going green pink ladies tee off wild west chili fest

Transcription

ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
The Houston Apartment Association Magazine
Season’s
Greetings
from the HAA Go-Getters
IN THIS ISSUE:
GOING GREEN PINK LADIES TEE OFF WILD WEST CHILI FEST
CONTENTS
ON THE
COVER
Photo by MARK HIEBERT, Hiebert Photography
December 2008
Features
36
Go Green – Rockwell Management finds that green
is good business.
40
Seeing Green – A few simple actions you can take
at home and at work can help you make a difference.
42
What Are You Worth? – Competition, market
performance and personal accreditation make an
impact on salaries and benefits for Houston’s multifamily professionals.
52
Happy Holidays from the HAA Staff – We can help
you make the most of your membership.
58
Designate of the Month – Aviator Don Loggins is
building a solid foundation in the fundamentals of
the apartment business.
Photos
30
Photo Album – Scenes from the wildly popular
Pink Ladies Golf Outing.
44
Photo Album – Scenes from the October SOAPS
luncheon, the third DHAP-Ike meeting and the
November BGF luncheon.
36
46
Photo Album – Boot scootin’ scenes from the
Wild West Chili Fest.
46
Columns
7
President’s Corner – President John Ridgway looks back on a tumultuous 2008 and congratulates
members on a job well done.
9
Legislative Update – HAA members faced numerous challenges in 2208, from ordinances to Hurricane Ike.
11
It’s The Law – The FACT Act provides guidance for verifying a consumer’s identity.
14
Resident Relations – How do you handle a dispute with a resident who is also an on-site employee?
16
Ask the Police – Make your leasing office an unattractive target for would-be thieves.
18
City Update – City leaders are tightening restrictions on attention-detting devices.
26
NAA Industry Update – Look for further stimulus efforts, homeownership incentives after the election.
28
Media Roundup – The holidays are prime time for fires. Take advantage of recent media coverage to
encourage your residents to be careful.
The Go-Getters wish you and
yours happy holidays. Pictured
seated in front from left are Lisa
Grimes, David Jones, Gloria
Haney, Angie Lavrack, Nora
Krakower, Theresa Lamar, H.P.
Young, Susan Lee, Cesar Lima,
Beth Varney, Peggy Charles,
Barbara Brett, Arrie Colca and
Michelle Pahl. Standing in the
second row from front are
Jimmie Hotz, Glenda Jeffcoat,
Billy Griffin, Dean O’Kelley,
Andrea Winans, Alan Jones,
Steve Park, Kevin Fenn, Patrick
Sheahan, Trey Stone and Sonny
Unverzagt. On the left side of
the stairs going up are Jason
Lavrack, Fernando Gomez, John
Hill, Sharon Pfeffer, Michael
Flores, Jodi Southwick and
Jacob Kunath. On the right side
of the stairs are Beth Davis,
Claudia Schnebly, Mary Estrada,
Mark Park, Beth Rohani and
Mindy Price.
Departments
8
19
20
25
60
61
62
63
64
70
72
74
75
76
PATRON
EDUCATION
CALENDARS
REGISTRATION
GO-GETTERS
WELCOME MAT
AMBASSADORS
PROPERTY UPDATE
IN THE NEWS
OWNER RESOURCES
SUPPLIER RESOURCES
ADVERTISERS INDEX
MARKET LINE
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 e-mail at:
comm@haaonline.org.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
3
OFFICERS AND ASSOCIATION LEADERSHIP
JOHN RIDGWAY
PRESIDENT
BETH VAN WINKLE
PRESIDENT-ELECT
DAVID JONES
VICE PRESIDENT
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL
SPONSOR MEMBERS
Suan Tinsley,
Immediate Past President
Josh Allen
Mack Armstrong
Brian Austin
Margaret Balderaz
Gene Blevins
Jeff Blevins
Roger Camp
Kathy Clem
Ernest Etuk
John Fedorko
Darlene Guidry
Billy Griffin
Alison Hall
David Hargrove
Larry Hill
Deborah Holcombe
Theresa Lamar
Dick LaMarche
Cesar Lima
Etan Mirwis
Michelle Bridges-Pahl
Velissa Parmer
Byron Plant
Jackie Rhone
Kelly Scott
Trey Stone
Eileen Subinsky
Vicki Summitt
Sal Thomas
Starla Turnbo
Vic Vacek Jr.
Debbie Webre
Tony Whitaker
Jerold Winograd
Michelle Ybarra
OFFICERS
Tony Whitaker, President
FSI Construction
Vicki Summitt, CAS, Vice President
Direct Energy
Jeff Blevins, CAS, Secretary
Camp Construction Services
Michelle Bridges-Pahl, CAS, Treasurer
Century A/C Supply
Cesar Lima,
Immediate Past President
AAA Plumbers
1968
Reliant Energy
DIRECTORS EMERITUS
Gary Blumberg
Al Bradley
Jack Dinerstein
Jenard Gross
Hap Hunnicutt
Stacy Hunt
Nora Krakower
Tim Myers
John Moore
P. David Onanian
Stephen Sweet
Kirk Tate
H. J. Tollett Jr.
Patrick J. Tollett
KIM SMALL
SECRETARY
HOWARD BOOKSTAFF
GENERAL COUNSEL
JEFF HALL, CAE
EXECUTIVE VP
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
1980
Great American Business Products
Penco Construction Co.
Marvin Poer & Co.
1981
Hoover Slovacek LLP
1982
Wallace Garcia Wilson Architects Inc.
1983
Webb Pest Control
Cort Furniture Rental
1984
Brady, Chapman, Holland & Assoc.
1985
Gemstar Construction &
Development Inc.
Golden Greek Carpets Inc.
1987
For Rent Media Solutions
Houston Metro Electrical Corp.
Namco Manufacturing Co. Inc.
1988
AmRent
Big Z Lumber Company
HCI Building Group
Redi Carpet Sales
Sherwin Williams Company
1991
Apartment Data Services
Century A/C Supply
1992
Alexander-Rose Assoc. Inc.
1993
Comcast
1998
AAA Staffing Ltd.
2000
Pools by Dallas
2001
Pura Flo Corporation
Renovation Services Inc.
Joe Bax
TREASURER
1977
M&M Lighting Inc.
1978
Liberty Personnel/Executive Search
1997
Paramount Insurance Repair Service
RENCON
GENERAL COUNSEL EMERITUS
JENIFER PANERAL
4
MEMBERS
Peggy Charles
Brandt Electric
Arrie Colca, CAS
Craven Carpet
Laura Collins, CAS
Classic Touch Painting
Kevin Fenn, CAS
Pavecon
Michael Flores
Higher Standard Construction
James Gregory
Redi Carpet Sales
Lisa Grimes
D&C Contracting
Jimmie Hotz, CAS
HD Supply
Deona James, CAS
Resident Data
Alan Jones, CAS
ICI Paints
Susan Lee, CAS
Craven Carpet
James Lenhardt
Hire Priority Staffing & Executive Search
Karen Nelsen
Brenda Nite
J&L Distributors
Dean O’Kelley, CAS
Mindy Price
BG Personnel Services
Beth Rohani, CAS
Ameritex Movers
Nichole Williams, CAS
Apartment Guide
Andrea Winans
Bishop’s Office Needs
1976
Mueller Water Conditioning
HONORARY LIFE MEMBERS
PATRON MEMBERS
Claude Arnold
Kenn Brown
Anita Harrison
Dwayne Henson
Mike Koch
Nora Krakower
Merry Mount
Monette Reynolds
Sherry Stevenson
Kirk Tate
Suan Tinsley
Del Walmsley
Nancé Wells
Jeanne Marie Zublin
1980
Coinmach
Texas Apartment Locators
1981
WEB Intelligent Laundry Systems
1982
BFI Waste Services of Texas/
Allied Waste
1983
Royal Plumbing Supply
1994
AAA Plumbers
Presto Maintenance Supply
Whirlpool Corp.
1996
Houston Planned Energy Systems
1997
Apartment Guide
2003
Dixie Carpet Installations
MAB Flooring Inc.
2002
Gexa Energy
Southwest Painting Contractors Inc.
Wilmar Industries Inc.
2003
Capital Welding & Construction
Sign-Ups & Banners Corp.
Southern Wrecker
Utility Advantage of Texas
2004
Assessment Advisors
Embark – The Tree Specialists
Ygnition Networks
2005
Classic Touch Painting
First Advantage SafeRent Inc.
Lone Star Roofing of Texas
Regal General Contractors Inc.
United Protective Services
2006
Bell’s Laundries
N.D. Chandler Mechanical
CAD Restoration Services LLC
Corestone Paving & Construction
DoodyCalls
2006
First Co.
Lopez Carpet Care & Painting
Masonry Solutions Inc.
Parking Management Company
Quantum Fitness Corp.
Roto-Rooter Services Co.
Texas Contract Floors Inc.
USA Decon
Valet Waste
ZipReports
2007
ABC Restoration Inc.
ACR Supply Inc.
American Sports & Concrete LLC
Builders Granite & Tile Inc.
Choice Corporate Housing Inc.
D&C Contracting
Delaney’s Roofing & Construction
The Mad Hatter of Corpus Christi Inc.
Don McGill Toyota of Katy
Merit Parking Company
Premier Carpet Cleaning
RoofTec
SLM Construction Services
Site Reconstruction LLC
Suntrust Real Estate Corporation
Veritas Services
2008
AAPCO Group
ACS Partners LLC
AMS Restoration Services Inc.
Accent Coat Refinishing
All Stages Plumbing of Texas LLC
Anderson Restoration
Atlas 1031 Exchange LLC
Atlas Comfort Systems USA
Bury & Partners Inc.
Daniels Plumbing Co. Inc.
M.L. Deer Construction Co. LP
Eco Lawn LLC
Elite Apartment Services Inc.
Fire Restoration Inc.
Flavor Finish Resurfacing
Harco Insurance Services
Holden Roofing
In-Ex Designs
Jusa Resurfacing & Paint Co.
KT Building
LowVolt Technologies
The Master’s Roofing Construction
Contractors
Matrix Paving Services LLC
Med Security Inc.
Media Nation
Mr. Brick of Houston Inc.
Nationwide Investigations &
Security Services Inc.
Rehab Systems
SEALS...Sales Experts And
Leasing Specialist
SatisFacts Research
SpaceCenter Systems Inc.
Texas Turf Management
Turner Electrical Services Co.
USI Energy Inc.
Vincent's Roofing Inc.
AFFILIATES
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
VOLUME 31, ISSUE 12
Executive Vice President and Publisher JEFF HALL, CAE jhall@haaonline.org
EDITORIAL STAFF
Director of Publications and Design DEBORAH NIX dnix@haaonline.org
Managing Editor RACHEL ZOCH rzoch@haaonline.org
ADVERTISING
Director of Supplier Services AMANDA SHERBONDY asherbondy@haaonline.org
CONTRIBUTING STAFF
Vice President and General Manager SUSAN HINKLEY, CAE shinkley@haaonline.org
Vice President of Events and Meetings CARA JOHNSON, CMP cjohnson@haaonline.org
Vice President of Professional Development EMILY HILTON, CPP ehilton@haaonline.org
Vice President of Public Affairs ANDY TEAS, CAE ateas@haaonline.org
Controller NANCY LI LO, CPA nlo@haaonline.org
Director of Facility Services LANA SHILLER lshiller@haaonline.org
Director of Form Sales FRANCES TORRES ftorres@haaonline.org
Director of Information Technology MARY PARKHOUSE, CAE mparkhouse@haaonline.org
Director of Member Services LISA BUTLER lbutler@haaonline.org
Director of Resident Relations MATILDE LUNA mluna@haaonline.org
Education and Meetings Manager KIRSTEN DEAGEN kdeagen@haaonline.org
Public Affairs Specialist AIMEE BERTRAND ARRINGTON aarrington@haaonline.org
Resident Credit Reporting Manager LUISA AREVALO larevalo@haaonline.org
Webmaster and IT Specialist WILL ALFARO walfaro@haaonline.org
PRINTER
TGI PRINTED www.tgiprinted.com
HOUSTON APARTMENT ASSOCIATION COMMITTEES
COMMITTEE
Program & Budget Committee
Nominating Committee
National Liaison
State Liaison
Ethics Committee
Investment Committee
Owners Committee
Legislative Committee
HAA Better Government Fund
Century Club
Developers Committee
Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance
Media Relations Committee
Resident Relations Committee
Resident Relations Committee A
Resident Relations Committee B
Product Service Council
Community Relations Committee
Membership Committee
Ambassador Club
Go-Getter Club
Membership Campaign
IROC Committee
Education Advisory Council
Career and Community Development
SOAPS Committee
Golf Tournament Committee
HAF Fund-raiser
2008 Education Conference & Expo
2008 Expo Exhibitor Committee
Online Advisory Committee
CHAIR
BETH VAN WINKLE
SUAN TINSLEY
JERRY WINOGRAD
DAVID HARGROVE
EILEEN SUBINSKY
MACK ARMSTRONG
STACY HUNT
BETH VAN WINKLE
STACY HUNT
JEFF BLEVINS
BRIAN AUSTIN
BYRON PLANT
JENIFER PANERAL
DARLENE GUIDRY
SANDRA HAZELWOOD
STACI MCMILLAN
TONY WHITAKER
KYLE BROWN
DAVID JONES
MICHELLE BRIDGES-PAHL/KEVIN FENN
BILLY GRIFFIN/GLORIA HANEY
VARIOUS CAPTAINS
DEL WALMSLEY
KIM SMALL
BETH ROHANI/GEORGEANNE LONGORIA
STARLA TURNBO
ROGER CAMP
PATRICK BROTHERS/MICHELLE GATES
KIM SMALL
VICKI SUMMITT
TREY STONE
STAFF ADVISOR
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
JEFF HALL
ANDY TEAS
ANDY TEAS
ANDY TEAS
ANDY TEAS
ANDY TEAS
AIMEE ARRINGTON
MATILDE LUNA
MATILDE LUNA
MATILDE LUNA
SUSAN HINKLEY
SUSAN HINKLEY
LISA BUTLER
LISA BUTLER
LISA BUTLER
LISA BUTLER
EMILY HILTON
EMILY HILTON
EMILY HILTON
KIRSTEN DEAGEN
CARA JOHNSON
CARA JOHNSON
CARA JOHNSON
AMANDA SHERBONDY
WILL ALFARO
HAA MISSION AND VALUES
The Houston Apartment Association is the leading advocate and resource to further the quality of rental
housing in the greater Houston area. Core values guiding the governance and management of HAA are:
• Promoting community involvement, leadership and collaboration • Grounded in integrity, excellence
and ethics • Embracing diversity • Source of lifelong career development
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 2008, VOLUME 31, ISSUE 12
ABODE (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.
Advertising rates are available upon request. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the views and
opinions of the Houston Apartment Association. Copyright © 2008 by HAA.
Periodicals Postage Paid at Houston, Texas.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to ABODE, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, Texas 77041.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
5
The Houston Apartment Association cordially invites you to witness and celebrate the installation
of the 2009 President, Officers, Board of Directors and Product Service Council Officers
Cocktail Reception
at 7 p.m.
Black Tie Optional
Event Sponsors:
AAA Plumbers
Ameristar Screen & Glass
Ameritex Movers
Apartments.com
Apartment Finder
Apartment Guide
Apple Termite & Pest Control
Brandt Electrical Services
Century A/C Supply
Certified Recovery/Verification Plus
Coinmach
Craven Carpet
FSI Construction
HD Supply
Houston Pest
Sprott Rigby Newsome Robbins
Lunceford & Bell PC
Orkin Innovative Pest Control
Republic Waste Services
Resident Data, a ChoicePoint Service
TXU Energy Multifamily Service
Keepsake Photo Sponsors:
Ameritex Movers
Apartamentos Para Rentar
Century A/C Supply
JOHN RIDGWAY, 2008 HAA President
President John Ridgway looks back on a tumultuous 2008 and
congratulates members on a job well done.
&Gala2009
$75/person
$750/table of ten
with company name
By
Thank You
Dinner at 8 p.m.
Dancing from
9 p.m. to Midnight
Music by
Fifth Avenue
PRESIDENT’S CORNER
Installation
NewYear
I consider this
one of the highest honors that
can be achieved
in our industry.
I
am honored that HAA members selected me to
be the organization’s president this year, and I
consider this one of the highest honors that
can be achieved in our industry. Many thanks
are due to our exceptional leadership and to all
of the members who have been so involved to help
HAA conquer major challenges this year, especially
those posed by Hurricane Ike.
The hurricane disturbed all of our lives and our
operations, and we continue to make adjustments in
its wake. The lessons learned from our previous experience with a post-disaster housing program have
made us more careful, and together with HUD and
FEMA, we have crafted a plan that enables us to help
those in need without taking the unnecessary risks
we took after Katrina and Rita. HAA has hosted several presentations by HUD representatives, and we will
continue to be a clearinghouse of information on the
DHAP-Ike program. I applaud Jeff, Andy and Aimee
and the HAA staff for their quick work to coordinate
these efforts.
POSITIVE IMAGE
We have also provided a resource for media
inquiries on a number housing and rental issues, and
I would like to thank everyone who joined me in putting our best foot forward to represent our industry
positively in the community. Nearly every local television station, news radio station and newspaper has
See PRESIDENT, Page 22
Friday, January 16
Hilton Americas - Houston
1600 Lamar, Ballroom of the Americas
American Express, Visa, MasterCard and Discover are accepted in person, over the phone
and by fax. Notice of cancellation is required two days prior to the event for a refund, less
a $10 administrative fee. All no-shows will be billed. For reservations and information,
contact the Education & Meetings Department at 713-595-0300, educ@haaonline.org or
online at www.haaonline.org.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
7
PATRON OF THE MONTH
These companies have
generously supported the
Houston Apartment
Association with their
patron membership.
Please give them careful
consideration, whenever
possible, in your business.
Houston Planned Energy Systems
Royal Plumbing Supply
HAA Member since 1978
BFI Waste Services of Texas/
Allied Waste
MAB Flooring Inc.
Presto Maintenance Supply
Coinmach
Texas Apartment Locators
WEB Intelligent Laundry Systems
LEGISLATIVE UPDATE
BETH VAN WINKLE, CAM, CAPS, CPM, HAA Legislative Committee Chair
with ANDY TEAS, CAE, Vice President of Public Affairs
AAA Plumbers
Whirlpool Corporation
Year in Review
Houston’s apartment industry faced numerous challenges in 2008,
Apartment Guide
from the threat of onerous ordinances to Hurricane Ike.
As Houston’s
inner core continues to grow,
conflicts between
close-in singlefamily neighborhoods and new
development
are inevitable.
DECEMBER’S PATRON
By
A
s the year began, HAA engaged with the
City of Baytown over a broad-spectrum
apartment ordinance hatched in 2007.
Along with the usual requirements about
lighting and security were some unusual
twists, such as defining “landlord” to include on-site
employees, an attempt to circumvent state law by making owners responsible for the maintenance of residents’ smoke detectors, requiring each property to designate an employee to be responsible for responding to
violent crime and requiring the owner to maintain a
list for the city of residents, occupants and guests staying for longer than one night.
After a strong showing by Baytown owners, the city
council unanimously overturned the recommendation
of the city manager and agreed to meet with us to work
on the ordinance, allowing us to negotiate changes to
the most onerous proposals. As ultimately passed, the
ordinance was a mostly common-sense list of management practices that should help the city with its original goal of dealing with problem properties.
HIGH DENSITY IN HOUSTON
SIGNS
In early 2008, HAA was also trying to avoid collateral
damage from a fight between neighbors and the developers of a high-rise residential building. The prospect of a
high-rise development on a mostly residential, highincome stretch of Bissonnet prompted an immediate call
to overreaction, with advocates wanting to severely
restrict multifamily and commercial development
throughout unzoned Houston. One city council member
publicly sought a complete development moratorium.
HAA and other business groups quickly formed
Houstonians for Responsible Growth, which began
assembling research on urban growth issues and forming a political action committee. Houston quickly realized that it could deal with its controversial project
without launching a citywide anti-growth initiative,
and the issue faded into the background. As Houston’s
inner core continues to grow, however, conflicts
between close-in single-family neighborhoods and new
development are inevitable.
HAA participated in a task force this year to review
Houston’s sign code and attention-getting device ordinance. Mayor Bill White is committed to an ordinance
to stamp out giant inflatable gorillas and colored flags,
much to the chagrin of the city’s many used car dealers.
Apartment owners have taken a fairly stoic attitude.
Some properties use these (at least the flags and streamers), but are happy to play by whatever rules the city
enacts as long as they apply to competing properties as
well. The dirty little secret is that there are lots of ways
to attract drive-by traffic that would be unaffected by an
attention-getting device ban. Banners can be placed on
plywood and permitted as wall signs. “Governmental
flags” are completely exempt. Your property can fly the
flags of every member of the United Nations on a forest
of properly-permitted flagpoles, and the city can have
nothing to say about it.
AIRPORT ZONING
How do you control development around airports in
8
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
an unzoned city? Houstonians abhor being told what
they can and cannot do on their property, even forbidding zoning in our city charter. At the same time, the
Federal Aviation Administration is requiring a certain
level of land-use planning around Bush, Hobby and
Ellington Airports as a condition of federal funding for
badly needed airport expansion and construction.
Earlier this year, HAA worked with officials from
Houston’s planning and airport departments to find middle ground. At press time, Houston is preparing to adopt
rules that would prohibit new multifamily construction
in certain very small areas near the ends of airport runways. In a slightly larger ring around each airport, new
construction, expansion and rehab are allowed, but with
some “sound attenuation” measures such as additional
attic insulation and insulated windows.
Airports are a major factor in Houston’s economy, providing thousands of jobs. The additional expense of
sound attenuation in nearby properties is a small price to
pay in exchange for the additional residents that come
from continued growth of Houston’s airport system.
HURRICANE IKE
The apartment industry, like everybody else, hunkered
down for Hurricane Ike in September. Many properties
See LEGISLATIVE, Page 17
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
9
IT’S THE LAW
By
HOWARD BOOKSTAFF, Hoover Slovacek LLP , HAA General Counsel
Fight ID Theft
The FACT Act provides guidance for verifying a consumer’s identity
by using address discrepancy rules.
Generally, the
FACT Act directs
several federal
agencies to issue
joint regulations
and guidelines
regarding the
detection, prevention and
mitigation of
identity theft.
F
or the past several years, state
and federal laws have been
enacted to require businesses to
take certain precautions to minimize identify theft. President
Bush signed the Fair and Accurate Credit
Transactions Act of 2003 – the FACT Act –
into law on December 4, 2003.
The Act added several new provisions
to the Fair Credit Reporting Act of 1970.
Generally, the Act directs several federal
agencies to issue joint regulations and
guidelines regarding the detection, prevention and mitigation of identity theft,
including special regulations requiring
debit and credit card issuers to validate
notifications of changes of address under
certain circumstances.
NOTIFICATION REQUIRED
BY CREDIT REPORTING AGENCIES
The Act states that if a person has
requested a consumer report from a
consumer reporting agency that includes
an address for that consumer that substantially differs from the addresses in the
file of the consumer and the agency
provides a consumer report in response to
the request, the consumer reporting
agency is required to notify the requestor
of the existence of the discrepancy.
REGULATIONS REQUIRED TO BE
DEVELOPED UNDER THE ACT
A number of federal agencies are
required under the Act to prescribe regulations providing guidance regarding reasonable policies and procedures that a user of
a consumer report should employ when
the user has received notice of an address
discrepancy. The regulations are required
to prescribe reasonable policies and procedures for a user of a consumer report:
FRANKIE THE CONMAN
(To the tune of “Frosty the Snowman”)
Frankie the conman had a single minded goal
With a fake ID and a hearty laugh
He could steal from any soul.
Frankie the conman was a friendly guy they say
He said he was Bob, ate corn on the cob
But his lies came to life one day.
There must have been some magic in the letter that was found
It said that Frankie was not Bob and he seemed to get around.
Frankie the conman was aloof as he could be.
He denied the lies, but it is now clear
Frankie stole an identity.
Thumpetty thump thump
Look at Frankie go,
Good thing Frankie’s slow.
Frankie the conman knew
Trouble was on the way
When a man named Bob
Said he was robbed
And Frankie had to pay.
You go to Frankie’s with a notice in your hand
Says you’ll go to court if he doesn’t leave
And to defend it if he can.
When in court Bob, who has a job, and works at a toy shop
Says he knows ID theft is a crime
And Frankie must now stop.
For Frankie the conman
Had to hurry on his way.
As you waved goodbye, you don’t want to cry
ID checks would rule the day.
Look at Frankie go,
Good thing Frankie’s slow.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
11
IT’S THE LAW
You should
adopt a policy
designed to
enable you to
form a reasonable belief that
a consumer
report relates
to the intended
applicant.
(i) to form a reasonable belief that the user knows
the identity of the person to whom the report pertains; and
(ii) if the user establishes a continual relationship
with the consumer and the user regularly furnishes
information to the reporting agency, to reconcile the
address of the consumer with the agency by furnishing the address to the agency.
WHAT DO THE REGULATIONS REQUIRE?
The regulations require that, when a user receives
a notice of address discrepancy from the consumer
reporting agency, the user must develop and implement reasonable policies and procedures designed to
enable the user to form a reasonable belief that a
consumer report relates to the consumer about
whom the user has requested.
EXAMPLES OF REASONABLE POLICIES
AND PROCEDURES
The regulations provide that it is a reasonable policy to compare the information in the report with the
information the user:
(a) obtains and uses to verify the consumer’s identity;
(b) maintains in its own records, such as applications, change of address notification forms or other
customer account records; or
(c) obtains from third-party sources.
The regulations also provide that it is a reasonable
policy to simply verify the information in the consumer report with the consumer.
WHAT ACTION IS REQUIRED TO BE TAKEN
BY THE USER OF A CONSUMER REPORT?
A user must develop and implement reasonable
policies and procedures for furnishing an address for
the consumer to the consumer reporting agency that
the user has reasonably confirmed is accurate. The
user is required to furnish the consumer’s address
when the consumer reporting agency notifies the user
that there is an address discrepancy when the user:
(i) can form a reasonable belief that the consumer
report is about the same consumer;
(ii) establishes a continuing relationship with the
consumer; and
(iii) the user regularly furnishes information to the
credit reporting agency.
WHAT WILL BE CONSIDERED
A REASONABLE POLICY AND PROCEDURE
FOR OWNERS TO ADOPT?
As the regulations provide, you should adopt a
policy designed to enable you to form a reasonable
belief that a consumer report relates to the intended
applicant. This can be done by adopting a policy
under which you compare information received
See LAW, Page 69
12
DECEMBER 2008
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RESIDENT RELATIONS
From the
RESIDENT RELATIONS COMMITTEES
Resident Staff
How do you handle a dispute with a resident who is also an on-site employee?
With paperwork, just like any other resident complaint.
W
hat hapens when a resident
is also a property employee
and disputes charges? A resident who was also an onsite employee filed a complaint with HAA
to dispute charges. The resident stated that
she signed an employee addendum stating
that she was on a month-to-month lease
and that if she was terminated or wanted to
terminate her employment, she would need
to provide a 72-hour notice to vacate. The
resident stated that she did provide the
required 72-hour notice to vacate and that
she also requested from the manager a copy
of her employee addendum.
Management responded to HAA with an
explanation that the resident signed a 12month lease and was given a 20 percent
employee discount on her rent and that she
turned in a notice to vacate
and a notice to terminate
PROTECT YOUR PIPES
employment. Management
Even though the Houston area enjoys a balmy climate in
stated that they explained to
winter, it’s a good idea to provide your residents with tips on
the resident that terminating
how to protect pipes from freezing:
her employment did not
• When weather is below freezing, open cabinet doors
relieve her of her lease obligain bathrooms and kitchens so pipes get more heat.
tion. Management believed the
• Let water drip from faucets when the temperature
resident was charged according
dips below freezing.
to the terms of the lease.
• Leave your heater on a low setting while you’re out.
Enclosed were copies of the
lease and deposit disposition.
ments, the resident owes the property $250
The committee decided in favor of manfor full paint, shampoo and cleaning.
agement and adjusted some of the charges.
The committee believed that the reletting
charge of $420.75 and the base rent charge
Managers can call the HAA main line at
of $1,485 should be removed because man713-595-0300 and ask for Resident Relations.
agement failed to provide the copy of the
Please identify yourself as a property manager
employee addendum. After the adjustso that we may direct your call appropriately.
Thank you, Resident
Relations Committee
members. I wish you the
very best for happiness
and cheer throughout
the holiday season,
and I look forward to
working with you again
in the coming year.
~
Matilde Luna, Director
of Resident Relations
14
DECEMBER 2008
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ASK THE POLICE
By
Lt. ROBERT MANZO, Houston Police Department Financial Crimes Division
with AIMEE BERTRAND, HAA Public Affairs Specialist
Night Drop
Make your leasing office an unattractive target for would-be thieves.
Take deposits to
the bank every
night. The surest
way to protect
rent money is to
get it into the
bank as soon as
possible, out of
harm’s way.
H
AA was contacted recently by the
Houston Police Department regarding a
rash of burglaries from the leasing
offices of apartment communities.
According to HPD, the break-ins tend to
occur at the beginning of the month – coinciding with
rent payments. The criminals are after checks and
money orders that can be “washed” to remove the
name of the property and fill in the name of a thief.
Here are a few tips for limiting your risk of a break-in:
• Take deposits to the bank every night. The surest
way to protect rent money is to get it into the bank
as soon as possible, out of harm’s way.
• Post a sign in a window of your leasing office
advising that all rent monies are deposited nightly.
Have you ever noticed the signs at restaurants or convenience stores that say things like “Cashier has less
than $20 change”? These signs are posted as a deterrent. You can deter criminals by downloading a sign
template available at www.haaonline.org (clicking on
the news story regarding this matter), or copy the
example below.
• Encourage residents to make deposits in person.
Thefts from drop boxes have also been reported
recently. The arrest of a ring of criminals who were
using flypaper to retrieve checks and money orders
from drop boxes helped to curb some thefts, but
many copycat criminals are up to the same old tricks.
Putting a plate inside the box to restrict the space
allowed for dropping items in the drop box can also
help to prevent theft.
• Encourage residents to report suspicious activity.
Spread the word to your residents that if they see
strangers trying to push on the doors or looking in
leasing office windows after hours, they should contact the authorities and on-site personnel.
• Report thefts to the Houston Police Department.
After you make your police report, contact Lt.
Robert Manzo of the financial crimes division at
713-308-2525.
All checks, money orders
and other forms of rental payment
are deposited nightly.
Money is NOT kept on site overnight.
16
DECEMBER 2008
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LEGISLATIVE, continued from Page 9
sustained significant damage, and nearly all lost
electricity – some for two weeks or more. Many
properties near the coast were completely
destroyed, as were thousands of single-family
homes. At press time, owners were still dealing
with insurance issues, and a program to provide rental assistance to those without housing
was slowly getting under way.
CRIME ORDINANCE
The one-year anniversary of Houston’s
crime ordinance passed this year, and nearly
everyone – surprisingly – has reached a similar
conclusion: It worked. The Houston Police
Department measured crime on 30 remedial
action-eligible properties and 34 FAST-eligible
properties for 12 months ending in May.
Overall crime on the RAE properties declined
by an average of 25 percent, while overall
crime on the FAST properties dropped by 46
percent. As the Houston Apartment
Association has long stressed, a policy of working with specific high-crime properties, rather
than enacting sweeping industry-wide rules,
gives cities an effective tool that can produce
real results.
Take a seat at our
table to support
your business and
our industry
The Houston Apartment Association Better
Government Fund is the political action committee
of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit
trade association representing the Houston apartment industry. The HAABGF participates in local
and state political campaigns, helping candidates
who support the apartment industry and its supplier
businesses. You can participate in the HAABGF on
several levels:
• The Steering Committee sets the agenda for the
HAABGF, making recommendations to the group on
which candidates to endorse – $1,500.
• Trustees have an individual vote on HAABGF
decisions – $500.
• Century Club Members can attend all regular
HAABGF functions. Though clubmembers cannot
vote individually, they have a collective vote through
the Century Club Representative – $100.
For more information, contact Andy Teas or
Aimee Arrington at govaffairs@haaonline.org
HABITABILITY
The biggest issue we face going into 2009 is
Houston’s proposed habitability program – not
because we disagree with the need for more
coordinated apartment inspections but
because there are so many ways the program
could morph into the type of onerous, industry-wide, revenue-driven inspection program
favored by so many cities recently.
Mayor White understands the importance
of focusing the city’s enforcement efforts on
problem properties. More than any previous
mayor, he has brought the city’s resources to
bear against slum properties – taking the
extreme measure of ordering several vacated
and closed. He has ordered a reorganization of
the city’s numerous, disconnected inspection
programs so that fire, occupancy, electrical,
mechanical, plumbing, neighborhood protection and health inspectors are coordinating
their apartment inspection efforts through a
central office in the Public Works Department.
The struggle for 2009 will be to make sure
that the habitability program keeps its focus
on properties with serious issues. Like any
industry, the apartment industry sees 90 percent of its problems caused by 10 percent of
the industry. The city will do itself, the apartment industry and the taxpayers a favor if it
keeps its aim on that 10 percent.
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DECEMBER 2008
17
CITY UPDATE
By
ANDY TEAS, CAE, HAA Vice President of Public Affairs
S
Gorillas Be Gone
City leaders are tightening restrictions in an effort to eradicate attention-detting devices
by 2010. Don’t be caught unaware.
A
s you budget for attracting driveby traffic to properties in the city
limits of Houston next year, be
aware of Houston’s new policy
on attention-getting devices.
On November 12, Houston City Council
passed an ordinance banning “attentiongetting devices” as of January 1, 2010.
Attention-getting devices include many of
the banners, streamers and balloons used by
some apartment properties. Here are some
things to know about the new ordinance:
• “Bandit signs” and other advertising in
the public right-of-way remain a violation
of the law, as they have always been.
• The ordinance bans “attention-getting
devices,” which are defined as “devices
erected, placed or maintained outdoors so
as to attract attention to any commercial
business … including, but not limited to …
banners; cut-out figures; discs; festooning,
including tinsel, strings of ribbons and pinwheels; inflatable objects, including balloons; non-governmental flags; pennants;
• “Governmental flags” are exempt as a
matter of free speech. If you want to fly 20
flags of our state, our nation or any other
state or nation (Seychelles has an eye-catcher,
and Libya’s is just a solid green rectangle),
Attention-getting devices include many of the banners,
streamers and balloons used by some apartment properties.
propellers; steam-or smoke-producing
devices; streamers; whirligigs; wind devices;
blinking, rotating, moving, chasing, flashing, glaring, strobe, scintillating, search,
flood or spot lights; or similar devices…”
• If it’s permitted as a sign, it’s not an
attention-getting device. In other words, if
you mount a banner on plywood, you can
get a city permit for it as a “wall sign” and
change the banner as often as you like.
UPCOMING COURSES
the city can have nothing to say about it.
Get a permit to put up the flagpoles.
• The fine is $300 to $500 per violation,
per day, and the city is going to want to
make an example out of somebody early
on. Let it be somebody else.
• Lawsuits from automobile dealers and
giant inflatable gorilla-rental companies are
likely. We’ll keep you posted.
chedule and fees are subject to change without prior notification.
Notice of cancellation is required two days in advance to receive a
refund, less a $10 administrative fee. Seats are guaranteed on a
first-come, first-served basis when payment and registration are received
in advance of the program. Unless otherwise indicated, courses are held
in either the Camden and Michael Stevens Interests Room or the Direct
Energy and Liberty Personnel & Executive Search Room at the Dinerstein
Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd. on the second
floor of the HAA Office Building. Seating is limited. You must pre-register.
December
SOAPS Holiday Luncheon
Thursday, December 4
11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Sponsored by Apartment Guide,
Direct Energy and Houston Pest
Details will be mailed to SOAPS
members. For more information,
call Kirsten at 713-595-0314.
January
Leasing 101
Tuesday, January 20
8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
$65 if payment is received by
January 20; $75 after January 20
Sponsored by AAA Plumbers
This in-depth introduction to the
apartment industry for new leasing
professionals andindividuals looking
to learn more about the industry as
a career covers greeting and
qualifying the customer, presenting
the lease, industry terminology, an
overview of Fair Housing and more.
Students who complete the course
will receive a certificate, as well as a
listing of placement agencies and
management companies that are
members of HAA.
2009 Education Kick-Off:
Leasing Boot Camp
Thursday, January 22
8:30 a.m. to noon
Holiday Inn
Southwest Fwy. at Kirby Drive
$75 if payment is received by
January 19; $85 after January 19
See Page 23 for details.
CAPS Legal Responsibilities
& Risk Management
Friday, January 23
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
From the
HAA EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
A registration form for all courses and seminars listed here is on Page 25.
For more information, contact the Education & Meetings Department at
713-595-0319 or 713-595-0314 or register online at www.haaonline.org
(online registrations discounted).
Notice to Attendees: All pre-registered no-shows will be billed. For
admittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will be required at the door
if not received prior to the event. Start times listed below include a 30minute registration period. Notice of cancellation is required two days
prior to the event for a refund, less a $10 administrative fee.
Program cost: $1,245
Individual modules may be taken
as stand-alone seminars at $249
Sponsored by Service Concepts
This course is a comprehensive
survey of employment, rental and
contract law affecting the multifamily housing industry, as well as a
review of key environmental and
safety regulations. The course also
includes a brief section to help
students establish and execute an
effective risk management program
for their apartment communities.
Microsoft Outlook Exchange
Time Management
Wednesday, January 28
8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Program cost: $75
For many people, Microsoft
Outlook is one of their most
frequently used programs, yet they
understand only a fraction of its
features. Spend a couple hours of
hands-on instruction with Julie
Marie Irvin and learn property
management-specific applications
of Microsoft Outlook. This session is
perfect for anyone at any level.
Learn the hidden secrets, tools and
tips in this session including
scheduling, reminders and
recurrence with the calendar; email efficiencies with reminders,
rules; and of course a little bit of
etiquette. Learn to customize
Outlook for your preferences and
integrate with the rest of the Office
Suite, and view the new and
exciting features of Outlook 2007.
IROC Breakfast
Friday, January 30
7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m.
FREE/members;
$25/non-members
Sponsored by Brick Restoration
For directions to the HAA Offices and HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, visit Google Maps and enter: 4810 Westway Park Blvd. 77041
Keep the Houston Apartment
Foundation Dinerstein Reed Prokop
Education Center in mind when your
company is in need of a facility 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.
Fees range from $250 to $500 (AV fees
additional). For more information,
contact Lana Shiller at 713-595-0306,
e-mail lshiller@haaonline.org or visit us
18
DECEMBER 2008
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DECEMBER 2008
19
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
DECEMBER
S M T W
1 2 3
7 8 9 10
14 15 16 17
21 22 23 24
28 29 30 31
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
T
4
11
18
25
F
5
12
19
26
December 2008
Events
JANUARY
S M T
S
6
13
20
27
W
4 5 6 7
11 12 13 14
18 19 20 21
25 26 27 28
T
1
8
15
22
29
F
2
9
16
23
30
S
3
10
17
24
31
January 2009
Education
Events
Education
5
8
25, 26
12
1, 2
20
30
8
Share Your Holidays Food Drive
– Friday, December 5 at the
Channel 13 studios. Contact
Susan at 713-595-0313 or
shinkley@haaonline.org or see
Page 76 for details.
Fall Golf Tournament – Monday,
December 8, 10 a.m. check-in
at the BraeBurn Country Club,
8101 Bissonnet. Contact Aimee for
details at aarrington@haaonline.org.
Offices Closed – Thursday,
December 25, and Friday,
December 26. The HAA Offices
will be closed in observance of
the Christmas holidays.
CAM Exam – Friday, December
12. CAM students should contact
the Education Department at
713-595-0314 for details.
Offices Closed – Thursday,
January 1 and Friday, January 2.
The HAA Offices will be closed
in observance of the New Year’s
Day holiday.
Leasing 101 – Tuesday, January
20, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sponsored
by AAA Plumbers.
Time Management – Wednesday,
January 28, 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
See Page 19 for details.
Better Government Fund
Luncheon – Thursday, January 8 at
noon, featuring TAA’s David Mintz.
For details and to RSVP, contact
Aimee at aarrington@haaonline.org.
16
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.
Installation & New Year Gala –
Friday, January 16, 7 p.m. to
midnight at the Hilton Americas,
1600 Lamar. See Page 6 for details.
29
Way to go,
designates!
20
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
National Apartment
Leasing Professional
Manuel Alvarez
Lauren Berry
Gricelda Bonilla
Heather Butler
Coco Cerillos
Jeff Davis
Amri DeLeon
Scott Douglas
Wendy Fachruddin
Perla Godfrey
Clark Gregg
Rhonda Harper
Wendy LeaxAhmed
Don Loggins
Colleen McKenzie
Rebecca Moore
Terri Pincheira
Marlene Robinson
Lorie Rocha
Jeanette Rogers
Susy Solano
Ashley Stewart
Betsy Valdes
Certified Apartment
Manager
Ralph Anderson
Eli Attal
Chris Barlow
Yanira Bradley
Dilma Camarillo
Diana Craven
Susan Dear
Cecelia DeClue
Jeremy Ellerkamp
Shella Faveur
Nancy Frost
Nola Gordon
Jamie Hinson
Wendy Pierce
Dana Stewart
Kelly Treichel
Ignacio Valdes
Certified Apartment
Property Supervisor
Becky Bird
Clark Gregg
Kathy Moriarity
Beverly Norris
Gary Smith
Certified Apartment
Supplier
James Arcos
Jessica Baker
Marc DelaCruz
Andre Gonzales
Erin McCary
Robert McDaniel
Liz Padon
Mark Park
Mark Ramos
Freddie Rodriguez
Beth Rohani
Jessica Tollett
Mary Walsh
To learn more about earning your NAA
designation, call 713-595-0314 or visit
www.haaonline.org.
Sponsorship Auction – Thursday,
January 29, 2:30 p.m. See Page 68
for details.
22
Education Kick-off: Leasing Boot
Camp – Thursday, January 22,
8:30 a.m. to noon. See Page 23
for details.
23
CAPS: Legal Responsibilities &
Risk Management – Friday,
January 23, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
See Page 19 for details. Sponsored
by Service Concepts.
30
IROC Breakfast – Friday, January
30, 7:30 a.m. Sponsored by
Brick Restoration.
Meetings
7
Expo Committee Meeting –
Wednesday, January 7 at 9 a.m.
14, 28
Resident Relations Committee –
Wednesdays, January 14 and 28 at
3 p.m.
14
Ambassador Club – Wednesday,
January 14, 3 p.m. at the HAA
Offices. For details and to RSVP,
contact Lisa at 713-595-0322 or
lbutler@haaonline.org.
20
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.
Multifamily Fire Safety Alliance –
Tuesday, January 20 at 8:30 a.m.
Thank you, instructors!
You are the secret to our success, and HAF is deeply grateful for your time and talents.
Liz Peel, BH Management Services
Tamara Fleckenstine, Apartment Guide
Michael Thompson, Liberty Personnel/Exec. Search
Bob Bone, Hoover Slovacek LLP
Howard Bookstaff, Hoover Slovacek LLP
Field Hudgens, Hoover Slovacek LLP
Dixie Moreau, Riverstone Residential
Lindi Russey, Riverstone Residential
Debbie Hicks, Westdale Asset Management
Misti Morales, Greystar
Jackie Rhone, Greystar
Harry Hooker, Pacific West Management
Nichole Curl, UDR
Tanya Dusek
James Lenhardt, Hire Priority
Darlene Guidry, Hettig Management
David Hargrove, Greystone
Staci McMillan, Mid-America Apartment Communities
Greg Barbeneaux, Apartment Data Services
Michelle Croasmun, Pinnacle
David Nargang, Pinnacle
Loretta Wiley, SMI
Jeanette Rogers, JAW Equity Management
Stephanie Graves, GFI Management Services
Manda Stamm, Judwin Properties
Karen Nelsen, For Rent Media Solutions
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
21
PRESIDENT, continued from Page 7
been in contact with HAA for stories on topics ranging from the
state of the housing market to relocations of displaced residents to
legal responsibilities of owners and more. Our ability to respond
quickly and offer helpful information to these media outlets has
proved valuable in fostering a positive public image of apartments
and apartment living.
We also launched a public resource for renters in www.safeinmyplace.com, which received a lot of positive attention both before
and after the hurricane. Some members used the page to download
information for their employees and residents. The site is updated
regularly to feature the latest safety resources for managers and
renters, including fire safety, which became a hot topic both in the
news and on Safe In My Place.
SPEAK UP
We are fortunate to have an ongoing dialogue with City Council
and the mayor, and we must work to keep those lines of communication open. Regulatory challenges never cease, and it is vital that
we all stay informed and take a stand on the issues that affect our
business. Every voice helps make a difference at every level of government, and we saw a number of changes in the political landscape
with November’s elections. Be sure to contact HAA’s Andy Teas with
your questions and concerns – his expertise is just one more valuable benefit of your membership.
The coming year will require continued vigilance and hard work in
government relations as we work to protect our members’ interests in
every single town and county represented by our association, as well
as at the state and federal levels with the help of TAA and NAA.
While concerns about the economy and the prospects for a recession
are increasing, Houston is still growing at a faster pace than the rest
of the nation, and demand for quality rental housing remains strong,
especially with the influx of residents displaced by Ike.
The big election may have passed, but it’s always a good time to
support the Better Government Fund to advocate for our industry. A
mayoral election is salted for 2009, and candidates for that office
will be frequent gusts at our luncheons. Join the BGF and attend a
luncheon to learn more about what’s on the horizon.
2009 EDUCATION KICK-OFF: LEASING BOOT CAMP
LEADERSHIP AND SUPPORT
In closing, I would like to congratulate our inaugural HAA
Leadership Lyceum class and thank the people who make my job
easier every day. The development of the HAA Lyceum was key
achievement this year, and the program’s first graduates – Kevin
Fenn, Jeff Blevins, Trey Stone and Sal Thomas – are to be commended for their efforts to becomes better stewards of our association.
. Like these individuals, most of us got our start in HAA on a committee or task force, and I encourage each of you to find a group that
interests you and actively participate in our organization.
I want to thank Debbie, my dear wife, who has provided unwavering support to me throughout my career; our three wonderful
sons, Robert McDaniel, Michael and Chris; my father, Bill; my
mother, Becky; and the terrific team surrounding me at Pinnacle:
Rick Graf, Kin Oldham, Darlene Hunter, David Nargang, Michelle
Croasmun, Erin Galland and our entire team of site associates.
Thank you for all of your hard work. I am proud to be a part of your
team, and I am proud to be part of the HAA team. Let’s keep up the
good work in 2009!
Shed some
light
on bad debt.
Report residents who leave
owing you money.
E
V
I
S
N
E
T
N
I
You can’t tell from a prospective resident’s face whether
he or she will skip on your lease, but we have the solution:
Know your customers with RCR.
Subscribe today to boost your bottom
line. For more information, contact the
RCR department at 713-595-0345
or e-mail rcr@haaonline.org.
22
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
2009 HAA Education Kick-Off: Leasing Boot Camp
8:30 a.m. – Registration and breakfast; 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. – Program including lunch
HAF Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center, 4810 Westway Park Blvd., off Clay Road and the Beltway
$99 if payment received by January 19; $129 if after January 19
For more information and to register, contact the Education Department at 713-595-0300,
e-mail educ@haaonline.org or visit www.haaonline.org.
Grab an APPLE in 2009 and you could win an Apple!
Offer your team a buffet of knowledge with a bushel of all-new
educational sessions (and more than 75 percent new speakers!)
at one low price per property …
And compete with other subscribers for yearly attendance prizes,
including a limo lunch for your entire team or an Apple iPhone!
REGISTRATION
Register online at
www.HAAonline.org
to receive a discount!
Enclosed is $ ___________ to register for the following event(s). Please make checks payable to the Houston Apartment Foundation. For courses and
events designated by an asterisk (*), please make checks payable to the Houston Apartment Association.
o MasterCard o Visa o American Express o Discover Card Number _________________________________________________________
Name as it appears on card _______________________________________________________________
Expiration Date __________/__________
Signature _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
o Leasing 101, Tuesday, January 20. $65 if payment is received by January 20; $75 after January 20.
o 2009 Education Kick-Off: Leasing Boot Camp, Thursday, January 22. $75 if payment is received by
January 19; $85 after January 19.
o CAPS Legal Responsibilities & Risk Management, Friday, January 23. Program cost: $1,245,
• Effortless Expenses –
• Budgeting and
• Expense Control
• Follow Up – The Lost
• Art of Sales
• So, You Want to Be a
• Property Manager
• Electrical
• Troubleshooting
• and Fundamentals
• Marketing Your
• Tax Credit Property
• Closing is a Process
• Maintenance for
• Leasing Professionals
• Exceptional Service
• from Your
• Maintenance Team
Individual modules may be taken as stand-alone seminars at $249.
o Microsoft Outlook Exchange Time Management, Wednesday, January 28. Program cost: $75.
o IROC Breakfast, Friday, January 30. FREE/members; $25/non-members.
Name(s) ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Company _____________________________________________________ Address _______________________________________________________
City _________________________ State______ Zip ______________ Phone_________________________ Fax_______________________________
Mail to the Education and Meetings Department, Houston Apartment Foundation: 4810 Westway Park Blvd., Houston, TX 77041; fax to HAF at 281-582-1508,
e-mail educ@haaonline.org or online at www.haaonline.org. Schedule and fees are subject to change without prior notification. Notice of cancellation is
required two days in advance to receive a refund less a $10 administrative fee per registration; payment will be considered nontransferable at this time.
Because of guarantees at hotels, restaurants and other venues, all pre-registered no-shows will be billed. For admittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will
be required at the door if not received prior to the event. The Houston Apartment Foundation does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex
or national origin in any of its education programs. Register online with a credit card at www.haaonline.org and save.
• ... and much more!
APPLE features some of the best nationally acclaimed speakers in the industry.
The entire series is only $399 per property, and the fee includes unlimited attendance
by your entire property staff to any or all of the 20 workshops in four tracks:
• CORE • Maintenance • Leadership • Marketing
Registration for individual sessions by non-enrolled property personnel is $40 per person.
Enroll your property today. Contact the HAA Education Department at 713-595-0319,
e-mail educ@haaonline.org or look online at www.haaonline.org.
24
DECEMBER 2008
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DECEMBER 2008
25
INDUSTRY UPDATE
From the
NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATION
and the
NATIONAL MULTI HOUSING COUNCIL
In the Interim
Further economic stimulus efforts, homeownership incentives likely to take center stage
after the election.
P
ressure is growing on Capitol Hill
to take further action to bolster the
economy. House and Senate
Democratic leaders are discussing
the possibility of moving a second stimulus
package during a November lame-duck session following the election or early when
the new Congress convenes in January.
While lawmakers are considering a
number of spending options, including
infrastructure spending, extending unemployment benefits and food stamps and
direct assistance to the states, there are
growing calls for Congress to take specific
actions to shore up the housing market.
Advocates of housing-sector action argue
that the housing meltdown triggered the
current economic slowdown and that the
economy will continue to deteriorate until
the huge backlog of unsold new and existing houses is reduced.
ADVOCACY AND FORECLOSURES
So far this year, NAA and NMHC have
been very successful in limiting any new
homeownership incentives, arguing that it
makes no sense to use federal dollars to subsidize the purchase of an asset that is likely
to continue to depreciate in value. Our
actions earlier this year blocked a proposed
$15,000 homebuyer tax credit. Instead, lawmakers enacted a largely ineffective $7,500
credit that was limited to first-time buyers
and must be repaid. We also helped secure a
ban on seller-financed so-called “charity”
downpayments, such as the ones offered by
Nehemiah Corporation of America and
AmeriDream. These loans are three times as
likely to result in a foreclosure.
Lobbyists for the single-family sector are
already gearing up to add provisions to a
possible stimulus bill. The National
Association of Realtors is calling on lawmakers to rework the $7,500 credit to expand it
to all buyers, not just first-time buyers, and
to eliminate the repayment requirement.
The National Association of Home Builders,
meanwhile, is asking for a more generous
tax credit of $10,000 to $12,000.
26
DECEMBER 2008
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Low-income housing advocacy groups are
also seeking additional protections for
renters living in houses facing foreclosure.
The $700 billion financial rescue bill (PL
110-343) passed in October requires lenders
to allow renters to remain in a foreclosed
house for the term of their lease as long as
they are current in their rent. Advocates are
pushing for provisions that would require a
90-day notice before evicting renters from
foreclosed properties and would mandate
Resolution signed into law on October 1
and to the financial rescue bill.
FINAL SUPPLEMENTAL NO-MATCH
RULES ISSUED
On October 23, the Department of
Homeland Security issued a final supplemental “no-match” rule. The rule forces
employers who receive a letter from the
Social Security Administration notifying
them that employee Social Security num-
While lawmakers are considering a number of spending
options, including infrastructure spending, extending
unemployment benefits and food stamps and direct assistance to the states, there are growing calls for Congress to
take specific actions to shore up the housing market.
the new owner of a property rented to a
Section 8 voucher holder be subject to the
Housing Assistance Payments contract that
existed between the prior owner and the
public housing authority.
On October 23, Senator Johnny Isakson,
R-Ga., said he will once again try to pass
legislation creating a $15,000 tax credit for
any homebuyer purchasing a foreclosed
house, a house pending foreclosure or a
new house. A similar proposal was rejected
earlier this year. Across the aisle, Senate
Banking Committee Chairman Christopher
Dodd, D-Ct., says that he will propose a
package of housing and lending legislation
to address problem mortgages. Dodd convened a hearing last week to lay the
groundwork for his legislative efforts.
NAA and NMHC also expect a coalition
of organizations, led primarily by
Nehemiah, to use any additional stimulus
bill as an opportunity to overturn the ban
on seller-financed downpayments.
Nehemiah launched an aggressive effort to
overturn the ban before it went into effect
on October 1. On September 16, a key
House committee passed a bill (HR 6694)
that would reinstate it with some limitations. Nehemiah tried unsuccessfully to
attach HR 6694 to the Continuing
bers do not match government records to
take certain actions or face stiff civil and
criminal penalties. Prior to the new rules,
SSA maintained that a no-match letter was
merely information and it was not meant
to be used for enforcement purposes. The
rule was originally issued in August 2007,
but a federal district court blocked it from
being implemented last October in
response to a lawsuit filed by a coalition of
labor unions, business groups, and immigrant rights groups. Since then, DHS has
been reworking the rule to overcome the
court’s objections.
DHS acknowledges that the final rule
published last week is unchanged from the
original; it simply adds a more comprehensive analysis of the regulation’s economic
impact which the federal judge said was
required. The rule was not altered, however,
to address the judge’s assertion that the
program could result in the firing of lawfully employed workers. DHS plans to ask the
court to lift the injunction and allow them
to implement it.
NAA and NMHC continue to oppose the
rule because no-match letters are generated
by a flawed and error-prone database and are
not sufficient to prove an employer knowingly violated the law. We also object to the
considerable costs imposed on employers to
comply with it.
Meanwhile, the Social Security
Administration recently reported that it is
waiting to see what happens with the litigation before deciding whether to send out
no-match letters for the 2007 tax year to
approximately 140,000 employees. The DHS
rules require the SSA to include information
informing employers that they must resolve
discrepancies or face liability. In 2007, the
SSA opted not to send the letters for the
2006 tax year.
IDENTITY THEFT REGULATIONS
GO INTO EFFECT
Apartment firms should be aware of new
federal identity theft prevention rules that
went into effect on November 1, as they
impose some compliance obligations on our
industry as users of consumer credit reports.
The rules implement Sections 114 and 315
of the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions
Act of 2003 (FACT Act).
Known commonly as the “Red Flag” and
Address Discrepancy Rule, its overall objective is to prompt businesses to take additional steps to authenticate a person’s identity
when certain warning signs of potential
identity theft are present. The first two sections of the rule outline steps that financial
institutions and creditors have to take to
detect and mitigate the risks of “red flags”
that might signal possible identity theft and
procedures that credit and debit card issuers
must implement to assess the validity of a
change of address request followed closely
by a request for a new or replacement card.
While apartment firms do not, in most circumstances, meet the definition of financial
institution or creditor, they are obliged to
comply with the third section of the rule that
implements Section 315 of the FACT Act and
applies to users of credit reports. Specifically,
Section 315 requires users of consumer
reports to develop reasonable policies and
procedures that they must apply when they
receive a notice of address discrepancy from a
consumer reporting agency. A FAQ on the
rules is available at www.naahq.org/government
affairs/Pages/default.aspx.
For more information on these and other government affairs topics, visit www.naahq.org and
www.nmhc.org.
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DECEMBER 2008
27
MEDIA ROUNDUP
By
JENIFER PANERAL, CPM, Media Relations Committee Chair
with AIMEE BERTRAND, HAA Public Affairs Specialist
Fighting Fires
The holidays are prime time for fires. Take advantage of recent media
coverage to encourage your residents to be careful.
On-site personnel
should distribute
reminders about
community rules
to residents
before holiday
decorations begin
to go up. Now is
a good time to
do this.
I
t’s the time of year when leaves fall, temperatures
drop and seasonal decorations go up. For apartment managers, this is also the time of year
when fires are most prevalent. Hardly a week
goes by without a story of an apartment blaze.
Therefore, December gives us a great opportunity to
give you the tools to keep your days (and nights) merry.
The best way to fight fires is through preventative
education. As residents deck the halls and trim their
trees, they may accidentally spark fires with overloaded sockets, frayed wires or dried-out limbs. In
addition, improper space heater and fireplace use can
lead to dangerous situations.
REVIEW THE RULES
On-site personnel should distribute reminders about
community rules to residents before holiday decorations begin to go up. Now is a good time to do this. In
the rules, include tips that discourage overloading
electrical sockets with multiple plugs, connecting multiple strings of lights and using multiple extension
cords. These situations can easily cause the electrical
devices to ignite nearby presents or decorations.
You may also wish to distribute the Houston Fire
Department’s “Holiday Safety” information sheet. It is
available in English and Spanish and can be easily
downloaded at www.SafeInMyPlace.com (click on the
resources from HFD) or at www.HoustonTX.gov (go to
the Multi-Family Fire Safety Page). HFD also offers
handy guides on space heater safety, fire extinguishers
and a number of other topics suited to resident safety.
You can also distribute HAA’s free fire safety magnets to residents. The magnets include tips in English
and Spanish and allow a spot for the resident’s address
and manager’s phone number. To obtain magnets for
your property, contact Aimee Arrington at aarrington@haaonline.org or 713-595-0302.
Since children are often out of school for a few
weeks in December and January, the potential for fires
caused by unsupervised children playing with matches
increases. At www.SafeInMyPlace.com, a page with tips
for talking to children about fires can be easily downloaded for distribution to parents. You might also want
to include reminders about any community rules
regarding unsupervised minors in common areas.
28
DECEMBER 2008
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Consider having the experts demonstrate fire safety
practices on your property. HFD offers free demonstrations within the city limits, Monday through Friday.
Contact HFD’s Public Affairs Division at 713-865-7120
at least two weeks in advance to schedule a program
at your community. HFD can even lead your community in fire drills and other safety maneuvers.
TIMELY REMOVAL OF DECORATIONS
We have all seen the apartments decorated for the
holidays well into late January. The languishing decorations are not only unsightly to potential new residents
but can become fire hazards as wires become bent. Also,
when foliage dries out, it poses a greater danger of
igniting from the lights and plugs around it. Setting up
a Christmas tree recycling or removal program soon
after the holidays may encourage residents to properly
discard their fresh trees and garland before they become
too dry or brittle. This is also a great way to go green!
IN CASE OF FIRE, BE READY FOR THE MEDIA
If a fire does occur at your community, it is important
to have a plan in place. An article in the TAA Redbook,
“Fire Protection Measures for Apartment Managers,”
includes 10 tips for preparing for fires in order to allow
for the quickest possible response from fire authorities.
A simple crisis plan should start with a brief message that any member of the on-site staff may deliver
without prior approval. The statement should include
the following: a supportive statement about cooperating fully with the fire department and other emergency workers on-site, a compassionate statement
about management’s concern for affected residents,
logistical information about the property (the number
of units, number of residents, etc.) and the name and
phone number of a contact for the media.
In most cases, the statement will suffice for immediate media needs and allow management to put forward a positive, calm face during a difficult situation.
The worst possible thing to put on camera during a
difficult situation at your property is a flustered apartment manager saying “no comment.”
If you find yourself in a situation that garners
media attention and you need assistance, please do
not hesitate to call upon HAA staff at 713-595-0300.
PHOTO ALBUM
Photos from the 2008
PINK LADIES GOLF OUTING
Photos by
The seventh annual Pink Ladies Golf Outing was another huge success. More
than $43,000 was raised this year, bringing the grand total for the seven years
of the outing to more than $224,000, all benefiting the American Cancer
Society. Our top fundraising team was Tarantino Properties, who raised
$5,824, and our top fundraising individual was Karlene Chambers of Oak Leaf
Management with $2,450. This year’s auction brought in $12,451. Thanks to
all who volunteered, sponsored and played!
Event Sponsors
AAA Plumbers
Access Electric
Affordable Quality Electric
Ameritex Movers
Apartments.com
Apartment Finder
Apartment Guide
Apartment Home Living
Appliance Direct of Texas
Appliance Warehouse
Best Plumbing
Brandt Electrical Services
Camp Construction
Services
Capture the Market
Century A/C Supply
Certified Recovery
Systems
CenterPoint Energy
D&C Contracting
Direct Energy
FSI Construction
30
DECEMBER 2008
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Gemstar Construction
Golden Greek Carpet
& Fine Floors
HD Supply
Hamilton-Steele
Outdoor Accents
Hardman Signs
ICI Paint
J&L Distributors
Impact Floors
Murphy’s Corporate
Lodging
NWP
Paetec
Pavecon
Pittsburgh Paints
Presto Maintenance
Supply
of Houston
Resident Data
TXU Energy Multi
Family Services
Texacraft
Rasa Floors
Redi Carpet Sales
Scott Equipment
WEB Intelligent Laundry
Systems
WCA Waste Corporation
Wilmar Industries
HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
Many thanks to these
companies and individuals
who donated raffle items and
raised $12,451 for the
American Cancer Society:
Ted W. Allen & Assoc./
Denise Allen
1-800-Flowers
Apartments.com
Century 21 Outstanding
Homes/Carol Marple
Integrity Images/Michael
Reiland
Texas Inter-Faith/Cynthia
Carina Bryars
Greystar
Century A/C Supply
Home Depot Supply
Cara Johnson
Andrea Winans
Liberty Personnel
Direct Energy
I W Marks
Laura Lestus/Liberty Personnel
Executive Search
Susan Laviage
Michael Stevens Interests
Aaron Rents
Kathy Andrews Interiors
Higher Standard Construction
FSI Construction
Suan and Reed Tinsley
GFI Management
Certified Recovery Systems
CORT Furniture
Ameritex Movers
Camp Construction
Hire Priority
Gemstar
Murphy’s Corporate Housing
Peggy Charles
Nina Kirtley
Lincoln Property Management
Norma Ledbetter
Beverage Carts
Craven Carpet
Higher Standard
Construction
Liberty Personnel/
Executive Search
Tote Bag
Maintenance Supply
Headquarters
Orkin Pest Control
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DECEMBER 2008
31
PHOTO ALBUM
32
DECEMBER 2008
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Photos by
HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
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33
PHOTO ALBUM
7777 Blankenship Drive • Houston, Texas • 77055
34
DECEMBER 2008
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35
In honor of the 2009 HAA Education Conference
& Expo Green Event coming in May, ABODE begins
a new regular feature focusing on our members
and their eco-friendly ventures in business and life.
also offers education on what is recyclable
and how employees and residents can safely
discard items such as batteries and computer
parts. Many properties ask residents sign a
commitment to “go green” and hand out
marketing material about the program – all
on recycled and recyclable paper, of course.
Go
ORIGINS
Green
The Rockwell Management team at Discovery Green
Rockwell Management finds that green is good business.
By
CRAIG GILDEN, HAA Public Affairs Intern,
RACHEL ZOCH, HAA Staff
with
36
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
mployees at Rockwell Management are seeing green these days, and it has more to
do with good corporate citizenship than with their bottom line. The company has
put together a full-scale effort to “go green” and promote environmentally friendly
practices across each of its properties and offices.
In April, Rockwell held a company-wide competition to come up with the best marketing idea. The winning team introduced the slogan “going green,” and the idea has taken
off, creating an environmentally conscious atmosphere among employees and residents.
Rockwell’s “Green 101” initiative has worked to educate employees and residents about
what they can do to help the environment.
“We have really tried to set the example by implementing these practices in all our
offices,” said Vice President of Product Development Rebecca Carpentier. “Now the residents are getting into it, and it’s becoming something they enjoy and care about. We
have gotten lots of positive feedback.”
Among the practices Rockwell has implemented are energy-efficient lighting, environmentally friendly cleaning supplies, on-site recycling bins, facilitating carpool and shuttling
services and scanning documents to make copies to eliminate paper waste. The company
E
Pam Utley, a district manager with
Rockwell, organized the contest and says the
green theme excited everyone and can be
applied to “everything from what we wear
to what we serve in our clubhouses to eat,
encompassing everything – all five senses.”
When the contest began, Rockwell
employees had no idea that a simple slogan
would transform the company and create a
new environment around the office, one
where the environment comes first.
“We have to participate in taking care of
the future of our residents,” said Carpentier.
“We are doing everything we can to promote this and make a commitment to being
environmentally friendly.”
Marketing green also creates opportunities to build community spirit, property by
property, and to build on the company’s
goals year after year.
“It is marketing,” said Utley, “but it’s in a
way that says we haven’t done everything
we’re going to do, but we certainly are on
the road, and here’s what our goals are,
here’s what you can do to help, and here’s
where we’re going to grow to.”
Some of Rockwell’s
green promotional
materials, printed
on recycled paper
ACT LOCALLY
Certain practices, such as energy-efficient
fixtures, paperless payments and e-mailing
rather than faxing, have become the company standard, but each property will handle
its own green efforts differently, depending
on the needs of the community. Clarissa
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DECEMBER 2008
37
We have really tried to set the example
by implementing these practices in all
our offices. Now the residents are getting into it, and it’s becoming something they enjoy and care about. We
have gotten lots of positive feedback.
may 20, 2009
reliant center
Jeff Blevins
2009 Expo Chair
Rebecca Carpentier,
VP of Product Development
Michelle Pahl
Marketing Chair
Balderas, manager of London Belle apartments in Pasadena, has
already taken the first step by reclaiming the shredded trees
downed by Hurricane Ike to use as mulch in the property’s landscaping, saving the property money and putting what would have
been waste to good use. The staff also collects all the paper waste in
the office for recycling at local schools.
“There’s only one trash can here in the office that is used for
anything other than paper,” said Balderas. “ … Every little bit makes
a difference.”
Getting residents involved in recycling is the company’s main
focus for the coming year, however, and Balderas is working with
vendors and her maintenance staff to establish an on-site recycling
program for her residents before the end of the year. She and her
family live on-site, and her daughter, Victoria, was inspired by
Rockwell’s efforts to start a recycling program at school.
“They’re doing a recycling program based on what we had done,”
said Balderas. “She had seen all our material for going green, and
she said, ‘We’re the new generation. We need to start things.’ …
She has a PowerPoint presentation and everything on her little
thumb drive. She’s really excited because she knows it’s important.”
Debbie Andreozzi
Team Captain
Robin Smith
Team Captain
NOT JUST A TREND
Rockwell employees are serious about taking care of the environment and about spreading the good word.
“We want people to know that we’re making this effort for our
properties, for our community through Houston and for the world,
so to speak,” said Utley, “because it starts with one person at a
time, and part of the whole going green is educating and bringing
people to the realization that even though you’re an apartment
dweller, there are things that you can do, and by golly, there are
things that your apartment community does also.”
“Going green” isn’t merely a temporary change. Rockwell is committed for the long haul, because as long as they are managing
properties and the environment is an issue, Rockwell employees
hope to positively affect the world they live in, one energy-efficient
light bulb at a time.
38
mark your calendars as haa goes green
Anita Harrison
Team Captain
for more information, contact amanda sherbondy at 713-595-0316 or e-mail asherbondy@haaonline.org
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
Get your
ABODE
online now
Seeing
green
Log on at
www.haaonline.org
A few simple actions you
can take at home and
at work can help you
make a difference.
By
RACHEL ZOCH, HAA Staff
I
t doesn’t take a huge change to make an
impact. Choose a few small ways to
reduce, reuse or recycle and watch what
those effort yield. Below are a number of
ideas you can try to be more eco-friendly at
home and at work.
RECYCLING
Check with your local recyclers, both
public and private, to find out what they
can and cannot accept. A bin half-full of
the wrong kinds of materials may cause the
whole lot of be dumped into a landfill
rather than recycled. Most people are aware
that newspapers, soda cans, plastic bottles
and even plastic grocery bags are recyclable,
but what about cardboard boxes, magazines
and those pesky plastic bottle caps?
A great resource to find specific information on what and where to recycle near you
is www.earth911.com. Enter the materials
you want to recycle and your ZIP code at
the top of the site to find out where you
can take your stuff.
KNOW WHAT NOT TO DO
It’s also useful to know what should be
thrown away. Pizza boxes, napkins, paper
towels, tissues and the like are all trash.
Period. The food residue makes these materials unfit for recycling. The sticky on sticky
notes also makes them hard to recycle, but
perhaps you could tear off the sticky part
and recycle the rest if you really want to.
Also, wet paper is not generally acceptable, nor are plastic bottle caps – except at
Aveda salons and stores. Aveda recycles the
caps into packaging for its products. Why
not hold a plastic bottle cap drive to your
property and enter the participants’ names
into a gift card drawing?
40
DECEMBER 2008
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Retail Recycling
You can return your empty plastic grocery bags and
newspaper bags to H-E-B and Wal-Mart, among others,
but many other retail outlets accept recyclables that you
may not be aware of:
• Best Buy, Office Depot, Staples: cell phones,
rechargeable batteries, ink jet cartridges
• Home Depot: CFL bulbs, cell phones, rechargeable
batteries
• Radio Shack: cell phones, rechargeable batteries
• IKEA: plastic bags, CFL bulbs, batteries
Community opportunity: Office Depot also sells “tech
recycling” boxes ($5 to $15, varying sizes) that you can
fill with unlimited electronics and return to the store for
recycling. You can spend just $15 to collect electronics
from your residents. This is a great inexpensive tool for
spreading the word about recycling at your community.
GIFTS THAT KEEP ON GIVING
Gift cards are another matter. Most gift cards are made of a more
toxic plastic that is rarely recycled. Most of them are thrown in the
trash, contributing more than 75 million pounds of waste every
year. The good news is that you can send them to a company called
Earthworks Systems, which recycles old gift cards into new ones.
Perhaps your company would even consider offering these recycled
cards. Learn more at www.earthworkssystem.com/consumers.html.
BEYOND PAPER AND PLASTIC
But what about all those other items, such as light bulbs and
rechargeable batteries, that are supposed to be so much more efficient but contain toxic elements? Compact fluorescent bulbs are
definitely the way to go to save energy and money, but some people are afraid of the mercury they contain. Not to worry. Every
Home Depot accepts these long-lasting bulbs for recycling. Seal
them in a zip-lock bag if you are worried that you might break one
– but be sure to dispose of them property. Because of the mercury
content, CFL bulbs should never be thrown in the trash.
Many other retailers offer recycling programs for obsolete technology, and some offer discounts and coupons as an incentive. Best
Buy, Office Depot and Staples all accept cell phones, rechargeable
batteries and ink jet cartridges. Also, a number of charitable groups
recycle or reuse cell phones. Check out www.collectivegood.com,
www.cellphonesforsoldiers.com and www.gooddeedfoundation.org for
more information.
The Internet is chock-full of great ideas for going green. Visit
green.yahoo.com, earth911.com or www.treehugger.com for more ideas.
Mark your calendars now for The Green Event, HAA’s 2009 Education
Conference & Expo at Reliant Center on May 20, 2009.
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DECEMBER 2008
41
?
What are you worth
Competition, market performance and personal accreditation
make an impact on salaries and benefits for Houston’s
multifamily professionals. From J TURNER RESEARCH
S
uccess in any business can be measured in
numerous ways through profitability, market
share, customer service and stock price; the
list goes on and on. Regardless of size, industry or product offering, the most instrumental component of any successful company is its employees.
Recruiting, retaining and rewarding the best staff
throughout an organization is the most effective
way to increase success in any industry.
Since 2004, the Houston Apartment Association
has partnered with J Turner Research, a leading market research firm specializing in the multifamily
industry, to examine compensation and benefits
trends among on-site and upper-level management
apartment personnel in the region. The most recent
data examines trends in salaries, bonuses, recruitment, certifications and employee retention from
August 2007 through August 2008.
COMPENSATION: ON-SITE JUMPS,
MANAGEMENT REMAINS FLAT
The good news for the majority of on-site staff is
that salaries and bonuses are on the rise. On average
in 2008, on-site managers made $46,948, up $5,442
from 2007. Additionally, this group reports receiving
an average bonus of $5,544, an increase of $1,161
compared to 2007. The survey indicated that salaries
for assistant managers increased by 10 percent, bookkeepers by 19 percent and leasing consultants by 5
percent. Annual bonuses for these same positions
increased by 19 percent to $4,592; 50 percent to
$5,100 and 5 percent to $5,752 respectively.
The only on-site employees witnessing a decrease
in salary in this survey were maintenance technicians, which saw a reduction of 6 percent. However,
the data suggests that these employees’ annual
bonuses increased by 37 percent to $1,935.
At the other end of the spectrum, property
supervisors and district managers are not seeing the upward growth of their salaries and
bonuses. In 2008, this group’s average salary
reached $75,762, representing a decrease of
$677 from 2007. The average bonus in 2008
is $9,630, down from $10,284 in 2007.
On average, supervisor salaries and bonuses were flat for the first time in five years.
One of the reasons for this trend is the influx
of an estimated 16,000 new units to the
region. This increase in business brought in
more supervisors with less experience, resulting in a reduction of salary compared to
more tenured staff. Survey results indicate
that the average experience level for supervisors in 2008 was 5.38 years, compared to
6.37 years in 2006 and 7.4 years in 2007.
The good news for the majority
of on-site staff is that salaries
and bonuses are on the rise.
According to the data, 16 of the companies participated in both the 2007 and 2008
surveys. Half of these companies reported
both an increase in the total number of
supervisor positions and an overall decrease
in average salaries. In some cases, individual
salaries did in fact increase by 10-15 percent.
However, the reductions in salaries were
more significant, dropping 20-30 percent,
resulting in a lower average salary for the
entire group. For the same group, two companies did not add staff, and the salaries
increased only moderately (4 percent).
Those participants experiencing a reduction
in supervisory staff netted about even.
With continued availability of low-cost
mortgages and continued construction of
multifamily communities, vacancy rates are
on the rise. Some industry professionals
anticipate that the new stock of units will
cause vacancy rates to climb to more than
10 percent by the end of the year. This could
also explain the current state of compensation for supervisors. Since compensation for
these senior positions are typically based on
performance of the property portfolio, it’s
not surprising that bonus compensation has
declined in the last year as vacancy rates
have climbed.
This overall increase in the number of
units in Houston may also help explain why
on-site salaries and bonuses are on the rise.
As more units become available, the best
leasing professionals can have the most
influence on converting a prospect to a resident, directly affecting the community’s
See SURVEY, Page 71
42
DECEMBER 2008
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43
PHOTO ALBUM
Photos from the
OCTOBER SOAPS LUNCHEON and more
Michelle Gates, Greystar; Alison Hall, Camden; and
Kelly Scott, Riverstone Residential
SOAPS Chair Starla Turnbo, SMI, introduces the panel: Kelly Scott, Riverstone Residential; Misti Morales,
Greystar; John Ridgway, Pinnacle; Alison Hall, Camden; Tony Wheeler, Greystar; and Trey Stone, Guardian
Equity Management.
Loretta Wiley, Starla Turnbo and Corri Smith, SMI
Thank you to our sponsors from CORT Furniture Rental.
Denise Hurt, Landmark Management,
and Beverly Norris, Greystar
Shannon Bass, Sandra Montemayor and Carole Chambers,
Sentinel Real Estate
Alliance Residential’s Bryan Head, Kurt Gilpin and others
listen intently to HUD officials at the October 29 DHAPIke meeting.
44
DECEMBER 2008
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Attendees from Hettig Management take notes on the
DHAP-Ike housing program.
Thank you to sponsor Dan James,
Gemstar Consturuction.
Michelle Croasmun and David Nargang,
Pinnacle
Houston City Controller Annise Parker
speaks at the November 6 BGF luncheon.
PHOTO ALBUM
First place chili winner Hardman Signs/Golden Greek Carpets
WILD WEST CHILI FEST
First place single booth winner Riverstone Residential
Photos by
Thank you to our many generous event sponsors.
HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
Thanks to the 2008 Chili Cook-off Committee members for their hard work.
The 18th Annual Chili Fest Fundraiser was another big success
with more than 2,000 attendees and $15,218 raised for the
Houston Apartment Foundation education programs.
The silent auction raised $4,984 for the local chapter of the
American Red Cross Ike Relief Fund, and the new stretch raffle
raised $1,115 for the Red Cross and HAF education programs.
Thank you to our many generous sponsors:
Second place chili winner Greater Coastal/Presto Maintenance Supply
Third place chili winner Century A/C Supply
Fourth place chili winner Access Electric
46
DECEMBER 2008
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First place double booth winner Rockwell Management/Absolute Turn-Key
Second place single booth winner Brandt Electrical Services
Third place single booth Guardian Equity Management
Facility & Security
Access Electric
Ameritex Movers
Apartment Finder
Certified Recovery/
Verification Plus
Coinmach
Craven Carpet
D&C Contracting
Gexa Energy
Houston Pest
ICI Paints
Ideal Towing
Kwal Paint
McBride Electric
NWP
On the Spot
Orkin Innovative Pest Control
Pavecon
Penco Construction
Resident Data
Sherwin Williams
Children’s Activities
Ameritex Movers
Apartments.com
Century A/C Supply
J&L Distributors
MAB Flooring
Resident Data
Roto-Rooter Services
Scott Equipment
Taylor Contracting & Roofing
Thank you to our hard-working event chairs, Michelle Gates and
Patrick Brothers,
Trophies
Ameritex Movers
Fire Extinguishers
HD Supply
Maintenance Supply
Headquarters
Second place double booth winners CNC Investments/The Greensheet
Music Provided By
Space Sity Sounds
Stretch Raffle winners Chance Chase, Sydney
Chase and Mikayla Marcum
Third place double booth winner AAA Plumbers/Camp Construction
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DECEMBER 2008
47
PHOTO ALBUM
Photos by
HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
The Francis Property Management/TVO Groupe team raised more than $200
in cash donations for the Red Cross at their booth during Chili Fest.
Thank you to our final judges.
Milestone Management/Kwal Paint
Bishop’s Office Needs/Southhampton Management/Craven Carpet/
Creative Design & Marketing
For Rent Media Solutions/CRES Management
D&C Contracting/Summit Asset Management
Direct Energy
Apartment Guide
BG Personnel Services’ saloon
Jr. D Construction
Maintenance Supply Headquarters
Greystar
Sherwin Williams
Ygnition Networks
Namco Manufacturing
48
DECEMBER 2008
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DECEMBER 2008
49
PHOTO ALBUM
Alliance Communities/FSI Construction
American Fire Systems Inc.
HD Supply
Certified Recovery Systems Inc.
Redi Carpet
Sheng-Raamco
Alarmtechs Inc.
50
DECEMBER 2008
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Photos by
HIEBERT PHOTOGRAPHY
Thank you to our many silent auction donors:
Anita Alberger, Apartment Finder
Debbie Andreozzi, CNC Investments
Marie Bell, MAB Flooring Inc.
Jill Bounds, TVO North America
Barbara Brett, McBride Electric
Michael Bright, On The Spot
Patrick Brothers, Century A/C Supply
Carina Bryars, Greystar
Kenyon Carroll, Maintenance Supply Headquarters
Peggy Charles, Brandt Electrical Services
Arrie Colca, Craven Carpet
Tisha Cook, Houston Pest
Hilary Cox, Hettig Management
Doris Hemsworth, Property Management Inc.
Mary Estrada, Certified Recovery Services Inc.
MJ Featherston, Access Electric
Michelle Gates, Greystar
Lisa Grimes, D&C Contracting
Christopher Hilton, The Greensheet
Jimmie Hotz, HD Supply
Caroline Kane, Summit Asset Management
Mike Koch, Camp Construction Services
Stephanie Krop, Direct Energy
Susan Lee, Craven Carpet
Karen Nelsen, For Rent Media Solutions
Brenda Nite, J&L Distributors
Karen Ostermann, Direct Energy
Michelle Pahl, Century A/C Supply
Mark Park, AAA Plumbers
Mindy Price, BG Personnel
Patrick Sheahan, Sherwin Williams
Debbie Sulzer, Francis Property Management
Dennis Way, Dixie Carpet
Andrea Wendt, Apartment Data Services
Nichole Williams, Apartment Guide
Andrea Winans, Bishop’s Office Needs
Office Depot
Shaw Industries
Credit Retriever
TVO North America
Arcs & Sparks
HAA Expo Committee
Readers Distributing
Sherwin Williams
Switch Train
T&L Distributors
International Products
Thanks to everyone who came out in support of education and the Red Cross. See you next year!
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DECEMBER 2008
51
from the HAA Staff
52
DECEMBER 2008
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Matilde Luna
Lisa Butler
Cindy Ramirez
Mary Parkhouse
Aimiee Arrington
Cynthia Gonzalez
Amanda Sherbondy
Cara Johnson
Emily Hilton
Kirsten Deagen
Rachel Zoch
Lana Shiller
Nancy Li Lo
Susan Hinkley
Jeff Hall
Deborah Nix
GREETINGS AT THE FRONT DOOR
If you haven’t checked out the Houston Apartment
Association and Houston Apartment Foundation facilities at 4810 Westway Park Blvd., come by and take a
look. This building belongs to you, our members.
The first person you meet upon arriving at HAA is
Front Desk Administrator Cynthia Gonzalez. A veteran
of more than 19 years, Cynthia handles hundreds of
calls a day from our members and from the general
public. She performs other duties that include maintaining our database, assisting with the processing of
registrations for education courses and assisting the
RCR department. Cynthia can be reached by calling
HAA’s main number, 713-595-0300.
If you would like a tour of our facility, or would like
more information about renting the Dinerstein Reed
Prokop Education Center for your next education
event, Director of Facility Services Lana Shiller can give
you the details. A 31-year veteran of HAA, Lana not
only maintains the HAA/HAF building, she oversees
the HAA database and its more than 4,000 records,
including property transactions, new construction
SERVING OWNER AND SUPPLIER MEMBERS
Want to join or recruit? The Member Services
Department works with prospective members, helps
those who join get active in various clubs, committees
and activities and promotes involvement. Lisa Butler,
Director of Member Services, oversees retention and
recruitment efforts carried out by volunteers and handles calls from prospective members. She joined the
staff in June 2000. Lisa is the staff liaison for the
Go-Getters and Ambassadors and heads the yearly
membership drive. You can reach her at
members@haaonline.org.
If you are a supplier member and need help
marketing your business to owner members, Director
of Supplier Services Amanda Sherbondy is here to
help you. Amanda joined HAA in January 2007 and
assists suppliers in exhibiting at the yearly HAA
Education Conference & Expo, advertising in ABODE
magazine and the Directory & Buyer’s Guide and
through the many educational and event sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Amanda
directly at suppsrvc@haaonline.org.
When members need TAA leases and Redbooks,
applications or other HAA forms, they contact the Form
Sales Department. More than 1,000 orders are placed
on a monthly basis, whether by phone, by e-mail, by
fax or on the Web. HAA members can also purchase
member mailing labels, the Directory & Buyer’s Guide
and other forms and publications. Director of Form
Sales Frances Torres joined HAA in December 1995 and
can be reached at forms@haaonline.org.
Resident Relations handles disputes between apartment residents and owner/management companies to
provide an alternative to filing court cases. The department receives 1,000 to 1,300 calls and hundreds of
online complaint forms each month. Director of
Resident Relations Matilde Luna, a 16-year HAA veteran, answers questions from both apartment personnel
and residents concerning leases and owner rights and
responsibilities and oversees the two Resident Relations
Luisa Arevalo
Executive Vice President Jeff Hall, CAE, has been the
guiding force and leader of the association for more
than six years and a key staff member since 1984. He
oversees the entire association staff, its budgets and the
association’s mission. He works directly with the HAA
Board of Directors on all association functions, goals,
planning and implementation. Jeff can be reached by
e-mail at jhall@haaonline.org.
Working directly with our members and reaching
out to the community are primary focuses of HAA.
As Vice President and General Manager, Susan Hinkley,
CAE, guides several departments in serving the HAA
membership, including Member Services, Form Sales,
Resident Relations and Communications. In addition,
she serves as liaison to the Product Service Council, a
group of industry-leading suppliers, and the
Community Relations Committee, which is responsible for developing and coordinating new and ongoing
community service programs like the Pink Ladies Golf
Outing and the Share Your Holidays Food Drive. Susan
has been with HAA since 1988 and can be reached at
shinkley@haaonline.org.
entries and address changes. Lana also oversees office
supply purchases, vendor contracts, ABODE subscriptions and compiling information for the HAA
Directory & Buyer’s Guide. Contact Lana by e-mail at
lshiller@haaonline.org.
Lan Tran
TAKING THE LEAD
Andy Teas
he staff of the Houston Apartment Association is here for you,
offering a multitude of services to the multifamily industry.
When you need assistance navigating the association and it’s
functions, here’s a guide to who can offer help:
Adrian Gonzalez
T
Happy Holidays
Frances Torres
Photos By MARK HIEBERT,
Hiebert Photography
Will Alfaro
HAA staff can help
you make the most
of your membership.
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DECEMBER 2008
53
Take a seat at our
table to support
your business and
our industry
The Houston Apartment Association Better
Government Fund is the political action committee
of the Houston Apartment Association, a non-profit
trade association representing the Houston apartment industry. The HAABGF participates in local and
state political campaigns, helping candidates who
support the apartment industry and its supplier
businesses. You can participate in the HAABGF on
several levels:
• The Steering Committee sets the agenda for the
HAABGF, making recommendations to the group on
which candidates to endorse – $1,500.
• Trustees have an individual vote on HAABGF decisions – $500.
• Century Club Members can attend all regular
HAABGF functions. Though clubmembers cannot
vote individually, they have a collective vote through
the Century Club Representative – $100.
For more information, contact Andy Teas
or Aimee Bertrand at govaffairs@haaonline.org
Committees that meet monthly. Owner
members can e-mail Matilde directly at
resrel@haaonline.org.
NETWORKING AND EDUCATION
From Fair Housing and CAM courses
to fun events such as the annual bowling tournament, the Houston Apartment Foundation
strives to offer quality programs of pertinence
to all HAA members.
Vice President Cara Johnson, CMP, works
with the Education, Supplier Services and
Resident Credit Reporting departments and
oversees the Education Conference & Expo.
She organizes general meetings, golf tournaments, special events and fundraisers, including the chili cook-off, volleyball and bowling
tournaments and the annual Gala. Cara, a
21-year HAA veteran, is staff liaison to the
golf committee.
Vice President of Professional Development
Emily Hilton, CPP, is responsible for the overall
marketing, budgeting and direction of HAA
education programs. Emily serves as the staff
liaison to the Education Advisory Council. She
oversees education programs including the
APPLE workshops, Distance Learning and the
Career and Community Development
Committee, which promotes industry careers
and apartment living to students. Emily has
been with HAA since April 2002.
Education and Meetings Manager Kirsten
Deagen joined HAA in April 2001 and oversees the NAA certification programs and the
Society of Apartment Property Supervisors. She
also assists with the planning of some of HAA’s
large-scale events, such as the chili cook-off.
Kirsten also processes the countless registrations for education courses and events.
You can e-mail Cara, Emily and Kirsten
at educ@haaonline.org.
INFORMING OUR MEMBERSHIP
Want to know what’s going on in government affairs and local media? Vice President of
Public Affairs, Andy Teas, CAE, monitors elections and government actions in Houston,
Harris County, and on state and federal levels
while dealing with media relations. He is
responsible for keeping members aware of legislation and governmental actions that affect
the multifamily business and represents the
apartment industry before federal, state and
local governments. He also co-authors the
monthly Legislative Update column and is
staff liaison for the Legislative Committee and
the HAA Better Government Fund. Andy has
been with HAA since 1989.
Assisting Andy is Aimee Arrington, who
joined the association in February 2007 as
54
DECEMBER 2008
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Public Affairs Specialist. Aimee works with
Andy, HAA staff and the members to implement and achieve HAA government affairs
and media and public relations goals. She is
liaison to the Media Relations Committee.
You can reach both Andy and Aimee at
govaffairs@haaonline.org.
KEEPING UP WITH DATA
Resident Credit Reporting, in partnership
with First Advantage SafeRent, offers a
comprehensive suite of resident screening services available as an exclusive member
benefit. RCR provides these powerful
screening resources to help leasing staff
make consistent, accurate and Fair Housingcompliant leasing decisions.
RCR Manager Luisa Arevalo, a staff member
since September 2002, oversees the department, maintaining account information and
updates, handling training issues, customer
service, sales, marketing and assisting residents
with rental reports, working closely with First
Advantage SafeRent. She can be reached at
rcr@haaonline.org.
Director of Information Technology Mary
Parkhouse, CAE, joined the staff 11 years ago.
The HAA infrastructure has changed greatly
during her tenure, from no Internet access or
Web site to T1 line access and a state-of-theart Web site, including online RCR access 24
hours a day, seven days a week. At press time,
she is working to upgrade the association’s
computer systems and software so that HAA
and RCR can offer its members even better
information and services.
Web Master and IT Specialist Will Alfaro has
been on staff since January 2006. Will is the
designer and producer of the HAA Web site,
www.haaonline.org, and HAA’s mass e-mail
communications, including our weekly enewsletter, HAA This Week. Will provides
information technology function support,
including management and design of the association’s database and Web applications, along
with providing staff and member support.
Joining the IT Department this year is IT
Support Specialist Adrian Gonzalez, who
assists with information technology functions
for HAA, including technical support for the
Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center.
You can contact the IT Department at
infotech@haaonline.org.
MANAGING YOUR MONEY
The Accounting Department oversees cash
management for the association. The staff
focuses on collecting revenue from HAA
members and customers and ensuring that
it is invested and disbursed effectively and
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DECEMBER 2008
55
efficiently. The department is responsible for
monitoring the operations and bookkeeping
for three corporations and one political
action committee while handling personnel
and employee benefits administration for
HAA staff.
At the heart of the financial operations
are Controller Nancy Li Lo, CPA and Clerk
Lan Tran, who both joined HAA this year,
and Accounting Manager Cindy Ramirez,
who is completing her second year with
HAA. Members can e-mail questions about
invoices and other money matters to acctng@haaonline.org.
STOP THE PRESSES:
COMMUNICATING IN PRINT
HAA is one of a handful of multifamily
associations that has its own internal
department staff to produce its monthly
publication, membership directory, brochures
and promotional materials.
ABODE magazine is the flagship of HAA’s
publications, and its underlying philosophy is
to promote the professional image of the
Houston multifamily industry, to educate and
inform members on matters affecting their
profession and to report and comment on
issues of local, state and national interest.
Director of Publications and Design
Deborah Nix oversees the creative and editorial content, development and production of
HAA publications, including ABODE. She is
the artist and creative design force behind
most projects produced internally, including
event logos and promotions. She coordinates
all print production, and mail fulfullment and
produces original art, including the HAA
Directory & Buyer’s Guide. She has been with
HAA since January 1992.
Managing Editor Rachel Zoch joined the
Communications Department in March 2004
and oversees and produces ABODE’s editorial
content. A former newspaper editor, Rachel
researches, writes and edits for the magazine,
coordinates and leads interviews, and creates
designs and layouts. She also compiles and
edits the HAA This Week e-newsletter.
Would you like to write for ABODE,
or do you have story ideas or news to
report? Contact Deborah and Rachel at
comm@haaonline.org.
The HAA Staff wishes all our
members and their families
the very happiest of
holiday seasons and
a prosperous new year.
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DECEMBER 2008
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DESIGNATE OF THE MONTH
By
RACHEL ZOCH, HAA STAFF
Cleared for Takeoff
Aviator Don Loggins is building a solid foundation in the fundamentals
of the apartment business in order to make a smart investment.
I was amazed
at how much
responsibility
there is on a
leasing person.
D
on Loggins, a commercial pilot and
flight instructor, has been thinking
about investing in apartments for a long
time, but he discovered HAA and its
education programs almost by accident.
“I was out working in my yard one day, and I heard
Steve Smith from Lifestyles, and I started listening to
him every day,” he said.
He quickly joined the Lifestyles group, which
directed him to HAA for answers to his questions,
and he then enrolled in Leasing 101 and completed
the multifamily property management course at
Houston Community College.
“I’ve always been a big believer in education, so in
my mind, the logical way would be to get some education,” he said. “… I didn’t know HAA offered all
these courses, I just joined. I was trying to be near
people that I had a close kinship to and who could
teach me a few things.”
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“They don’t know what they’re missing.
It’s just that simple,” he said. “I ask people
who’ve been in the business five years,
10 years, and they said they’d been thinking about doing it for a long time, and
they’re glad they finally did and they
learned so much.”
GETTING HIS BEARINGS
WHAT’S NEXT
Loggins hopes to put his new industry
knowledge to use to make a property investment in the coming year as well as continue to pursue his primary vocation – flying.
“If I have an opportunity to work in the
apartment industry, I will do that, but I
have an outside love of work that I really
know well and prefer to do,” he said. “I’m a
pilot. I enjoy flying, and I’d like to continue
doing that and be involved in the apartment management leadership side of the
business. I still don’t have my CAM and
CAPS designations, but I’m steadily working
on that, and I’m continuing to fly and
enjoy my real love. …
“Real estate, apartments is a wonderful,
necessary industry, and I’ll continue to be
involved in HAA,” he said. “… Every time I
go, I meet somebody new and interesting –
men and women from all backgrounds or
areas of the country that moved here from
other places, and it’s just a really fascinating
business. I feel lucky that I happened to be
listening to the radio one day!”
THIRST FOR KNOWLEDGE
DECEMBER 2008
I ask people who’ve been in
the business five years, 10
years, and they said they’d
been thinking about doing
it for a long time, and
they’re glad they finally did
and they learned so much.
Although he was interested in providing rental
housing, he didn’t feel confident jumping into
the business without some operating instructions.
“I like building things, and it’s definitely a
building business, and taking care of it and just
to see people happy living in apartments. That
makes total sense to me,” Loggins said. “But I
could never figure out – it’s kind of like a puzzle.
I had all these pieces on the table here, but I didn’t know how to push them together and get the
full picture.”
But now he feels confident that he understands how the industry operates and is looking
forward to making an investment.
“That’s why the education’s so important to
me,” he said. “… I’m really kind of leery of too
slick a deal, I call it, so I try to learn how those
things come along and how those get resolved
and how to avoid it.”
After completing the HCC course, Loggins
became interested in the designation programs
offered by HAA. He has completed the National
58
Apartment Leasing Professional certificate and is
working through both the Certified Apartment
Manager and Certified Apartment Property Supervisor
courses. He says the programs have opened his eyes
to a world of detail, and he feels that he understands
the business a great deal more than he did when he
first got involved.
“I was amazed at how much responsibility there is
on a leasing person,” Loggins said. “One of the reasons
I want to take all these courses is because when I own
an apartment project, I want to know what my
employees are supposed to know so I can help them.
… I want to do some leasing, too, because I like sales. I
enjoy selling. I like helping people, and I think helping
someone find a good apartment is very important.”
Although he lacks the hands-on experience
required to earn the CAM and CAPS designations,
Loggins simply wanted to absorb the coursework and
complete a community analysis project in
order to get a better understanding of the
business fundamentals of the industry.
“Taking the CAM program as well as the
CAPS program, I begin to see from top to
bottom a lot of the thought processes, the
things that management and owners need
to look at to make this a successful venture
and make it something you’re really proud
of and that financially works out to the
proforma or projections you have for the
business,” he said. “And it is a fascinating
experience to learn how the internals of
the apartment industry work.”
He also hopes to encourage industry
veterans to take advantage of HAA’s educational opportunities.
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DECEMBER 2008
59
GO-GETTERS
WELCOME MAT
Introducing
OCTOBER new members
OWNER MEMBERS
A&J Development
Rob Johnson
819 Bastrop
Houston, TX 77003-3105
713-791-8118
Metro Midtown Flats
Referred by Terri Clifton
Keep it Going
A new year brings a new recruitment campaign and new opportunities.
S
tart 2009 right by recruiting for HAA. You will gain
recognition and the opportunity to win cash prizes.
For more information about the Go-Getter Club or
the membership campaign, contact Lisa Butler at
713-595-0322 or butler@haaonline.org.
Dates for the 2009 Membership Campaign
February 17: Go-Getter Club Happy Hour
March 25: Membership Campaign Kick-off Happy Hour
April 7: Meeting 2, 11:30 a.m. luncheon at HAA
April 23: Meeting 3, 11:30 a.m. luncheon at HAA
May 6: Meeting 4, 11:30 a.m. luncheon at HAA
May 27: Meeting 5, 11:30 a.m. luncheon at HAA
June 3: Meeting 6, 11:30 a.m. luncheon at HAA
June 16: Finale Happy Hour
September 16: Go-Getter Club Membership Recruitment
luncheon 11:30 a.m. at HAA
Sponsorships for these events will be available at the Sponsorship
Auction on January 29. See Page 68 for details.
Be a Go-Getter and recruit
for HAA. It’s easy and it’s fun!
Contact Lisa at lbutler@haaonline.org or
713-595-0322 for more information.
Congratulations to these top recruiters!
Congratulations to Earon Hunt, Greystar,
for recruiting 6 new members during the TAA
“Get Connected” Membership Campaign.
Congratulations again to Gloria Haney,
Southhampton Management, our 2008
Go-Getter of the Year.
GO-GETTER VIPS
This list recognizes individuals who have recruited the following number of members:
HONORARY
LIFE MEMBERS
400
Claude Arnold
200
Suan Tinsley
150
Nancé Wells
100-124
Kenn Brown
Anita Harrison
Dwayne Henson
Mike Koch
Nora Krakower
Merry Mount
Monette Reynolds
Sherry Stevenson
Kirk Tate
Del Walmsley
Jeanne Marie
Zublin
75-99 PATCH
Tina Cavaco
Bob Pisaturo
Robin Reed
Sonny Unverzagt
H.P. Young
The Go-Getters are the backbone of the Houston Apartment Association.
By recruiting new members, the Go-Getter Club helps both new
management and supplier companies and the association grow for
the future. For more information on the club, contact Lisa Butler at
713-595-0322 or e-mail lbutler@haaonline.org.
60
DECEMBER 2008
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50-74 PATCH
Ronnie Grant
Darlene Guidry
Diane Gilbert
Alison Hall
Harold Sowell
Suzy White
25-49 PATCH
Loren Allen
Rebecca Adams
John Balusek
Marie Bell
Michael Bright
Terri Clifton
Lee Craven
Maureen Doherty
Kevin Fenn
Michael Flores
Rashann Fontenot
Maxine Goodin
Jan Grant
Billy Griffin
Doris Hemsworth
Marsha Hollis
Stacy Hunt
Dick LaMarche
Theresa Lamar
Susan Lee
Cesar Lima
Carol Marple
Bruce McClenny
Steve Park
Liz Peel
Paula Ramsey
Jo Ann Ray
Chris Rich
Joy Schaefer
A.J. Simpson
Kathy Smith
Eileen Subinsky
Martie Terry
H.J. Tollett
15-24 BLUE JACKET
Amy Abdallah
Debbie Andreozzi
Carol Andrews
Marinelle Austin
Linda Barham
Gary Blumberg
Roger Camp
Kathy Clem
Rachel Crew
Julie Davidson
Brandi Eakes
Darlene Hunter
Deona James
Pat Keller
Dixie Kettner
Mel Kieke
Allan Klein
Kelly Kuehle
Maureen Maeschen
Pauline Martin
Trish Martin
Paula Newton
Mark Park
Pablo Paz
Sharon Pfeffer
Bernadette Revis
Eric Samet
Kelly Scott
Kim Small
Derrick Stafford
Vicki Summitt
Stephen Sweet
Peggy Taylor
Sheri Thomas
Alex Townsend
Randy Ver Ploeg
Becky White
Pam Wyly
Michelle Ybarra
10-14 PIN
Anita Alberger
Angie Aversa
Mike Biggs
Ken Bohan
Kyle Brown
Cheryl Cotton
Dan Croasmun
Michelle Croasmun
Yvette Davis
Sandra Dilley
Duke Dillon
Gilbert Garcia
Kelli Guyton
Gloria Haney
Larry Hill
Deborah Holcombe
Dee Holmes
Jimmie Hotz
Earon Hunt
Susan Jarvis
David Jones
Ed Kanyuck
Ralph Lewis
Georgeanne
Longoria
Dick Marshall
Wanda Miller
Debra Moore
Sue O’Neil
Jenifer Paneral
Lisa Paxton
Joe Perez
Mindy Price
Sue Lynn Ramsey
Jerry Rega
Jackie Rhone
Michelle Rhone
Meda Ryan
Jack Tennyson
Betty Vestal
Andrea Winans
Cambury Place LLC
Rob Wallstrom
9891 Irvine Center Drive #200
Irvine, CA 92618
714-747-3896
Cambury Place Apartments
Copperstone Residential
Services LLC
Tisha Cook
P.O. Box 841824
281-861-0229
Jeremy Day
10884 CR 303
Plantersville, TX 77363
713-816-9975
Jeremy Day Properties
GAO Associates
Tonya Hill
3620 Southmore Blvd. #39
Houston, TX 77004
281-888-2216
Kon-Kon Apartments
First Choice Apartments 1 LLC
Bruce Goldfarb
3215 Drummond St.
Houston, TX 77025
713-661-0661
Lancer Condos
Guadalupe Olivares
6401 Skyline #22
Houston, TX 77057
832-647-4886
Lancer Townhomes
Ning Li
14504 Briar Forest #422
Houston, TX 77077
281-679-7703
Referred by Kelli Guyton
OCD Group
Oscar Beltran
2313 Delta Bridge
Pearland, TX 77584-1566
915-630-1580
Referred by Del Walmsley
Payne Properties
Andrew Payne
7100 Regency #250
Houston, TX 77036
713-972-1949
Wilcrest Park Townhomes
Payne Properties
1309 Yorktown Apartments
Provident Management Inc.
Rebecca Russell
17103 Preston Road #250
Dallas, TX 75248-1375
972-733-0096
Woodside Manor Senior
Community
Randolph Plaza
dba Oakhaven Apartments
Jennifer Bralton
2910 Old Lane City Road
Wharton, TX 77488-5800
979-531-8884
Randolph Plaza
dba Oakhaven Apartments
Gary Ripperger
16439 Willingham Way
Houston, TX 77095
281-855-8454
TavaTreasures LLC
Mario Tavares
P.O. Box 90464
Houston, TX 77290
832-606-1796
Spring Mist Property
L. William Homes
Lily Ling
9208 Monsey Drive
Houston, TX 77063
713-988-8816
Villa Laverne
Did you know that when you join the Houston
Apartment Association, you are also a member
of the Texas and National Apartment Associations?
As a member of HAA, your membership works for
our industry at a local, state and national level. Get
involved, support your industry and make your membership work for you. Call 713-595-0300 for details.
SUPPLIER MEMBERS
AAPCO Group
Skip Huddleston
506 Webb Road
Concord, NC 28025-9072
1-800-728-2690
Painting Contractors
Remodeling & Repair-Building
Contractors
Five Star Claims Adjusting
Derek Segal
12312 Evening Bay Drive
Pearland, TX 77584
1-866-465-5677
Adjusters
Insurance
Aboveboard Roofing
Dave Ramler
3785 Harrison Road #600
Loganville, GA 30052
713-647-1801
Gutters & Downspouts
Roofing Contractors
FlagshipPDG
Scott BeVier
1200 Gambrel #100
Arlington, TX 76014
1-888-695-1339
Fire/Water Damage Restoration
General Contractors
Darrell Anderson
11803 Grant Road #110
Cypress, TX 77429
281-376-7474
Roofing Contractors
General Contractors
Fire/Water Damage Restoration
Garrick Roofing
Dale Clifford
16810 Barker Springs #216
281-398-1600
Roofing Contractors
General Contractors
ArrowWest Builders LLC
Randy Ortega
14041 West Road #200
Houston, TX 77041
281-897-0066
General Contractors
Contractors
Hardware Suppliers
of America Inc.
Rodney Dell
1400 E. Fire Tower Road
Greenville, NC 27858-4105
972-606-4855
Builders Hardware
Doors & Door Products
Brinkmann Roofing
Ed Goode
5050 Timber Creek Drive
Houston, TX 77017
281-486-1660
Siding Contractors
Roofing Contractors
In-Ex Designs
Teri Morris
5644 Westheimer #278
Houston, TX 77056
713-781-7575
General Contractors
Roofing Contractors
Referred by Roger Camp
Daniels Plumbing Co. Inc.
Michael S. Daniels
225 Foster
Tomball, TX 77375
281-351-6661
Plumbing Contractors
Plumbing Drain/Sewer Cleaning
Innovative Restoration
Brian Benson
425 Lafayetta Center #273
Ballwin, MO 63011-3943
281-727-0165
Roofing Contractors
Building Contractors
Elite Towing Service
John Porter
P.O. Box 1701
Stafford, TX 77477
713-789-0858
Wrecker Service
Auto-Emergency Assistance
J&E Painting
Adriana Medina
24603 Colonial Elm Drive
Katy, TX 77493
281-723-4808
Maid Services
Paint
Empire Waste
Leah Bullard
P.O. Box 670147
281-931-7200
Trash Hauling
Waste Reduction/Disposal/
Recycling
Referred by Jamie Blevins
KCMS Contracting Inc.
Jeannise Cain
5900 Stave Ave.
Kansas City, KS 66102
816-286-7860
General Contractors
Contractors
Referred by Miguelina Frias
Lone Star General
Contracting
Chance Brandt
10807 Jones Road #131
Houston, TX 77065
936-661-0147
A/C Contractors
General Contractors
The Master’s Roofing
Construction Contractors
Wilson Adcock
1920 Tremble Drive Unit I-1
Humble, TX 77338
281-446-7663
General Contractors
Roofing Contractors
Med Security Inc.
Rod Kennedy
7707 Fannin #120
Houston, TX 77054
713-799-2808
Security Guard/Patrol Service
Media Nation
John E. Held
9595 Six Pines Drive #8210
The Woodlands, TX 77380-1642
832-631-6111
Marketing Consultants & Svc.
Advertising-Outdoor
Referred by Carina Bryars
Nationwide Investigations
& Security Services Inc.
Allen Holliman
2425 W. Loop South #200
713-297-8830
Investigators
Security Guard/Patrol Service
Security Control
Equipment/Systems
NETWRX3
Allen Hollimon
2425 W. Loop South #200
713-294-9036
Computer Networking
Telecommunications Services
SatisFacts Research
Doug Miller
2360 W. Joppa Road #322
Lutherville, MD 21093-4624
1-866-655-1490
Resident Retention Services
Market Research & Analysis
SEALS ... Sales Experts
& Leasing Specialists
Nancy Provenzano
1907 Rampart St.
League City, TX 77573
281-724-9070
Leasing Services
Apartment Leasing
Welcome to HAA! See Pages 20 and 21 and www.haaonline.org for a calendar of our upcoming events.
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DECEMBER 2008
61
AMBASSADORS
We Can Help
Ambassadors communicate your wants and needs to the HAA staff.
AMBASSADOR
OF THE MONTH
Andrea Winans
240 Questionnaires
New Ambassadors at the October meeting. Standing are Regan Swinbank and Glenn Wilson, Sprint Waste Services;
Israel Garza, ICI Paints; Eric Hancock, Pavecon; Patrick Sheahan, Sherwin Williams Co.; Elizabeth Hixon and Erin Nichols,
Waste Corporation of America; and Co-chair Kevin Fenn, Pavecon. Seated are Co-chair Michelle Pahl, Century A/C, and
Andrea Winans, Bishop’s Office Needs.
AMBASSADOR VIPs
This list reflects the number of questionnaires completed by each Ambassador.
Ambassadors listed in bold reached new achievement levels at press time.
HALL OF FAME
700
Patrick Sheahan
500
Julio Garcia
Top Producers at the October Meeting: Co-captain Michelle Pahl,
Century A/C Supply; Co-captain M.J. Featherston, Access Electric; Andrea
Winans, Bishop’s Office Needs; Co-chair Kevin Fenn, Pavecon; and
Barbara Brett, McBride Electric.
400
Rashann Fontenot
300
Barbara Brett
Patrick Brothers
Peggy Charles
David Hardwick
Jimmie Hotz
Alan Jones
Nancé Wells
250
Michael Flores
Billy Griffin
Michelle Pahl
Ambassadors reaching new levels at the October meeting:
Kenyon Carroll, Maintenance Supply Headquarters; John Hill, HARCO
Insurance; Co-chair Michelle Pahl, Century A/C Supply; Co-chair Kevin
Fenn, Pavecon; and Gilbert Torres, HD Supply.
The Ambassadors are the eyes and ears of HAA, surveying members on
their wants and needs. If you would like to be a part of the Ambassador
Club, contact Lisa Butler at 713-595-0322 or lbutler@haaonline.org.
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DECEMBER 2008
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150
Mary Estrada
Kevin Fenn
Amy Mauer
Tony Montemarano
Jimmy Renteria
Randy Rowles
200
NORA KRAKOWER
LIFETIME AWARD
Laura Collins
Lisa Grimes
Kathy Smith
Donald Sweitzer
Andrea Winans
100
CHRISTINE MOHEB
MEMORIAL AWARD
Debbie Andreozzi
M.J. Featherston
Fernando Gomez
John Hill
Billie Johnson
Nora Krakower
Brenda Nite
Sandra Parker
Pablo Paz
Karin ChurchfieldTyson
James Wagner
75
Karl Heinrich
Norma Ledbetter
Joe Slaughter
Roland Silas
Todd Smith
25
Stephen Abila
Jessica Baker
Jeff Blevins
Janet Dorsett
Darlene Dow
Andrea Dunlop
Kimberly Flores
Israel Garza
James Gregory
Erica Hallmark
Dallas Hardwick
Trisha Hunter
Dan James
Glenda Jeffcoat
Dean O’Kelley
Chuck Littlepage
Mark Park
Beth Rohani
Mike Romano
Shawn Royer
Preston Sams
Carlos Sanchez
Glenda Vargas
10
Greg Baughman
Ronnie Beavers
Kenyon Carroll
Josh Carter
Grant Crowell
Aimee Ferrini
Travis Fowler
Lisa Godwin
Laura Hancock
Jason Henley
Philip Jones
Jacob Kunath
Laura Lestus
Chuck Littlepage
Erin McCary
Deana Miller
Krista Oliver
Michelle Opalewski
Wendy Pearson
Robert Pfunder
Mindy Price
Carlos Sanchez
Crystal Sepulveda
Jodi Southwick
Wayne Trusty
Beth Varney
Marivel Villanueva
Kevin Wendt
Heather Wiesner
Angie Wilganowski
Brandy Williams
Ron Winans
Producers from the Grimes, Featherston,
and Gomez Team, The HAA Idols.
Back row: Anthony Francis, AFLAC; Kim
Franguille, Apartment Guide; Kenyon
Carroll, Maintenance Supply Headquarters;
Chris Espinoza, Ygnition Networks; Jason
Polishak, Pittsburgh Paints; and Co-chair
Kevin Fenn, Pavecon.
Middle row: Karl Heinrich, Higher Standard
Construction; Co-chair Michelle Pahl,
Century A/C Supply; Israel Garza, ICI Paints;
Crystal Sanchez, Apartment Home Living;
and Patrick Brothers, Century A/C Supply.
Front row: Nancy Romano, Bankers Life and
Casualty; Jessica Tollett, Century A/C Supply;
Glenda Vargas, Apartment Home Living; Cocaptain Lisa Grimes, D&C Contracting; and
Co-captain M.J. Featherston, Access Electric.
Producers from the Charles, Collins and
Estrada Team, The Legends.
Back row: Mike Reiland, Intergity Images;
Josh Carter, Kwal Paint; Tony Esposito, The
Bug Reaper; Mark Park, AAA Plumbers; Cochair Kevin Fenn; and Alan Jones, ICI Paints.
Middle row: John Hill, HARCO Insurance;
Jimmie Hotz, HD Supply; Andrea Winans,
Bishop’s Office Needs; Wendy Pearson,
AmRent; Patrick Sheahan, Sherwin Williams;
and Barbara Brett, McBride Electric.
Front row: Gilbert Torres, HD Supply; Cochair Michelle Pahl, Century A/C Supply;
Nicole Oldfield, Hardman Signs; Co-captain Mary Estrada, Certified Recovery/
Verification Plus; Sandra Parker, Apartment
Finder; and Co-captain Peggy Charles,
Brandt Electrical Services.
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DECEMBER 2008
63
PROPERTY UPDATE
NEW CONSTRUCTION
Camden has opened Camden Plaza, 271 units at 3833 Cummins.
Greystar anticipates the opening of Republic Hollow Tree Apartments,
280 units at 101 Hollow Tree.
Riverstone Residential celebrates the opening of Alexan Shadowcreek
Ranch, 392 units at 11900 Shadowcreek Pkwy. in Pearland.
Meeks + Partners and Alliance Communities celebrated the groundbreaking of Broadstone Voss, a 307-unit property under construction in the
Galleria area. Broadstone Voss, a redevelopment of an apartment property
built in the 1970s, will feature moveable steel panels that will allow residents to control the amount of light entering their units.
PROPERTY CHANGES
Creative Property Management has been awarded the management
of the following properties:
Hershe Apartments, 24 units at 5302 Hershe
Minden Duplexes, 52 units at 5458 Minden St.
Oak Forest Place, 27 units at 4300 Rosslyn
Tuam Apartments, 24 units at 2309, 2311and 2313 Tuam
Victoria Condos, 96 units at 12600 S. Gessner
Scott St. Apartments, 58 units at 5315 Scott St.
MacGregor Gardens, 84 units at 3629 MacGregor
Asset Plus now operates Timber Hollow, 282 units at 8000 Cook Road.
Riverstone Residential now manages the Claridge Apartments,
173 units at 10027 Spice Lane.
Classic Hearthstone Realty now operates Country Village, 152 units at
2551 Loop 35 Bypass in Alvin.
Changes for
Properties
and
People
Pinnacle now manages Primrose Del Sol, 248 units at 131 Aldine Bender.
Sumar Realty now operates Lyons Court, 88 units at 16303 Lyons
School Road in Spring.
Oak Leaf now manages the Brentwood Apartments, 104 units at
510 That Way in Lake Jackson.
Anthony and Elsie Belmares now operate the Kay Lynn Apartments,
26 units at 1200 Carolyn Court in Humble.
Greystone Asset Management now operates the following properties:
The Worthington on the Beltway, 382 units at 1350 Greens Pkwy.
Fall Lake, 124 units at 1415 Greens Pkwy.
Canfield Lakes, 454 units at 13355 Northborough Drive.
NAME/ADDRESS CHANGES
Schooner Ventures has renamed the Cynthia Square Apartments,
122 units at 10202 Challenger 7 Drive, to the Jacinto Palms.
Preferred Communities has changed the name of Stone Oak, 318 units
at 14200 Park Row, to Arcadian West.
The new address for CityView Place is 16919 City View, Houston TX,
77060-2503.
PEOPLE ON THE MOVE
Carol Marple is now regional manager of For Rent Media Solutions.
Christopher Hilton has joined the Apartment
Finder sales team.
Stephanie Brock has been promoted to president of Riverstone Residential Group’s central
division and will provide operational oversight for a
Marple
Hilton
IN THE NEWS
portfolio throughout Arizona, Colorado, Louisiana,
Nevada and Texas.
Gainer, Donnelly & Desroches celebrated 60
years in business this past August.
HURRICANE HELP
Aaron Peterson and Ben Albertson, owners
of Geneva Multi-Family Services, traveled to
Houston to look after their employees and residents at Geneva’s five Houston-area properties
following Hurricane Ike. They provided generators, grills, and food, water and ice to their residents and recruited help from Nancy
Provenzano and the SEALS team to cook and
serve meals to their residents as well as residents
at neighboring properties. In return, residents
helped the maintenance and management teams
quickly clean up debris at the communities.
“The owners knew that the residents took pride
in their community and volunteered to work side
by side with the maintenance and management
team,” said Provenzano. “Geneva also stepped up
and took money off of the residents’ rent for
being a part of the Geneva team. The residents
helped not because they expected something in
return, but because it was their home that they
took pride in and wanted to help others, just as
the owners wanted to help others.”
CONGRATULATIONS
Kathy Clem, UDR, is the December recipient
of the Jefferson Award, presented locally by
KPRC-Channel 2 and H-E-B. The
Jefferson Awards honor community
and public service both locally and
nationwide. One local recipient is
Clem
selected as a national nominee each
year. Clem received the honor for her work
bringing apartment-industry job training to
Sharpstown High School students.
Inspired by her experience with HISD’s
“Principal for a Day” program, Clem recruited
business partners to offer work force training to
students, including Camp Construction
Services, AAA Staffing and Century Air
Conditioning. Because of their efforts, about
two dozen Sharpstown students have learned
valuable job skills through HVAC instruction and
HAA’s Leasing 101 course.
“A lot of them have a lot of goals and dreams,
but they just don’t know how to get there,” said
Clem. “That’s been my focus – trying to get the
people connected who can help.”
The Jefferson Awards segment will air on
Channel 2 on December 4 at 5 p.m. and will
also be available online at www.click2houston.com/
jeffersonawards/index.html.
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DECEMBER 2008
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ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
65
HAAevents2009
Mark your calendar for these great opportunities for education and networking with HAA
january
Installation and New Year Gala
(Hilton Americas)
Leasing 101
2009 Education Kick-Off
CAPS: Legal Responsibilities
& Risk Management
Time Management
Sponsorship Auction
IROC Breakfast
16
20
22
23
28
29
30
february
3
5
10
12
13
17
18-20
24
25
NALP I: Keys to Success
NALP II: Telephone Presentations
APPLE Core Session I
NALP III: Leasing Interview
& Qualifying Residents
NALP IV: Leasing Demo
& Overcoming Objections
Annual Legal Seminar
CAPS: Financial Management
NALP V: Leasing & The Internet
NALP VI: Rental Policies
& Procedures
TAA Committee Meetings
and Board Meeting (Austin)
NALP VII: Legal Aspects
APPLE Leadership Session I
may
5
5-14
6
12
15
20
22
27
TBA
4
10
CAM: Apartment Community
Analysis
APPLE Core Session II
Rental Owners Course begins
(Thursdays through April 30)
NAA Capital Conference (DC)
APPLE Maintenance Session I
Certified Pool Operator Course
2009 Volleyball Tournament
APPLE Marketing Session I
CAM: Management of
Residential Issues
CAPS: Property Performance
Management
Leasing 101
IROC Breakfast
march
5
6
8-11
10
11-12
13
17
18-19
20
24
27
1
Bill Dinerstein Memorial Golf
Tournament (Clubs of Kingwood)
It’s The Law Luncheon
APPLE Maintenance Session II
CAM: Human Resources
APPLE Core Session III
Third Annual Maintenance Mania
TAA Education Conference
& Lone Star Expo (San Antonio)
CAPS: Property Evaluation
& Due Diligence
APPLE Leadership Session II
CAM: Legal Responsibilities
april
3
7
8-9
14
22
16-18
24
28
29
66
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
APPLE Marketing Session II
CAM: Property Maintenance
for Managers
CAMT: Plumbing Maintenance
& Repair
Microsoft PowerPoint Tips
& Techniques for Trainers
CAPS Final Exam
APPLE Core Session V
Industry Achievement Awards
CAM: Risk Management
NAA Education Conference
& Expo (Las Vegas)
Sponsorship Auction
june
11
12
16
18
24
25-27
TBA
4
APPLE Core Session IV
CAMT: Electrical Maintenance
& Repair
CAM: Fair Housing
Leasing 101
CAPS: Effective Leadership
The Green Event: The HAA
Education Conference & Expo
Goes Green! (Reliant Center)
IROC Breakfast
CAM: Marketing
Ronny Finger ALLStars Sports
Challenge
8
14
15
17
CAM: Finance
APPLE Core Session IV
Introduction to Microsoft Excel
IROC Breakfast
Introduction to Microsoft Excel
and Board Meeting (Galveston)
Extreme CAM Course
(Monday through Saturday)
Bowling Tournament
july
22
22-24
23-1
TBA
5
11
12
14
Advanced Microsoft Excel
APPLE Marketing Session III
Advanced Microsoft Excel
CAM: Community Analysis Workshop
& Study Session
CAMT: HVAC Maintenance & Repair
Hall of Fame Luncheon
august
19-27
TBA
september
3
10
15
16-24
22
25
29
TBA
6
8
13
16
20
21-22
21-23
22
27
TBA
TBA
Rental Owners Course begins
(Thursdays through October 15)
APPLE Maintenance Session III
APPLE Core Session VII
CAMT: Appliances Maintenance
& Repair
Leasing 101
IROC Breakfast
APPLE Leadership Session II
HAABGF Fall Golf Tournament
NALP I: Keys to Success
NALP II: Telephone Presentations
APPLE Marketing Session IV
NALP III: Leasing Interview
& Qualifying Residents
NALP IV: Leasing Demo
& Overcoming Objections
NALP V: Leasing & The Internet
NALP VI: Rental Policies
& Procedures
CAMT: Interior and Exterior
Maintenance & Repair
and Board Meeting (Lubbock)
APPLE Core Session VIII
NALP VII: Legal Aspects
Pink Ladies Golf Outing
19th Annual Chili Cook-off
november
10
12
12-14
20
TBA
APPLE Leadership Session IV
APPLE Maintenance Session IV
NAA Assembly of Delegates
(Tampa, FL)
IROC Breakfast
Annual Business Meeting
TBA
TBA
Share Your Holidays Food Drive
Volunteer Appreciation Party
december
Make the most of your membership in HAA.
Don’t miss out on all the opportunities to see
and be seen by everyone in the business.
Events in BOLD are networking events;
those in regular type are education courses.
Visit www.haaonline.org for the most up-to-date schedule and to register, or call 713-595-0300
for details. Specific dates, times and event locations will be provided in ABODE and on
www.haaonline.org as information becomes available. Please note that schedules and fees are
subject to change without prior notification. Notice of cancellation is required two days in
advance to receive a refund, less a $10 administrative fee. Notice to Attendees: All pre-registered no-shows will be billed. For admittance into HAA/HAF events, payments will be required
at the door if not received prior to the event.
HAA’s biggest events are on the menu!
sponsorship
Have a drink and
whet your appetite
with great
promotional
opportunities…
68
DECEMBER 2008
Appe
tizers
Dine
rstei
nM
Tour emorial
Golf
nam
ent
Salad
Indu
stry
Ach
Awa ieveme
nt
rds
Entre
Exp
e
o Ed
u
cati
on E
vent
s
Dess
ert
Vol
leyb
a
Tou ll & B
rna
o
men wling
ts
sponsorship
auction
Auction 101 Seminar: 1:30 p.m.
Auction Registration: 2 p.m.
Drawings Close: 2:45 p.m.
Auction Begins: 3 p.m.
Dinerstein Reed Prokop Education Center
4810 Westway Park Blvd.
off Clay Road just east of Beltway 8
The event is free for supplier members.
Call ahead to RSVP. For more information,
contact Amanda at 713-595-0316,
e-mail asherbondy@haaonline.org or
visit www.haaonline.org online.
ABODE
Come early for Auction 101:
An orientation for new suppliers.
Learn how the auction process
works and learn more about the
events for sale.
…and feast on some great HAA events.
More than 50 events are up for bid. You determine
the value of each event in an auction format, with
selected sponsorships determined by drawing.
Whether your customers are property supervisors,
managers, maintenance technicians or upperlevel executives, there’s an HAA/HAF event that
targets the people you do business with. Sponsorship
is a great way to gain recognition for your company.
During sponsored events, a commercial is read to
attendees and sponsor signs are displayed.
All events are promoted with pre-event publicity in
ABODE magazine, by e-mail and on the Web at
www.haaonline.org. Every event for the first half of
2008 – from Volleyball and Bowling to the
Industry Achievement Awards to the
Expo Education Seminars – is up for sponsorship.
Don’t miss your chance to grab a drink, a bid
and a big heaping serving of HAA events.
Proxy bidding available. Call for details.
LAW, continued from Page 12
from a credit reporting agency with information you:
(i) obtain and use to verify the consumer’s
identity (such as the rental application);
(ii) maintain in your own records; or
(iii) obtain from third-party sources.
You can also verify a consumer’s address
by verifying the information in the report
with the consumer. Your policy should also
incorporate a process to verify information
received from a consumer reporting agency
with the consumer. Finally, your policy
should require you to furnish an address to
a consumer reporting agency about a consumer when you receive notice from the
consumer reporting agency of an address
discrepancy.
Identity theft has become a particularly
sensitive issue under both federal and state
law. You should already have policies relating to privacy and record retention. You can
add to those policies another that enables
you to confirm that a report you receive
about an applicant is indeed about the correct applicant.
&Gala2009
Installation
NewYear
Cocktail Reception at 7 p.m.
Dinner at 8 p.m.
Dancing from 9 p.m. to Midnight
Music by Fifth Avenue
$75/person
$750/table of ten
Black Tie Optional
Friday, January 16
Hilton Americas - Houston
1600 Lamar, Ballroom of the Americas
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DECEMBER 2008
69
HAA RESOURCES
Standard Lease Contracts, Forms & Books*
HAA members can access the most comprehensive
lease available in the industry, along with more than
30 different forms. Also available to members is the TAA Redbook
containing state and federal statutes and governmental rules that
affect all rental housing in Texas. For more information, contact
Form Sales at 713-595-0317, e-mail forms@haaonline.org or order
Information for
OWNER/MANAGEMENT COMPANY MEMBERS
Committees & Clubs
Members 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 at 713-595-0322 or e-mail members@haaonline.org.
Legislative Information
Continual 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 the Government Affairs Department at
713-595-0303 or 713-595-0302 or e-mail govtaff@haaonline.org.
ABODE Magazine
HAA’s premier monthly publication – 80 pages of
interesting, informative articles from industry
insiders covering rental housing trends and tips to help reduce the
expense of day-to-day operations. A regular bi-annual report on rental
rates and occupancy statistics is published in the spring and fall.
For more information, contact the Communications Department at
713-595-0333 or 713-595-0334 or e-mail comm@haaonline.org.
Resident Relations Department and Helplines
Free assistance to all member apartment personnel
who have questions or need advice when dealing
with residents. Community service for residents to help resolve
misunderstandings concerning the lease, application and security
deposits. For assistance, contact Resident Relations at
713-595-0300 or e-mail resrel@haaonline.org.
Directory & Buyer’s Guide
An annual listing of all member owner/management
companies, properties and companies that supply
products and services to the rental housing industry is available to HAA
members only. One copy is mailed to each member, including each
property, in January. For more information, contact the Special Services
Department at 713-595-0306 or specserv@haaonline.org.
Surveys/Statistical Data*
An annual salary survey is downloadable from
the HAA Web site and available only to members.
A leasing and occupancy survey is published twice a year in
ABODE magazine for spring and fall.
HAA Online
Online form sales, event calendar and registration and
job listings provide members with a direct connection to
HAA services. All member company Web site addresses have hyperlinks
where permission has been granted. This offer is free to all members.
713-595-0300 or e-mail webmaster@haaonline.org.
Education Programs*
From entry-level leasing and sales technique, to
executive-level training 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 themselves apart in a competitive industry.
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, e-mail educ@haaonline.org, or register
for programs online at www.haaonline.org.
Resident Credit Reporting Service (RCR)*
Powered by First Advantage SafeRent
This is an optional service for an additional charge.
RCR has partnered with First Advantage SafeRent, the nation’s leading
and most innovative provider of screening services, to expand its suite
of resident screening services currently available as an exclusive HAA
membership benefit. RCR partnered with First Advantage SafeRent to
provide leasing staff more screening resources to make consistent,
accurate, and Fair Housing compliant leasing decisions. Local rental
history (including evictions, skips and move-in and move-out data),
nationwide rental history and landlord-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 Resident Credit Reporting at 713-595-0330 or
713-595-0329 or e-mail rcr@haaonline.org.
*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 1,600 companies. We represent
2,300 apartment communities with more than 444,000 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.
70
DECEMBER 2008
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SURVEY, continued from Page 43
occupancy rates. Such market dynamics can
bode well for the best on-site managers and
customer service providers. When vacancy
rates start to increase, owners can often
secure a higher caliber of employee who is
more capable of filling vacant units by offering a higher, more competitive salary.
PRIORITIES SHIFT TO RETENTION
On-site mangers appeared to be re-evaluating their employee recruitment sources
and taking retention more seriously in 2008.
Benefit programs, including retirement,
vacation days and insurance, all experienced
positive growth in 2008, suggesting that
these additional programs deliver value to
employees and help owners remain competitive when it comes to recruiting and retaining employees.
On-site managers received 13.7 vacation
days, up from 12.2 in 2007. During the same
timeframe, the average percentage of insurance paid by the company increased 4 percent for group medical/life, 2 percent for dental and 6 percent for disability. Additionally,
83 percent of on-site managers reported they
have a 401K, and 54 percent indicated that
they received apartment or rent concessions.
Additionally, property supervisors and district managers reported that their designated
vacation days, based on experience, increasd
in 2008. On average, this group received
10.03 days with one year or less of experience, 15.07 with more than five years of
experience and 16.01 with 10 years of experience. In 2007, the same groups received
9.38, 9.7 and 13.15 days respectively.
Owners continue to use recruiting tools,
including traditional print and online advertising; however, both remained flat through
2007 and 2008. According to the data gathered in this survey, 39 percent of on-site
managers recruited new employees by placing an ad in the newspaper or online, and 28
percent used the HAA employment line. The
most dramatic change recognized in recruitment trends suggests that on-site managers
did not rely on resident and staff referrals as
much in 2008 as 2007 as witnessed by the 17
percent decrease to 10 percent.
Based on the survey feedback, owners and
upper-level management seem to be identifying employee retention as a way to save
thousands of dollars on advertising and
training. On-site managers are recognizing
that the money saved by retaining the best
employees through incentives beyond traditional salary and bonus increases can help
reduce expenditures related to traditional
7777 Blankenship Drive • Houston, Texas • 77055
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
71
HAA RESOURCES
General Membership Meetings*
Supplier members can take part in face-to-face
contact in a social setting with apartment industry
personnel. Bi-monthly meetings vary from chili cook-offs and volleyball
tournaments to dinner awards presentations and gala events.
Average attendance is more than 250 people. For more information,
contact the Education and Meetings Department at 713-595-0319 or
713-595-0314 or e-mail educ@haaonline.org.
Committees & Clubs
Supplier members can 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 and could help you and
your sales staff get recognized regularly by on-site personnel. For more
information, contact Member Services at 713-595-0322 or e-mail
members@haaonline.org.
ABODE Magazine
This award-winning monthly publication contains local,
state and national news to keep our members on top of
their profession. ABODE has a circulation of 4,000 copies every month.
Advertising in ABODE will give you the consistent exposure to the Houston multifamily housing market and reinforce the efforts of your sales
people. Writing an article can show expertise in your field. For more
information on advertising, contact Supplier Services at 713-595-0316
or e-mail suppsrv@haaonline.org. To find out more about writing for
ABODE, contact the Communications Department at 713-595-0333,
713-595-0334 or e-mail comm@haaonline.org.
Directory & Buyer’s Guide
The “yellow pages” of HAA, one copy is mailed to all
members, including each property, in January. This
is the primary reference source used by apartment personnel to
contact HAA supplier members. Supplier members have one
alphabetical and two categorical listings, with more available for a
small fee. The book lists each property by address and by name
and the owners or management companies. Deadline to advertise
or be listed in the 2009 Directory is October 1, 2008. For more
information, contact Supplier Services at 713-595-0316 or e-mail
suppsrvc@haaonline.org.
Information for
SUPPLIER COMPANY MEMBERS
Sponsorships*
Have your company name promoted by sponsoring
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
e-mail suppsrv@haaonline.org.
Mailing Labels*
Continually updated, preprinted adhesive labels
can increase the efficiency of mass mailings. Available
in three membership categories (owners, properties and suppliers)
for a nominal fee. For more information, contact Form Sales at
713-595-0317 or e-mail forms@haaonline.org.
HAA Online
Online form sales, event calendar and registration and
job listings provide members with a direct connection to
HAA services. All member company Web site addresses have hyperlinks
where permission has been granted. This offer is free to all members.
713-595-0300 or e-mail webmaster@haaonline.org.
Certified Apartment Supplier*
A certification program designed to educate suppliers
on the multifamily industry and the day-to-day
operations of an apartment property. For more information, contact
the Education and Meetings Department at 713-595-0319 or
713-595-0314 or e-mail educ@haaonline.org.
CAS
*These benefits are in addition to your membership fee.
Get the HAA
member logo
Highlight your company’s
membership with HAA.
Use the logo on your business
Education Conference & Expo*
Market your company at this annual event with more
than 295 exhibitor booths and 4,000 potential clients.
The show is free to all apartment community personnel and will be held
at the Reliant Center. The next show is scheduled for May 2008.
For more information on the 2008 Expo, contact Supplier
Services at 713-595-0316 or e-mail suppsrvc@haaonline.org.
cards, letterhead, publications,
company Web site and any
other communications tools
and marketing collateral.
Show your alliance with
your local advocate for
quality rental housing.
For more information call
HAA at 713-595-0333
Download the logo at www.haaonline.org
72
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
recruitment techniques, including advertising and training costs.
TRAINING AND CERTIFICATIONS
RAISE THE BAR
College education and industry diplomas
and accreditation are becoming increasingly
important for on-site managers. Even
employees with some college make almost
$4,971 more than high-school graduates.
From 2007 to 2008, the number of on-site
managers with a college degree increased
from 13 percent to 17 percent, another factor that increased the overall salary compensation among on-site employees.
Increasing from 30 to 40 percent from
2007 to 2008, on-site managers with an
industry designation, such as CAM, CAPS or
ARM, are becoming more desired by owners
and upper-level management. On-site managers with an industry diploma or accreditation on average make nearly $3,000 more
than managers without a designation.
As the qualities owners and management
companies value in on-site and upper-level
management evolve, the numbers will most
likely reflect these changes. Additionally,
apartment fundamentals and economic factors will also influence the patterns this survey identifies. It seems that the near-term
economy will continue to affect budgets and
ultimately salaries and bonuses for multifamily professionals in the Houston market.
Positions with salaries and bonuses based on
a portfolio’s performance will most likely
continue to slip or remain flat while positions based on an individual’s performance
may continue a steady increase.
Or perhaps the priority shift toward
retention through additional benefits suggests that salaries have reached the threshold for what the industry considers
respectable pay for these professionals.
Continued training and certification in the
Houston market will also help employees
differentiate themselves from their peers in
order to secure increased compensation in a
highly competitive marketplace.
This article was developed based on the
August 2008 survey conducted by J Turner
Research, prior to Hurricane Ike. The findings
are based on 237 Web-enabled surveys of onsite managers and 21 phone interviews with
upper-level managers in various Houston companies. In total, survey respondents represented
128,753 units and 460 properties, comprising
approximately 24 percent of the Houston market. To view the full survey, please contact HAA
at www.haaonline.org.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
73
Texas Apartment Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38
800-493-5406
Apartment Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Front Cover
713-960-8292 . . . . . . . . . .www.apartmentguide.com
Hiebert Photography . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .51
281-961-3014 . . . . . . .www.hiebertphotography.com
Video Monthly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
713-880-3333 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.videomonthly.com
Apartment Video Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74
281-480-0742
JSZ Financial Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
972-404-8390 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rentcollectors.com
Video Rental Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
800-475-5184 . . . . . . . .www.videorentalservices.com
Appliance Warehouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12
800-693-4343 . . . . . . . . . . .www.appliancewhse.com
McBride Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
713-864-7800 . . . . . . . . . . .www.mcbrideelectric.com
Waste Management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
713-354-5230 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.thinkgreen.com
BG Personnel Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18
713-781-8367 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.bgpersonnel.com
Meyer Smith Inc. (Houston Gate) . . . . . . . . . . .55
713-862-7339 . . . . . . . . . . .www.meyersmithinc.com
Webb Pest Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
800-243-6303
Brandt Electrical Services Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59
281-693-3383 . . . . . . . . . . .www.brandtelectrical.com
Namco Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45, 74
800-634-5816 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.namcomfg.com
CKI Wholesale Lock Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
713-462-0704 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.ckilock.com
Perfect Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
713-952-0202
Camp Construction Services . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
713-413-2267 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.camprecon.com
Marvin Poer & Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
713-460-4500 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.mfpoer.com
Century A/C Supply . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
281-530-2859 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.centuryac.com
Rasa Floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Back Cover
713-660-7777 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rasafloors.com
Need forms?
Call us today!
Contact our Form Sales department directly
at 713-595-0317, or send
an e-mail to forms@haaonline.org.
History of Effective Rental Rate & Occupancy for All Units
SNAPSHOT
Occupancy:
Price:
Rental Rate:
Size:
84.0 –
86.7%
$719/mo.
83.2¢/sq.ft./mo.
864 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:
4.8% rental rate growth
7,163 units absorbed
Operating Supply:
2,792 communities
550,816 units
Recently Opened (12 months):
67 communities
18,920 units
•
•
82.0 –
•
Submarket
Tomball/Far Northwest
Woodlands/Far North
Clear Lake
Medical Center/Bellaire
Lake Houston/Kingwood
•
•
– 89.0
• • • • •
•
• •
• •
80.0 –
78.0 –
• •
•
•
– 88.0
•
– 87.0
76.0 –
Nov 06
– 86.0
HOTTEST SUBMARKETS Over the Past Three Months
Rank
1
2
3
4
5
– 90.0
• •
•
Under Construction:
55 communities
15,163 units
Proposed Construction:
61 communities
19,174 units
– 91.0
% of Market
Absorbed
2.6%
2.7%
1.8%
2.5%
3.4%
Annualized
Rental Rate
Growth %
18.0%
9.5%
16.3%
10.1%
8.5%
Oct 08
Hamilton-Steele Outdoor Accents . . . . . . . . . . .56
713-533-9059 . . . . . . . . . . .www.hamilton-steele.com
Aug 08
Apartment Finder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .71
800-422-8300 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.apartmentfinder.com
Sep 08
TXU Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29
866-764-4439 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.txuenergy.com
Jul 08
FSI Construction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
713-690-5330 . . . . . . . . .www.foundationexperts.com
Jun 08
Ameritex Apartment Movers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15
713-484-8400 . . . . . . . . . .www.ameritexhouston.com
May 08
Service Concepts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69
936-441-2121 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.serviceconcepts.us
Apr 08
For Rent Magazine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
281-281-1800 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.forrent.com
Feb 08
Ameristar Screen and Glass . . . . . . . . . . . . .35, 71
713-683-6767 . . . . . . . . . . .www.ameristarglass.com
T
Mar 08
Scott Equipment . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
713-686-7268 . . . . . . . . . .www.scott-equipment.com
Jan 08
Five Star Claims Adjusting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40
866-465-5677 . . . . .www.fivestarclaimsadjusting.com
41 submarkets, and the ranking is based on the best combination of
rental rate growth and absorption over the past three months. The third
table 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.
Dec 07
Alexander-Rose Associates Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54
713-644-4441
he 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 in
the Houston region. The effective rental rates are the calculated net of
concessions and utility adjustments. The second table lists the five
hottest submarkets in the Greater Houston area. There are a total of
Nov 07
The Rust-Oleum Corp./Zinsser . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67
888-855-1774 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.zinsser.com
Oct 07
First Advantage-SafeRent . . . . . .Inside Back Cover
972-612-2420 . . . . . . . . . .www.registry-saferent.com
Sep 07
Advalorem Tax . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .73
281-474-2300 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.advaloremtax.net
Aug 07
Resident Credit Reporting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
713-595-0345 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.haaonline.org
Jul 07
Dixie Carpet Installations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .63
281-261-6334 . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dixiecarpet.com
Jun 07
Advanced Foundation Repair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65
713-464-5561 . . . . . .www.advancedfoundationrepair.com
BRUCE McCLENNY, President, Apartment Data Services
HOUSTON
May 07
RentBureau.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64
877-703-7368 . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rentpredict .com
Apr 07
D&C Contracting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43
713-460-9394 . . . . . . . . . . . .www.dccontracting.com
Mar 07
Access Electric . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .41
281-489-7755 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.access-electric.com
Feb 07
RENCON . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
713-666-3636 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.rencon.cc
Jan 07
Comcast . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
713-341-1000 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.comcast.com
By
Dec 06
AAA Plumbers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55
713-462-4753 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.aaaplumbers.cc
MARKET LINE
Rental Rate (¢/sq.ft./mo.)
Reliant Energy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
800-894-6678 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .www.reliant.com
•
Certified Recovery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
713-464-8219 . . . . . . . . . .www.certifiedrecovery.com
Occupancy (%)
INDEX OF ADVERTISERS
CONCESSIONS
Class
All
A
B
C
D
Total Units
w/Concessions
250,028
44,996
87,595
109,409
8,028
% of
Total Units
45%
46%
41%
54%
24%
Average
Special
-7.1%
-6.6%
-7.2%
-7.1%
-10.3%
Citywide
Effect
-3.6%
-3.2%
-3.3%
-4.2%
-4.6%
One Month Free = -8.33%
TEXAS
74
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
DALLAS/FT. WORTH
SAN ANTONIO
AUSTIN
Occupancy:
Price:
Rental Rate:
Size:
Occupancy:
Price:
Rental Rate:
Size:
Occupancy:
Price:
Rental Rate:
Size:
89.5%
$746/mo.
86.7¢/sq.ft./mo.
860 sq.ft.
89.5%
$680/mo.
82.0¢/sq.ft./mo.
829 sq.ft.
89.0%
$841/mo.
97.8¢/sq.ft./mo.
860 sq.ft.
Past 12 Months:
Past 12 Months:
Past 12 Months:
Operating Supply:
2,503 communities
556,283 units
Operating Supply:
691 communities
137,665 units
Operating Supply:
702 communities
152,391 units
Apartment Data Services Inc. has
been providing apartment data and
marketing products since 1986.
ADS Online covers Texas’ four
largest metro areas and provides
real-time access for property specific
information, market surveys and
historic submarket data for more
than 1.3 million apartment units.
For more information, contact
McClenny at 800-595-8730.
© 2008 Apartment Data Services Inc.
ABODE
DECEMBER 2008
75
BACK PAGE
News from around the
COMMUNITY
Volunteer HAA
w
w
w
.
h
a
a
o
n
l
i
n
e
.
o
r
g
The Houston Apartment Association’s committees and clubs are some of the most productive tools we have to ensure that we remain
the nation’s largest and most effective apartment association. Committee and club members face the challenge of getting involved to
carry out the duties and purpose of each club and committee.
Some general responsibilities of committee and club members include a commitment to attend all meetings and help develop
marketing strategies (i.e. telemarketing, developing handouts, fliers, articles). To serve on any of these committees and clubs,
please contact the HAA office at 713-595-0300, online at www.haaonline.org or e-mail the departments listed below.
Education e-mail educ@haaonline.org
Membership e-mail members@haaonline.org
Education Advisory Council – Comprises invited individuals who
have served HAA in various educational capacities, as well as those
currently working in training and education for the multifamily
industry. The Education Advisory Council serves as an advisory
committee to HAA for all things educational, including the Education
Conference and Expo, APPLE Workshop Series and the various NAA
certification programs: CAM, CAPS, NALP and CAS. The council’s focus
is on needs assessment for the industry, development of future
programs, marketing of current education programs and trouble
shooting/evaluating current programs.
Ambassador Club – This group assists HAA by contacting members
and requesting feedback about the association’s benefits and services.
Club participants return completed questionnaires and exchange
industry information at monthly meetings. Open to supplier members.
SOAPS Committee – Composed of property supervisors and directors
of marketing/training who actively participate in the Society of
Apartment Property Supervisor programs. They develop, organize and
implement SOAPS meetings every other month. Meets about six times
a year.
HAF Fundraiser Committee – Responsible for planning and
coordinating fundraisers for the Houston Apartment Foundation.
Meets as needed to plan each event.
Career and Community Development Committee – Owner/
management and supplier members oversee the public awareness
programs, including “How to be a Responsible Resident” and
“Careers in the Apartment Industry,” which are taught to high
school and college students. Committee members also staff booths
at job fairs and career days promoting the multifamily industry.
Open to all members. Meets on an as-needed basis.
Go-Getter Club – Formed to promote HAA membership, this group
recruits companies to join the association. To participate in the club,
all you need is an interest in promoting HAA. The membership
department provides leads and promotional materials.
IROC Committee – The Independent Rental Owner Committee.
Composed of independent owners of apartment communities
working to enhance the services and education programs available
for those HAA members owning 200 units or fewer. Meets four to
six times a year.
Membership Campaign – Once a year, the association holds a
two-month membership drive to recruit new member companies.
All volunteers are invited to attend the weekly meetings and sponsor
a new member. Cash and other prizes are offered as incentives.
Supplier Services e-mail suppsrvc@haaonline.org
Expo Exhibitor Committee – Assists with sales and promotion of
HAA’s annual Expo. Open to all members who qualify by selling a
designated number of exhibit spaces. Meetings based on need.
Community Relations e-mail shinkley@haaonline.org
Government Affairs e-mail govaffairs@haaonline.org
HAA Better Government Fund – A Political Action Committee that
supports candidates for public office. Open to all members. Meetings
often feature candidates and elected officials as guest speakers.
Members can join annually at one of three levels: Century Club
($100), Trustee ($500) or Steering Committee ($1,500). Meets
approximately 10 times a year. Steering committee members
meet additionally as needed.
Media Relations Committee – Open to all members. Responsible for
guiding the media and public relations policies of the Houston
Apartment Association. The group also directs the efforts of staff and
HAA’s public relations consultant on media matters. Meets monthly.
Contact aarrington@haaonline.org.
76
DECEMBER 2008
ABODE
Community Relations Committee – Responsible for developing
and coordinating new and existing community service programs,
including the annual food drive, special fundraising projects and
other activities. Meets every other month or as needed.
Resident Relations e-mail resrel@haaonline.org
Resident Relations Committee – Two committees meet to review
documentation and help resolve resident-owner disputes regarding
security deposit refunds or monies owed. The committees consists of
four property owner or management executives; five property
managers, five supplier members and one owner member chair.
Each committee meets once a month or as needed.
Houston Apartment Association
4810 Westway Park Blvd.
Houston, Texas 77041
Return Service Requested

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