The post Smart Shoppers Speak Up About Their Experiences: Enhancing Curb Appeal to Attract Renters appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Mystery shopper frustrations highlight improvement areas
At Smart Apartment Solutions, we’ve analyzed hundreds of mystery shopping reports from smart shoppers across the Midwest. A common theme emerges – properties under construction or renovation often struggle with providing a positive first impression due to lack of clear signage, navigational aids, and organization.
Shoppers reported major frustrations like being unable to find the leasing office amidst confusing construction zones, getting incorrect directions that sent them far out of the way, and experiencing a general sense of disarray at communities undergoing renovation.
One shopper stated “I left the property in frustration because I could not find the leasing trailer, and kept finding the construction trailer instead.” Another commented on how “chaotic the property was, and how uncomfortable that made them feel that it was confusing to find where the office had been moved.”
These negative experiences from smart shoppers highlight how crucial it is to maintain an appealing, cohesive exterior even during transitional construction/renovation periods.
Enhancing the under-construction experience
For properties undergoing work, employing tactics like exterior window wraps with branding and clear directional signage can go a long way. Following the model of many retailers, using eye-catching window wraps to advertise the future opening while construction is underway can build excitement. And prominent, temporary wayfinding signage makes it easy for prospective renters to find the leasing office without frustration.
Building a welcoming permanent environment
Once construction is complete, creating an apartment community with stellar permanent curb appeal starts with the fundamentals – well-maintained buildings, grounds, parking areas, and amenities. Details like fresh paint, clean sidewalks and entryways, repaired potholes, and functional lighting all contribute to an appealing, cohesive aesthetic.
Thoughtful landscaping is also essential. Lush green spaces with planters, shrubbery, and trees create an inviting natural environment. Seasonal plantings and flower bed rotations add pops of color year-round.
Signage is another critical component. Prominent, well-designed entrance signs make a strong first impression. And clear directional signage and building markers allow visitors, as well as new and seasoned renters alike, to easily navigate the property; this is the time to over communicate.
By investing in exterior maintenance and amenities, apartment communities can create an atmosphere of pride, vibrancy and curb appeal that attracts new renters. The investment pays off through higher occupancy rates, shorter vacancies, and enthusiastic word-of-mouth promotion from satisfied residents.
Join us for our FREE workshop here!
Check out this Curb Appeal checklist here:
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]]>The post Detroit’s New Sign Stumble and the Marketing Transparency Lesson appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>As the city prepared for the NFL draft, officials aimed to create an eye-catching gateway for visitors. However, the initial backlash highlights the importance of transparent communication and narrative control. Had details like the sign’s dimensions, budget, and design been shared earlier, public reception may have been more positive.
The disconnect stemmed from a lack of clear communication from the city throughout the planning process. With few official details provided, an AI-generated image of a massive, iconic “Detroit” sign circulated online, fueling unrealistic expectations. When the sign was finally unveiled, critics lamented its underwhelming appearance and missed opportunity to incorporate local icons like the “Old English D” font. The sign’s Renaissance font and green-blue color scheme, inspired by Detroit and Windsor’s flags and logos, drew further criticism.
In an attempt to regain control of the narrative, the city released official renderings of the sign just two months before its installation along I-94. However, this effort proved too little, too late in reshaping public perception. Ultimately, the experience serves as a lesson in the importance of clear communication and setting accurate expectations when implementing public projects that aim to celebrate Detroit’s resilience and rebirth.
As public criticism mounted, Mayor Duggan’s dismissal of the viral AI rendering as “entirely fake” seemed to overlook the underlying issue: the city’s failure to proactively share accurate visuals. This approach not only left residents in the dark but also fueled the need for them to conceptualize their own versions. Had the city provided clear information from the start, the public would have had more time to process and come to terms with the sign’s design, potentially mitigating feelings of disappointment and shock upon its reveal.
Despite the controversy, city officials maintain that the design, combining elements of Detroit and Windsor’s flags, symbolizes shared pride and offers a warm welcome to NFL draft visitors. In the context of Detroit’s rebirth after decades of hardship, this sign, alongside broader beautification efforts, holds significance as a symbol of the city’s resilience and renaissance.
The saga highlights the importance of transparent communication in marketing when implementing significant changes. By neglecting to share key details early on, Detroit inadvertently relinquished control of the narrative, allowing public perception to be shaped by speculation and unrealistic expectations. This experience serves as a valuable lesson in the need for proactive, clear communication to manage expectations and foster public support for projects meant to celebrate and elevate Detroit’s inspiring revival story.
The property management industry can learn valuable lessons from Detroit’s experience with its new “Detroit” sign, particularly regarding the importance of transparent communication in managing expectations and maintaining a positive reputation. Just as the city’s mishandling of the sign’s narrative led to public disappointment and criticism, property management companies often make similar missteps by failing to provide clear information about renovation updates, construction timelines, or navigational signage.
At Smart, I’ve witnessed numerous missed opportunities to effectively communicate changes and manage customer expectations. In one instance, a community’s clubhouse was being renovated, and the leasing team operated out of a vacant apartment. Despite some directional signs, the office remained difficult to find. Situations like these can lead to frustrated customers who may share their negative experiences with others.
In another example, a colleague attempting to drop off a gift at a new construction site struggled to find the leasing trailer, as it was located at the back of the property without any directional signs or renderings. This missed opportunity to engage and inform potential customers could have been avoided with better communication and marketing efforts.
To build trust and encourage buy-in from customers, property management companies should prioritize transparency and proactively share information such as budgets, behind-the-scenes looks, and visuals that paint an accurate picture of what to expect. By involving customers as vested stakeholders in the process, they’ll be more likely to champion and celebrate outcomes rather than focus on misinformed preconceptions.
Detroit’s experience serves as a reminder that failing to control the narrative can lead to unnecessary challenges. Had the city shared crucial details like the sign’s dimensions, budget, and design elements early on, public reception may have been more positive. Ultimately, open and proactive communication not only sets realistic expectations but also fosters excitement and support for the final result.
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]]>The post RPM Careers Week 2024: Celebrating the Heart of Our Industry with Exciting New Challenges appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>In addition to the beloved traditions of the week, NAA has introduced two brand-new categories for 2024 – Supplier Collaborators and Leadership/Support Services. These new additions recognize the incredible breadth of talent and expertise that contributes to the success of our dynamic industry.
So, what can you expect from RPM Careers Week 2024?
Let’s dive into the details:
The Challenges & Prizes
Why I Love My RPM Career – Monday, April 15
Take a selfie or create a video at your property that shows how much you love your RPM career. Tell us about how you came to the residential property management industry and why it works for you. Submit your content (photo/video and caption) for a chance to win up to 6 CECs on Visto and a $50 gift card.
Here is the CANVA template
Maintenance/Service Professionals – Tuesday, April 16
Showcase your hardworking maintenance and service professionals by taking a photo or making a video of them in action on the job. Submit your content (photo/video) with a caption explaining why they’re a valuable member of your team. The nominator will receive a $25 gift card, and the nominee will receive a $200 gift card.
Apartment Onsite Teams Day – Wednesday, April 17
Sponsored by Chadwell Supplies, this challenge celebrates the superstars of your onsite team. Take a photo or create a video of your team being awesome on the job, and write a 250-character caption about what they mean to you and your property. The winning team will receive a $350 gift card for a team activity.
NEW! Super Supplier Collaborator – Thursday, April 18
Sponsored by the National Supplier Council this brand-new category recognizes the incredible supplier partners who make our jobs easier every day. Take a photo or create a video of your favorite supplier collaborator (individual point of contact), and tell us how they help your property and team. The nominator will receive a $25 gift card, and the nominee will receive a $200 gift card.
NEW! Leadership/Support Services – Friday, April 19
For the final day of RPM Careers Week, showcase your leadership and support services teams or professionals. Take a photo or create a video about how they nurture your talents, build up their teams, and serve your staff and community. The winner will receive up to $200 off a CAPS or CAM certification or $200 worth of CECs on Visto.
How to Enter
From April 15-19, submit your photo/video and caption for the challenges on the RPM Careers Week website. Then, from April 29 to May 6, follow the RPM Careers Facebook and Instagram pages and vote for your favorite entries by liking them. The photo/video with the most likes for each challenge day will be crowned the winner on May 13.
Winners will have 60 days to claim their prizes, and if the original winner does not claim their prize, the runner-up will be announced on the RPM Careers website for one calendar year.
This year’s RPM Careers Week is shaping up to be the biggest and most exciting celebration yet. Join us in honoring the heart and soul of our industry – the incredible RPM professionals who make our communities thrive every single day. Get ready to showcase your passion, recognize your invaluable team members, and have some fun along the way!
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]]>The post Boosting Lead Conversion Rates in Apartment Marketing: Addressing Application Denial Rates in Apartment Communities appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Understanding Lead Conversion Rates:
Lead-to-lease conversion rates assess the percentage of interested prospects who sign a lease compared to the total number of leads generated. This metric aids property managers in evaluating the effectiveness of their marketing efforts. Another critical metric is click-to-lead conversion, which measures the percentage of clicks on a website or landing page that result in a lead.
Application Denial Rates and Their Impact:
Application denial rates represent the percentage of applicants who are rejected based on predetermined criteria, such as credit scores, rental history, and income requirements. High denial rates can lead to lower lead-to-lease conversion ratios and reduced revenue for apartment communities. Furthermore, elevated denial rates may indicate inefficient tenant screening processes, inaccurate targeting of the desired tenant demographic, or a misalignment between the community’s requirements and market demand.
Strategies to Enhance Lead Conversion Rates:
To improve lead conversion rates while addressing application denial rates within apartment communities, marketers can implement the following strategies:
1. Refine tenant screening processes: Review and adjust your tenant screening criteria to better align with your target market and minimize unnecessary denials. A more precise screening process attracts more qualified prospects, leading to higher conversion rates.
2. Enhance online presence and targeting: Optimize your website and landing pages to appeal to the right prospects by providing accurate information about the property, amenities, and lease terms. Utilize targeted advertising campaigns to reach potential tenants who meet your criteria and are more likely to convert.
3. Improve communication and follow-up: Establish efficient communication channels to promptly respond to inquiries and follow up with leads. This helps build trust with potential tenants and increases the likelihood of converting leads to leases.
4. Offer flexible lease options: Consider providing short-term or flexible lease options to attract tenants who might be discouraged by rigid lease terms. This approach can help expand your potential tenant pool and improve conversion rates.
5. Monitor and analyze metrics: Track key performance indicators (KPIs) such as lead-to-lease conversion rates and application denial rates to identify trends and areas for improvement. Use data-driven insights to adjust your marketing strategies and leasing requirements as needed.
Optimizing lead conversion rates in apartment marketing requires a thoughtful approach that considers the impact of application denial rates within apartment communities. By refining resident screening processes, enhancing online presence, improving communication, offering flexible lease options, making sure that your sales team is continually educated along with monitoring metrics, property managers can improve lead conversion rates and ensure long-term success for their apartment communities.
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]]>The post Understanding and Optimizing Lead Conversion Rates in Apartment Marketing appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Lead-to-Lease Conversion Explained
Lead-to-lease conversion rate refers to the percentage of generated leads that ultimately translate into signed leases for an apartment community. This metric offers valuable insights into the overall effectiveness of marketing efforts by quantifying how well leasing teams convert interested prospects into actual residents.
The formula is:
Lead-to-Lease Conversion Rate
= (Number of Signed Leases / Total Leads Generated) x 100
Here is great Lead to Lease Conversion Calculator Calculator to test your conversion rate: https://startupbonsai.com/tools/lead-conversion-rate-calculator/
A high rate suggests marketing is attracting AND leasing is converting the right prospective residents, while a low rate may signal issues with pricing, follow-up procedures, marketing and first impression messaging, or competitiveness in the market.
Click-to-Lead Conversion Rates
Complementing lead-to-lease is the click-to-lead conversion rate, which measures the percentage of website or ad clicks that result in a viable lead. This sheds light on the performance of specific digital marketing campaigns and onsite engagement from the marketing campaigns.
The formula is:
Click-to-Lead Conversion Rate
= (New Leads Generated / Total Clicks or Visitors) x 100
Here is a Conversion Rates Calculator: https://startupbonsai.com/tools/conversion-rates-calculator/
A high rate means campaigns resonate with current and prospective residents, while a low rate could point to issues with targeting, keywords, inconsistent content, website design, or messaging.
The Importance of Conversion Metrics
Monitoring conversion rates is crucial because they can indicate a marketing campaign’s true success at the bottom line – driving qualified traffic to the property and the ability of the leasing team to convert to signed leases. High rates mean strategies reach the ideal renter audience cost-effectively, and that the sales team is capturing the most leases available. Low rates signal potential leaks in the marketing funnel, potential training issues or even a shift in your market.
Apartment lead conversion involves regularly reviewing conversion metrics, conducting mystery shops to ensure quality sales experiences, analyzing trends over time, and using data-driven insights to iterate campaigns. Top multifamily marketers obsess over these numbers to maximize marketing ROI and occupancy.
Strategies to Improve Conversion
While conversion metrics are complex, some proven strategies can improve performance:
Lead Responsiveness – Prospects expect lightning-fast responses. Delays can kill conversions.In fact, studies from many ILS’s have indicated that nearly 46% of the time inquiries go unanswered, or if they did receive a response it came after the decision was made to go elsewhere. If you can, automate lead capture and nurture across all channels and set reminders and checks and balances.
Exceptional Experience – From the very first inquiry all the way through signing a lease, renewing, and the daily living experience, it’s vital to create a truly standout experience. This means having friendly and knowledgeable team members, appealing property tours both in-person and virtual, smooth processes that make it easy to do business with your community, and consistent efforts to ensure an excellent daily experience for residents. Providing an exceptional end-to-end experience at every touchpoint can set your community apart and drive conversions and renewals.
Comprehensive Marketing – Invest in an engaging website, listings, strong social media presence, and other digital channels to effectively capture rental demand online. But comprehensive marketing also includes physical elements like curb appeal, signage, and community outreach efforts to drive local awareness and inquiries. A multi-pronged digital and physical marketing presence is key to maximizing lead generation from all potential renter audiences.
Lead Qualification – Ask the right questions early to disqualify poor-fit leads and focus efforts on high-potential prospects. Smart recommends seeking out reviews and soliciting more! Not only will this help boost your online presence, but it will also help you discover hidden gems that you could highlight or even clarify in your messaging.
Incentives & Promotions – Strategic rent concessions or incentives can provide the nudge quality leads need to convert. In some cases, adding a theme or contest to create excitement with your leasing teams will do the trick , and in other cases a mini- model or even updated photos or virtual staged photos might be a smart solution to help your team attract and convert more leads.
Data-Driven Optimization – Closely track lead sources, conversion metrics, and traffic to continuously refine strategies on a regular basis, Smart recommends at least once a quarter on stable properties.
In today’s competitive multifamily housing market, solid lead management, highly trained professionals, and data-driven conversion processes are essential for thriving communities. By deeply understanding lead-to-lease and click-to-lead metrics, apartment marketers can stay ahead of trends, make smarter decisions, and ultimately lease more apartments.
Happy Leasing!
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]]>The post Operation: Leasing Bootcamp – A Fun-Filled Training Mission with Princeton Management appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Throughout Operation: Leasing Boot Camp, our recruits mastered essential tactics for making winning first impressions across a variety of battlefields – from phone and online interactions to in-person demonstrations. These brave professionals acquired valuable intel, such as product knowledge, closing techniques, overcoming objections, and fostering connections to elevate the resident experience.
A crucial component of this mission was understanding the impact leasing teams have on resident satisfaction and reducing property turnover costs. By equipping these troopers with the right strategies, we aimed to boost resident retention and ensure victory on the property performance front.
The success of Operation: Leasing Boot Camp was made possible by the unwavering dedication of General Stephanie Linton and her exceptional troops at Princeton Management. Their commitment to the bootcamp theme created an immersive atmosphere, ensuring our recruits stayed motivated and engaged throughout the training.
In addition to fostering a fun learning environment, General Linton and her team integrated a spirit of giving into the mission. Their support of veterans through initiatives like “Operation: Warm Socks,” collecting sock donations for Soldiers’ Angels, and “Cell Phones For Soldiers,” gathering cellphone donations since 2011, not only connected with the Leasing Bootcamp theme but also added an extra layer of awesomeness.
Operation: Review Recon, “Give Me 10” was another way to incorporate themed fun into the event. This portfolio-wide contest had properties compete for a prize, challenging them to be the first property to generate 20 or more new verified Google reviews. Belleville Pointe Apartments in Belleville, MI, emerged as the victorious champion!
From military-inspired graphics and themed presentations to participants sporting camo gear, enthusiasm for Operation: Leasing Boot Camp was at an all-time high. The camaraderie within General Linton’s troops was evident, as even the corporate staff embraced the military attire in support of their fellow comrades. The level of engagement and excitement among recruits was truly remarkable.
Operation: Leasing Boot Camp provided a unique, immersive experience for leasing professionals. Our partnership with General Stephanie Linton and the troops of Princeton Management serves as a shining example of how teamwork and creativity can shape the future of property management training. We are proud to have served alongside these inspirational professionals and look forward to future missions together. LEasing Boot Camp Enlisting Recruits Enlisting Recruits Operation Philanthropy Operation Philanthropy Promo 1 Promo 2 Promo 3 Getting Prepared Getting Prepared Day 1 Day 2 Involvement Give Me 10 Mission Complete!
Check out more of the story here:
https://www.facebook.com/PrintasticMgmt/
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]]>The post A Heartfelt Recap of the National Apartment Association Advocate Conference 2024 appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>I recall my first conference in 2015 as a Leadership Lyceum participant, primarily engaging in business meetings. The experience left me filled with awe and curiosity, and I’ve only become more involved since then. This year, I had the privilege of serving as the Chair of the Independent Rental Owner Committee at the National Apartment Association and leading a team on Capitol Hill.
The core of this conference is its advocacy efforts. Delegates from all corners of the country meet with members of Congress to discuss crucial issues shaping our housing landscape. This year, our conversations focused on finding solutions to the housing affordability crisis, such as the innovative YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard) initiative. This initiative not only streamlines construction processes but also helps remove barriers related to land use, predatory financing, and exclusionary local laws that hinder housing development or slow down the process. Additionally, we explored proposed amendments to the CARES Act and discussed the urgent need for Section 8 reform with the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP).
The Housing Choice Voucher Program has experienced a significant exodus of property owners over the past decade due to inefficiencies, unrealistic fair market rents, an intrusive application process, and inefficient inspections. These factors have not only affected the apartment community’s ability to provide help but have also resulted in voucher recipients waiting months to secure housing due to the bureaucracy of local housing administrative offices. We urged members of Congress to encourage the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to increase efficiencies in the HCVP. By doing so, the program would become more attractive to property owners, allowing more voucher recipients to be housed quickly.
While most of our dialogues were productive and met with promising commitments from lawmakers, there were some disheartening moments. For instance, we encountered legislation that misrepresented our industry using terms like “cartel.” This kind of language not only undermines our profession but also fuels misconceptions that hinder productive discussions.
On my return journey to Detroit, I had a memorable encounter that highlighted the challenges we face in changing negative perceptions about our industry. A fellow traveler expressed hostility when I mentioned my affiliation with the housing industry. His negative remarks made it clear that there is still significant bias against rental property management. This encounter emphasized the importance of public education and advocacy in our field.
Despite the adversity, I remained composed and empathetic although I will admit this was difficult at first. Through open conversation, and changing the subject, we were able to find some common ground, and by the end of the flight we were able to see each other as human beings and hopefully plant the seed of how this person views our industry.
Upon arriving home, fueled by my a little bit of hurt feelings and frustration with the misconceptions surrounding our industry, I felt a renewed sense of purpose.
I’m determined to challenge the stigma surrounding our industry through active engagement and advocacy in every facet I can find. This journey requires courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication from our stakeholders, as we strive to create a future where our industry is recognized for its philanthropy and proactiveness in housing our country and supporting local communities. We achieve this not only through housing but also by providing support for local communities and workforces.
Supporting initiatives from the National Apartment Association and the National Multifamily Housing Council is essential for achieving this goal. By embracing a holistic approach and working together, we can make significant strides towards realizing this vision.
The National Apartment Association Advocate Conference is a powerful platform for change. It empowers industry leaders to champion legislative reforms and challenge existing narratives.
Together, we can create a more inclusive housing landscape and strengthen our local communities for generations to come.
If you were able to attend the conference this year, thank you for your continued dedication and passion for our industry. If you did not get the opportunity and want to get more involved Smart would be delighted to cheer you on. I can guarantee that once you take that leap you won’t look back!
Here are the bipartisan bills we discussed on the Hill:
The Choice in Affordable Housing Act- S.32, HR. 4606
Respect State Housing Laws Act- S. 3755, H.R. 802
Here are some important supporting talking points and studies:
$1 of Rent Breakdown- Where Does the Money Go?
LEASING PROCESS COMPARISON- The barriers in the Housing Choice Voucher Process
Industry Spotlights:Skyrocketing Insurance Costs, Apartments Support Local Economy, Rental Housing Gives Back
Here is a podcast from NAA’s Apartmentcast discussing these topics.
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]]>The post Collaborating for Change: Advocacy and Partnership at the NAA Advocate Conference appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>A study by the Urban Institute revealed a decline in rental units affordable to low-income households from 19% in 2000 to 14% in 2016. This decrease suggests that property operators may be opting out of programs like the HCVP, contributing to the scarcity of affordable housing.
The National Low Income Housing Coalition (NLIHC) stressed in a 2019 report the need for increased property operator participation in the HCVP, stating that “a lack of available affordable units remains a significant barrier for voucher holders trying to find housing.” This underscores the importance of advocating for policies that remove barriers to construction and incentivize property operators to support housing assistance programs.
During the conference, it is essential to share personal stories and collaborate on solutions to address these pressing issues. One such story involves a developer in Cleveland and 17 investors who worked tirelessly to build a low-income housing tax credit community connected to a transportation system. This 40-unit development took over 21 years to complete, highlighting the urgent need to address the demand for more affordable housing.
By championing initiatives that encourage greater participation in the HCVP and other housing assistance programs, we can help mitigate the affordable housing crisis and make a meaningful impact on the lives of millions of Americans. Additionally, discussing legislation like the YIMBY Act, the Respect Local Housing Laws Act, and Section 8 reform will foster a diverse and inclusive community.
It’s important to note that property operators are not the issue here, but rather the unintended consequences of well-intentioned yet misinformed legislation and the lack of understanding and empathy from some legislators. By promoting a balanced dialogue between property operators, industry professionals, and legislators, we can work towards creating more effective housing policies that benefit all stakeholders and ensure a thriving rental housing market for years to come.
Beyond attending the Advocate conference, property professionals can take several steps to safeguard the rental property management industry from potentially harmful legislation:
Stay informed: Keep up-to-date on local, state, and federal housing policies, as well as industry trends and news. Subscribe to relevant newsletters, follow industry thought leaders on social media, and join professional organizations like the Institute of Real Estate Management (IREM) and the National Multifamily Housing Council (NMHC) to ensure you’re well-informed.
Build relationships with local representatives: Establish connections with your local, state, and federal representatives. Invite them to tour your properties, share your experiences, and discuss the potential impact of legislation on the industry, tenants, and the broader community.
Educate legislators using industry research: Share your expertise and insights with policymakers to help them understand the complexities of the rental property management industry. Offer real-world examples, case studies, and data, such as the National Apartment Association’s (NAA) “Unintended Consequences” study, which highlights the potential negative outcomes of well-intentioned but misguided legislation.
Participate in local government meetings: Attend city council meetings, planning commission sessions, and other relevant local government events to voice your concerns and advocate for the industry.
Join and support industry associations: Strengthen the industry’s collective voice by actively participating in organizations like the NAA, IREM, and NMHC. These groups often have resources and tools to help members engage with legislators and advocate for the industry.
Engage in grassroots advocacy: Mobilize your colleagues, employees, and even tenants to contact their elected officials and express their concerns about proposed legislation. Grassroots advocacy can be a powerful tool in influencing policy decisions.
Collaborate with other stakeholders: Partner with other industry professionals, developers, housing advocates, and community organizations to present a united front and develop comprehensive solutions to address housing challenges.
Utilize social media: Share your perspectives, experiences, and insights on social media platforms to raise awareness about the potential impact of proposed legislation and to engage with a broader audience.
By actively engaging in these activities, property professionals can help protect the rental property management industry and ensure that policies are based on a comprehensive understanding of the sector’s complexities and the needs of all stakeholders.
While attending the Advocate conference in Washington, D.C., make the most of your time in the nation’s capital by exploring some of its top attractions. Here are the top 5 things to do in Washington, D.C., with links for more information:
Visit the National Mall and Memorial Parks:
Take a stroll through the National Mall, home to iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial.
National Mall and Memorial Parks: https://www.nps.gov/nama/index.htm
Explore the Smithsonian Museums:
Discover the 19 museums and galleries that make up the Smithsonian Institution, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Smithsonian Museums: https://www.si.edu/museums
Tour the U.S. Capitol and the White House:
Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol and the White House, two of the most important symbols of American democracy. Advance reservations are required for some tours.
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center: https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/
The White House: https://www.whitehouse.gov/about-the-white-house/tours-events/
Visit the National Gallery of Art:
Explore the extensive collection of art from various periods and cultures at the National Gallery of Art, which includes works by artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso.
National Gallery of Art: https://www.nga.gov/
Walk along the National Harbor:
Enjoy the waterfront views, shops, and restaurants at the National Harbor, located just outside of Washington, D.C., in Maryland. The area also features the Capital Wheel, a 180-foot-tall Ferris wheel with breathtaking views of the city.
National Harbor: https://www.nationalharbor.com/
Washington, D.C., offers a wealth of attractions and experiences for visitors. Make the most of your time in the city by exploring these top sites and creating lasting memories.
Check out Smart Chick Megan’s Impact story for legislators below!
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]]>The post Stanley Cup Thermos: A Masterclass in Rebranding and Revitalization appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Embracing a New Identity
Founded in 1913, Stanley has long been synonymous with rugged, reliable outdoor gear. But in recent years, the brand has undergone a metamorphosis that has allowed it to break free from the constraints of its traditional image. By introducing vibrant colors and contemporary designs to its product line, Stanley has attracted a new, younger audience eager to embrace the brand’s unique blend of nostalgia and modernity.
The Power of Influencer Marketing
One of the driving forces behind Stanley’s resurgence has been its strategic use of influencer marketing. By partnering with social media personalities and celebrities, the brand has been able to tap into a vast network of potential customers, exposing its products to audiences that might otherwise have remained unaware of its existence.
The Quencher Revolution
At the heart of Stanley’s newfound success is the ubiquitous Quencher – a 40-ounce water bottle that has become an Instagram sensation and must-have accessory. By reimagining a staple product and incorporating design elements that appeal to today’s consumer, Stanley has managed to turn a simple water bottle into a cultural phenomenon.
Sustainability and Authenticity
Finally, Stanley’s commitment to sustainability and authenticity has endeared the brand to a generation of consumers increasingly concerned with the environmental and social impact of their purchasing decisions. By emphasizing the durability and longevity of its products, Stanley has managed to create a sense of trust and loyalty that will serve the brand well into the future.
In conclusion, the story of Stanley Cup Thermos serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative potential of intelligent marketing and a willingness to adapt to changing consumer preferences. By staying true to its roots while embracing new opportunities, Stanley has proven that it’s possible for a heritage brand to not only survive in the modern era but thrive.
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]]>The post Become a Product Pro: Mastering Apartment Demonstrations with Expert Knowledge and Tools appeared first on Smart Apartment Solutions.
]]>Here, we’ll explore the innovative tools, strategies, and expertise that are reshaping the apartment demonstration landscape and driving success in the competitive rental market.
Rethinking Apartment Tours: Video Platforms, Interactive Floor Plans, and Mini Models
The integration of video platforms, such as SalesMail and RealLync, has transformed the way leasing professionals showcase properties. Both enable personalized video messages to be seamlessly embedded in email templates, fostering genuine connections with potential apartment renters. Both facilitate pre-recorded templated videos while some also have live video chats, streamlining the leasing process and accelerating trust-building with the customer. These video tools help remove a lot of barriers our leasing teams might face with technology by making the process simple and interactive any by doing so, we are seeing teams embrace the technology more than before due to its accessibility.
Interactive floor plans have transitioned from a costly novelty to a more accessible and budget-friendly option in today’s market. These digital tools allow clients to virtually walk through properties, customize furniture arrangements, and explore décor options. By providing a high level of customization, interactive floor plans foster emotional connections with potential renters and facilitate the sales process.
Mini model packages, offered by companies like Charter Furniture, provide on trend apartment packages that can be customized for any size model and can help set your vacant show apartments apart from your competitors.
These modern, budget-friendly packages create engaging and interactive experiences, enhancing the overall appeal of the apartment and in some cases can make all the difference with our prospective residents seeing themselves in the home.
Mastering In-Person Demonstrations: Strategic Positioning and Expertise
When conducting in-person demonstrations of your apartment community, particularly the apartment itself, it’s essential to employ strategic positioning and emphasize the unique selling points that set your property apart. This approach will help create a memorable and engaging experience for prospective residents.
To excel as a leasing professional, develop a comprehensive understanding of the apartment, community, and surrounding neighborhood. This knowledge fosters trust and confidence in your expertise. Pay close attention to details, such as the capacity of cabinets to accommodate 12-inch dinner plates or the availability of six outlets in the kitchen, to address common concerns and demonstrate your commitment to meeting renters’ needs.
Furthermore, highlighting features or areas within the apartment or community that alleviate potential pain points for the customer will further showcase your dedication to their satisfaction. By focusing on these aspects, you can create a tailored experience that resonates with each prospective resident, making them feel understood and valued.
By combining strategic positioning, in-depth knowledge, and a focus on addressing customer concerns, you’ll elevate the apartment demonstration experience and this will contribute to your success in the competitive rental market. This approach will not only help you close more leases but also foster lasting relationships with residents who appreciate your expertise, honesty, and commitment to their satisfaction.
Showcasing Community Life: The Power of Multimedia and Resident Engagement
To showcase your property’s unique features, consider incorporating multimedia elements like slideshows depicting the community in different seasons or during resident events. QR codes can facilitate easy access to these resources, encouraging interaction and deepening the connection to the property. Imagine if your prospective resident could scan codes along the way and uncover all of the perks and benefits that they may not get to see everyday on tour or even renderings of how the spaces are intended to be used after construction.
The more ways you can show your customer why your community is the best through video, photos, written testimonials or even visual aids the more emotionally connected they will become with you, your community and your brand.
By embracing innovative tools, getting curious about your property and surrounding community, and a commitment to transparency, leasing professionals can create an engaging and memorable apartment demonstration experience.
By focusing on personalization, interaction, and attention to detail, you’ll foster trust and establish lasting relationships with prospective residents. In doing so, you’ll elevate your success in the competitive rental market and contribute to a new era in apartment demonstrations that meets the evolving needs of today’s renters.
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