Energy MultifamilyServices and Valet WasteSee www.haaonline.org for acomplete course schedule and details.
CAM Exam Friday, December 19Email [email protected] more information.
JanuaryCAPS ExamFriday, January 9Email [email protected] more information.
CAMT: Interior & ExteriorMaintenance & RepairWednesday January 149 a.m. to 5 p.m.Program cost: $795Individual module: $165Sponsored by PrestoMaintenance Supply This course gives learners what theyneed to know to keep the interiorand exterior of the buildings ontheir properties in excellent shape,both through repair and preventivemaintenance. This course alsoteaches students how to performmakeready activities and gives themhelpful checklists to use on the job.
Leasing 101 Tuesday, January 208:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.Program cost: $65 if paid byJanuary 14/$75 at the doorThis in-depth introduction to theapartment industry is for newleasing professionals and thoselooking to learn more about theindustry as a career. Topics coveredinclude greeting and qualifying thecustomer, presenting the lease,today’s industry terminology, anoverview of Fair Housing and more.Students who complete the coursewill receive a certificate, as well as alisting of management companiesthat are members of HAA.
CAM Instructor TrainingFriday, January 23Email [email protected] for more information.
State of the Industry BreakfastTuesday, January 27Registration/Breakfast: 7:30 a.m.Program: 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.at the JW Marriott Downtown806 Main St. 77002Program cost: $75/per person if prepaid with a credit card;$90/person if invoicedSponsored by For Rent MediaSolutions and HD SupplyThis comprehensive look at what’shappening in the Houstonapartment market will includetopics such as recent economictrends, job growth, forecasts, rentalrate and occupancy trends, newconstruction developments,technology and marketing trendsand much more.
CAMT ExamWednesday, January 28Email [email protected] more information.
IROC Breakfast Friday, January 307:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.Sponsored by CrestmarkConstruction ServicesProgram cost: FREE/members;$25/non-membersIndependent owners, join us fornetworking and education in thissession designed just for you.
Looking AheadThe HAF Education course calendarfor 2015 is still being finalized, buthere are some dates to look for inthe coming year:
January 27State of the Industry Breakfast
February 5Annual Legal Seminar
February and October National Apartment LeasingProfessional designation courses
March 25Maintenance Mania
March and April Certified Apartment Managerdesignation courses
July and NovemberExtreme CAM sessions
December 7-11Certified Apartment PortfolioSupervisor designation full course
September and October Certified Apartment MaintenanceTechnician full course
Look for the full schedule in ourEducation Course Catalog to bedelivered in January, or check thecalendars at www.haaonline.orgfor the most current information.
Educ Dec14 pg 19_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:28 PM Page 1
December 2014
CALENDAR OF EVENTS DECEMBERS M T W T F S
1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30 31
20 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
3CAMT: AppliancesMaintenance & Repair
begins – Wednesday, December 3and Wednesday, December 17, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m. on Dec. 3 only). Seewww.haaonline.org for details.Sponsored by HD Supply.
Share Your Holidays Food DriveDrop-off Deadline – Wednesday,December 3, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fordetails and drop-off locations, seewww.haaonline.org or contactSusan at [email protected] further information.
4 HAA Next: HolidayMix’n’Jingle – Thursday,
December 4, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30p.m. at SkyHouse Houston, 1625Main St. 77002. RSVP via thecalendar at www.haaonline.org.Sponsored by Apartment Guide.
5 ACES Holiday Luncheon –Friday, December 5, 11:30
a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Details will beemailed to ACES members, orcontact Kirsten at [email protected] for details and toregister. Sponsored by AAAPlumbers, CORT Furniture Rentaland For Rent Media Solutions.
8-12CAPS: Full Course –Monday, December 8
through Friday, December 12 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (registration at 8:30 a.m. on Monday only)NOTE: Pre-registration required.Sponsored by Best Plumbing, FSIConstruction, Marathon Fitness,TXU Energy Multifamily Servicesand Valet Waste. For completecourse schedule and details, visitwww.haaonline.org.
11Volunteer AppreciationParty – Thursday, December
11 at 6 p.m. Invitations will be sentto eligible attendees.
17CAMT: AppliancesMaintenance & Repair
concludes – Wednesday,December 17, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.Sponsored by HD Supply.
18 Offices Closed – The HAAoffices will close from 11
a.m. to 2 p.m. for a staffdevelopment luncheon onThursday, December 18.
19 CAM Exam – Friday,December 19. Email
[email protected] for details.
24-26Offices Closed –The HAA offices
will close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday,December 24 and will be closed allThursday and Friday, December 25and 26, in observance of theChristmas holiday.
31Offices Closed – The HAA offices will
close at 2 p.m. on Wednesday,December 31 in observance of the New Year holiday.
Save these dates for 2015:
Saturday, January 17 Installation & New Year Gala
Thursday, February 12 New! PAC Fundraising Event
Wednesday, March 25Maintenance Mania
Friday, April 10Volleyball Tournament
Thursday, May 14 HAA Education Conference & Expo
Thursday, June 11 Honors Awards Ceremony& Dinner
... and much more to come!
Please note that dates and timesare subject to change. Check the calendars at www.haaonline.orgfor the most up-to-date information.
Unless otherwise noted, all events meet at our Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., second floor, in either the Direct Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Room or the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room.
Christopher Halliburton, Capstone Real Estate Services
Matthew Jaynes
Greg Barbeneaux, Apartment Data Services
Quintina Willis, Gaia Property Management
Rebecca Shirley, Greystar
Blanca Anderson, Asset Plus
Kelley Suess, Greystar
Brandon Coleman, Vesta Management
Patrick Brothers, Century A/C Supply
Jeff Hull, Affordable Quality Electric
Jon Snider, AAA Plumbers
Nola Gordon, Greystar
Tanya Dusek, Davis Development
Mindy Price, J Turner Research
Harry Hooker, U.S. Residential Group
Shelley Russell, Grayco Partners
Theresa Lamar, Trademarks Promotional Products
John Dang, Mosaic Residential
Chavonne LeFleur, Greystar
Stephanie Graves, Trainer, Motivator & Crazy Marketing Gal
Many thanks to our wonderful volunteer instructors!
Calendar Dec14 pg 20,21_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:30 PM Page 1
January 2015
CALENDAR OF EVENTS JANUARYS M T W T F S
1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 21
Meetings located at the HAA Offices, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., first floor, will be held in the Redi Carpet and Winograd Families/Judwin Properties Conference Room.
1-2 Offices Closed – TheHAA offices will be closed
on Thursday and Friday, January 1 and 2, in observance of the NewYear’s holiday.
8Expo Committee – Thursday,January 8, 9:30 a.m. Contact
Amanda at [email protected] for details.
9CAPS Exam – Friday, January9. Email education@haaonline.
org for details.
14 CAMT: Interior andExterior Maintenance &
Repair – Wednesday, January 14, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sponsored byPresto Maintenance Supply.
Resident Relations Committee A– Wednesday, January 14 at 3 p.m.
17 Installation & New YearGala – Saturday, January
17, 7 p.m. to midnight at theHilton Americas downtown.Reserve tables or purchase individ-ual tickets at www.haaonline.org.See Page 6 for details. Presentedby Camp Construction Servicesand sponsored by Arbor ContractCarpet, Crestmark Constructionand DirecSupply.
20 Leasing 101 – Tuesday,January 20, 8:30 a.m. to 3
p.m. See Page 19 for details.
22 Sponsorship Auction –Thursday, January 22.
Auction 101 at 2:30 p.m., draw-ings close at 3:45 p.m. and liveauction begins at 4 p.m. See Page25 for details. RSVP to Amanda [email protected].
23CAM Instructor Training –Friday, January 23. Email
[email protected] for moreinformation.
27 State of the IndustryBreakfast – Tuesday,
January 27, 7:30 a.m. to 10:30a.m. at the JW Marriott down-town, 806 Main St. 77002. SeePage 18 for details. Sponsored by For Rent Media Solutions andHD Supply.
28 CAMT Exam –Wednesday, January 28.
Email [email protected] more information.
Resident Relations Committee B– Wednesday, January 28 at 3 p.m.
29 Legislative Committee –Thursday, January 29
at 3 p.m.
Board Meeting – Thursday,January 29, 4:30 p.m. Sponsoredby CORT Furniture Rental.
30 IROC Breakfast – Friday,January 30. 7:30 a.m. to
10 a.m. Sponsored by CrestmarkConstruction Services.
Look for the full 2015 course sched-ule in our Education Course Catalogto be delivered in January, or checkthe calendars at www.haaonline.orgfor the most current information.
Are you ready for a new
PAC Fundraising event?
Mark your calendar for February 12,
when HAA gets its wine and brew on with
Flights & BitesWatch next month’s ABODE for more,and see www.haaonline.org
Calendar Dec14 pg 20,21_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:30 PM Page 2
Here’s just a taste of some of the APPLE sessions for 2015:
FebruaryDoug Chasick:Telling Ain’t Selling –Shut Up and Let Them Buy
Grant Crowell, Urban Foresters:Money Doesn’t Grow on Trees,But They Do Effect Your Bottom Line
MarchTara CarterSurviving a Lease-up
AprilDoug Chasick:Fair Housing Ain't Fair –It’s EQUAL
Stephanie Graves:Dirty Little Secrets to Better Budgets
MayJen Piccotti:Building Community (Without Breaking the Bank)
JuneLeah Brewer:Superhero Secrets to Success
AugustJen Piccotti:Where Did All the Look and Leases Go?
SeptemberRonnie Beavers, PrestoMaintenance Supply:Flooring Care and Repair
Tara Carter:Convert More Leases from YourInternet and Outreach Efforts
OctoberLeah Brewer:Is the Customer Always Right?
Stephanie Graves:My Maintenance Rocks …Well, Sort Of
APPLE features some of the best nationally acclaimed speakers in the industry. Individual sessions are priced at only $50 each, a real steal for quality education.
Annual Property Subscriptions are also available with unlimited attendance forall on-site property staff to all sessions at discounted prices:• Only $199 per year per property for properties with fewer than 200 units• Only $399 per year per property for properties with 200 to 350 units.• Only $450 per year per property for properties with more than 350 units.
Get the right ideas and a career-building education–Grab an APPLE
APPLE is sponsored by
22 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Take a bite out of these education opportunities and enroll for 2015 today.Contact the HAA Education Department at [email protected] or register
online at www.haaonline.org.
Apple pg 22_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:33 PM Page 1
24 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Many thanks to the following member companies for hosting meetings and events in the HAA facilities this year:
Abbey Residential Services Inc.Apartment GuideAsset Plus Corp.
CKR Property Management LLCDMC Management Co.
Eureka Multifamily Group LPFrancis Property ManagementGaia Property Management
GreystarHarbor Group Management Company
Milestone ManagementThe Morgan GroupResource ResidentialSherwin Williams
Tarantino Properties Inc.U.S. Residential Group LLC
Venterra RealtyVesta Management LLC
We appreciate your support!
Thank you,
Lana Shiller Director of Facility Services
Keep the education center in mind when your company is in need of space for your next meeting or employee training. The center is available for rental
to members and is the perfect venue for budget meetings, planning sessions and more. For rates and information, contact Lana Shiller at 713-595-0306, or [email protected].
bldg rental thanks p24_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:40 PM Page 1
You’re off to great places with the sponsorship of our upcoming events and meetings. Let us help you get you on your wayto name recognition and new customers!
Join us for a super fun time as we sell mountains of events and meetings such as the Volleyball Tournament, Spring BGF/PACfundraiser, Maintenance Mania, EducationConference & Expo, ACES Luncheons andnumerous education and designation coursesand seminars.
Visit the HAA website for the full AuctionProgram with the list of events up for bids at www.haaonline.org/sponsor.
January is the monthThe 22nd is the dateIf you’re a supplierNo admission you’ll pay!Location: Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. off Clay Road just east of Beltway 8Schedule:Auction 101: 2:30 p.m.Registration: 3 p.m.Drawings close: 3:45 a.m.Live Auction begins: 4 p.m.RSVP: to Amanda Sherbondy at [email protected]
“And, if you go in, should you turn left or right?” First time to attend the HAA Auction? Come early for Auction 101 and we’ll walk you through the process so you’ll be ready to go!
Can’t make the live auction? “You won’t lag behind, because you’ll have the speed.” Proxy bidding is available. Contact AmandaSherbondy at [email protected] to find out more.
Sponsorship Auction!Auction pg 25_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:42 PM Page 1
NAA and NMHC officers met withFederal Housing Finance AgencyDirector Mel Watt and keymembers of his team on
October 15 to stress the critical role multi-family plays in meeting the nation’s hous-ing needs. Representatives included NMHC’sVice Chairman Bob Dewitt, Treasurer SueAnsel and NAA Treasurer Cindy Clare.Participants discussed the state of the
multifamily market overall as well as somespecific challenges faced by the industry.These included meeting demand in the faceof supply issues as well as the lack ofincome growth for renters as operationalcosts continue to rise. The related issue oflack of income growth for renters was alsodiscussed. Industry participants also stressedthe important role that the government-sponsored enterprises, Fannie Mae andFreddie Mac, have played in ensuring thefinancing needs of the apartment industryacross all economic cycles and in all geo-graphic markets. FHFA staff asked what could be done to
help better meet the needs of the apartmentindustry and address the shortage of afford-able housing. NAA and NMHC representa-tives emphasized the need to free up supplyimpediments, to focus more on tools to pre-serve the aging housing stock and to identi-fy ways to refinance long-term, high-interestLow-Income Housing Tax Credit loans.FHFA has recently requested input from
stakeholders on a variety of topics, provid-ing the apartment industry further opportu-nity to weigh in with the agency. The FHFAStrategic Plan: Fiscal Years 2015-2019 wasreleased for public input on August 15 andincluded language supporting the GSEs’ par-ticipation in multifamily. NAA and NMHCsubmitted comments on September 15 com-mending FHFA for acknowledging theimportance of multifamily housing and therole the GSEs play in our market. On August 29, FHFA published a pro-
posed rule in the Federal Register detailinghousing goals for the GSEs from 2015-2017,including multifamily goals for low-income,very low-income and small properties,defined as five to 50 units. NAA and NMHC
will submit comments on the proposed rule,encouraging FHFA to avoid arbitrary orharmful restrictions on market activity forthe GSEs and to focus on addressing marketneeds for all product types in all markets.
HUD RELEASES FINAL FAIR MARKET RENTS FOR FY 2015HUD has released its final FY 2015 Fair
Market Rents. FMRs are set annually by thedepartment and vary based on numerousfactors, including local housing supply anddemand, economic conditions and the sizeof the apartment unit. They are set at themetro or county level for the most part. Insome cases, Small Area Fair Market Rents,which are set at the zip code level, are used.The change from 2014 varies by each juris-diction – in some cases there was a decrease,while for others there was an increase.NAA and NMHC submitted a comment
letter to HUD with a real estate coalition.The comments suggested a revised method-ology to possibly mitigate some of the FMRdecreases and restated our concerns aboutthe planned future use of SAFMRs. If youhave any questions, contact NMHC’s CaitlinWalter at 202-974-2343.
NAA GUIDANCE ON EBOLAIn October 10, NAA sent a document on
dealing with Ebola to our affiliate associa-tions because we felt it was important toprovide updated guidance and resourcesfrom official sources and share it with all ofour members. Our primary concern is foremployees and residents, and we are actingout of a sense of precaution and concern forall of our communities regardless of locale.We have prepared a document that
includes the most recent general guidance,possible questions you may receive andresources to use. Read it at www.naahq.org/sites/default/files/naa-documents/disaster/NAA-Ebola-Guidance.pdf.
Should you have further questions, weencourage you to stay current with localhealth officials as well as the latest guidancefrom the Centers for Disease Control andPrevention and also log onto the NAA web-
site, which we will update regularly. NAAwill continue to monitor news from theCDC and communicate with you according-ly. More information, as it becomes avail-able, will be posted www.naahq.org/ebola.
EPA PROPOSES EXPANDINGREGULATIONS ON LEAD EXPOSUREThe Environmental Protection Agency
continues its efforts to issue a proposed reg-ulation to guide work practices during therenovation, repair and painting of bothpublic and commercial buildings.Although the rules currently in place for
pre-1978 properties, when lead paint wasbanned, have been focused on health assess-ments for children under age 6, the agencyis seeking to expand them to include cardio-vascular diseases in older adults. The EPAhas failed to rule out that apartment proper-ties of five or more units would be consid-ered commercial properties, and there isalso no cut off year for these buildings.Compliance with the rule would be over-
ly burdensome in light of the fact that theagency has yet to show the positive publichealth outcome that would be expectedfrom expanding the regulations to encom-pass all public and commercial buildings.EPA is fast-tracking the related proposed
rule with one expected to be issued earlynext year. NAA and NMHC continue toobject to the agency’s efforts to enact a rulewithout first doing the preliminary workrequired to ensure against an unnecessarilybroad rule. We have joined with a coalitionin hiring technical experts to analyze theproposed regulations and provide com-ments to the agency.
Meeting Mel WattIndustry leaders meet with FHFA director and key staff to discuss housing finance.
From the NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATION and the NATIONAL MULTI HOUSING COUNCILINDUSTRY UPDATE
NAA and NMHC representatives emphasized the need to free up supply impediments, to focus more on tools to preserve the aging housing stock and to identify ways
to refinance long-term, high-interest LIHTC loans.
26 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
NAA Update Dec14 pg 26_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:42 PM Page 1
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 27
pay a month’s rent to the court within fivedays of the judgment. Since then, we’ve seen an increase in
appeals with “surety bonds” – which basical-ly just means the evicted resident has some-body else promise to pay in case they loseon appeal. There’s no mechanism for theowner to challenge the financial solvency ofthe surety, and the chance of eventual col-lection of past-due rent is dicey at best. Nextmonth, we’ll be working on a bill to requirethe surety to post a month’s rent before theappeal can go forward and to allow a wayfor owners to challenge the financial suffi-ciency of the surety.We’ll also be working on a bill to give
owners more flexibility on posting vacatenotices, a bill to keep cities from makingvoluntary federal housing programs manda-tory on market-rate properties and a bill tohelp protect owners from liability in certaincases involving apartments rented to non-violent former offenders.It has been a great year in the apartment
business, and I have enjoyed serving as yourLegislative Committee Chair! Next year, mycolleague, Alison Hall, from CamdenProperty Trust, will be writing to you in thisspace, and I know she’s going to do an out-standing job!
If you have a regulatory problem or question,call the HAA main line at 713-595-0300 andask for Andy in Government Affairs.
LEGISLATIVE, continued from Page 9
The apartment industry willhave some work to do in theupcoming session. In addi-tion to fighting the usual col-lection of bad bills, we have afew problems we’re askingthe Legislature to fix throughaffirmative legislation.
News you can use!Regulatory changes can have a majorimpact on your business. Keep an eyeon what’s happening at the national,state and local levels.
For the latest news on national issues,visit www.naahq.org/learn/government-affairs. For local updates, visit the HAAblog at www.haaonline.org/blog.
LegUp Dec14 pg 9, 27_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:18 PM Page 2
PHOTO ALBUM Photos from the NORTH HARRIS COUNTY AREA COUNCIL
28 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Event: Area Council Meeting (North Harris County)When: Tuesday, October 28Where: Camden NorthpointeHAA’s strategic growth effort ended this year with a bang! Our last meet-ing of 30 local managers and assistant managers was hosted by theCamden Northpointe Apartments in Tomball. Guest speakers were JudgeLaryssa Korduba and HAA General Counsel Howard Bookstaff. JudgeKorduba answered questions and gave her forecast for any big challengesas she takes the bench. She also gave managers helpful pointers on howto support her in the eviction process and what she wanted local man-agers to know about working in her courtroom. The reaction was verypositive, and we are looking forward to bringing more meetings out tothis area in 2015. A big thank-you to Lisa Roman, community manager,and her staff for hosting us at their lovely property.
outreach pg 28,29_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:45 PM Page 1
Photos by HAA STAFF
Strength
NetworkEducation
in
Outreach
HAA is reaching out to better serve our members by bringing targetednetworking and educational events to different parts of our 12-countyservice area.The Strategic Growth Committee has achieved great successthis year with eight Area Council meetings all across HAA’s service area. Theresponse from our member have attended these local meetings has beenunanimously positive.
Up Next: We will continue to build upon the relationships established this year, moving into 2015. We have joined several local chambers of commerce across the counties and will be actively participating in chamber events in 2015. We will be calling upon local managers and assistant managers to attend these events..
If you are interested in attending events in your area, please contact Lauren Owens at [email protected].
Want to get involved?We are looking for member properties to host Area Council meetings in our 12-county service area. Contact Lauren Owens at [email protected] to sign up!
Numbers
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 29
On the Road with HAA: The Houston ApartmentAssociation is coming to your neighborbood!
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PHOTO ALBUM
30 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Event: HAA Next: ProfessionalDevelopment Breakfast
When: October 9Sponsor: CORT Furniture RentalBarbara Savona spoke to the HAAyoung professionals group about
planning for career growth.
Photos from the OCTOBER NEXT BREAKFAST
Next bkfst pix p30_Layout 1 11/17/14 12:47 PM Page 1
PHOTO ALBUM
32 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the NAAPAC WINE TASTING
Event: NAAPAC Wine Tasting Fundraiser When: November 6
Where: WaterWall Place Sky LoungeA warm thank-you to all our wine hostsand attendees who participated in the
fourth annual NAAPAC wine tasting! PACFundraising Committee Chair Suan Tinsley,
Vesta Management, served as master ofceremonies. Mack Armstrong, Greystar,won top honors for his Dreaming TreeWinery Crush Red Blend. Special guestsincluded NAA President and CEO Doug
Culkin and TAA President Mike Clark.
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Forty Under 40By the Numbers:
Our inaugural class of rising industry stars
shows a diversity befitting the Bayou City –
but a few interesting patterns emerged from
reading the biographies and testimonials
from our top young professionals:
Honorees under 30:
8(20 percent)
Honorees born in February:
8(20 percent)
Honorees born in December:
3(Happy birthday, y’all!)
Honorees who have since turned 40:
2
Honorees not originally from Houston:
9 or more*
Honorees with at least one NAA designation:
25 (62.5 percent)
Honorees planning to earn CAPS in 2015:
7
*Not every nominee mentioned where he or she
grew up, but many of our honorees are proud
to call themselves native Houstonians.
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 35
Telisia Amaning, regional supervisor,Tarantino Properties What really inspires memost about Houston isthe diversity. I havenever been to a city withmore integrated neigh-
borhoods or communities. People and fami-lies come in all shapes, sizes and colors inthe Bayou City. This is definitely the placefor me. … I really love coming to work everyday and doing what I do. Over the next fiveyears, I plan to continue growing and devel-oping my career in the multifamily industry.After all, once you’re in the business, you’rein for life!
Maria Arellano, NALP, property manager, AbbeyResidential ServicesI have worked with myregional supervisor tohelp establish a mentor-ing program for our new
leasing consultants in training. I have a pas-sion for marketing and training and steppedup from the beginning of my career to helpin the development of my peers. I havetaught Leasing 101 through HAA and amproactive and available to other sister proper-ties to help with training and marketing. … I would like to work with my regional man-agers in an executive assistant, marketingand training position. I would like to helpthem by being the person who is sent out onsite to help in the development of the staffand to troubleshoot and help with audits.
Candis Austin, CAS, operations manager/marketing, AAA Plumbers I want to help thosearound me to grow withme and learn as we con-tribute and give back to
the community, surrounding businesses andcharities. I have helped organize the depart-ment I am in with the transition of paperdocuments to using technology to acquirethe information in an easier way. I have alsohelped coworkers learn and adjust to newsoftware. This is important in the future ofthe company because we have to learn tochange with the technology, or we will beleft in the Stone Age. … I want to bring afreshness that inspires those who have beenworking here for the last 20-plus years to seea new light about the company. I see manychanges and wonderful possibilities. I hopethat by my continuing education and lovefor our company, I will excel into a higherposition to work on building and keepingcustomers happy.
Carina Bryars, marketingdirector, GreystarWith the ever-changingdynamic of the marketingrole, technology and thegrowth of Greystar, I seemyself being a part of thebig picture. I plan to con-
tinue to educate myself and learn from insideand outside of our industry, staying abreast ofthe new trends and directions to further theexposure and ways of marketing the assets we
Meet the inaugural class of the Houston Apartment Association's 40 Under 40 honorees!These individuals were selected from more than 125 nominations among multifamily’s
rising stars. They are standing up and standing out in the Houston area, both professionally and personally. These honorees are passionate about community service,
their careers and most of all, the Houston apartment industry.
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
40under40 pg 34,35,36,37,38,40,41,42,43_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:00 PM Page 2
have in our pipeline. … Houston is a thrivingand exciting city to live in, especially thesedays! We have so much going on now and inthe future at our company. It’s exciting to seewhat’s on the horizon.
Karen Canales, assistantmanager, VestaManagement (nominated while at Catalyst PropertySolutions)I am in college studyinginternational business. …
When I got hired at Catalyst, I became bothleasing and assistant manager, so yeah Ihave doubled the job, but I love it. I am ateam player, and I can honestly say I wouldlove to further my career in this industrybecause I love what I do. In the next fiveyears I see myself with my bachelor’s degreein international business, traveling aroundsupervising every property possible. … Myplan to get there is just to focus in schooland improve in my daily job duties, becauseI believe that we never stop learning, regard-less if it’s in your personal life or your job.
Lindsay Chavez, CAM,property manager,Capstone Real Estate Services“Lindsay is responsiblefor a 468-unit propertythat is finishing up atotal renovation. She
leads a staff of 11 people and has created afun, hardworking team. Her propertyincreased income by more than $65,000since January 2014 and continues toincrease each month. … With careful moni-toring, the property NOI has exceeded own-ers’ projections by $150,000 already for2014. Her grace and wisdom is well beyondher age. Lindsay will absolutely have a longand prosperous career, and I am very hon-ored to have her on our team.”
– Brenda Crawford, Capstone
Brandon Coleman, NALP,CAM, property manager,Vesta Management (nom-inated while at CentralManagement Inc.)I am a recent graduate ofthe HAA LeadershipLyceum program and a
volunteer facilitator for HAA as well. … Inthe next five years, I see myself as a district
or regional supervisor, helping teach all des-ignation courses in the greater Houston areaand beyond if needed. … I also see myselfsitting on the board of HAA and sitting oncommittees with TAA. … Being a nativeHoustonian and seeing how much this cityhas grown is amazing – to see that there areno signs of it slowing down is great!
Grant Crowell, CAS, president, The UrbanForestersLeadership to me is aboutpushing power to thefringes of the organiza-tion and letting the“boots on the ground”
collaborate in the creative process. My peo-ple have so much to give and so much togain – I just want to help them find theirpath. … Houston gets a bad rap on thenationwide stage, but I think this place hasnothing but a bright future. I look aroundtoday and see construction crane after con-struction crane building a world-class citywith lots to see and do. Being in Houston(and Texas for that matter) right now shouldget any business person excited.
John Dang, CAM, property manager,Mosaic ResidentialI grew up in Houston andI’ve seen it grow somuch. I’ve lived in othermarkets, and to be hon-est, there’s no place like
home. … I know that Houston saved my lifeand has given me purpose again. It’s theland of opportunity. It’s the place wheredreams can come true if you work hard at it.I’m encouraged to see how excited my resi-dents are when they realize that they canactually have a life here. They do not haveto be consumed with work just to make endsmeet. … I’m excited to see how much moreour city will grow and how many more peo-ple will call this home.
Patrick Drake,partner/attorney, Hoover Slovacek LLPI see myself taking a moreactive leadership rolewithin HAA in the nextfive years. I plan to con-tinue to provide legal
updates to HAA members through formalseminars in their preparation for both the
CAM and CAPS tests. I hope to aid memberswhenever possible to resolve whatever legalissues they may face. … I have been proud tomeet with city officials on a number of occa-sions in order to express the concerns of HAAmembers and work toward constructive ends.
Angelica Ellis, marketingmanager, Redi CarpetMaking an impact at alocal company such asRedi Carpet is rewardingbecause we provide greatproducts and added serv-ices to members of one of
the nation’s largest apartment associations.… As the marketing manager, I have createdsuccessful marketing and advertising materi-als and campaigns for our Houston branchas well as our 20 other locations.Furthermore, conducting extensive marketresearch in various cities has led to the cre-ation of several new Redi Carpet branches,creating dozens of job opportunities aroundthe nation. … We all have a common goal,and that is to be the best multifamily floor-ing provider in the country.
Frank Farrera, CAM, assistant manager,Judwin PropertiesAs an infantry veteran, Inever thought I wouldfind another family likethe brotherhood I foundin my unit. Much to my
surprise, I was fortunate to find the next bestthing when I became a part of the Judwinfamily in 2010. As an assistant manager atthe Reserve at Bankside, I was tasked withmaintaining the company’s first city ofHouston-managed HOME program … facili-tating low income families’ luxury apart-ments at affordable rates. There are fewgreater pleasures than the look of gratitudein a family’s eyes when they are in completeawe of the luxury apartment that will soonbecome their home!
Cynthia Gregg, CAM,property manager,Hanover Company“Cynthia has a proventrack record of success inmultifamily managementfor more than 13 yearsand holds a CAM certifi-
cation. She is a team leader and currentlymanages Hanover West University, an A+
36 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
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425-unit lease-up property. She previouslymanaged Hanover West Gray, a 275 unit A+lease-up, and assisted in facilitating theacquisition from The Hanover Company toAMLI Residential. Cynthia volunteers forHAA and takes part in events such as theCamp Hope Fun Run.”
– Angie Lavrack, The Liberty Group
Bryan Head, CAM, vice president of business operations,Vesta Management In the next five years, Iwould like to take myoperations experienceand combine it with my
education and business services experienceto streamline and improve operations at acorporate level. … I would also like to begininvesting more into the industry by beingmore involved at an association level on thepolitical side as well as investing in my ownrental properties. … Houston holds suchgreat opportunity for those living here. I alsoenjoy seeing the redevelopment of the city.
Areas where once rundown buildings orhomes stood are now being updated andbrought back to life.
Clay Hicks, senior director of real estate,Greystar“Clay often developslarge-scale projects thataffect all of Houston andother city offices. Oneexample is electricity con-
sumption, where Clay noticed how inefficientthe electricity in Texas had been managed. Heresearched and learned the energy business sohe could begin to use our enormous size inTexas to our advantage and recently signedthe largest aggregation of multifamily electrici-ty in the history of Texas, which is estimatedto save our clients over $1 million in electrici-ty for 2014. … Clay leads by example by giv-ing his time and donating money to manycharitable organizations, and he is an activeparticipant in numerous HAA and TAA com-munity events throughout the year.”
– Mack Armstong, Greystar
Julie Irvin, president and founder, Keystone ResourcesThere are tons of oppor-tunities for small busi-nesses to enter the multi-family market and com-pete with other large
companies that offer similar services. AsKeystone Resources continues to grow, I amaligning us with other companies and hav-ing them join HAA. I plan on speaking morenot only in multifamily, but other Houstonbusiness groups to help other people achievetheir dreams of becoming a successful entre-preneur. … The Houston real estate market isfull of opportunities for repositioning andnew construction in the multifamily indus-try. Houston’s business community is so sup-portive, and I love the resources that wehave available to us. … The Houston cre-ative scene is as good as NYC or LA, and theentrepreneurial spirit in the city is amazing.
Continued next page
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Jacob Kunath, CAS, sales representative,Century A/C Supply“Jacob’s commitment tothe HAA is one-of-a-kind.He attends so many func-tions and events, all whilebuilding up the people
around him. Jacob has done a great job ofgrowing his company’s brand. He has found agreat balance of growing his network andservicing his properties with integrity. …Anyone who knows Jacob will tell you that‘above and beyond’ are perfect words todescribe his investment in his community. Hehas a lasting impact on everyone he meets.”
– David Lindley, Rasa Floors
Liz Levins, CAS, account executive,Criterion Brock“Liz has displayed profes-sionalism on many levels.She has stayed groundedwith her company for13+ years and has been
promoted six times, each time earning thepromotion, never asking for it. Since becom-ing an account executive two years ago, Lizhas become very active in the HAA commu-nity and its many opportunities and clubs. …She thinks outside the box when it comes toproblem-solving and really takes initiative tocomplete each and every task given to her toits fullest. She always has a smile and posi-tive attitude no matter what.”
– Chuck Howery, Criterion Brock
Vi Lewis, marketingdirector, TarantinoPropertiesThe multifamily industryin Houston has reallyforced me to evolve mymanagement style as thecity itself keeps evolving.
I consider myself a take-charge person whois able to present creative ideas and effective-ly communicate the benefits to a portfolioof 2,500 units. … I saw an increase in overallproperty performance and high moraleamong the staff, and I have received severalcompliments from my peers in the industry.I want to take that next step in my career bycontinuing to participate in the educationalprograms HAA has to offer and surroundingmyself with industry peers who continue tomentor me and share the same goals I do.
Christi Lindauer, CAM,property manager, The Morgan Group“Christi has a proventrack record that showsher achievement anddedication to her careeras well as to The Morgan
Group. She has been nominated for HAAAssistant Manager of the Year in 2008, andManager of the Year in 2010, 2011 and2012. She obtained her CAM certification in2013. … Christi has assisted The MorganGroup perform due diligence for other prop-erties and has been chosen to travel to traintheir new property managers. She partici-pates as well as encourages employee andresident participation annually in the HAAfood drive, HAA school supply drive andHAA toy drive.”
– Angie Lavrack, The Liberty Group
Courtney Lindley, CAM,assistant manager,Greystar“Courtney has a strongwork ethic, commitmentto learning the industryand a desire for futureadvancement. These
strengths and passion led her to further edu-cate herself by studying and earning herCAM designation in 2011. … She serves onthe HAA Career and CommunityDevelopment Committee, where she assistedin rewriting the Leasing 101 class. …Courtney is considered a Rising Star in ourcompany. Although she has been promotedto assistant manager, she is still a mentor tomany leasing professionals within our com-pany. While performing her on-site duties,she also assists Greystar in due diligenceassignments, new team member on-boardingand community takeovers.”
– Kelley Rightmire-Suess, Greystar
Robby Mailatyar, regional property supervisor, GreystarHouston is not onlyhome to major manage-ment companies, but alsothe best industry leaders.Association events and
programs allow us to meet others in theindustry and further personal education. Ifyou plan to have a career in multifamilymanagement, Houston’s expansive opportu-nities and leadership allow you stay on track
with your desired career path. In the nextfive years I see myself managing a Greystarcity office. … The next step for achievingthis goal is understanding the operations ofa city office “full circle” through our leadersin each department.
Teresa Maldonado-Parasiliti, CAM, propertymanager, Greystar“Teresa has contributedtremendously throughoutthe year to grow ourcompany in Mexico andin Houston. … Teresa sac-
rificed her personal time to assist with grow-ing the Mexico portfolio and offered hertraining expertise to the team there. She hasalso exhibited great leadership and commu-nication skills to grow our relationship withBlackstone in Houston. … Teresa has had tobuild an entirely new team [on site], and inaddition to the takeover, she has had tomanage through another ownership changewithin 60 days of the original acquisition.The amount of effort and dedication thatTeresa has contributed to Greystar is superb.… I am honored to work with Teresa and amso thankful to have her on my team.”
– Christy Rodriguez, Greystar
Betsy Marshall, CAM,community manager,IMT ResidentialI learned to approach mycareer differently. I nowthink “out” not “up.” Istrive to build connec-tions, not just within my
organization but outside as well. I enjoytalking with peers and industry leaders. Ilove hearing their stories and discoveringhow similar we are. As a result, everything ismuch more balanced. This sense of profes-sional success is not as quantifiable, but itdrives my participation in HAA. My partici-pation now has a purpose – to give back andenjoy everything this industry has to offer.
Ryan McGrath,owner/partner, Asset Plus Corp.“I have been particularlyimpressed by how deeplyRyan cares about his peo-ple. During my workingrelationship with Asset
Plus, I have seen the company grow fromabout 400 to approximately 2,300 employ-
38 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
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Look what I can do.Get in the picture, suppliers! Grab the attention of ABODE readersas they look for their photos each month and take advantage ofthe opportunity to tell them all about you by advertising!
ABODE magazine goes wherever our members go:the favorite chair, an airplane – even the bathroom. We take it astep further and host ABODE online, and it remains online for atleast 12 months. And when they find their face, they will also findyou ... and keep that copy around!
Longevity and high pass rate. We’ve come across copies ofABODE from years ago in multifamily offices. ABODE magazinegets shared and passed along among coworkers.
For more information on how you can be a part of the multifamily industry’s beloved publication, call Amanda Sherbondy at 713-595-0316, email [email protected] or visit us online at www.haaonline.org.
abode ad pg 39_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:02 PM Page 1
ees as Ryan has more than doubled theassets under management and seamlesslyincorporated the Greystone AssetManagement team after a recent acquisition.Ryan knows the name and background ofmost, if not all, of his employees. He hasfought for them by negotiating significantenhancements to the company’s benefitspackage without incurring additional costs.… Ryan’s innovative recruiting strategies ledthe NAA magazine to name Asset Plus thebest ‘farm program’ of any American realestate firm.”
– Rulissa Trout, Asset Plus
Veronica Mier, CAM,property manager,Francis PropertyManagement“It’s often said that some-one’s past can definethem, or they can takecharge of their future.
Veronica is a living example of this state-ment, from a very hard background tobecoming a top manager in the apartmentindustry and achieving her CAM designationtoday. She gets the technology side of socialmedia marketing. She understands the com-plete financial side of the apartment indus-try. She is an excellent leader for her team.She has a solid understanding of mainte-nance, landscaping and contracts. When she comes across a new program or termi-nology, she works hard to understand allthere is to know to be ahead of the team. …Her favorite quote is simple: ‘Too many people overvalue what they are not andundervalue what they are.’ This statementpersonifies her background and stands forher achievements.”
– Debbie Sulzer, Francis Property Management
Rachael Miles, CAM,property manager,Greystar“Rachael is an employeethat every managementcompany needs on itsteam. She continuouslygoes above and beyond,
not only for the residents she manages, butalso when others are in need of her help.Her RPM can count on her to handle taskafter task, because she can handle it. If she ishanded an assignment, she will work lateuntil it is finished. … Rachael strives to
educate and cross-train her team. She hasassistants coding bills, while our leasing pro-fessionals are charging accounts. Within thepast year alone, she has promoted twoemployees to management positions andone groundskeeper to a service tech posi-tion. … That is the work of a superstar!”
– Vicki Rodriguez, Greystar
Leah Morris, CAM, property manager,Lincoln Property Co.I always strive to be thebest at what I do. I amconstantly improving mycommunity so I can com-pete with the newer com-
munities in the area. I also take pride in allmy employees. They are an integral part ofmy success. Each of them knows how valuedthey are. … I am expanding my knowledgewithin my company by training my peersand offering my creativity. I really enjoyimproving communities exponentially andwould love to be our company’s designexpert. … I love being part of Houston’s his-torical growth we are currently experiencing.To see the city thrive and change beforeyour eyes is exactly what Houston is about.
Christopher Palacios,CAM, property manager,Francis PropertyManagement (nominatedwhile at IMT Residential)I feel my greatest profes-sional accomplishmenthas been learning to fully
understand and practice empathy. It maysound silly but I thought I was being under-standing and considerate and to a certainextent. I was taught that some people justwant to vent and be heard. They aren’t try-ing to attack me, and I had no reason to beon the offense. Now that I have learned toempathize more efficiently, I have far fewercombative residents and have built lots ofrelationships. Empathy, I feel, has been over-looked in the industry because we have atendency to automatically assume the resi-dent is just whining or in the wrong.Regardless of the scenario, we are obligatedto hear them out and give them the benefitof the doubt without automatically dismiss-ing their story, complaint, opinion, etc.
Mark Park, CAS, vicepresident, AAA Plumbers“Mark serves as a rolemodel for his peers withleadership qualities thatmakes those around himwant to be more likehim. His ability to edu-
cate and befriend new and upcoming mem-bers in his various associations is a quality ina leader that is unmatched. Mark takes thetime to explain to others why and how hismembership and involvement works forhim, and offers ideas to others so they canachieve the same benefits of growth. Healways offers to step up and lead for a com-mittee or to be a role model or mentor, or tooffer positive input and opinions on person-al or professional growth, even withoutbeing asked to do so.”
– Andrea Winans, Trend Brand Solutions
Mindy Price, vice presi-dent of sales, J TurnerResearch“Mindy is a consummateprofessional. She came tous with high expectationsand has exceeded them.The surprise was not in
the significant impact she had on our busi-ness growth but the outstanding work ethic,her teamwork attitude and incredible will-ingness to do what it takes to get the jobdone. Through her diligence she has movedquickly into a leadership role based on her high standards, dynamic vision and indoing what she says she will do. Companiesand charity organizations can count onMindy doing what she commits to, at thevery least.”
– Joseph Batdorf, J Turner Research
Jennifer Ramos, CAM,CAPS, property manager,GreystarMy husband and I camehere after researchingwhere the best job andhousing market was –that place was Houston.
After moving from a state with a failingeconomy, I find myself inspired by the end-less amount of opportunity and all of theamazing people I have met since I have beenhere. … We have met so many gracious peo-ple here with huge hearts. Since being here,
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both my husband and I have felt the impactof growth opportunity here for our careers.Now we have a son, and I am excited forhim and the opportunities Houston holdsfor him.
Nicole Rankin, communi-ty director, MilestoneManagement“Nicole is a go-getter andconsistently looks forways to improve hercommunity and assistwith any needs of the
company. … She has assisted in the aggres-sive implementation of the unit upgradeprogram at Bar Harbor, with an averageupcharge of $109 above the original marketrents. Because of Nicole’s determination andmarket-savvy knowledge, she assisted withchoosing items that added the most valueand attracted prospective residents to set BarHarbor apart from its competition. … Nicolehas also taken a special interest in the localattractions of her city, including fishing,mountain biking and other outdoor activi-ties. She enjoys sharing her knowledge withresidents and prospects to help them makethe most of their living experience.”
– Nancy Lee, Milestone
Beth Rohani, CAS, president/CEO, AmeritexMoversI am very hands-on withmy business, managingthe day-to-day opera-tions and the marketing,and I strive for a team
environment. … We encourage our clientsto donate unwanted household items on theday of the move. Ameritex Movers in turndonates these household items to theHabitat for Humanity ReStore Program.Ameritex Movers also holds an annual fooddrive, encouraging clients to clean out theirpantries when moving, which then getsdelivered to local area food banks. In addi-tion, in 2015 we plan to partner withFeeding America – for every move per-formed, Ameritex Movers will donate $1 toFeeding America, which in return will pro-vide nine meals for a family in need.
Continued next page
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John Roy, assistant manager, Greystar“It is a great pleasure tohave him as a teammember and a part of mycommunity. Not onlydoes Mr. Roy work full-time in the industry, he
finds time to work outside his regular full-time employment with his own insurancepractice in which he is a licensed agent. Healso finds the time to stay active within hiscommunity. … He takes great pride in train-ing and coaching basketball for his youngerpeers with his local YMCA and church.”
– Penny Ainsworth, Greystar
Penny Sprang, regionalmanager, GablesResidential“During her tenure,Penny has been namedLeasing Professional ofthe Year and CommunityManager of the Year at
Gables Residential. Further, Penny has man-
aged multiple communities to win the STARProperty of the Year award, which is award-ed to the community with the greatest same-store rental and net operating incomegrowth. Penny has also received multipleTaking Care Awards, which are grantedwhen an associate demonstrates serviceexemplary enough that a client or customeris compelled to submit a written nominationthat is chosen by senior management fromall entries. … Her experience makes her aneffective real estate professional, and herenthusiasm makes her an effective leader.”
– Tiffany Bakewell, Gables
Brooke Steidl, CAM,property manager,GreystarJust as education isimportant to me, I feel itis equally important toeducate my fellow teammembers. I have cross-
trained three assistant managers who werepromoted to manager and three leasing pro-fessionals who were promoted to assistant
manager, all within the last five years. … Inever shy away from a challenge, and I amalways looking for ways to grow profession-ally and expand my knowledge. … I alsoplan to work closely with my current super-visor to take on additional tasks and gainexposure to higher-level experiences andthought processes.
Ryan Terrell, senior director of real estate,Greystar“Ryan sets himself apartfrom his peers with hisintimate knowledge ofthe Houston inventory,transaction market and
capital markets, and his ability to translatethat intelligence into tangible advice for ourclients and our internal investment group touse when making investment decisions.While we always want to continue addingproperties to our portfolio, Ryan is adamantabout ensuring that our clients not makebad decisions, whether it eventually costs us business in the short-term or not, as
42 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Threats from government are coming at theapartment industry faster than a speeding bullet. We need a hero, and your contribution to the HoustonApartment Association Better Government Fund canmake you one. Join HAABGF today and see what a difference you can make as an industry advocate. You don't have to have super-human strength to
save your business from over-regulation, just the willingness to help.
For more information, see the page at left. To joinHAABGF and learn how to attend our next meeting,
visit us online at www.haaonline.org/haabgfor contact [email protected].
The apartmentindustry needs
a hero.
40under40 pg 34,35,36,37,38,40,41,42,43_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:04 PM Page 8
this impartial advice earns valuable credibility with our clients by helping them feel confident that we always havetheir best interests in mind, which in turncreates a lifetime client.”
– Clay Hicks, Greystar
Quintina Willis, CAM,CEO, Gaia PropertyManagementHAA supported my train-ing efforts by allowingmy inclusion in theNAAEI Train the Trainerprogram, and since com-
pletion I’ve assisted with training NALP andCAM designation courses. I am a huge advo-cate for personal growth and love having theopportunity to share experiences in supportof others striving to improve their abilities.… I am in the process of developing a man-agement company and have been given thehonor of being named CEO. I take thisopportunity very seriously and am workingon shaping a culture that keeps the associateat the forefront. I always want engaged asso-
ciates that are empathetic and understand-ing, that place the customer and their fellowassociates first. Property management reallyis a team sport.
Christina Zimmerman,CAM, real estate associ-ate, GreystarMy new role is similar toa regional manager intraining. With my con-tinued hard work anddedication to my field, I
hope to become a regional property managerwith Greystar within the next six months. Iwill continue to seek additional designationswhere I can, as well as remain active in HAA.I also have sought out mentorship fromsome of the well-respected leaders withinour organization in order to assist me withachieving these goals. We have a diversity ofpeople and cultures [in Houston], as well asa wonderful melting pot. I also believe thatthe booming economy as it relates to ourindustry has made it an exciting time to bepart of it all.
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44 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Cultivate a positive outlook to increase productivity and job satisfaction for yourself and your team.By ALEXIS BIERMAN, GoodThinkInc.
The Houston Apartment Association likes to have fun. From zombie blowing tournaments to
gala receptions honoring young industry professionals, HAA throws a good party. And now
there is more reason to enjoy the fun – the new field of positive psychology proves that an
emphasis on enjoying work is not just good for morale, but good for the bottom line, too.
We’ve all been there: It’s the end of the week, and your to-do list is still far from complete. You’ve
got calls to return, the stack of forms to file is piled high on your desk … and your coworkers are ask-
ing you to join them for happy hour. What does your mind tell you to do?
It’s likely if you grew up in America, you’re going to feel guilty if you take a break and join your
coworkers. We’ve been taught that the secret to happiness is to work hard, put in extra effort, and
then we will be happy – then we will have time to go out for happy hour. We think that a hard work-
er with her nose to the grindstone is what every boss wants for an employee, right?
Image by Marekuliasz/dreamstime.com
happiness p44-45_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:06 PM Page 1
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 45
THE POWER OF A POSITIVE OUTLOOKThe field of positive psychology is showing
that employers should be looking for some-
thing other than this stereotypical “hard
worker.” Employers who are schooled in this
research are now looking for employees with a
positive outlook. Turns out that the “secret to
success” we were taught is backwards. When
we put the happiness off until the end of our
goals, it makes us less productive.
Studies have shown that when we turn this
formula around and rewrite the secret to suc-
cess, we have 37 percent greater sales, are 31
percent more productive, 40 percent more like-
ly to receive a promotion and three times more
creative. It turns out that happy people are
more likely to live longer and even have 23
percent fewer fatigue symptoms!
So it’s time to rewrite that message that
plays in our head when we’re confronted with
our daily choices. Realize that happiness brings
success and that success orbits around happi-
ness. Happy workers are smarter, more moti-
vated and therefore more successful.
HABITS OF HAPPY PEOPLESo, how do we get happiness? How do we
overcome the stress and fatigue of our over-
scheduled lives? You may have been told that
you’ve come from a “sad family,” or you may
think that you can’t be happy because you
have had a rough time with life – but again,
science proves that we are more than our genes
and our past experiences. We are able to
change our levels of happiness with our own
mindsets and habits.
I work for GoodThinkInc., a positive psy-
chology consulting firm. Founder Shawn
Achor is the best-selling author of “The Happi-
ness Advantage.” Shawn speaks to companies
throughout the world explaining that this
“happiness stuff” is not your grandma’s hand-
holding and rose-colored glasses but actual
research that presents qualitative methods to
improve outcomes in any industry.
The following habits are recommended
throughout the field of positive psychology.
I encourage you to pick one habit and share it
with your team, and encourage each other to
complete the habit for at least 21 days.
1. Gratitude: Every day list three thingsyou’re grateful for. Think of three new items
each day so that you are actively reprogram-
ming your brain to search your world for posi-
tive elements.
HOW TO DO IT: These don’t have to be fan-
cy. Why not get some sticky notes for your
team and create a gratitude wall?
2. The Fun 15: Exercise for at least 10 to 15minutes a day. Yes, the research still supports
this one. Our bodies were meant to move, and
when we exercise we experience brain benefits
and reduce our levels of stress.
HOW TO DO IT: Support your team in exer-
cising. Allow 30 minutes of workout time as
part of their paid hours or lead a group walk
around the property at lunch.
3. Conscious Acts of Kindness: Spend two min-
utes writing an email (or a card) thanking
someone for something he or she has done for
you. This activity helps you remember a kind-
ness in your life and creates a kindness in the
recipient’s life as well.
HOW TO DO IT: Allow your staff five min-
utes in the morning to write this email or start
every meeting with someone sharing some-
thing he or she is thankful for in relation to
the teamwork.
We can increase our level of happiness in a
number of ways throughout each day. If per-
formed habitually, over time these activities can
permanently increase our happiness baseline.
Alexis Bierman is social media advisor for
GoodThinkInc., an applied research consulting
firm based in San Antonio that works with organi-
zations seeking to create a more positive, produc-
tive workplace. Want to know more? Visit Good-
ThinkInc.com and sign up for the newsletter to
get two additional happiness habit tips.
Studies have shown that when we turn this formula aroundand rewrite the secret to success, we have 37 percent greatersales, are 31 percent more productive, 40 percent more likely to receive a promotion and three times more creative.It turns out that happy people are more likely to live longerand even have 23 percent fewer fatigue symptoms!
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46 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
ABODE salutes these companies and individualsfor contributing to the community, and we thank
them for sharing their stories with us. Compiled by RACHEL ZOCH, HAA Staff
In addition to the community outreach we do together as an associa-tion, HAA members give of their time, talent and treasure to make apositive impact in the community. Here we feature a few of those
good works in support of a variety of causes, from childhood literacy tomilitary veterans to rebuilding neighborhoods and more.
THE KIDS’ READING ROOMIn the past year, three Spring Branch apartment communities have joined
a project launched by Trish Schappell, who works at Rummel Creek Elemen-
tary in Spring Branch ISD, called The Kids’ Reading Room. The program is
designed to promote literacy and instill the love of reading in children at
their own apartment homes. By the fall, the project had gained nonprofit
status and established reading rooms in three apartment communities:
Castlewood and Genrty House, both operated by Rockwell, and Hammerly
Walk Apartments, Adara Communities.
The Castlewood reading room opened in November 2013 after Schappell
pitched the idea to property manager Joei Hayes. Hayes loved the idea, and
with donations of elementary-age books, shelves, rugs, couches and more, they
created the first reading room, which is open on Mondays after school with
anywhere from five to 17 children. Housman Elementary promotes the pro-
gram by reminding students on the announcements each week. Property man-
ager Hayes is excited and grateful that Schappell reached out to her.
“For us, it’s just another great part of our community to be proud of,” said
Hayes. “It gives our parents a chance to get away from the daily grind and bond
with their children. It’s a great thing, and I never dreamed that our room would
have turned out so amazing! It’s heartwarming and makes me so proud.”
The Gentry House reading room opened in February and is open on Tues-
days and Thursdays after school with about a dozen children each day, as well
as parents. Edgewood Elementary promotes the reading room to its parents
and students. The Hammerly Walk reading room, also on Mondays, opened
in August and hosts the largest group, with 30 or more students each week.
GoodWorks
THE KIDS’ READING ROOM
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ABODE DECEMBER 2014 47
Cedar Brook Elementary promotes the room, and several Spring Woods
High School students come to help read to the students in addition to the
regular volunteers.
Volunteers pass out snacks, get parents to sign in and make sure kids are
reading independently, with a partner or with friends. Volunteers also read
a book they pick out to the entire group and talk about it. Schappell hopes
to expand the program by partnering with more properties in 2015.
“I am so grateful to the managers of all properties for their kindess and
openness to our program! It wouldn't be possible without them allowing us
to use their rooms,” she said. “Elementary kids attend and are always excit-
ed and enthusiatic about being able to have a place to read. Volunteers read
to students individually, in groups and during storytime. Students read on
their own as well or with friends. Parents are welcome and encouraged to
attend. Training is provided for volunteers and SBISD does me a great favor
by doing the volunteer background checks.”
She is always looking for more volunteers and children’s books – as well
as new communities interested in opening their own reading rooms. Visit
www.facebook.com/thekidsreadingroom for more details, or contact Trish
Schappell at [email protected].
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLY PARTYCentra Partners’ Sebring Apartments in southwest Houston hosted a
wonderful back-to-school party thanks to support from vendors including
PMC Towing, Northside Remodeling, Solanos Painters, Impact Floors and
Centra Partners, who donated funds and supplies. Summit Dental provid-
ed hot dogs, the Woman’s Center Bee Busy Inc. provided helpful informa-
tion and small gifts, and H-E-B provided sturdy paper bags for the school
supply kits given to each child.
“It was wonderful to see so many happy faces,” said community manag-
er Elizabeth Hernandez. “We even had parents from other properties and
from across the street where the townhomes are who came in asking about
the supplies. Thank God for extras, as we were able to give them a helping
hand also!”
REBUILDING TOGETHER HOUSTONThis year Camden participated in the company’s second annual
“Camden Cares Month” dedicated to giving back to others and serving
the communities where Camden employees live and work. In Houston,
where the company is headquartered, corporate office team members
joined forces with Rebuilding Together Houston. This organization revi-
talizes neighborhoods by repairing and renovating homes at no cost to
low-income homeowners in need, including elderly residents, disabled
people and military veterans.
BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUPPLY PARTY
REBUILDING TOGETHER HOUSTON
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48 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Camden took on the challenge of completing 15 homes over a two-week
period. Employees were given time off during their normal work days to
contribute in Camden’s efforts of repairing and painting the homes. Two
hundred Camden employees put in more than 1,500 hours to renovate the
houses, including siding repair, window repair, door installation, cleaning
up yards and some roofing and painting. Employees who could not attend
the workdays even painted canvases, which were signed by all who worked
on each home and given to the homeowners as a reminder that Camden
cares for them and their well-being.
“The weather was hot and the work was hard, but Camden completed all
15 homes and went above and beyond the needs required,” said Julie Keel,
Camden’s director of creative marketing. “In the end, what mattered most
was the happiness of the lives that were changed for the better, both the
homeowners and the Camden employees.”
PITCHING IN FOR VETERANSCourtney Lindley, assistant manager of Chandler Park Apartments for
Greystar, organized a horseshoe tournament to benefit Camp Hope, a facil-
ity operated by the Post-Traumatic Stress Foundation as a haven for miltary
veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress. Lindley began volunteering at
Camp Hope in January, and she offers her Thursday nights to help with
child care for the combat warrior meeting and family support groups.
On May 17, Armed Forces Day, she hosted a benefit at Camp Hope called
“Raise the Stakes” that raised $4,301 for the Post-Traumatic Stress Founda-
tion. The event included a horseshoe pitching contest at $5 for 12 throws
with a winner every hour, plus music, barbecue and more. Sponsors includ-
ed G&G Steelworks, Outdoor Elements, Delaney’s Construction, Shepard
Forest Plumbing, Fire Proof Contractors and Whoop and Ride Racing.
“Camp Hope is so near and dear to my heart,” said Lindley. “What this
foundation does for our veterans is so honorable and inspiring. I really
wanted to find a way to give back to the foundation and just help the vets
that have done so much for my freedoms.”
ON SITE TOWING participated in a community service programthat helped feed 100 families in the Acres Homes area. Workingjointly with Harris County Pct. 1 Constable Alan Rosen to collectand disperse food to needy families who would not have meals forThanksgiving, Mark Denson and the On Site Towing team helpedmake sure that every family received a turkey or a ham, greenbeans, canned yams, bread and a pumpkin pie.
REBUILDING TOGETHER HOUSTON
See GOOD WORKS, Page 61
Help give needy families a head start this holiday season.Adopt a family with the HAA Apartment Angels.The holidays are here – a time most of us look forward to, but a time that can be difficult for those in need.
Join the Houston Apartment Association for our holiday Apartment Angels event, where we partner with the Harris County Department of Education’s
Head Start Adopt-a-Family program to ensure a warm, happy holiday for many deserving members of our neighborhoods. Your apartment communities will be
able to sign up to adopt a family, ideally apartment residents, with basic needs of clothing and personal care items, along with a few gifts to open to bring in
the holiday cheer! Our goal is to assist 100 families.
Register today and you will be paired with a family. Please note: The deadline for
collecting items and delivery to Head Start is December 12.
Register online at www.haaonline.org or contact Kirsten
Deagen at [email protected] for more information.
Good Works p46,47,48,49,61_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:11 PM Page 3
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 49
RAISE THE STAKES FOR CAMP HOPE
Good Works p46,47,48,49,61_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:12 PM Page 4
50 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Jeff Hall, CAEExecutive Vice President Jeff has been the guiding forceand leader of the association formore than 12 years and a key
staff member since 1984. He oversees the entireassociation staff, its budgets and the associa-tion’s mission. He works directly with theBoard of Directors on all association functions,goals, planning and implementation.
Contact 713-595-0304 or email [email protected].
Susan Hinkley, CAEVice President and General ManagerWorst Gift: Sounds cliché, but it wasa pretty ugly scarf. J
Susan guides several departments in serving theHAA membership, including Member Services,Form Sales, Resident Relations, Supplier
Services, Communications and Events andMeetings. In addition, she serves as liaison tothe Product Service Council, a group of indus-try-leading suppliers, and the CommunityOutreach Committee, which is responsible fordeveloping and coordinating new and ongoingcommunity service programs. Susan has beenwith HAA since 1988.
Contact 713-595-0313 or email [email protected].
Andy Teas, CAEVice President of Public Affairs Worst Gift: I once got a ridingcrop with a shoehorn on the endfrom a relative. If I ever need to
put tight shoes on while on horseback, it’s going tocome in handy.Andy monitors elections and governmentactions in Houston, Harris County,Montgomery County and on state and federal
levels. He is responsible for keeping membersaware of legislation and governmental actionsthat affect the multifamily business, and herepresents the apartment industry before federal, state and local governments. He also co-authors the monthly LegislativeUpdate column and is staff liaison for theLegislative Committee. Andy has been with HAA since 1989.
Contact 713-595-0303 or email [email protected].
Emily Hilton, CPPVice President of ProfessionalDevelopment Worst Gift: My first alarm clock – at age 7. My parents’ way of letting
me know I’d be on my own to wake in time forschool each day.Emily is responsible for the overall marketing,budgeting and direction of HAF education
Happy Holidays from HAA! Our greatest gift is our membersand we are here to serve you. Do you know who’s who at HAA? Meet your association staff, and just for fun, find out the worst gift each person ever received during this festive season.
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
You got what?
haa staff pg 50,51,52,53_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:18 PM Page 1
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 51
programs. Emily serves as the staff liaison tothe Education Advisory Council. She overseeseducation programs, including NAA designa-tions, the APPLE workshops, online learningand the Career and Community DevelopmentCommittee, which promotes industry careersand apartment living to students. Emily hasbeen with HAA since April 2002.
Contact 713-595-0319 or email [email protected].
Kirsten Deagen, CMPDirector of Events and MeetingsWorst Gift: Let me start by comingclean and saying I have re-gifted.But, the key to re-gifting is making
sure the item is in original packaging and keepingtrack of where the gift originated. I’ve been the victim of re-gifting-gone-wrong twice; once in the form of a used bottle of lotion and once inreceiving a gift that I had given the person theyear before – awkward!Kirsten is HAA’s event planner and organizesgeneral meetings, golf tournaments, specialevents and fundraisers, including the chilicook-off, volleyball and bowling tournamentsand the annual Gala. She also serves as staffliaison to the ACES (Apartment CommunityExecutives & Supervisors) Committee. Kirstenjoined HAA in April 2001.
Contact 713-595-0323 or email [email protected].
Lisa ButlerDirector of Member ServicesWorst Gift: One Christmas, my sister kept telling me that she heardI was going to get a car, and she
ending up giving me a Matchbox toy car.Want to join or recruit? The Member ServicesDepartment works with prospective members,helps those who join get active in variousclubs, committees and activities and promotesinvolvement. Lisa oversees retention andrecruitment efforts carried out by volunteersand handles calls from prospective members.She joined HAA in June 2000 and is the staffliaison for the Go-Getters and Ambassadors,heads the yearly membership drive.
Contact 713-595-0322 or email [email protected].
Amanda SherbondyDirector of Supplier ServicesWorst Gift: This one is odd, but mybrother gave me a whoopeecushion as a joke. BUT, I turned it
on him and it became the HIT of the day – so it wasthe worst but the BEST. Ha ha!If you are a supplier member and need helpmarketing your business to owner members,
Amanda is here to help you. She joined HAA inJanuary 2007 and assists suppliers in exhibitingat the yearly HAA Education Conference &Expo, advertising in ABODE magazine, theDirectory & Buyer’s Guide and HAA Onlineand making the most of the many educationaland event sponsorship opportunities available.
Contact 713-595-0316 or email [email protected].
Lana ShillerDirector of Facility ServicesIf you would like a tour of ourfacility or more informationabout renting the Dinerstein
Reed Prokop Education Center for your nexteducation event, contact Lana. A 38-year veter-an of HAA, she not only maintains theHAA/HAF building, she oversees the HAA data-base and its more than 4,000 records, includingproperty transactions, new construction entriesand address changes. Lana also oversees officesupply purchases, vendor contracts, ABODEsubscriptions and compiling information forthe HAA Directory & Buyer’s Guide.
Contact 713-595-0306 or email [email protected].
Karen MitchellEducation and MeetingsCoordinatorWorst Gift: My gift was apparentlyso bad that I’ve erased it from
my memory.Karen joined HAA in January 2012. She han-dles course registrations and questions aboutdesignations and other education programs.Karen also maintains records and communi-cates with current and former students. Karen also assists at registrations during many HAA events.
Contact 713-595-0314 or email [email protected].
Lauren OwensStrategic Growth CoordinatorWorst Gift: I would have to saymy worst gift was the year myboyfriend, Jimmy, gave me a hand
vacuum. He bought it when he was with me onChristmas Eve. The next morning I go to openpresents and there is nothing under the tree forme. He goes, “Oh, wait,” and walks out to the car,gets the Target bag they put the vacuum in andhands it to me. Lauren joined HAA in February and works withAndy, HAA staff and members to implementand achieve our strategic outreach goals. She isliaison for HAA’s monthly outreach meetingsthat take place at multifamily properties acrossour 12-county service area. She has oversight
for the PAC Fundraising Committee and theStrategic Growth Committee.
Contact 713-595-0335 or email [email protected].
Cynthia GonzalezFront Desk AdministratorWorst Gift: A big, bulky WilmaFlintstone necklace!The first person you meet upon
arriving at HAA is Cynthia. A veteran of morethan 26 years, Cynthia handles hundreds ofcalls a day from our members and from thegeneral public. She performs other duties thatinclude maintaining our database, and assistingthe Resident Relations and RCR departments.
Contact 713-595-0300 or email [email protected].
Matilde LunaDirector of Resident RelationsWorst Gift: Pots and pans … I was expecting jewelry.Resident Relations handles dis-
putes between apartment residents andowner/management companies to provide analternative to filing court cases. The depart-ment receives more than 1,000 calls and hun-dreds of online complaint forms each month.Matilde, a 22-year HAA veteran, answers ques-tions from both apartment personnel and resi-dents concerning leases and rights andresponsibilities and oversees two ResidentRelations committees.
Contact 713-595-0331 or email [email protected].
Frances TorresDirector of Form Sales Worst Gift: I received the ugliestblouse, never wore it and donated it to Goodwill.
When members need TAA leases and Redbooks,applications or other HAA forms, they contactFrances in the Form Sales Department. Morethan 1,000 orders are placed on a monthlybasis, whether by phone, email, fax or on theWeb. HAA members can also contact her topurchase member mailing labels, the Directory& Buyer’s Guide and other forms and publica-tions. Frances joined HAA in December 1995.
Contact 713-595-0317 or email [email protected].
Mercedes SanchezPublic Affairs SpecialistWorst Gift: My grandpa’s favoritecandy was chocolate truffles filledwith cherries, and every Christmas,
he would bring a box for each person in my family.There was one problem: No one had the heart to tellhim they were awful. The boxes would lie around the
haa staff pg 50,51,52,53_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:19 PM Page 2
house for months, long after the holiday season wasover. This happened every year!Mercedes joined HAA in November and is ournewest staff member. She assists Andy Teas,HAA staff and members to implement andachieve HAA government affairs, media andpublic relations goals.
Contact 713-595-0302 or email [email protected].
Tina DeFioreDirector of Rental CreditReportingWorst Gift: In 2002, I spentChristmas at my extended family’s
house. Mama, the matriarch, loves to shop somuch she converted a huge walk-in hall closet intowhat I would consider a small gift shop. The closetwas always well stocked with items she just had tobuy because “someone will love that.” Well,Christmas morning we gathered in the living roomto open gifts. Don’t get me wrong, I got some reallycool stuff, but upon opening one of the presents Isaved to unwrap last, I was completely takenaback. It appeared to be something between a wallet and a purse made of a dingy taupe-colored
pleather material with a super long, skinny strap. Itwas completely wrong and out of proportion butmy loss for words turned into hilarity when Isnapped it open to find a calendar from 1995.Who doesn’t love a good gift closet!RCR, in partnership with CoreLogic SafeRent,offers a comprehensive suite of resident screen-ing services available as an exclusive memberbenefit. Tina joined the staff in 2011 and isresponsible for RCR sales and marketing, whichincludes the development of marketing plans,recruitment of new subscribers, collection of data, building partnerships with managementdistricts and group training and retention pro-grams for existing customers.
Contact 713-595-0330 or email [email protected].
Luisa ArevaloRCR Manager Worst Gift: My worst Christmas giftwas receiving a re-gifted (the previ-ous name tag was not removed),
and hideous Christmas sweater.Luisa and oversees the maintenance of RCRaccount information and updates, handles
training issues and customer service and assistsresidents with rental reports, working closelywith CoreLogic SafeRent. She has been a staffmember since September 2002
Contact 713-595-0329 or email [email protected].
Art EidmanDirector of InformationTechnology Worst Gift: SocksArt joined HAA in January 2011.
He oversees all information technology func-tions of HAA, including computer, databaseand Web access for Rental Credit Reporting andHAA Online. He also oversees technical supportfor the staff.
Contact 713-595-0305 or email [email protected].
Will AlfaroWeb Systems Manager Worst Gift: OK, here’s mine, anddon’t laugh … I received a Snuggieone Christmas.
Will has been on staff since January 2006. Willis the designer and producer of the HAA web-
52 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Whoare you looking for?
You wouldn’t advertise your apartment community alongside misspelled ads forstained couches or creepy singles looking fordates, so why would you promote working atyour company in a similar environment? Listing your employment opportunities on freecommunity posting sites can produce somescary results; your time and company reputation is too valuable.
Post your company’s open positions among themost respected industry leaders via HAA’sJobline. Experienced, serious candidates whohave done their homework know to seek outwww.haaonline.org for their career opportuni-ties. Don’t miss out on the chance to interviewthem first!
Visit www.haaonline.org and click on the Jobline link, [email protected] or call 713-595-0300 to learn more.
JOBLINE
haa staff pg 50,51,52,53_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:19 PM Page 3
site, www.haaonline.org, and HAA’s mass emailcommunications, including our weekly e-newsletter, HAA This Week. Will also providesinformation technology function support andoversees HAA’s Ektron Content ManagementSystem and Web 2.0 technologies.
Contact 713-595-0327 or email [email protected].
Nancy Li Lo, CPAControllerWorst Gift: A pretty sweater thatwould have fit me a few years ago! On a positive note: It gives
me an incentive to do something so I can wear it …one day!Nancy joined HAA in 2008 and oversees cashmanagement and revenue collection. She mon-itors operations and accounting for HAA’s threefinancial entities and the political action com-mittee, prepares budgets and financial reports and handles personnel and employee benefits administration.
Contact 713-595-0310 or email [email protected].
Cindy RamirezAccounting ManagerWorst Gift: A vacuum cleanerCindy is completing her eighthyear with HAA. She assists in
revenue collections and daily operationalaccounting items, including recordkeeping,invoicing and member accounts.
Contact 713-595-0311 or email [email protected].
Lan TranAccounting Clerk Worst Gift: I received a sympathycard for Christmas in French!Knowing that I'm Catholic and due
to the foreign language, my new friend gave me anice card with picture of a cross and rosary on it ...Anyway, it’s the thought that counts!Lan joined HAA in 2008 and assists with dailyoperational accounting items, record-keepingand accounts payable and assists with member accounts.
Contact 713-595-0308 or email [email protected].
Deborah NixDirector of Publications and DesignWorst Gift: Let me preface this withthe fact that I love my Granny, who
is 96 years young. In 1983, she proudly presentedme with a white furry (yes, furry), sweatshirt with a
“Flashdance” neckline and a GIANT sequined purplehibiscus flower sewn on the front. Of course purple isher favorite color and hibiscus is her favorite plant.And of course, with my mother’s stern instruction, I wore the sweatshirt whenever I saw Granny. Thenext year, Granny gave me another one she foundon clearance because the first one was “getting oldand you wear it all the time.” Deborah oversees the creative and editorialdevelopment and production of HAA publica-tions, including ABODE and the Directory &Buyer’s Guide. She is the artist behind most in-house projects, including event logos and pro-motions. She coordinates all printing and mailfulfillment. She has been with HAA sinceJanuary 1992.
Contact 713-595-0333 or email [email protected].
Rachel ZochManaging Editor Worst Gift: I’m going to have to gowith a concrete (I think) shoe: Oneyear, a relative gave me this awful,
gaudy, unusually heavy (and probably overpriced)sculpture of a high-heeled shoe. “I saw it andthought it was so you!” she said – but it was bothugly and useless, so NOT me at all. The gift thesame year of a small can of Spam and a CaptainPicard figure, however, I thought was pretty great!Rachel joined the Communications department in March 2004 and oversees and produces ABODE’s editorial content. A for-mer newspaper editor, Rachel researches, writesand edits for the magazine, coordinates andleads interviews and creates designs and lay-outs. She also compiles and edits the HAA This Week e-newsletter and manages HAA’sLinkedIn presence.
Contact 713-595-0334 or email [email protected].
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 53
For more about HAA, check us out online at theHAA website www.haaonline.org, follow ourtweets at http://twitter.com/HAAonline, seeHAA videos at www.youtube.com/user/HAATV, be a part of the Houston Apartment Associationgroup at www.linkedin.com and join theHouston Apartment Association Group Page.
haa staff pg 50,51,52,53_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:20 PM Page 4
PHOTO ALBUM
54 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the 2014 “SPOOKTACULAR” CHILI FEST
Chili fest pg 54,55,56,57,58,59,60_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:25 PM Page 1
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 55
Event: “Spooktacular” Chili FestWhen: October 25Where: Farm & Ranch ClubIt was another great year for the 24thannual Houston Apartment Foundationcook-off with more than 4,300 attendeesand 65 booths raising $33,000 for the foundation.
Thanks to Fire Safe Protection for providing the fire extinguishers for exhibitors.
Thank you to our generous sponsors:
Habanero SponsorsApartment GuideApartments.comCraven CarpetRasa Floors
Poblano Sponsors Camp Construction ServicesCentury A/C SupplyCoreLogic SafeRentGemstar ConstructionHD SupplyHire PriorityMeyer Smith Inc.Pavecon Ltd.TXU EnergyTrend Brand Solutions
Jalapeno SponsorsApartment FinderApartment GuideArmor City DoorsBluSky RestorationCKR Property ManagementChurch ServicesClassic Touch PaintingCrestmark ConstructionD&G Quality RoofingFoundation SpecialistsIdeal TowingLawson Construction & Builders Inc.
Orkin Pest ControlPPG Architectural CoatingsPoolsurePrism ElectricSentriForceTexas Environments
Thank you to our Raffle and Auction Donors:AAA PlumbersAlison HallApartment FinderArmor City DoorsBilly GriffinBlanca AndersonBryan HeadAmeristar Screen & GlassCamp Construction ServicesCapstoneCKR Property ManagementCentury A/C SupplyCriterion BrockCrystal JacksonDavid JonesDean O’KelleyDebbie SulzerDeborah DeRouenDixie Carpet InstallationsFrancis Property ManagementFSI Construction Inc.Gemstar ConstructionHD SupplyHamilton-Steele Outdoor LandscapesInnovative Complete SolutionsInternational Product SpecialistsJohn FedorkoKen ClaybergKimberly LeBlancKurt GilpinKyle BrownThe Liberty GroupIzzy GarzaMeyer SmithMichelle PahlMike KochMohawk IndustriesNo Label BreweryOn The SpotOrkinPoolsurePrism ElectricRiverstoneRobert McDanielSal ThomasSherwin WilliamsStarla TurnboSwiff Train CompanyT&L DistributingTracie YoderU.S. Residential
And the winners are:
1st Place Chili: Craven Carpet/Southhampton
2nd Place Chili: Craven Carpet/Southhampton
3rd Place Chili: Greystar
4th Place Chili: US Residential
1st Place Single Booth: Capstone Real Estate Services
2nd Place Single Booth: Allen Harrison Company
3rd Place Single Booth: Abbey Residential
1st Place Double Booth: Francis Property Management
2nd Place Double Booth: Greystar
3rd Place Double Booth: AAA Plumbers/Camp Construction Services
Chili fest pg 54,55,56,57,58,59,60_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:26 PM Page 2
PHOTO ALBUM
56 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the 2014 “SPOOKTACULAR” CHILI FEST
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Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 57
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PHOTO ALBUM
58 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the 2014 “SPOOKTACULAR” CHILI FEST
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ABODE DECEMBER 2014 59
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
Want to see more Chili Fest photos? Visit the HAA event photo pages online at www.haaonline.org.
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PHOTO ALBUM
60 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the 2014 “SPOOKTACULAR” CHILI FEST
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ABODE DECEMBER 2014 61
SOLAR ENERGY FOR SERVICE VETERANSThrough its Sun Club initiative, Green Moun-
tain Energy crowdfunds, builds and promotes
solar power while assisting nonprofit organiza-
tions with a socially responsible focus to help
reduce their electricity costs.
A $60,000 donation from the Sun Club
installed a large solar array on the new multi-
purpose building at Camp Hope (the October 18
dedication celebration is shown below). The 16
kilowatt solar electric array is expected to gener-
ate 25,600 kilowatt hours of clean energy each
year. This will help the facility save funds every
month on the electricity bill and put those funds
back into the mission of Camp Hope and the
Post-Traumatic Stress Foundation.
“The Sun Club could not be more proud to
partner with a more deserving organization,”
said Joe Kaye, Green Mountain Energy.
Thanks to contributions from Green Mountain
Energy and its customers, employees and sup-
porters, the Sun Club has helped install more
than 650 kW of solar power through more than
60 unique projects supporting more than 55 non-
profit organizations. Learn more about the Sun
Club, contribute or apply for a solar energy grant
at www.greenmountainenergy.com/sun-club.
GOOD WORKS, continued from Page 49
SUN CLUB FOR CAMP HOPE
Good Works p46,47,48,49,61_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:12 PM Page 5
62 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
PROPERTY UPDATE
Writing for ABODE can help you keepyour designation current. Designatescan earn 1 CEC for every two hoursspent researching and writing an articlepublished in our magazine. Contactthe communications department [email protected] for details.
Didyouknow
PORTFOLIO CHANGESThe following owner/management companies have added the listed
properties to their portfolios (* indicates new construction):• Greystar: Crossing at Katy Ranch*, 318 units at 24949 Katy Ranch
Road in Katy.• CWS Apartment Homes: Marquis at Kingwood (formerly The
Preserve at Kingwood), 320 units at 27600 Kings Manor Drive North in Kingwood; and Marquis at Tanglewood (formerly La Tour Fontaine),162 units at 2400 Fountain View.• First Choice Management Group: Shadow Bay, 231 units at 1700
Baywood Drive in Bay City.• Alliance Communities: Broadstone Sierra Pines*: 341 units at 1615
Sawdust Road in The Woodlands. • Ascension Commercial Real Estate: Clear Creek Landing: 200 units
at 11717 Beamer Road.• Milestone Management: Villas at Shadow Creek, 560 units at 2020
and 2200 Business Center Drive in Pearland.• Rockstar Capital Management: Park at Deerbrook, 100 units at
19700 Whitaker in Humble.• Ashford Communities: Ashford Briar Pointe (formerly Palms at
Kirkwood), 256 units at 11710 Briar Forest.• Peak Real Estate Management: Avalon Square, 220 units at
2400 Westheimer.• MPM Management: The Palms (formerly Strawberry Palms), 86 units
at 1500 Strawberry Road in Pasadena.• Vesta Management Services: Piedmont Apartments, 205 units at
7510 Decker Drive in Baytown.• Investors Property Services: Madison Park of Westchase, 576 units
at 9801 Meadowglen Lane; and Parkside Place, 321 units at 3101Spencer Hwy. in Pasadena.• Carroll Organization: Arium Park West, 342 units at 15155 Richmond.• Gables Residential: Gables Upper Kirby II*, 2322 Branard, and Gables
Upper Kirby III*, 2305 West Alabama, for a combined total of 145 units.• Orion Real Estate Services: Deerwood Pines, 140 units at 414 Maxey.• Bell Partners: Lakes of 610, 276 units at 2701 West Bellfort; The
Cove, 308 units at 2000 Bay Area Blvd.; and The Oxford on Greenridge,405 units at 2815 Greenridge Drive.• Harbor Group: Milano Apartments, 330 units at 2500 Woodland
Park Drive; and Cypress Lake, 216 units at 555 Butterfield Road.• BH Management: Regatta Bay, 240 units at 2555 N. Repsdorph
Road in Seabrook.• Midway Companies: Memorial Heights Apartments, 556 units at
201 S. Heights Blvd.• Allen Harrison Co.: The Paramount (formerly Promenade Cullen
Park), 264 units at 1800 Barker Cypress; and Thornbury Apartments, 408 units at 7055 Hollister.• CKR Property Management: Royal Bellaire Apartments, 80 units
at 9600 Braes Bayou.
COMPANY CHANGESThe Orion Real Estate Services offices have moved to 2051
Greenhouse Road, Ste. 300, Houston 77084. Phone and fax numbersremain the same.The Peek Realty and Property Management offices have relocated
to 5925 Almeda Road, Ste. E, Houston 77004. The new phone number is 713-527-7335.
?
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IN THE NEWS
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 63
PEOPLE ON THE MOVETara Stillwell is now director of Promaxima’s
multifamily division.Debra Knight has joined the
Valet Waste team.Lanayae Hunter has been pro-
moted to regional director of man-agement at Martin Fein Interests,
and Jamie Van Wunnik is now the company’sproperty manager coordinator.
NEW ARRIVALGrant Crowell, The
Urban Foresters, andwife, Caitlin, welcomedson Duncan JamesCrowell on October12. Duncan is picturedwith brother, DeanChristopher, and sister,Adelaide (Del) Reese.
CONGRATULATIONSAsset Plus Companies has again been recog-
nized by Inc. Magazine as one of America’s top5,000 Fastest-Growing Private Companies with arank of 4,280 overall. “Each year, we are moreproud of this award as it becomes increasinglymore difficult to hit this kind of growth ratio,”said Ryan McGrath, co-owner of Asset Plusalong with his father, Michael McGrath.Longtime HAA Golf Committee member HJ
Tollett Jr., Rachel Realty, scored a 108-yard holein one on October 22 at Hole 17 (par 3) on theHermann Park Golf Club. Way to go!Keystone Resources has been awarded the
Best & Brightest Place to Work (Houston andnational) by the National Association for BusinessResources for the third consecutive year. OtherHAA members on the Houston list include Asset Plus Companies, Boxer PropertyManagement, Gables Residential andMurphy’s Corporate Lodging.
IN MEMORIAMJan Grant, a longtime HAA member with her
husband, Ronnie Grant, died in October after along battle with cancer. Jan was a Go-Getter andAmbassador, and she served on many commit-tees, including the Expo Committee.
New baby, new job, new address? Send your good news [email protected]
and let us spread the good word!
Dean, Del and Duncan
Knight
PropNews Dec14 pg 62,63_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:30 PM Page 2
Looking ForwardThe Ambassador Club wraps up another year and prepares for new faces in 2015.
AMBASSADORS
64 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
The DeRouen-DeVries-Knight team:Back row: Dylan Coleman, Camp Construction; Co-captain Debra Knight, Valet Waste; Co-captain Derek DeVries, Camp Construction; Phillip Rodriguez, PPG Architectural Coatings; David Lindley, Rasa Floors; and Co-chair Izzy Garza, Maintenance Supply Headquarters.Front row: Co-chair Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group; Candis Austin, AAA Plumbers; Will McGinnis, Incite Energy; Co-captain Deborah DeRouen, LeaseHawk; Peggy Scott, BluSky Restoration; and Co-chair Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply.
The Crowell-Welch-Wilkin team:Back row: Pete Lopez, HD Supply; Co-chair Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group; Chris Dollinger, Arbor Carpet; Charles Hoffmeister, Capitol Wrecker; Phillip Price, HD Supply; and Co-captain Grant Crowell, The Urban Foresters. Front row: Co-captain April Wilkin, Orkin Pest Control; Chamberly Mahoney, The Liberty Group; Chris Rich, Jansen International; Co-chair Izzy Garza, Maintenance Supply Headquarters; and Co-chair Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply.
Ambass Dec14 pg 64,65_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:31 PM Page 1
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 65
All supplier members are welcome to join the AmbassadorClub. The Ambassadors are the eyes and ears of theHouston Apartment Association. By contacting membercompanies to promote HAA events and member benefitsand letting association staff know about members’ wantsand needs, the Ambassadors function as an important linkto the HAA membership. For more information, contactLisa Butler at 713-595-0322 or [email protected].
The Blodgett-Cook-Edwards team:Back row: Paul Marks, WaterLogic; Sylvia Avila, OP Enterprises Waste Service; MJ Featherston, Direct Services; Andre Gonzales, Century A/C Supply; Jenneye Shugar,Armor City Doors; Ruben Larez, Sterling Wiring Solutions; and Les Lightfoot, Lightfoot Landscape.Front row: Co-chair Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group; Co-captain Rhonda Blodgett, Prism Electric; Jimmie Hotz, HD Supply; Peggy Charles, Meyer Smith; Co-chairIzzy Garza, Maintenance Supply Headquarters; and Co-chair Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply.
The Bounds-Lavrack-McLaughlin team:Back row: John Hill, Harco Insurance; David Strathman, ArmStrong Environmental; Nick Bodmer, Sears Commercial; Shannon Garcia, Arbor Carpet; Patrick Sheahan,Sherwin-Williams; James Wagner, Arbor Carpet; and Co-chair Izzy Garza, Maintenance Supply Headquarters.Front row: Co-chair Laura Lestus, The Liberty Group; Lucy Alanis, Church Services; Co-captain Kristin McLaughlin, Outdoor Elements; Joe Slaughter, Arbor Carpet;Co-captain Angie Lavrack, The Liberty Group; Co-captain Marivel Bownds, Valet Waste, Brandi Hamilton, Criterion Brock; and Co-chair Jacob Kunath, Century A/C Supply.
JOIN THE AMBASSADORSThe Ambassador Club meets the first or second Wednesdayof each month at 4 p.m. at Diablo Loco, 6025 Richmond(just west of Fountain View). All suppliers are welcome. Fornew members, HAA 101 precedes the meeting, beginningat 3:30. Contact Lisa for details at [email protected] andbe sure to check the calendar at www.haaonline.org for themost current meeting dates.
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Information for making the most of your HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIPHAA RESOURCES
Standard Lease Contracts, Forms, Books and Mailing Data*HAA Owner Members can access the most comprehensivelease available in the industry, along with more than 30 differ-
ent forms. Also available to members is the TAA Redbook, containing state andfederal statutes and governmental rules that affect all rental housing in Texas.Supplier Members can purchase electronic mail lists. For more information,contact Form Sales at 713-595-0317, email [email protected] or orderonline at www.haaonline.org.
Legislative InformationContinual updates that keep our members apprised of pending legislation. Staff members are available to answer
questions about the state and federal laws and city ordinances. Contact theGovernment Affairs Department at 713-595-0303 or 713-595-0302 or email [email protected].
Resident Relations Department and HelplinesFree assistance to all member apartment personnel who have questions or need advice when dealing with residents.
Community service for residents to help resolve misunderstandings concerningthe lease, application and security deposits. For assistance, contact ResidentRelations at 713-595-0300 or email [email protected].
Surveys/Statistical Data*An annual salary survey is downloadable from the HAA Website and available only to members. A leasing and occupancy
survey is published twice a year in ABODE magazine for spring and fall.
Education Programs*From entry-level leasing and sales technique, to executive-leveltraining in human resources and marketing, there is truly
something for every multi-family professional through the Education Department. Ranging from three hours to six months in duration, training programs are available throughout the year and cover every discipline. Additionally, the six designation programs from the National Apartment Association are also offered for those professionals looking to set themselvesapart in a competitive industry, including both owner and supplier members.Education grants are also available for certain programs. For more information,contact the Education and Meetings Department at 713-595-0319 or 713-595-0314, email [email protected], or register for programs online at www.haaonline.org.
Committees & ClubsMembers volunteer to work side by side with industry peers in more than 20 activities that help the association accomplish
its goals and objectives. Pictures of volunteers are featured in ABODE magazine every month. For more information, contact Member Services at713-595-0322 or email [email protected].
ABODE MagazineHAA’s premier monthly publication – 80 pages of interesting,informative articles from industry insiders covering rental hous-
ing trends and tips to help reduce the expense of day-to-day operations. Adver-tising in ABODE will give suppliers the consistent exposure to the Houston mul-tifamily housing market and reinforce the efforts of sales people. Writing anarticle can show expertise in your field. For more information on advertising,contact Supplier Services at 713-595-0316 or email [email protected].
To find out more about writing for ABODE or to send in property update ornews, contact the Communications Department at 713-595-0333, 713-595-0334 or e-mail [email protected].
Directory & Buyer’s Guide www.haabuyersguide.comAn annual listing of all member owner/management compa-nies, properties and companies that supply products and ser-
vices to the rental housing industry is available to HAA members only. Onecopy is mailed to each member, including each property, in January. Suppliermembers receive one alphabetical and two products and service categoricallistings, with more available for a small fee. Display advertising space in printand on www.haabuyersguide.com, HAA’s online buyer’s guide, is also availablefor purchase. The deadline to advertise or be listed in the 2016 Directory isOctober 1, 2015. For more information on the 2016 book, contact SupplierServices at 713-595-0316 or email [email protected].
Education Conference & Expo*Suppliers can market their companies at this annual eventwith more than 275 exhibitor booths and 4,000 potential
clients. The show is free to all apartment community personnel and will be heldat the NRG Center. The next show is scheduled for May 14, 2015. For moreinformation on the 2015 Expo, contact Supplier Services at 713-595-0316 or email [email protected].
Sponsorships*Suppliers: Have your company name promoted by sponsor-ing an event. More than 120 events are up for auction twice
a year allowing you the opportunity to target specific property management personnel. Auctions are held in January and June. For more information, contact Supplier Services at 713-595-0316 or email [email protected].
HAA OnlineOnline form sales, event calendar and registration and job listings provide members with a direct connection to HAA
services. All member company website addresses have hyperlinks where permission has been granted. This offer is free to all members. For more information, contact the IT Department at 713-595-0300 or email [email protected].
Rental Credit Reporting Service (RCR)*Powered by CoreLogic SafeRent. This is an optional service for an additional charge. RCR has partnered with Core-
Logic SafeRent, the nation’s leading and most innovative provider of screeningservices, to expand its suite of resident screening services currently available asan exclusive HAA membership benefit. RCR partnered with CoreLogic SafeRentto provide leasing staff more screening resources to make consistent, accurate,and Fair Housing compliant leasing decisions. Local rental history (includingevictions, skips and move-in and move-out data), nationwide rental history andlandlord-tenant records, broader criminal data and retail credit reports are available in a quick and easy-to-use web-based application with instantly delivered results. For more information, contact Rental Credit Reporting at 713-595-0329, 713-595-0330 or email [email protected].
*These benefits are in addition to your membership fee.
The Houston Apartment Association is the largest local apartment association in the U.S., representing more than 1,500 companies. We represent2,650 apartment communities with more than 538,000 units – 90 percent of the Greater Houston market. Exposure is the key to your business success in HAA. Your membership is only the first step. After joining, take the next step and become involved. In time, you will see results.
66 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
HAA Resources pgs 66_Member Benefits pg 70, 72 11/17/14 1:32 PM Page 1
WELCOME MAT
SUPPLIER MEMBERS
Agua Blue Pool Service &Construction CompanyJulian Moreno1127 Eldridge Pkwy. #300-357Houston, TX 77077281-531-5072Swimming pool servicesSwimming pool contractors
Central Renovation SolutionsJeff Calvery3146 Springfield Ave.Lancaster, TX 75134469-567-2400Kitchen cabinetsCabinets
Entergy TexasGeorge Cornwell1331 Lamar #660Houston, TX 77010-3025713-445-2027Energy providerEnergy conservation/management
Express Corporate HousingLori Durrett12777 Jones Road #275Houston, TX 77070-4675281-894-0600Corporate housingFurniture rental & leasing
Expression Custom Pools/Total Lawn CareBill Gard17223 Houston DriveCypress, TX 77433-1817281-304-8400Lawn maintenanceLandscape contractorsSwimming pool contractorsSwimming pool services &maintenance
Referred by Shannon Dawley
Green Mountain EnergyMegan Thornburg, CAS1201 Fannin #310Houston, TX 77002972-457-8762Utility companiesElectricity providers
Hire TechnologiesTammy Johnson4705 Hwy. 36 #5Rosenberg, TX 77471-9254832-847-5914Computers-service & repairComputers-software & serviceReferred by Laura Krupala
J&K Cabinet and GraniteTrinity Haywood2115 61st St. #108BGalveston, TX 77551-1400409-741-7772CabinetsCountertops
JS Hardy LLCSteve Hardy11111 Grant Road #736Cypress, TX 77429-4052832-807-4262ArchitectsConstruction management consultants
EngineersLeak detection serviceRoofing consultants
Manicured Landscapes Inc.Rickey MatternP.O. Box 41843Houston, TX 77241-1843713-937-7139Drainage contractorsIrrigation system & equipmentLandscape architectsLandscape contractorsLandscape designersLawn maintenance
MulchSprinklers-garden & lawn Tree servicesReferred by Mary Segovia
MirrorMate FramesLisa Hunting9317 Monroe Road #ACharlotte, NC 28270704-681-3459Mirrors
Mohawk IndustriesKevin Goodnight6310 Darby WaySpring, TX 77389-3615281-687-5173Floor materialsCarpet & rug distributors & manufacturers
Referred by Ryan Weiss
Northwest Construction GroupMatt Villarreal3880 Greenhouse Road #308Houston, TX 77084-3334281-859-9180Building contractorsConcrete contractorsReferred by Betsy Marshall
O&S Construction and WeatherproofingJack Oddo8888 Interchange DriveHouston, TX 77054-2512281-484-7663Roofing contractorsProfessional AlternativesAshley Tidmore1800 W. Loop South #1050Houston, TX 77027-3225832-200-0819Employment agenciesEmployee contractors-temporary help
Referred by Roger Camp
Save Water Co.Katie Anderson1302 Waugh Drive #697Houston, TX 77019-3908832-786-1448Water conservationWater consultantsReferred by Christy Rodriguez
SisTerra LandscapeJulie Rivera419 Polk St. #1Houston, Texs 77019-4493832-910-0906Landscape contractorsLawn maintenanceReferred by Mary Ramirez
Taylor Contracting & Roofing Inc.Peter Whitman5151 Richmond #308Houston, TX 77056832-244-3194General contractorsRoofing contractorsReferred by Peggy Charles
Texas Mint CommercialJay Moore2311 Dolan LakeSugar Land, TX 77498713-446-1536Pressure washing equipment & service
Floor laying, refinishing & resurfacing
Referred by Nancy Gilman
USA DeconRobert Demaret3819 Kimberly DrivePearland, TX 77581713-850-0555Cleaning specialists-traumaCleaning specialists-biohazardous materials
United Gates & FenceClaudia B. MoralesP.O. Box 709Manvel, TX 77578-0709281-226-3332FencesGates & gate operating devices
Valet TrashDoug Berry1227 Price PlazaKaty, TX 77449-6422281-712-6700AmenitiesTrash service-valet
VIP RemodelingMiles Delleney139 Cypresswood #2Spring, TX 77388-6034832-728-3212Painting contractorsRemodeling & repair-building contractors
White’s Trash Services LLCBenjamin White110 Vintage Park Blvd. #270Houston, TX 7070-4048832-529-7411AmenitiesGarbage collectionTrash services-valetWaste reduction/disposal/recycling
Referred by Beth Van Winkle
Zak VenturesAnthony Snyder4819 BayfairPasadena, TX 77505281-549-5780General contractorsRoofing contractors
All supplier members now listed online atwww.haabuyersguide.com!
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 67
Introducing OCTOBER new members
OWNER MEMBERS
14th Street Flats LLCCatherine Cochran702 MaloneHouston, TX 77007-5124 14th Street Flats
Buffalo River Holdings LLCNicholas G. SissaP.O. Box 1442Houston, TX 77251-1442713-823-16454002 Chartres Properties
Cozy CornerHai Le4354 Yupon Ridge DriveHouston, TX 77072-1952Referred by Christine Hebert
Crosby Ventures LLCAmy Statler10906 Meadow Lake LaneHouston, TX 77042-2724713-302-3425Thomas Manor Apartments
Dawson Family PropertiesDonald Dawson12823 Rock Falls WayHouston, TX 77041-6627Referred by Christine Hebert
H2 Asset ManagementGroup Inc.Chris Hollomon3 Spiceberry PlaceSpring, TX 77382-1261Referred by Christine Hebert
Neptune Construction LLCLori BarnesP.O. Box 236Bellaire, TX 77402-0236832-724-0676Braeswood Plaza ApartmentsCrown of Bellaire Apartments
Oakbridge 1710 LLCJack Franco1710 Old Alvin RoadPearland, TX 77581-3007832-736-9639Oakbridge Apartments
Price Realty Corp.Vanessa Vanderpol4125 Centurion Way #200Addison, TX 75001-4398Ten Pines at Summerwood Apartments
Rosco PropertiesKatie Kronbergs602 W. 7th St.Austin, TX 78701-2741713-626-3660Chateaux Dijon Apartments
Spring Fresh Enterprises LLCMelinda Cortes638 Barbara Mae St.Houston, TX 77015-4102832-675-3922Kellisa Apartments
Welcome to HAA! See Pages 20 & 21 or www.haaonline.org for listings of our upcomingevents. Text “HAAInfo” to 590590 to subscribe to our FREE text-messaging service.
WelMat Dec14 pg 67_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:32 PM Page 1
Thanks to bay sponsor Gemstar Construction
PHOTO ALBUM
68 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
Photos from the 2014 “TOP GOLF” TOURNAMENT
Thanks to bay sponsor Apartment Guide
2nd place team, CAMP/Greystar, with sponsor Trend Brand Solutions
First place team, CAMP/Greystar, with sponsor Trend Brand SolutionsHighest scoring female Teresa Maldonado with sponsor Maintenance SupplyHeadquarters
top golf photos pg 68,69,70,71_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:36 PM Page 1
Thanks to wristband sponsor BluSky Restoration
Thanks to valet sponsor Apartments.com
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 69
top golf photos pg 68,69,70,71_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:38 PM Page 2
PHOTO ALBUM Photos from the 2014 “TOP GOLF” TOURNAMENT
70 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
top golf photos pg 68,69,70,71_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:39 PM Page 3
Photos by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 71
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ON SITE WITH ABODEPhotos by RACHEL ZOCH, HAA Staff
72 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
“On Site with ABODE” features a randomly selected memberproperty each month.Property: Allusion West UniversityOwner/Management: Monogram Apartment CollectionLocation: 3810 Law St. at Edloe, just north of Bissonnet andthe city of West University Place and a few blocks south of 59 Units: 231Built: 2014Web: www.liveallusion.comInteresting features: In September, real estate websiteMovoto.com ranked 77005 as the No. 2 zip code in America,based on U.S. Census data for income, employment, commutetime, education and more. Allusion West University, a midriseapartment community on the edge of West University Place in southwest Houston, is the newest multifamily addition tothe neighborhood. Allusion’s first residents moved in onJanuary 31, and the property is now almost 90 percent leased. “Location, of course, is the biggest thing,” said manager
Lannya Batiste. “We’re close to everything but nice and quiet.”Located within walking distance to grocery stores, restau-
rants and retail, including local landmark Bering’s Hardware – and just minutes from the Galleria or Texas Medical Center –the property offers 30 floor plans, many of them dramatic corner units due to the buildings’ triangular design. Theseangular apartments feature lots of light from wraparound floor-to-ceiling windows, and the top floor offers full city views.“When you walk in, you definitely have that wow factor,”
said Batiste.Interiors feature 9-foot, 6-inch ceilings, as well as stainless
steel appliances, flat-top stoves, granite countertops, stonebacksplashes and wood or polished concrete floors. Bathroomsinclude tubs with tile surrounds and separate stand-up show-ers, and every apartment has a full-size washer and dryer.The property is smoke-free, and residents enjoy weekly spin
and yoga classes on-site, as well as numerous social events,many held outside in the community kitchen and lounge. Thecommunity hosted a “yappy hour” in November in its state-of-the-art bark park, complete with double gates for secureunleashing, artificial turf and a dog wash station. The turf iscleaned twice daily by an automatic sprinkler and drain system.
NeighborhoodNew to the
On Site Dec14 pg 72_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:40 PM Page 1
in partnership with
For more information or to subscribe, call 713-595-0330, email [email protected] or visit us online at www.haaonline.org/rentalcreditreport.
a service of
Has that bird flown the coop from another property? Did they skip out?Were they evicted? Did they just fly outfrom behind bars? Don’t let bad birdsflock to your apartments. Check outrenters before you write that lease.
Knowing a prospect’s rental and criminalhistory is more important now than everbefore. Rental Credit Reporting providesthe most effective credit and collection reporting tools available. Find out all you can about your future residents before you move them in.
Don’t miss out on this basic information that can tellyou a whole lot more abouta potential resident thanjust a credit score.
Keep a bird’s-eye view on your bottom line.
RCRWants You … to have an eagle eyeon your potential residents!
• Rental History – Local residentrental history including evictions,amount owed at move-out, brokenlease information, NSF checks, deposit disposition.• National Evictions – National landlord-tenant history (more than 36million landlord-tenant records includ-ing filings, judgments and liens). • Texas Criminal Data – Instant de-livery of available felony and misde-meanor records from Texas statewideand 18+ supplemental counties includ-ing Harris, Montgomery, Fort Bend, Brazoria and Waller.• AppALERT (OFAC) – Searches sev-eral databases including Office of For-eign Asset Control, FBI Most WantedTerrorists and Fugitives Lists, U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. CustomsService, U.S. Marshals Service, U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Drug EnforcementAgency and Wanted Fugitive Lists published by state and local law enforcement agencies.
• Move-in/Move-out Entry –Submit your property’s rental historydata online through RCR’s familiar andeasy-to-use tools.• Eviction Entry – Protect yourself and other properties by registering yourevictions with RCR.• Inquiry History – Know where elseyour applicant is applying.• Quick and Easy• Cost Effective• Immediate Access• Monthly Activity Report
RCR pg 73_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:41 PM Page 1
74 NOVEMBER 2014 ABODE
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS BY CATEGORY
Want to see current and previous issues of ABODE online? Go to http://tinyurl.com/HAAlibrary or http://issuu.com/haa_abode.Or view this issue on your iPad or smartphone at http://issuu.com/haa_abode/docs/abode_dec2014.
Advertising – Specialties
On Hold USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61800-755-4142 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.onholdusa.com
Carpet Cleaning – Equipment & Supply
Namco Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12800-634-5816 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.namcomfg.com
Carpet Installation
Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com
Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover713-660-7777 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rasafloors.com
Collection Agencies
Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49713-644-4441 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.alexanderrose-inc.com
Certified Recovery Systems Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . .61713-464-8219 . . . . . . . . . . .www.certifiedrecovery.com
Electric Contractors
Affordable Quality Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13713-695-5992 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.acuityelectric.com
Brandt Electrical Services Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com
Gates & Gate-Operating Devices
Atix Access . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53713-784-1600 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.atixaccess.com
Meyer Smith Inc. (Houston Gate) . . . . . . . . . . . .49713-862-7339 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.meyersmithinc.com
General Contractors
Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1713-413-2267 . . . . . . . . . .www.campconstruction.com
Cotton Commercial USA Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10877-511-2962 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.cottoncompanies.com
FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15832-767-1115 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.fsiconstruction.com
MultiFamily Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62713-266-9100
RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.com
Tuttle Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43713-983-8422 . . . . . . . . .www.tuttleconstructiontx.com
Glass – Plate, Window, Etc.
Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41, 63713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com
Insurance
Harco Insurance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49713-681-2500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.harco-ins.com
Landscape Contractors
Outdoor Elements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2713-955-0990 . . . . . . . . .www.outdoorelementstx.com
Texscape Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16281-846-3779 . . . . . . . . . . .www.texscapeservices.com
Laundry Equipment & Supplies
Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com
Locks & Locksmiths
CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com
Maintenance Supplies
Maintenance Supply Headquarters . . . . . . . . . .37281-530-6300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.supplyhq.com
Pest Control
Apple Termite & Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61713-880-3322 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.applepest.com
Drop Dead Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63281-261-6934 .www.dropdeadpestcontrolhouston.com
Plumbing Contractors
AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.com
The Katy Plumbing Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12281-646-1700 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.katyplumbers.com
Resident Screening Service
CoreLogic SafeRent . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover888-297-8821 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.saferent.com
Resurfacing
Perfect Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27713-952-0202 . . . . . . . . . . .www.perfectsurfaceinc.com
Security Control Equipment/Systems
SentriForce . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33888-671-2202 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.sentriforce.com
Trash Hauling
Waste Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21713-354-5230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.thinkgreen.com
Tree Services
Arbor Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63713-694-8898 . . . . . . . . . .www.arborcarehouston.com
Utility Consultants
Lone Star Aggregators . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31713-600-7772 . . . . . . . .www.lonestaraggregators.com
HAA Products & Services
ABODE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .39713-595-0316 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org
Buyer’s Guide Online . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43713-595-0316 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haabuyersguide.com
HAABGF . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .42713-595-0316 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haabuyersguide.com
Jobline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52713-595-0300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org
Rental Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73713-595-0330 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org
ad index dec pg 74_Ad Index pg 74 11/17/14 1:42 PM Page 1
MARKET LINE
•
Occupancy (%
)
Rent
al R
ate
(¢/s
q.ft.
/mo.
)
Nov
12
Dec
12
Jan
13
Feb
13
Mar
13
Apr 1
3
May
13
Jun
13
Jul 1
3
Aug
13
Sep
13
Oct
13
Nov
13
Dec
13
Jan
14
Feb
14
Mar
14
Apr 1
4
May
14
Jun
14
Jul
14
Aug
14
Sep
14
Oct
14
92.0 –
90.0 –
94.0 –
96.0 –
By BRUCE McCLENNY, President, Apartment Data Services
Apartment Data Services Inc. hasbeen providing apartment data andmarketing products since 1986. ADS Online covers Texas’ four largest metro areas and provides real-time access for property specificinformation, market surveys and historic submarket data for more than 1.3 million apartment units. For more information, contact Bruce McClenny at 800-595-8730.
© 2014 Apartment Data Services Inc.
ABODE DECEMBER 2014 75
History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All UnitsSNAPSHOTOccupancy: 91.0%Price: $921/mo.Rental Rate: 105.1¢/sq.ft./mo.Size: 876 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:9.0% rental rate growth16,315 units absorbed
Operating Supply:2,553 communities588,061 units
Recently Opened (12 months):72 communities20,148 units
Under Construction:86 communities24,716 units
Proposed Construction:66 communities19,825 units
HOTTEST SUBMARKETS Over the Past Three Months Annualized% of Market Rental Rate
Rank Submarket Absorbed Growth %1 Katy/Far West 2.3% 6.8%2 Inner Loop East 2.3% 5.8%3 Tomball/Far Northwest 8.5% 4.5%4 Richmond/Rosenberg 0.8% 8.8%5 Baytown 0.6% 11.4%
CONCESSIONSTotal Units % of Average Citywide
Class w/Concessions Total Units Special EffectAll 155,384 26% -4.9% -1.3%A 33,155 37% -5.3% -2.0%B 30,113 17% -4.2% -0.7%C 68,009 27% -4.9% -1.2%D 24,107 34% -4.5% -1.6%One Month Free = -8.33%
DALLAS/FT. WORTHOccupancy: 92.7%Price: $900/mo.Rental Rate: 103.7¢/sq.ft./mo.Size: 868 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:6.8% rental rate growth13,717 units absorbed
Operating Supply:2,746 communities624,970 units
SAN ANTONIOOccupancy: 90.5%Price: $831/mo.Rental Rate: 98.5¢/sq.ft./mo.Size: 844 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:4.5% rental rate growth5,403 units absorbed
Operating Supply:796 communities164,294 units
AUSTINOccupancy: 91.7%Price: $1,069/mo.Rental Rate: 123.0¢/sq.ft./mo.Size: 869 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:7.1% rental rate growth7,125 units absorbed
Operating Supply:811 communities184,455 units
TEXAS
– 90.0
– 89.0
– 88.0
– 87.0
•• •
•••••• •
• ••
The first table below displays a snapshot of the current market conditions. The graph displays the overall occupancy and effective rental rates over the past 24 months. These statistics
are derived from a continuous survey of all apartment communities inthe Houston region. The effective rental rates are the calculated net ofconcessions and utility adjustments. The second table lists the fivehottest submarkets in the Greater Houston area. There are a total of
41 submarkets, and the ranking is based on the best combination ofrental rate growth and absorption over the past three months. The thirdtable distributes and analyzes concessions (specials) by classification.Concessions generally are represented by three types of specials: move-in, months free or floor plans. The effect of these specials is captured and prorated over a lease term to arrive at a percentage reduction in market or street rents.
HOUSTON
• •• •
• •• •
• • •
Marketline pg 75_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:43 PM Page 1
News from around the COMMUNITYBACK PAGE
76 DECEMBER 2014 ABODE
www.haaonline.orgTotal visits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17,619Visitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11,760Most visited pages: 1. Jobline Board2. Rental Credit Reporting3. Renters
HAA Jobline Powered by Job Target
Ad replies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1,651Job postings for the month . . . .129Resume postings . . . . . . . . . . . .500Job seeker signups . . . . . . . . . . .128
Twitter @HAAOnline www.twitter.comFollowers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4,251
Linkedinhttp://tinyurl.com/2667pprHouston Apartment AssociationGroup Followers . . . . . . . . . . .1,162
Facebook http://tinyurl.com/2ae7gnqHouston Apartment AssociationGroup members . . . . . . . . . . .1,533
ONLINE STATISTICS for the Houston Apartment Association Website and Social Media for October
It’s fundraising season, and HAA needs your donations and support for this worthy cause:
Adopt a family with the HAA Apartment Angels.
Help give needy families a head start this holiday season.The holidays are here – a time most of us look forward to, but a time
that can be difficult for those in need.
Join the Houston Apartment Association for our holiday Apartment
Angels event, where we partner with the Harris County Department
of Education’s Head Start Adopt-a-Family program to ensure
a warm, happy holiday for many deserving members of our
neighborhoods. Your apartment communities will be able to sign up
to adopt a family, ideally apartment residents, with basic needs of
clothing and personal care items, along with a few gifts to open to
bring in the holiday cheer! Our goal is to assist 100 families.
Register today and you will be paired with a family.
Please note: The deadline for collecting items and delivery
to Head Start is December 12.
Register online at www.haaonline.org or contact Kirsten Deagen
at [email protected] for more information.
Help give needy families a head start this holiday season
Backpage pg 76_Layout 1 11/17/14 1:44 PM Page 1
Houston Apartment Association4810 Westway Park Blvd.Houston, Texas 77041
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