INDUSTRY NEWS
Hamilton Zanze Contributes 10th Asset to HZ Evergreen Fund
by David Cervantes
Hamilton Zanze has contributed The Highlands, a 448-unit community in Overland Park, Kan., to its HZ Evergreen Fund, marking the fund’s 10th property. The addition pushes the portfolio beyond $300 million in net asset value and expands its presence across five states. The long-term investment vehicle continues to grow through institutional-quality assets while offering investors diversification, tax-efficient opportunities, liquidity features and simplified ownership.
Read the article in The Multifamily Journal
SmartRent Welcomes Danny Harris as VP of Sales
by Doug Pike
SmartRent appointed Danny Harris as vice president of sales, adding an industry veteran with two decades of experience. Harris will oversee go-to-market strategy, strengthen sales leadership and help expand customer relationships. His background includes leadership roles focused on helping operators improve efficiency, resident experience and portfolio performance.
Mill Creek Residential Wins NAA Excellence Award
by Paul Willis
Mill Creek Residential has earned a National Apartment Association Excellence Award in the #NAAGives category, recognizing the company’s long-term commitment to community service. The honor reflects four years of its annual Month of Service initiative, which supports local nonprofits through volunteer projects addressing food insecurity, shelter and other needs.
THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Let Them Talk: What AI Found in 60,000+ Resident Chats
by Andrew Ruhland
AI analysis of more than 60,000 resident conversations reveals how informal feedback channels can provide valuable insights into resident sentiment, concerns and community experiences. As social platforms and AI-driven search increasingly influence reputation, operators can benefit from creating spaces where residents can engage directly. Turning conversations into actionable intelligence helps teams address issues earlier, strengthen relationships and improve retention.
Read the article in NAA Apartment Innovations
Your Roadmap to Personal and Team Wellness
by Stephen Ursery
Prioritizing wellness in multifamily requires more than encouraging self-care. It calls for intentional habits, supportive leadership and workplace cultures that promote resilience. Strategies such as setting boundaries, recognizing stress and fostering open communication can improve both individual well-being and team performance.
How to Build a Good Company Culture
by Olivia Bunescu
A strong culture is built through intentional leadership, clear values and consistent actions. Organizations that prioritize trust, communication, recognition and growth opportunities create more engaged teams and stronger retention. When employees feel connected to a shared purpose, culture becomes a competitive advantage.
MULTIFAMILY TECHNOLOGY
Test, Prove, Scale: How to Run a Smart AI Pilot
by Kevin Juhasz
Organizations evaluating AI solutions can improve their chances of success by starting with clearly defined outcomes instead of chasing features. Effective pilots use measurable goals, involve cross-functional stakeholders and test solutions in real operational environments before broader deployment. Tracking meaningful metrics, gathering feedback and refining implementation help determine whether an AI tool delivers lasting value.
Read the article in NAA Industry Insider
Why Digital Accessibility Matters in Multifamily
by Leslie Tucker
Digital accessibility helps ensure that prospective and current residents can fully engage with property websites, applications and online services regardless of ability. Designing digital experiences with accessibility in mind supports compliance with evolving requirements, expands reach and improves usability for all users.
Real Estate Companies Need to Rethink AI Spend
by Franco Faraudo
Real estate companies are being challenged to rethink technology spending as AI shifts the focus from accumulating software to creating measurable business outcomes. Rather than adding disconnected tools, organizations should prioritize integrated data, streamlined workflows and platforms that support AI-driven decision-making.