Multifamily Women® Podcast

In this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, hosted by Carrie Antrim, we have the pleasure of welcoming Heather Williams, Vice President of Strategic Solutions at Willow Bridge Property Company. Heather shares her journey and the various factors that have contributed to her remarkable success in the multifamily industry.

The discussion begins with a reminder about the upcoming Multifamily Women Summit, a crucial event for professionals seeking to expand their network and gain industry insights.

Heather Williams attributes her success to several key factors: a collaborative work environment, the embrace of technological advancements, and the unwavering support from her leadership. These elements, she believes, have been instrumental in her professional journey and in executing numerous significant projects across her region.

A central theme of the conversation is the necessity of embracing innovation in the multifamily industry. Heather emphasizes the importance of pushing boundaries and staying ahead of the curve.

Heather also shares her strategies for building effective teams. She stresses the significance of fostering open communication and a feedback culture within the team. According to her, adaptability is a key trait, especially when new initiatives arise or when aligning with investor objectives.

Leadership plays a critical role in the multifamily industry, and Heather highlights the qualities she values in a leader. She looks for individuals who are willing to embrace innovation and adapt to the changing industry landscape.

Mentorship and nurturing new talent are passions for Heather. She discusses her approach to guiding and supporting the professional growth of her team members. This includes creating dynamic job roles tailored to individual strengths, fostering an environment conducive to personal and professional growth.

A notable aspect of the discussion is Heather's involvement in the Multifamily Innovation® Council. She shares how the Council has been transformative for her, both personally and professionally.

In closing, Heather offers some powerful advice to the listeners. She encourages embracing risk-taking, committing to continuous learning, and viewing failure as an opportunity for growth. She emphasizes the importance of adaptability in the face of technological shifts and reminded listeners of the fundamental human element in the work they do - creating homes for people.

Connect with Heather Williams on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-t-williams/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode, host Carrie Antrim engages Katie Battig and Liz Findura from MRI Software in a nuanced discussion about the company's initiatives in fraud prevention and their exploration of AI technology within the real estate sector. While AI often floats around as an industry buzzword, the conversation delves into how MRI Software is actively incorporating it as a tool aimed at supporting organizational efficiency.

Carrie Antrim scrutinizes MRI Software's focus on AI, inviting Katie Battig and Liz Findura to elaborate on its potential to augment on-site staff capabilities and streamline processes. They discuss MRI Software’s emphasis on fraud prevention, explaining how AI can offer an additional layer of security. While the company serves various real estate sectors, including commercial and corporate occupiers, the conversation zeroes in on what this means for high-level multifamily executives who are contemplating technology adoption in their operations.

The episode also covers MRI Software's "open and connected" philosophy, which allows users the option to integrate their products with other platforms, be they from partners or competitors. This aspect is discussed as a reflection of the company's willingness to offer a certain level of customization to meet the divergent needs within the real estate industry.

If staying abreast of the latest trends in AI, fraud prevention, and tech integration is on your priority list, then skipping this episode may leave you trailing behind. Carrie Antrim masterfully guides the conversation to ensure that the value-packed insights serve as a guide for high-level executives seeking to navigate the complex landscape of technology in multifamily real estate. #multifamilyinnovation #multifamilywomen #wearemultifamily

Connect with Our Guests:
MRI Software: https://www.mrisoftware.com/
Katie Battig: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherine-battig-33186114/
Liz Findura: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizfindura/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In today’s episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim sits down with Jennifer Carter, the Customer Advocacy Manager at HappyCo, to delve into the twin pillars of empathy and innovation that are transforming the multifamily industry. Jennifer’s rich cross-industry background empowers her with unparalleled insights, and today she’s sharing them exclusively with you.

Key Takeaways:

• Learn why your multifamily strategy could be vastly improved by gleaning insights from other industries, and how to do it effectively.
• Discover the critical role of empathy in cultivating strong, lasting relationships with residents and employees alike.
• Unpack the often-overlooked art of crafting responses to reviews that not only satisfy the reviewer but also entice new prospects.
• Whether you're breaking into the industry or looking to scale new heights, Jennifer reveals her formula for identifying and engaging mentors that can accelerate your career.
• How to integrate the lessons learned from other industries to outperform in the multifamily space.
• The actionable steps to build a culture of empathy and validation within your organization.
• The true impact of your online responses, through the lens of resident trust and prospective engagements.
• Jennifer's go-to resources and habits that keep her at the top of her game.

This episode is a goldmine for VPs, Directors, CEOs, Founders, and Presidents in the multifamily industry who are struggling with client retention, talent acquisition, and bottom-line growth. If you’re looking to be at the cutting edge of multifamily innovation and relational management, this episode is your ticket.

Don’t let your competition be the only ones tuning in. The game is changing; ensure you're not left behind.

Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn! https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-carter-mba-25261b8/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our "Meet the Sponsors" series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance technology, innovation, leadership, and investments.

This episode features a discussion with Shannon Irby, the National Account Manager for New Construction at Pfister Faucets. Pfister is a brand that actively supports the platform, promoting technology and innovation within the industry.

Renowned globally for their product innovation, design, and value, Pfister's designers are based in California, surrounded by forward-thinking designs from various industries such as automotive, aeronautics, computers, and fashion. By following trends in fashion, home design, and car manufacturing, among others, Pfister crafts new and exciting products.

Pfister also prioritizes practical innovation, ensuring their multifamily products are easy to install, clean, and use in everyday life. Working closely with multifamily developers and owners, Pfister tailors their offerings to each customer's needs, whether that means providing a wide range of options or simplifying the selection process. In essence, Pfister is a full-service manufacturer that offers a diverse range of products, from entry-level to designer custom products for multifamily developers and owners.

Timestamps:
[00:05:13] Push and Seal drain innovation for multifamily properties.
[00:06:03] Practical innovation for everyday life using Pfister Faucets and other multifamily products.
[00:10:02] Pfister's origin story.
[00:13:14] American Plumber Stories - Pfister's Web Series.
[00:17:55] Inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Connect:
Shannon Irby Email: shannon.irby@spectrumbrands.com
Shannon Irby LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-irby-9a1039a/
Pfister Faucets: https://www.pfisterfaucets.com/
American Plumber Series: https://www.americanplumberstories.com/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our "Meet the Sponsors" series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance technology, innovation, leadership, and investments.

On today's episode, host Carrie Antrim talked with Krista Hurley and Talisa Dever who are both seasoned Industry Principals at RealPage. When it comes to leveraging technology to drive efficiencies and increase ROI, these women are the go-to authority. They have been instrumental in shaping innovative strategies that have not just disrupted but transformed the way we think about property management and resident engagement.

Krista and Talisa discuss how, according to a recent survey, two-thirds of multifamily renters are satisfied with their current housing situation because it provides them with financial freedom. This indicates that a majority of renters who choose to live in apartments are content with their decision to rent rather than buy a property. Renting offers these individuals the flexibility to allocate their money towards other expenses or investments, giving them more control over their finances.

These insights are invaluable for RealPage as they delve into the minds of their customers and gain a deeper understanding of the industry's direction. By combining multifamily market intelligence with a customer-centric approach and addressing pain points, RealPage can identify areas where technology can bridge gaps and assist its customers.

RealPage places great emphasis on excellence, character, ownership, and teamwork as their core values and guiding principles. These four values serve as the foundation of the company's identity. These values have evolved over time and continue to be the fundamental principles that RealPage strives to uphold. They not only guide the company internally but also shape their interactions with clients and their engagement in the industry. These values are the most crucial aspect of RealPage's culture.

Timestamps:
[00:01:32] RealPage's commitment to innovation.
[00:04:17] Renting as an investment.
[00:07:22] The launch of DemandX platform.
[00:11:24] Using technology as a support tool.
[00:15:43] Supporting the Multifamily Women® Summit.
[00:18:01] Female leadership across industries.

Connect:
Krista Hurley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-k-hurley/
Talisa Dever: https://www.linkedin.com/in/talisa-dever/
RealPage: https://www.realpage.com/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim chats with Jenna Juniper, a National Speaker, Housing Consultant, Trainer, and President at Housing Consultants of America, LLC. Jenna shares her 16-year track record of successfully facilitating partnerships between nonprofits and developers to drive the implementation of crucial services for low-income properties across the nation.

Jenna's passion for affordable housing and expertise in compliance has earned her a well-deserved reputation as a premier affordable housing expert. Tune in to hear Jenna's unique story and what sparked her interest in affordable housing. Plus, don't forget to grab your ticket for the upcoming Multifamily Women® Summit for a chance to meet industry experts and boost your business's success.

In today's episode, Jenna leads us through the transformative world of modern affordable housing, challenging longstanding stereotypes and perceptions. Gone are the days of run-down, unattractive multifamily properties. Today's affordable housing units stand as testaments to innovation, beauty, and design. Join us as we dive deep into the renaissance of housing for those of modest means, and explore how these contemporary spaces are reshaping communities nationwide.

Impactful Quotes:
"But I will never forget that moment sitting there on the desk with the agent and she showed me my rent portion. It was less than $200 and it was just the weight lifted off my shoulders that I could finally focus on my career on just becoming more stable, going back to school. So Section 8 was my saving grace."

"We really are trying to change mindset by showing the community, look what we can do. We can actually level up your community by bringing in Section 8 or an affordable property versus level down."

Timestamps:
[00:02:02] Jenna's unique and personal journey to affordable housing.
[00:04:09] Revolutionizing affordable housing.
[00:09:21] Eco-friendly affordable housing.
[00:13:03] Micro-school and education within multifamily assets.
[00:17:43] Converting hotels into multifamily affordable housing.
[00:21:19] Motivation and impacting lives.
[00:26:06] Pursuing the affordable multifamily housing industry.
[00:29:33] Know your energy limits.

Resources:
Connect with Jenna!
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennajuniper/
Website: https://housingconsultantsofamerica.com/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim interviews Michelle Flandreau, Chief Revenue Officer at CredHub. Michelle shares her insights and experiences in the multifamily industry, drawing from her background in sales, marketing, business development, and user experience. With a career that spans both Fortune 500 companies and startups, Michelle discusses building brands and creating scalable growth. Don't miss this informative conversation about how CredHub is redefining rent within the Multifamily Industry.

Plus, find out more about the upcoming Multifamily Women's Summit and get your ticket today.

The episode delves into the significance of CredHub's mission: to bridge the often separate worlds of rent payment and credit reporting. Carrie and Michelle explore why it's crucial for renters to have their payment status reported to credit bureaus. They shed light on some unexpected benefits that both businesses and residents reap through CredHub's innovative solution. Michelle also speaks candidly about the challenges in credit reporting and how CredHub navigates educating multifamily property managers and owners about this need-to-have service.

As they continue their conversation, Michelle's multi-faceted role at CredHub emerges, overseeing various departments. How does she maintain synergy across sales, marketing, business development, and user experience? It's a balancing act that she has mastered. The world of credit scoring is evolving, and Carrie seeks Michelle's insights into its future trajectory, especially with platforms like CredHub shaking things up.

Michelle offers a glimpse into the near future of CredHub. What innovations and features can users look forward to? Tune in to find out!

Timestamps:
[00:03:06] Shaping approach at CredHub.
[00:05:22] CredHub and rental payment reporting.
[00:06:55] Zero credit score impact.
[00:10:26] Impact of credit score improvement in multifamily.
[00:12:01] Synergy across departments.
[00:16:03] The future of credit reporting.
[00:19:26] Challenges in the multifamily industry.
[00:22:01] New product offerings and research.
[00:24:07] Property management program.
[00:28:00] Facilitating networking intentionally.

Resources:
Connect with Michelle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleflandreau/
Visit CredHub: https://credhub.com/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim interviews Amber Tran, Product Designer at Vizibly. This episode is part of our "Meet the Sponsors" Series where we get to know the brands creating the most forward-thinking innovations in software and technology to offer solutions for multifamily property management and ownership to become more efficient and successful.

Amber shares her insights on user-centered design and how it can be applied to the world of multifamily property management. She discusses her role at Vizibly and the importance of designing experiences that add value to the end user.

The success of a design or product in property management is measured by its ability to provide a user experience that caters to the needs of property managers. Amber emphasizes the importance of a simplified user interface that is still complex enough for power users, aiming to strike a balance where technology is useful and enhances property managers' efficiency.

Technology is not meant to replace jobs but rather to support and enhance human efficiency. Amber addresses the fear that technology will replace jobs, clarifying that it is more of a transition. The purpose of technology in this context is to provide property managers and on-site teams with more time to focus on building relationships.

While technology can automate tasks and streamline processes, it cannot replace the human touch and understanding necessary in property management. The goal of technology is to give property managers more time and enable them to be faster and more efficient. The success of a design or product in this context is measured by its ability to improve outcomes, processes, and user experience.

Timestamps:
[00:01:43] Being a product designer in the multifamily industry.
[00:06:01] Designing for different user groups.
[00:07:18] Fail fast and learn fast.
[00:12:08] User-friendly multifamily budgeting with Vizibly.
[00:15:48] Software design and budgeting.
[00:19:36] Decision intelligence and user feedback with Vizibly.
[00:23:16] Budgeting stages and user feedback.
[00:26:10] Multifamily Women® Leadership Series.

Resources:
Amber Tran on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ambertran7/
Vizibly: https://www.vizibly.io/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

In this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim and Ashley Lipp, VP of Residential Property Management at Lloyd Companies, discuss the importance of cultivating a strong relationship with oneself as a leader, and how new leaders often underestimate the significance of this internal connection. It is stressed that without a healthy relationship with oneself and a commitment to self-honesty, it is unlikely for a leader to inspire and motivate others.

In this episode, Ashley underscores the significance of investing in oneself and cultivating curiosity as a means to become a better leader.  This includes the importance of utilizing technology as a problem-solving tool rather than allowing it to become a distraction. Ashley acknowledges that technology should serve as a support tool, enhancing individuals' abilities to perform their roles more effectively and efficiently. Technology can be intimidating for some, but it is an integral part of the business landscape, and failing to embrace it can lead to falling behind and suffering in the industry.

Ashley advocates for finding the right balance between technology and human interaction, recognizing that technology should enhance the customer service-oriented nature of their business rather than replace it. Ashley firmly believes that technology will not completely overshadow everything, especially in property management where there will always be a need for human interaction to deliver exceptional customer service.

Timestamps:
[00:01:40] Importance of leadership development.
[00:05:30] Innovation in Maintenance
[00:08:24] Fostering personal growth and leadership.
[00:13:44] Struggling with imposter syndrome.
[00:15:13] Overcoming self-doubt and speaking up.
[00:19:03] Imposter syndrome.
[00:24:22] Get curious about yourself.

Connect:
Ashley Lipp on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-lipp-23426243/
Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit Registration: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Multifamily Innovation® Advisory Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

On this episode of the Multifamily Women® Podcast, host Carrie Antrim speaks with Angela Flick, Vice President of Strategic Solutions at Mack Property Management. Angela has extensive experience in the industry, having worked for Greystar, Riverstone Residential Group, and ConAm Management. Angela is a member of the Multifamily Innovation® Council and loves talking about prop-tech and innovation.

Key Takeaways:

Embracing Technology in Multifamily: Angela talks about her approach to technology. We discuss the courage needed to embrace new technology, when the timing is right to implement new programs or software, and knowing when it's time to pivot or abandon a tool or strategy.

Navigating Change in Multifamily: Angela delves into why change can be challenging for multifamily companies and how to overcome these hurdles.

The Role of Pilot Programs: Angela discusses the importance of technology pilot programs within apartment communities, along with their impact on her strategic decisions.

Tech Companies & Beta Testing: Angela provides insights for multifamily technology companies from her experience in multifamily management, discussing the role of beta testing in product development.

The Changing Landscape of Hiring: In an increasingly tech-driven world, Angela discusses how the approach to evaluating multifamily new hires is evolving.

The Era of Remote Work: Angela shares effective strategies for managing and leading remote teams who are managing apartment communities.

Women in Leadership: Angela offers advice for women in leadership roles in the multifamily industry.

Identifying Business Process Gaps: Angela talks about her approach to identifying business process gaps and the steps she takes to address them.

Future Trends in Prop-Tech: As a member of the Multifamily Innovation® Council, Angela shares her thoughts on emerging trends in prop-tech and how they could transform the multifamily industry.

Timestamps:
[00:02:04] Excitement and fear of technology.
[00:04:20] Knowing when to implement change.
[00:08:24] Implementing new technology in the apartment workplace.
[00:13:19] Apartment sales team education on technology.
[00:20:05] AI and chat GPT in multifamily.
[00:21:42] Managing remote teams effectively.
[00:25:27] Creating a home structure.
[00:29:35] Investing in yourself.
[00:33:31] Process mapping for workflows in multifamily.
[00:37:08] Planning and problem-solving strategies.
[00:41:20] Prop tech transforming the industry.
[00:45:34] Women's Leadership Series.

Resources:
Angela Flick:

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Christina Robinson Race is the Vice President of Solutions at Southwest Utility Solutions and has a diverse background in and out of the multifamily industry. She has been integral in managing $15 million (and bigger) deals and relationships in her 25 years of experience in the industry.

Southwest Utility Solutions builds custom utility programs for multifamily properties, dealing with utility data, resident communication, utility recovery, and more. They’ve helped many properties keep costs low and raise profits during more than 20 years in business.

In this episode, we covered: 

• Christina’s journey in multifamily that she took, from having to move constantly to being a company’s first work-from-home employee in 2001 and gaining experience in other industries before returning to multifamily
  
  
• How being a mother was an important part of her life throughout her career
  
  
• How Christina’s mentors in multifamily shaped her personal journey and developed her strength and confidence
  
  
• Why leaders need to be kind and understanding, not just “strong”
  
  
• How Christina handles a diverse workload without getting distracted or overwhelmed
  
  
• What Christina learned about and loved in the Multifamily Women® Summit 

Connect with Christina Robinson Race on LinkedIn

Vice President of Solutions at Southwest Utility Solutions

Join us for the Multifamily Women® Summit!

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Improve Apartment Leasing Without “Just Adding Better Amenities”

WPM Real Estate Management provides management services for around 25,000 homes across the east coast. They’ve been helping multifamily and other real estate companies for over 15 years and use their experience to add great value to their properties.

Rebecca Smith (Becky) is the Senior Leasing Manager at WPM. She started her career in hospitality and brought that experience into leasing, recognizing how important hospitality is within the industry. 

Becky works to build creative leasing and retention strategies that improve the experience for the resident and the owner. 

In this episode, we covered: 

• Which approach is better to lease faster - training apartment teams or utilizing software automation?
  
  
• Becky discusses how WPM became even more efficient and what they did during the pandemic to keep vacancy rates below 5%.
  
  
• WPM has used software and new technologies to supplement their staff, instead of leaning on it like a crutch.
  
  
• Implementing new software and technology can be a tricky process and Becky discusses how WPM does this effectively with their teams.
  
  
• What strategies does WPM use to improve lease ups that aren’t just “add better amenities, have better leasing agents, have competitive pricing”?
  
  
• Why the surrounding community is important for every multifamily property, but not for the reason you think.
  
  
• Examples of how Becky’s experience in leasing helped improve the construction part of WPM by creating properties that made more sense and created a better experience.
  
  
• Why an unusual career path like Becky’s may be what the multifamily industry needs more of right now.

Connect with Rebecca Smith on LinkedIn

Senior Leasing Manager at WPM Real Estate Management

Join us for the Multifamily Women® Summit!

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

Chadwell Supply has been an MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Operations) source of maintenance supplies, flooring, and training in the Multifamily industry for nearly 40 years. Their customer service, special order, account management, and renovation specialists are able to provide industry-specific expertise and specialized solutions throughout the Southeast region. Chadwell Supply has grown to 19 branches serving customers across the nation. 

In this episode, we covered:

• “Chad Supply” was an MRO company started in the 70’s by a group of brothers in Tampa, Florida. They then sold their company to a larger corporation, and fifteen years later the brothers founded "Chadwell Supply," expanding it into a large, nationwide business. Today, they are still actively involved in the daily operations of the company.
  
  
• Rebecca Wagner entered the Chadwell scene six years ago after working in the multifamily industry since the 1990s. Although she didn't know much about maintenance when she started, Chadwell has worked with her and educated her through the process. She has had numerous positions in the company, including assistant manager, property manager, and currently director of national sales.
  
  
• Along with selling maintenance supplies, they also provide onsite training and a renovations team for management and maintenance teams. In addition to association events, they also offer training through online courses.
  
  
• According to Rebecca, many multifamily sites are facing employment shortages and everyone who is ready to learn maintenance is employed, which is wonderful, but they frequently lack the expertise required for a maintenance position. Chadwell is able to assist them by offering instruction and training. 
  
  
• Since the beginning of COVID, Chadwell has experienced an inventory deficit. Even their manufacturing partners have fallen behind, but through client communication, they have been able to avoid making false promises and have collectively overcome the hurdles that come with these shortages.
  
  
• Rebecca has attended the Multifamily Women® Summit

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

CredHub offers property owners and managers a way to cut down on missed and late rent payments from renters while also providing analytics on how well their properties are performing. CredHub gives business owners the ability to integrate their product into all major rent roll systems and to create custom solutions, such as a credit-building program that notifies credit bureaus of both good and negative payments. CredHub  provides accurate credit reporting and also obtains information from the rent roll to track down missed and late rent payments. Owners and operators get the option to add an identity theft monitoring/protection system that offers access to 24/7 US-based privacy advocates, protection for lost wallets, and dark web monitoring. These initiatives promote on-time rent payments and discourage late payments.

In this episode, we covered:

• Lisa Strauser, Sales Director at CredHub, appeared on the Multifamily Women® Podcast to talk about the history of the business and the contributions it is making to the multifamily industry. 
  
  
• CredHub launched in 2018 and works with 150 US property management firms. They offer rental reporting, with more than 70,000 residents reported each month.
  
  
• By providing renters credit for paying their rent, CredHub's solutions level the playing field between homeowners and renters. In doing this, they can assist renters in improving their FICO scores.
  
  
• CredHub helps management teams reduce debt from former residents and holds renters accountable for their monthly payments to reduce delinquency issues. 
  
  
• CredHub spares owners and management the responsibility of paying up-front fees. Over the course of the first calendar year, they develop their service with property owners and charge a 12th of the portfolio up front. Properties gradually pay as residents approach their lease renewal period. Although owners can opt to only obtain positive credit reporting, CredHub offers both positive and negative credit reports.
  
  
• Residents report that during the first few months, their FICO score rose by an average of 20 to 70 points and teams in charge of property management are receiving more timely payments.
  
  
• CredHub has partn

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

Arize is a smart apartment solutions company offering the convenience of smart automation to property managers and residents. The Arize platform upgrades multifamily properties for increased operating efficiencies and higher earning potential, while residents enjoy modern smart home amenities for a connected and secured living experience.

In this episode, we covered:

• Introduced by Sylvia Crawford, Senior Director of Marketing and Strategy at Arize, Arize is a smart home platform that has been addressing a gap in the multifamily industry since 2019. The Arize team is made up of a variety of IOT aficionados with experience in consumer electronics, real estate technology, apartment residents and property owners. 
  
  
• Arizes' long-term connections with their partners have aided them in creating a diversified ecosystem of smart devices that work in unison with one another. According to Sylvia, Arize streamlines multifamily owners' and operators' operations throughout all 50 states.
  
  
• Arize offers moisture detectors that alert management the moment moisture is found, reducing leaks and property damage, as well as hubs that facilitate communication between all smart devices.
  
  
• Mobile devices can be used by management and residents to access locks. These locks have functions that cause doors to automatically lock after a predetermined amount of time. Additionally, motion detectors and alarms discourage attempted break-ins and are simple to control when residents are absent from their apartments.
  
  
• Arize provides improved convenience and security to draw in and keep residents. The solutions increase leasing signings and raise retention rates, adding value to buildings, states Sylvia.
  
  
• Sylvia is looking forward to the Multifamily Women® Summit in 2022 and sharing her expertise in the PropTech industry. In addition, she says she is looking forward to hearing from business leaders at the event and to be a part of something that will open doors for others.

Want to support the Multifamily Women® Summit and platform and get your very own meet the sponsor podcast? Click here to sponsor.

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

The purpose of Cable Contract Negotiation Group, or CCNG, is to assist Multifamily owners and stakeholders in making the best decision for their community regarding video, Internet, and phone (i.e., “telecom”) services delivered to residents, according to Director of Strategic operations, Mark Weaver.Some Multifamily owners and investors are not aware of the myriad of details required to “get it right” in terms of Right of Entry agreements, nor are they aware of the attached exchange between owners and providers for rights regarding wiring, marketing, and owner compensation.

Every building has a unique set of wires and technologies, every community has a unique set of service needs, every ownership group has a unique set of long- or short-term objectives, and every telecom provider has a unique set of claims and actual results. All of these items must be weighed accurately in order for stakeholders to make the right decision(s) for their community. CCNG serves stakeholders to ensure stakeholders have the most accurate, most specific, and most actionable intelligence and strategies with which to make the best decision.

In this episode, we covered:

• Mark Weaver is no new name in the business world and can remember shaking hands with investors at only five years old. He currently serves as Cable Contract Negotiation Group's (CCNG) Director of Strategic Operations. CCNG works on behalf of owners and investors on negotiation contracts with cable providers.
  
  
• One issue Mark frequently encounters is owners who are unaware that they even have contracts with cable companies to begin with. Prior to doing business with them, CCNG helps owners and investors determine what they need by taking the time to educate them on cable contracts. According to Mark, the team is happy to speak with and notify owners at no expense to them.
  
  
• CCNG discusses contracts with multifamily owners in order to maximize revenue and increase profitability. Although Mark and the CCNG team are not attorneys, they have a deep understanding of the telecom industry and the legalese used in their contracts.
  
  
• In order to help owners and investors avoid legal difficulties and the trouble that comes with not understanding th

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

MRI Software has been in the PropTech industry for over five decades and is a provider of real estate software solutions that redefine the way communities live, work, and play.  The MRI platform assists Multifamily owners, operators, and occupiers in innovating in quickly evolving markets. Based outside Cleveland, Ohio, MRI Software serves more than two million users worldwide with offices in the United States, Canada, Australia, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Africa, and the United Kingdom.

In this episode, we covered:

• 51 years ago, MRI started out as a real estate finance company. They are now a well-known real-estate software company that is committed to providing operators in the multifamily space with solutions to give them more time in the day to work on expanding their business.
  
  
• MRI provides standalone or agnostic solutions for background checks, insurance policies, package delivery, rent payment methods, and calling technology for multifamily properties worldwide.
  
  
• All MRI solutions can function independently or be linked into current client technology platforms, saving owners and investors from having to overhaul their existing systems and enabling seamless integration.
  
  
• According to Andrea and Lori, MRI is assisting in the prevention of fraud with Checkpoint ID, which gives multifamily owners and operators detailed information to safeguard employees and property management from fraudulent residents. Additionally, MRI can help ensure that residents maintain their insurance coverage and do not cancel it once they have their keys in hand.
  
  
• Andrea and Lori state that clients of MRI are relieved by the company's ability to offer so many alternatives that reduce labor expenses, handle difficult conversations with prospective residents regarding background checks, and give staff members more time to concentrate on other elements of the property.
  
  
• Lori and Andrea are thrilled to be attending the Multifamily Women® Summit, as it aligns with the fundamentals of MRI. Seven out of the seventeen members of the MRI Leadership team are women, and they value the opportunity to encourage and recognize other female professionals in the field. In addition, MRI has established an open-to-all Women and Allies club where members can discuss business-related topics and offer their opinions on readings as related to the multifamily industry. 

Want to support the Multifamily Women® Summit and platform and get your very own meet the sponsor podcast? Click here to sponsor.

Connect with Andrea Matheny, Vice President of Residential Sales, and Lori Lord, Sales Director at MRI Software. 

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

Having 70+ years of experience in commercial real estate, Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions (REVS) has a unique insight into the needs of property owners looking to provide electric vehicle charging stations throughout their portfolio. REVS is a full-service electric vehicle charging company that works with real estate owners and managers to install electric vehicle charging stations on commercial real estate properties.

In this episode, we covered:

• David Aaronson was watching a television show about the manufacturing of electric vehicle charging stations when he realized that every apartment community will have residents driving electric vehicles and hence would need an electric vehicle (EV) charging station. 
  
  
• Aaronson launched Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions (REVS for short) after recognizing how much the new car market would change within the next decade.
  
  
• In order to install electric vehicle charging stations on properties, REVS provides a consultancy service that works with developers and engineers. REVS installs electric charging stations and upgrades the electrical system of properties at no expense to the owners. REVS will also compensate for electricity used and split earnings with multifamily properties.
  
  
• Aaronson discusses the high rate of return on investment offered by EV charging stations and how multifamily communities without them could potentially lose residents to those who do.
  
  
• At the 2022 Multifamily Women® Summit, REVS is thrilled to have the chance to inform owners and operators and assist them in making the best choices for their properties.

Want to support the Multifamily Women® Summit and platform and get your very own meet the sponsor podcast? Click here to sponsor.

Connect with David Aaronson, Founder at Refuel Electric Vehicle Solutions

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

TheGuarantors’ products provide greater accessibility and protection for renters and property managers alike by helping renters qualify for the unit they want and by protecting property managers against default. 

Christy Metz, Senior Director at TheGuarantors, discusses this affordable substitute to a traditional security deposit that leaves cash in renters’ pockets.

In this episode, we covered:

• Christy started her career in the multifamily industry more than 20 years ago, first as a supplier partner, and has now completely transitioned to the supplier side. After meeting Bob Schmidt in Chicago last year, he welcomed her into TheGuarantor's team to help establish an enterprise sales team. 
  
  
• Seven years ago, Schmidt, with his perspective on operations, and Julien Bonneville, with his perspective on renters, were able to collaborate to create what is now known as TheGuarantors.
  
  
• Christy discusses how TheGuarantors provide insurance that guards against rent default and offers rental management a full month's worth of rent protection via insurance against damages at no expense to the property management company. 
  
  
• When a property management company works with TheGuarantors, it can provide prospective residents conditional clearance after an initial screening rather than requiring them to obtain a co-signer or pay upfront costs. The renter is instead invited to requalify to reside at that community. Depending on the risk rating of the renter, the quantity of coverage required by the property for that specific screening result, and the amount of the rent, the cost of the policy can range from 15% to 80% of the rent.
  
  
• Christy discusses the importance of having an ESG program in place because it opens up the opportunity to connect with residents on a deeper level. She says that renters place high value on a brand that offers them a second chance at secure housing.  
  
  
• Christy is eager to expand her network at the 2022 Multifamily Women® Summit by getting in touch with  other professional women in the field and reconnecting with colleagues she hasn't seen in a while. She is thrilled to work for a business that values women in leadership positions and in an industry that is constantly seeking op

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/

Multifamily Leadership is an Events, News, and Media Platform.

It’s where Multifamily Innovation, Technology, Investments, and Leaders converge.

As part of our Multifamily Women® Summit, we share time with innovative brands as part of our “Meet the Sponsors” series that showcases those brands that are supporting the platform to advance not only technology and innovation, but the women who are making all of that possible.

If you haven’t registered for the Multifamily Women® Summit yet, now is the time. Go here to grab your ticket.

Dwelo is bringing smart device technology to apartment communities. Their software, hardware, and service platform enables the owners and managers of multifamily properties to offer smart homes as an amenity to their residents and simultaneously improves the efficiency of property operations. Dwelo smart apartments are live in thousands of apartments from coast to coast. 

In this episode, we covered:

• Pam Yoon, the company's Principal Product Manager, gives us a detailed overview of Dwelo, the first smart community system in the sector.
  
  
• According to Pam, Dwelo streamlines processes and increases ROI while saving time for property staff. Residents can use their mobile devices to operate the thermostat, keys, security, pool fencing, gym doors, and more.
  
  
• Dwelo also offers leak detection to help prevent major issues early on and  eliminates the trouble of having to rekey locks. The ability to manage thermostats in vacant apartments allows multifamily investors to make monthly savings of up to $38 per vacant unit, Pam states.
  
  
• Dwelo gives investors the opportunity to market their apartments as smart homes and is regarded as an amenity, which implies that it can boost rent by an additional 2% to 3%.
  
  
• At the Multifamily Women® Summit, Pam is eager to network with owners and developers to get firsthand feedback about the product and to ask and answer any questions about Dwelo.

Want to support the Multifamily Women Summit and platform and get your very own meet the sponsor podcast? Click here to sponsor.

Connect with Pam Yoon, Principal Product Manager at Dwelo

Connect with Multifamily Women®:

Carrie Antrim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieantrim/
Multifamily Women® Summit: https://multifamilywomen.com/
Be a Guest on the Podcast or at the Summit: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/speakingrequest
Multifamily Women® Leadership Series: https://apps.multifamilywomen.com/join
Multifamily Innovation® Council: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/council/
Multifamily Innovation® Summit: https://multifamilyinnovation.com/
Best Places to Work Multifamily®: https://bestplacestoworkmultifamily.com/