Trees hold a transformative power and are part of the solution to climate change. Yardi-supported nonprofit Trees Atlanta provides immense tree benefits, ensuring the greater Atlanta area stays green. Trees Atlanta Inc. was established in 1984 in Atlanta, GA and works year-round to protect and enhance Atlanta’s metro tree canopy through several programs. These programs, including planting and care, removing invasive species, forest restoration, youth and adult education, and workforce development, are made possible by dedicated community and corporate volunteers. Their contribution of a record 44,000 work hours over the past year proves their commitment and the key to Trees Atlanta’s success. Trees Atlanta pays special attention to areas with below-coverage trees or those that suffer from flooding and poor air quality. “We hope to engage even more citizens in the care of Atlanta’s urban and suburban forests to ensure the benefits of trees reach as many people as possible. The continued growth of our educational and workforce development programs reflects this commitment,” explained Michael Vinciquerra, business development director for Trees Atlanta. He also emphasized the crucial role of corporate partners in this mission, acknowledging their support and significant impact on Trees Atlanta’s success. Trees Atlanta plans to plant more than 8,000 trees in the year ahead, which will be a record for them. The new agreement with the City of Atlanta will allow it to expand its efforts in removing invasive plants in city parks, complementing its ongoing restoration work in areas outside the city, funded by private donations and contracts. In early 2025, Trees Atlanta will launch its own tree nursery to help meet the growing demand for native trees, which are increasingly difficult to source. Additionally, it will accelerate tree planting in downtown Atlanta, an area with the lowest tree cover, requiring significant...
Still Beeping
The Enduring Pager
Some technologies lapse into obscurity when something more capable or easier to use comes along. Consider rotary telephones, floppy disks and VHS tapes. How about pagers, which came into service six decades ago? Those small electronic devices, sometimes called beepers because of the sound they make when notifying users of a new message, haven’t disappeared. Although totaling less than 4% of the number in use at their peak popularity 30 years ago, pagers today constitute crucial infrastructure for many professionals, include health care providers and emergency responders, who require quick and secure communication functionality. Pagers, which run on batteries, were patented in 1949 and originally designed for doctors. Motorola coined the word 10 years later and introduced the first consumer tone-only pager in 1964. Expanding functionality and status Radio frequencies managed by a network operator transmit signals that cause a pager to buzz, beep or vibrate, alerting the user to an incoming message. The message can comprise numbers, letters or both. Early models evolved to incorporate graphical displays, audio messaging, encryption, two-way functionality, wide-area paging capability and other enhanced features. In the 1980s and 1990s, says U.S. News & World Report, tens of millions of pager users considered their devices “status symbols — belt-clipped signals that a wearer was important enough to be, in effect, on call at a moment’s notice.” Multiple advantages Today, pagers suit health care providers, workers in remote locations, emergency responders and others because they use their own communications channels rather than mobile networks or Wi-Fi. They are highly reliable in areas with poor or disrupted cell service, resist hacking, function in hazardous locations such as blazing structures and boast a durable design. They are easy to use and install with little training. Even restaurants use them to notify patrons...
The Sky’s No Limit
See Astronomical Phenomena
Looking for easy, fun and free activities to fill your winter nights? Step outside and open your eyes to some spectacular upcoming astronomical events. Dec. 7: Jupiter at opposition The largest planet in the solar system lies opposite the sun in the sky and will be visible all night in the constellation Taurus. Dec. 8: Saturn near moon The ringed planet will appear close to the moon in the constellation Aquarius. Dec. 14-15: Geminid meteors; Jupiter and moon Normally one of the best meteor showers of the year, with 100-120 per hour, the Geminids will be somewhat obscured by the full moon. Meteors are caused by streams of cosmic debris that enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Also on Dec. 14, Jupiter will appear close to the 98%-illuminated moon in the constellation Taurus. Dec. 18: Mars near moon The red planet will appear close to the 92.3%-illuminated moon in the constellation Cancer. Dec. 22-23: Ursid meteors The last major meteor shower of the year peaks this night, from after sunset until moonrise. Under ideal conditions, as many as 10 meteors could be visible per hour. Dec. 25: Mercury at greatest elongation west The closest planet to the sun will appear at its farthest apparent distance west from the sun, an event known as the greatest elongation. It’s the best time to observe Mercury. Jan. 2-3: Quadrantids meteors Keep the New Year celebration going by viewing this meteor shower at its peak. With the moon only 11% full and set before the shower begins in earnest, the display will be visible from anywhere in the Northern Hemisphere with clear skies and little light...
Cozy Rentals for Fall...
Home Away from Home
Fall is a perfect season for property owners of short-term rentals to offer the best fall essentials and aesthetically pleasing elements. These unique features can transform the property into a home away from home for guests, enhancing their cozy rental experience. Aesthetically pleasing When it comes to fall decorations, it’s all about creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Beyond the traditional cornucopias, a warm color palette and seasonal colors can transform the property into a cozy haven. Think deep reds, muted browns, and this year’s Pantone color of the year, peach fuzz. This versatile shade can adapt to different style preferences, making it perfect for a warm and cozy aesthetic. Incorporate these colors into throw pillows, blankets and curtains to instantly evoke that fall feeling. Don’t forget to bring the outdoors in with natural elements like pinecones, dried leaves, acorns, apples and mini pumpkins. Display them in bowls or baskets on tables and countertops to add a rustic, autumnal touch. Visual interest and dimension Focus on textured layers and comfort items, such as adding chunky knit blankets, plaid throws and soft area rugs. Include some fuzzy socks or slippers in the same color palette as the interior for extra comfort. By layering different fabrics, it makes spaces feel warm and inviting. Layer scents for a fragrance fiesta with various scented candles throughout the space, creating a three-dimensional cozy candle scent experience. Choose seasonal colors, shapes, and candles of different sizes. Light it up Since candles offer a warm, soft glow, include lighting that mimics that same feeling. String some fairy twinkle lights or lanterns to add ambiance. Dimmable bulbs can also make spaces feel warmer. If located in more of a chiller location, have the ultimate outdoor experience with outdoor fire pits or patio...
Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter
Enabling Family Stability
An Atlanta where homelessness is defeated, and every child has a safe and nurturing home is the vision of this Yardi-supported nonprofit for the future. Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter (ACS) was established in 1986 in Atlanta, GA, to break the cycle of poverty for families facing homelessness by building pathways to long-term self-sufficiency and providing quality early childhood education. This shelter serves families with children under six and fills the gaps in access to affordable childcare. Its Early Childhood Education program helps children meet developmental milestones to enter kindergarten on the same page as their housed peers while providing parents with the resources and support to meet financial goals. ACS hopes to assess ways to extend its reach into the Metro Atlanta homeless community while supporting staff. Funding from Yardi is instrumental in the success of ACS programs. This support is not just financial, but it also provides the highest quality of service to a demographic familiar with neglect. Yardi’s participation in the ACS event, Holiday House, where it distributes toy and gift items to families in its care who otherwise could not afford them, shows the impact of their support. Anyone interested in participating can donate items to the toy drive for children up to age 18, knowing that their contribution will make a significant difference. “We are so grateful for Yardi’s continued support! We are always thrilled to connect with Yardi as a partner,” exclaimed Emily Stinson, development coordinator for Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter. Ebonee’s Pathway to Hope Walking into the Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter, Ebonee felt apprehensive but hopeful. After losing her housing, she needed childcare for her toddler daughter. She also needed help finding housing and her subsequent career steps. With ACS staff in her corner, Ebonee turned toward a better future and hasn’t looked back. First, the team helped Ebonee enroll her daughter in its Toddler 2 class with Lead Teacher Ms. Tameela. “Seeing my daughter happy, learning, and flourishing has made me smile,” Ebonee beamed. With housing support, tuition assistance, and the knowledge her daughter was cared for, Ebonee explored her interest in becoming an esthetician. Along the way, she discovered her true passions: radiology and healthcare. Now, Ebonee is working toward her medical assistant certification. Ebonee shares, “I want to dive into the healthcare field after graduation… I plan to become a radiologist… [so] I can secure my daughter and I’s future along with helping patients with accurate diagnoses.” Most recently, Ebonee’s hard work landed her on the honor roll. With the community cheering her on, Ebonee achieves her daily goals. Ebonee’s story is evidence of the hope and potential that can be realized with the proper support, inspiring others to believe in the possibility of change. Often, homelessness and its preceding challenges steal power and choice from parents. Supporting Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter will empower families to pursue more hopeful futures. Ebonee says, “I’ve regained a newer, clearer vision and purpose; I’m finding my path.” Volunteer Opportunities Atlanta Children’s Day Shelter offers group and individual volunteer opportunities in its classrooms to assist with supervision and engagement. These opportunities are not just a chance to give back, but they also provide a unique way to see your donation’s impact because you genuinely connect with children. Stinson says, “It’s a great way to be directly involved in the positive change we’re creating.” For more information, reach out to Emily Stinson at [email protected]. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...
Making Plans
Optimizing CRE Space Management
Industry leaders agree that when it comes to CRE space management, it is critical to centralize lease data, maximize rental square footage (RSF), improve energy efficiency and reconfigure spaces to meet changing needs and put existing spaces to the best use. Understanding your RSF helps you determine effective rental rates as well as attract and retain tenants for all your properties and for every purpose including office, flex space and retail. Making data-driven decisions and having tools to visualize and reimagine every space in your portfolio will yield optimal results. Floor plan management software is quickly becoming a best practice for CRE operators — especially when united with an enterprise property management platform to achieve one source of data. Advanced software such as Yardi Floorplan Manager connects portfolio-wide data so clients can utilize a single solution to integrate and quantify space, occupancy and performance data. Yardi Floorplan Manager capabilities Floorplan Manager enables clients to create and edit floor and stacking plans with real-time lease metrics and instant area calculations to promote quicker turnaround. Features include out-of-the-box KPIs and the ability to leverage existing AutoCAD drawings combined with occupancy data for smart space planning. The solution also enables users to create “digital twins” of their assets that include floor plan schematics, locations of equipment and other pertinent details that helps clients visualize data to make decisions that drive NOI. Floorplan Manager delivers: Enhanced floor plans: seamlessly integrate your floor plans with Yardi Voyager data and visualize all CAD file layers. Annotations and customizations: support external and internal floor plan use cases with customized unit labels, metrics and tenant logos. Speculation and leasing tools: create visually stunning “what if?” scenarios and sharable leasing models with version control and effective date. Accurate calculations: quickly process area spreadsheets according to BOMA and REBNY standards. Compare and report drawing data against Voyager areas. Consolidated visuals: Manage and visualize all CAD layers, draw unit boundaries and demise space. Easily edit, create, approve and activate new floor plan versions. How one industry leader is optimizing space management Macerich, one of the nation’s leading owners, operators and developers of one-of-a-kind retail and mixed-use properties in top markets uses Floorplan Manager to integrate lease and tenant data from Voyager and optimize space management. The flexibility to see a higher level of space detail for both public-facing sites and internal planning using Floorplan Manager is an advantage for Macerich. The ability to view maps historically is another big win. “There are all sorts of metrics you can look at on the maps. Many are pre-configured but you can basically add anything you want. As a visual reporting tool, the solution lets us look at tenant sales and rents and other categories that we can colorize on the map which makes it easy for us to see if we have too many similar stores on one level. We can review vacancies and decide what would work best in those spaces,” saidSteve Schmid, assistant vice president for Information Technology at Macerich. Wondering what advanced space management software can do for you? Learn more about Yardi Floorplan...
InterAct
Family Violence Prevention Center
Domestic violence, a leading cause of homelessness for women and their children in the United States, often results in severe mental health issues and overall unhealthy well-being. In the face of this, InterAct, a Yardi-supported nonprofit, steps in to save, rebuild, and secure safer futures for its community, inspiring hope and resilience. InterAct, founded in 1978 as Wake County Child Abuse Prevention Services, has evolved into a comprehensive support system. It supports approximately 7,000 individuals and families annually, focusing on survivors of domestic violence, intimate partner violence, and sexual assault. Its trauma-informed services, available 24/7, 365 days a year, include an accessible crisis hotline, emergency shelter, and the Solace Center—the only expert forensic nursing and advocacy center for sexual assault survivors in Wake County. InterAct’s free and confidential services are open to all, regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, national origin, language, or religion, providing a sense of reassurance and support to the community. Meeting the demand for services at InterAct is an ongoing challenge. The pandemic led to a significant increase in the need for services, with a dramatic rise in the percentage of crisis callers at high risk for severe injury or death. Even after the pandemic, these alarming numbers persist, underscoring the urgent need for community support and action. “Although the need for these services is great, InterAct does not turn away anyone who comes to its door seeking assistance and refuge. InterAct continues to offer its critical services at no cost for survivors and victims,” explained Chennelle Miller, communications manager for InterAct. As Wake County continues to grow, so does the need for InterAct’s critically necessary and comprehensive services. Through support from the community and Yardi, InterAct provides the following robust services: Crisis Lines: Individuals can reach...
Empower and Retain Staff
With Senior Living Technology
In today’s landscape of operating senior living communities, how can you alleviate staffing challenges? Organizations of various sizes seek answers in technology. Yet, how do you find the right technology that won’t overwhelm your essential care staff who are already busy? Our single connected solution — the Yardi Senior Living Suite — can simplify daily tasks for caregivers, helping you empower and retain your team members. For insight into actions that can promote both staff satisfaction and quality of care for residents, don’t miss our informative new ebook. After checking out a few highlights here, explore the full ebook. Why choose a single connected solution for your senior living community? According to 2024 data from the American Health Care Association, two-thirds of senior living communities are concerned they may have to close due to ongoing workforce challenges. Over 50% say their workforce situation has stayed the same or gotten worse in the past six months. 7 out of 10 still have fewer employees than they did before the pandemic. 46% are limiting admissions due to labor shortages. With no end in sight for these staffing challenges, it’s critical to invest in tools that simplify daily tasks for your caregivers — and incentivize them to stay longer. How does our technology support staff retention? Supporting your staff with an integrated electronic health record (EHR) and electronic medication administration record (eMAR) solution helps them provide better care for your residents. Take a closer look at how our comprehensive care solutions support staff by: Uniting integrated workflows on a single platform. Supporting all types of senior living including independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and life plan communities/continuing care retirement communities. Reinforcing value-based care (VBC) initiatives that empower staff. Keeping sensitive data safe with HIPAA and SOX compliance. Delivering solutions backed by a Forbes Cloud 100 company with 40+ years of industry experience. Providing interoperability and secure interface partners. Simplifying staff training with robust, built-in educational materials that allow employees to learn at their own pace, including videos, recorded webinars and job aids. Explore our integrated care solutions Yardi EHR: Yardi EHR is a full-service electronic health record solution that unites clinical intake processing, medication management, resident assessments, interoperability, care planning and more. It enables streamlined analysis of population health metrics and real-time information sharing — helping you track and improve resident health outcomes. Yardi eMAR: Yardi eMAR is a comprehensive medication management solution built for senior living. It streamlines medication passing and facilitates seamless communication between pharmacies, care staff and senior management, all on a single platform. Read the ebook in full The Yardi Senior Living Suite offers more ways to improve staffing challenges — read the ebook in its entirety to learn more. And if you have any questions for our team, don’t hesitate to reach...
Getting Attuned
Using Music to Sell
You might notice it sometimes but it’s usually unobtrusive, discernable only if you stop what you’re doing and concentrate on it. It’s the background music that accompanies your visit to many retail stores and restaurants around the world. Clinical research indicates that a store’s atmosphere affects the emotional states of consumers by appealing to the pleasure centers of the brain. Customers who listen to music they like are more likely to stay in stores longer and make return visits, according to data gathered by Mood Media, an Austin, Texas-based sound design agency that specializes in music for public spaces including those operated by Dunkin’ Donuts, The Home Depot and Wendy’s. “Retailers with a sound knowledge of how in-store music influences shopper’s attitudes can harness its powerful effects on the human mind,” says Tampa, Fla.-based Spectrio, a customer engagement specialist firm. “Choosing music for your shop involves sending shoppers the right message: you want them to feel positive and confident in their shopping choices, living in the moment and excited to make a purchase.” Setting the mood Researchers generally agree that slower, more leisurely music causes shoppers to spend more time contemplating their purchases and enjoying the atmosphere. Up-tempo or fast-paced music encourages quicker shopping. The type of music can matter as well. For example, classical music projects an air of expense and quality, suitable for expensive merchandise such as upscale fine foods. Top 40 pop music might be ideal for teenagers, whereas country music could be the best enticement for shoppers at outdoor clothing stores. “A bookstore may benefit from mellow music played at low volumes, which lets customers peruse books before buying them. A clothing store wishing to project youthful energy may opt for upbeat music at higher volumes,” reports Shopify, a Canadian company...
Holiday Energy Efficiency
Eco-friendly Celebrations
The holiday season is ramping up, but your bills don’t have to! Enjoy the holidays without worrying about rising energy costs. Let’s explore some simple tips for keeping your home cozy and using low energy this winter. Put down the sponge: Did you know you use up to 27 gallons of water per load by hand-washing dishes? According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), an ENERGY STAR®-rated dishwasher only uses three gallons of water per load. An ENERGY STAR-certified dishwasher can save almost 5,000 gallons of water per year. In 2013, dishwashers were introduced with new standards that required them to only use as much as five gallons per load. Be sure it’s a whole load before running the dishwasher, and scrape food remnants into the trash before loading it. Prerinsing wastes more than 6,000 gallons of water per household yearly. Opt for small appliances: Embrace the convenience of using small appliances such as slow cookers, instant pots, toaster ovens, air fryers or microwaves. These energy-efficient alternatives save more energy than the oven or stove, making cooking a breeze. Instant pots or slow cookers are perfect for cooking side dishes like casseroles or chilis. Toaster ovens can quickly reheat leftovers and bake cookies or small cakes. Keep lids on: While cooking on the stove, cover pots and pans with lids to reduce heat waste, save energy and help food cook faster. No peeking: Can’t seem to stop looking at that delicious turkey? Use the oven light instead of opening the oven several times. A substantial amount of heat escapes whenever you open the oven door while cooking. Keep the door shut to save energy and cut back on cooking time. Sharing is caring: Maximize oven efficiency and the joy of the holiday season by baking multiple dishes together. Roasted vegetables and meats are a delicious duo that can be cooked together. Use ceramic or glass baking dishes to retain heat better than their metal counterparts, making them the most energy-efficient option for baking. Stay warm: As the kitchen heats up with cooking, so does the rest of the house. Turn the thermostat down a few degrees to save energy and stay comfortable. Turn down the heat even further when having a holiday gathering since extra body heat from guests should help keep everyone comfortable. Light it up: Here’s a bright idea for holiday lights—use LED lights! According to energy.gov, LEDs use up to 70 percent less energy than conventional incandescent bulbs and last about ten times longer. Some companies offer rental services for solar-powered light displays. These simple acts of responsibility can significantly reduce your energy bills during the holidays, giving you a sense of financial security and control over energy...
Let’s Talk Affordable Housing
YASC Conversations
There’s a lot to like about attending the Yardi Advanced Solutions Conference (YASC). It’s a treat for both Yardi team members and clients alike. The Yardi Party, for example, is always a lot of fun, especially this year as we celebrated 40 years. And there are hundreds of courses to choose from and new people to meet from every sector of the property and investment management industry. But, if you ask a Yardi team member the best thing about YASC, you’ll likely hear that seeing clients in person and speaking with them face-to-face is what they look forward to most. Late this summer in San Diego, Yardi representatives sat down for formal interviews with clients from the affordable housing industry. Interviewees included Christy Alvarado from MEB Affordable Management Services, Noel Gill from Northwest Real Estate Capital Group, and Priya Ramchandran from USA Properties Fund, among several others. Each of the interviewees expressed an admiration for the affordable housing industry and the positive impacts it has on the communities they work in. Christy Alvarado described how residents of MEB’s properties gain stability through an affordable housing unit. “The families we work with might be on the cusp of becoming homeless and unfortunately looking at temporary stays with different family members because of losing their own home. Affordable housing gives them personal space for cooking, sleeping and bathing. That sense of permanence that affordable housing provides is a big differentiator from staying with a friend or family member while trying to get back on their feet,” said Christy. MEB celebrates its families who move on to market rate housing not only because they’ve gained personal stability, but also because their departure opens affordable housing for another family in need. That cycle of housing stabilization is often supported by onsite services such as childcare, job training and personal counseling. Our conversation with Priya Ramchandran of USA Properties Fund, Inc., touched on the topic of accounts payable for affordable housing. Priya described how her accounting team benefits from the Yardi Procure to Pay solution set. “The sheer number of invoices our small AP team processes for our entire portfolio can become overwhelming, even resulting in some shut off notices and late fees. But we have eliminated those types of situations with AP workflows in Yardi Procure to Pay, which are easy to learn and use,” said Priya. Noel Gill covered many interesting topics during the interview, including how his organization uses the Yardi Aspire learning management solution. “We use Yardi Aspire to create unique learning opportunities for newly hired team members,” said Noel. He added that staff turnover at the property level is an ongoing challenge for many affordable housing providers, including his organization, the Northwest Real Estate Capital Group. Aspire, says Noel, makes it faster and easier to onboard new hires and to get them trained on workflows necessary to get up and running quickly. Noel also expressed appreciation for one of Yardi’s most core functionalities, accounting. “We started with Yardi on Enterprise, going back to around the year 2000. Over all those years, I’ve never found a better accounting system than Yardi,” said Noel. If you are a Yardi client and haven’t been to one of our conferences or live training events, visit Yardi.com/events to make plans to join us. Maybe you’ll be our next interview...
Empowering tech-resistant residents
Strategies for PHAs
We hear it all the time: “Our residents don’t want to use technology.” And we understand why! Concerns range from limited digital access to privacy worries, and sometimes it can be about not feeling comfortable with tech. Their reasons are valid, but with education and community-focused strategies, you can help them break through these barriers. Because when it comes down to it, technology brings a new convenience that residents haven’t experienced before. From paying rent to requesting maintenance, software makes everyday tasks easier and faster. Communicating these benefits can help residents see technology as a helpful tool, rather than a cumbersome task. And once it clicks for them, they won’t go back! This blog will cover: Why technology is critical for PHAs Strategies for adapting tech-resistant residents How Yardi can help your agency succeed Why technology is critical for PHAs In public housing, technology is essential in providing efficient and quality service to residents. Moving away from time-consuming processes, like mailing forms and in-person meetings, simply speeds up operations. And the reality is, online applications and maintenance requests are processed twice as fast as traditional methods, saving you both time and money. Many agencies are already seeing the benefits. By automating tasks, they’re able to allocate resources, reduce backlogs and plan for the future. Read more about how agencies are thriving with technology here. Adapting residents to technology So, how can you adapt tech-resistant residents to feel more comfortable with technology? “In our region, some don’t warm up to technology right away, so we have to go at their pace,” says Stacy Sanders and Marti Chilcoat of the Kentucky Housing Authority. It’s important to have patience and meet residents where there but building comfort with technology also requires education. “Education is key,” says Juan Garcia of the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara. We tell our residents, ‘Hey, with RentCafe you can see your inspections, apply for new waiting lists, review who is your caseworker, submit your paperwork to complete your recertifications easily and best of all it’s available 24/7.’ Once they understand the benefits, they’re more likely to give it a try.” We know how important resident care is to you. Making sure they feel comfortable and confident is imperative to this industry. That’s why it’s important to clarify that technology is only there to support them. 5 strategies to help your resident break the tech-barrier 1. One-on-one meetings: Offering personalized support is a great starting point. Schedule individual meetings to help residents get set up on their device. Allow them to ask questions and be sure to schedule follow-up meetings. “For us, the easiest way is by scheduling resident meetings at move-in to help them get set up on RentCafe on their mobile device.” – Juan Garcia, the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara 2. Group workshops: Hold regular workshops to cover different topics, such as setting up online payments. They can be an inviting way for your residents to learn in a supportive environment. Plus, it gives them a chance to learn and practice together. 3. On-site kiosks: Set up kiosks at your agency or other communal area, where residents can access the technology to complete essential tasks. Having a dedicated space can help residents feel at ease while also providing support for those without a device or access to Wi-Fi. “We set up kiosks in certain locations to make things easier for residents. If they don’t have access to a scanner, they can use the one at our kiosk to upload documents directly into RentCafe.” – Jacquelyn Hicks, vice president of Information Technology at Richmond Redevelopment Housing Authority 4. Wi-Fi help: Inform residents on locations where they can access free Wi-Fi. Limited access is a major barrier, but helping residents understand their options is essential. 5. Step-by-step guides: Written guides or video tutorials are a great way for your residents...
Student Housing Update
From Yardi Matrix
The student housing market is showing promising signs as it heads into the very early days of a new leasing season. Despite some challenges, the outlook remains positive, according to the latest webinar on the sector from Yardi Matrix. (View recording and other materials here.) Student housing continues to see solid demand and a few market adjustments should benefit the sector in the medium term. Yardi Matrix tracks the performance of 1.15 million student housing beds at over 2500 U.S. universities to analyze the performance of the student housing market. Let’s dive into some of the key points shared by Tyson Huebner, Director of Research for Yardi Matrix, which explore current state of the student housing market and actionable investment insights. Rent Growth Trends Huebner kicked off the discussion with an optimistic view of the student housing sector, driven by early enrollment data from around half of the Yardi 200 markets. While student housing occupancy has dipped slightly from last year’s 95.4 percent to 93.9 percent, it still reflects strong demand, especially when compared to the pre-pandemic occupancy levels of 96.1 percent. The decrease in occupancy is attributed to a few underperforming markets, but overall, the demand remains robust. Rent growth in the student housing sector has moderated slightly but still averaged a healthy 6% during the leasing season, down from the previous year. This deceleration is partly due to the slower growth in the broader multifamily sector, which has influenced student housing. However, there are still several markets showing exceptional rent growth, highlighting the importance of understanding local market dynamics. As with any cyclical industry, volatility remains a key characteristic of the student housing market. Huebner emphasized the importance of diversifying portfolios, as some markets that were previously underperforming have seen a dramatic turnaround, showcasing the unpredictable nature of supply and demand. The key takeaway here is that market data and deep local knowledge are essential for successful investments in this sector. Insights and Investment Opportunities Looking ahead, Huebner shared several promising investment themes that continue to hold strong: Declining New Deliveries: One factor contributing to the favorable outlook is the reduction in new student housing deliveries, which should help balance supply and demand in the coming years. Diversified Markets: Of the 200 markets tracked, 41 reached 99% occupancy or higher, and 35 saw double-digit rent growth. At the same time, 22 markets had occupancy rates below 85%, and 23 markets experienced rent declines. This highlights the sector’s inherent volatility and the importance of market selection. Overlooked Opportunities: There are still many opportunities in overlooked markets, especially at secondary and tertiary schools that may be under-supplied. Huebner pointed out several key areas for investment, including: 15 primary state schools with no new supply 34 schools with less than 35% of total enrollment housed in student housing 45 schools that have seen significant recent enrollment growth (over 2,000 students) “This sector, even though it’s 20 years old, has been growing. There’s still a lot of growth left in it, not only on the acquisition of getting the on the acquisition side, but in the development business,” said Jeff Adler, vice president of Yardi Matrix. Despite some challenges, there are numerous high-performing markets and overlooked opportunities for investors who understand the volatility and dynamics at play. By leveraging market data and diversifying portfolios, student housing investors can continue to capitalize on the sector’s strengths and navigate its challenges. Yardi Matrix data can help. Learn more...
Yardi Co-Hosts GRESB Event
Advancing Sustainability in Real Estate
In October 2024, Yardi proudly co-hosted the year’s first GRESB Regional Insights event in Toronto, bringing together industry leaders and experts to discuss trends in real estate energy and sustainability. The event focused on the critical role of ESG (environmental, social, governance) in shaping the future of real estate, offering attendees valuable opportunities to learn from thought leaders, network with peers and explore rising trends in real estate practices. For over 15 years, GRESB has been at the forefront of sustainability within the real estate sector, setting benchmarks that drive transparency, accountability and long-term value creation. GRESB’s comprehensive assessments and data-driven insights have become crucial for investors and asset managers seeking to integrate ESG principles into their strategies and operations, particularly as they navigate sustainability challenges and develop innovative solutions. Key insights With over 65 attendees and a full morning schedule, industry leaders like Dan Winters from GRESB shared critical updates on sustainability trends, stressing the importance of data-driven strategies to achieve ESG goals. He emphasized the need for real estate firms to align with evolving global standards and adopt innovative approaches to sustainability reporting. Darryl Neate from REALPAC and Rob Simpson from Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ) highlighted the growing role of ESG in real estate investment decisions. Their discussion centered on how real estate organizations can adapt to increasing regulatory pressures by embedding sustainability into every level of their operations. As ESG reporting requirements continue to grow, the demand for accurate data and streamlined processes is more critical than ever. Rebecca Everts, senior energy benchmarking analyst at Yardi, discussed the importance of precise data management in tracking and analyzing building energy consumption. Yardi Energy has established itself as a leader in this field, equipping clients with tools to efficiently collect and analyze energy data. Much of the event’s discussion centered on the benefits of centralized data and clear reporting guidelines. Rebecca noted, “Reporting data for multiple organizations and clients can be complex, especially with different reporting timelines. Having well-organized data stored in one place makes it easier to review, ensure accuracy and streamline the reporting process.” Rebecca also stressed that integration and data transparency are key to meeting the rising demand for ESG compliance. Yardi’s solutions help clients tackle these challenges head-on by offering advanced technology that simplifies the data collection and reporting process. Overcoming challenges in ESG reporting While the benefits of ESG integration are clear, the journey toward full implementation is not without its challenges. As other panelists, Bozena Jankowska of Slate Asset Management and Jessica Pilz of Fiera Capital, pointed out, successful ESG reporting requires more than just data—it demands passion, patience, and perseverance, the “three P’s” of ESG. They emphasized that ESG integration involves multiple stakeholders across an organization, and support from senior leadership is crucial in driving sustainable initiatives forward. Additionally, collecting reliable data, particularly from external vendors, can be a challenge. However, with best practices like centralizing data collection and encouraging regulatory compliance, organizations can ensure smoother ESG reporting. A look to the future This event emphasized that sustainability is no longer just a trend—it’s a necessity in today’s real estate market. As the demands for ESG transparency grow, real estate organizations must stay ahead by embracing innovative solutions, fostering a culture of sustainability and centralizing their data. Centralized data not only streamlines the reporting process but also enhances data accuracy and transparency, helping organizations meet compliance standards more effectively. Yardi is proud to be part of this important conversation and looks forward to driving positive change in the industry. To learn more about how Yardi’s energy solutions can support your ESG goals, watch a...
Pane Gains
Window Glass Goes High Tech
Much of the discussion about energy efficiency in commercial and residential buildings focuses on heating and cooling systems. But windows, which account for more than half of a modern skyscraper’s exterior surface area, are earning their share of attention in the search for smart solutions for buildings. Commercial buildings account for about 40% of carbon emissions. Glass traditionally used in skyscrapers easily transfer heat from the inside to the outside, leading to higher energy consumption for heating and cooling. In response, advanced materials and engineering are driving a “revolution” in the building industry, “one that is set to transform the way we think about construction and energy efficiency. At the center of this revolution lies glass,” says Görkem Elverici, CEO of Şişecam, a leading glass manufacturer based in Turkey. For example, low-emissivity (low-e) coatings incorporate an extremely thin coating of silver, zinc or indium tin oxide to reduce heat loss and heat gain through windows. They also help prevent the damaging effects of ultraviolet light on furniture, floors and other items. Insulated glass units often fit into existing window frames, eliminating the need for costly redesigns and retrofits. Other energy-efficient windows contain sealed layers of argon gas, which combine with low-e glass and vinyl framing for greater comfort and energy cost savings. Secondary glazing involves improving a window’s insulation with an additional windowpane. With this technology’s potentially not yet fully realized, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is sponsoring prizes valued at $2 million to encourage innovation of high-performance, cost-effective secondary glazing systems for commercial building windows. The prizes will be announced by May 2026. “Less than 1% of commercial buildings get full window replacements each year because it is so expensive and disruptive for occupants. Secondary glazing systems can help solve this problem,”...
Should Lawns
Be Cut (Out)?
Praised by advocates for their beauty and central role in American history, derided by critics for their environmental impacts, lawns – the largest irrigated crop, by area, in the U.S. – occupy a singular place in the American psyche. Lawns, which occupy 40 million acres in the U.S. and consume around 9 billion gallons of water daily, entered the American consciousness early, with resplendent expanses in Britain and elsewhere in Europe inspiring many former colonists. Estates like the White House and Mount Vernon helped popularize the lawn in American culture. In the post-World War II era, boosted by a robust economy and political policies that encouraged homeownership, lawns “became a measure of civic responsibility. The perfect, uninterrupted green of suburban landscapes came to represent the ideal community. The lawn had become by now more than just a part of the home; it is a visible expression of adherence to community norms and values,” says the National Wildlife Federation. Environmental concerns Starting in the 1920s, various chemicals became commonly used as pesticides. Over time, many were linked to declining bird populations, poisoned wildlife and cancer in humans. These ongoing concerns, along with the expense and greenhouse gas emissions associated with maintenance, high water use and displacement of native wildlife and plants, have led some observers to call for traditional lawns to be downplayed, if not abolished, as a landscaping option. Lawn advocates cite a multitude of benefits, including visual appeal, erosion prevention, water filtration, habitats for some species, summer air temperature reduction, recreational space, noise and glare absorption, and rainwater drainage management. They also extol lawns’ superiority to artificial grass, which presents “an even bigger list of problems, from the chemicals used in their production, to the micro-plastic pollution, to the water use to keep them clean,”...
Developmental Pathways
Passionate for Inclusivity
This Yardi-supported nonprofit is enriching lives and strengthening the communities in Colorado. Developmental Pathways (DP) was founded in 1964 in Aurora, Colorado and serves over 15,000 individuals with disabilities and their families. It is a designated Case Management Agency (CMA) for long-term care services in Arapahoe, Douglas and Elbert counties and one of Colorado’s Community Centered Boards (CCB) connecting people to federal, state, county, and private funding. “We passionately believe inclusion is for everyone and offer services through Medicaid waiver programs, locally funded programs, and partnerships with other community organizations,” said Darcy Tibbles, vice president of community affairs for DP. Additionally, DP is Colorado’s largest early intervention (EI) provider, which connects young children to essential resources. For the upcoming year, DP will follow seismic changes in Colorado’s disability system and are committed to stabilizing and aligning disability supports across its catchment area. “Our top priority is to ensure continuity of care for our members through compliance, quality, simplicity, stability, and accountability. Community outreach and engagement is vital to our mission, and we aim to foster connection and dialogue through events and connections with DP members, families, and caregivers,” explained Tibbles. Yardi funding directly benefits DP’s Unmet Needs Program. This program significantly aids members in accessing community support, which is focused primarily on supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs). The Unmet Needs Program focuses on the specific needs of individuals. It aims to provide services and items not covered by other resources, such as specialized equipment, therapy, and other essential services. Last year, local funding allowed DP to review over 3,000 requests from its members. “We are truly overwhelmed and filled with gratitude for the incredible support we continue to receive from Yardi,” said Tibbles. She continued, “For over five years, Yardi has generously supported DP, and the positive impact of their commitment has been deeply felt within our community. Yardi’s ongoing partnership makes a lasting difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities and their families. Thank you, Yardi, for being a dedicated, supported and essential part of our journey!” Jesse’s Pathway Jesse and his family depend on a specialized ceiling lift to support many of Jesse’s daily activities. Over the past year, his family faced increasing challenges in assisting him with movement and transfers as he grew. To ensure his safety, they required an extension for Jesse’s lift, which other funding sources could not cover. Thanks to support from DP and partners like Yardi, Jessie’s therapy room received a lift upgrade in just one month! Now, his family can help him move around safely and effortlessly. “Funding from partners like Yardi makes a difference in the lives of individuals across our community in many ways. We are grateful to Yardi for the support you and your teams have generously shared over the years,” expressed Tibbles. Volunteer Opportunities Developmental Pathways has several yearly opportunities to get involved, including its upcoming Pathways Holiday Outreach (PHO) giving event and its Thanksgiving meal drive, where community members and partners can sponsor DP families most in need during the holidays. To learn more, visit its Resources page or reach out to [email protected]. “You can donate directly to DP or set up an account and select Developmental Pathways as your charity of choice through the King Soopers community rewards program! Learn more on our Ways to Donate page. You can also connect with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter (X),” said Tibbles. Find future nonprofit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...
Alternative House
No Excuse for Abuse
Yardi-supported nonprofit organization Alternative House provides comprehensive domestic violence services in the Greater Lowell area. Established in 1978 in Lowell, MA, Alternative House (AH) provides emergency shelter and 24-hour crisis hotline services and access to temporary safe housing, transitional/permanent housing, legal advocacy, supervised visitation services, community/housing advocacy, support groups, and youth and teen programming. In addition, AH offers daily access to case management, safety planning, and support around goal setting, financial empowerment and job/education placement. Alternative House plans to increase its housing placement for survivors of domestic violence facing homelessness. “This is a challenge to leave an abusive relationship and find yourself facing homelessness. With our newly founded Housing department, we can provide access to case managers, housing advocates, childcare, and funding to assist with moving costs and items needed,” explained Maria Crooker-Capone, executive director for Alternative House. In addition to housing, AH is preparing to increase its youth/teen programming to increase the number of youths served. In addition to after-school help, AH will include education on bullying and teen dating violence, as well as safety planning and transition planning. Yardi’s support is instrumental in helping AH spread awareness of its mission to foster a society free from violence and oppression. Yardi funding raises visibility for the vital services AH offers and ensures they are accessible to those in need. Through Yardi’s partnership, AH has been able to provide updated technology, supplies, and activities for the youth in programming, making a significant difference in their lives. “We were thrilled to hear that Yardi continued their support of AH. We truly value their contribution in advancing our efforts and making a meaningful impact in the community. These traumas quite impact children who experience domestic violence and homelessness, and being able to provide a clean, fun, and welcoming...
The Yellowstone Effect
Western Real Estate
One of television’s most popular shows, Yellowstone, has sparked real estate interest in Montana and beyond. Let’s delve into how the show has popularized rural living and brought attention to the mountain regions of the West, real estate and environmental economic trends that have emerged and what to know before you buy land like a Dutton. Western Real Estate Trends The surge in real estate demand in Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho since the show’s debut is nothing short of thrilling. Home prices and land values are rising, with some clients even referencing the show when purchasing. The allure of the wide-open spaces and natural beauty depicted in the series has inspired many to seek a similar lifestyle change or invest in a second home. It’s no wonder that real estate for the average home price has risen, an increase in buyers seeking large acreage or ranch-style properties and shifts in demand for both luxury and rustic homes. There have been challenges in meeting the demand in smaller towns and rural areas. However, some positive economic benefits have been seen, such as job creation in construction and booming tourism. Still, with the promise of progress and prosperity, it has brought challenges for locals with higher living costs. In a broader sense, the Yellowstone effect has affected the environment around Yellowstone. Several ecological concerns are happening, such as wildlife displacement, increased resource demands, and pressure on natural landscapes. The “balance” between private land development and conservation is landing hard on some of America’s most famous wildlife populations in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Some scientists say leaders on many fronts fail to prevent it. For seasonal employees at Yellowstone, trailers that were once home for these employees have now transitioned to modular one-to-two-bedroom homes, part of a multimillion-dollar housing improvement strategy initiated in 2020. Officials have made progress on three goals in the plan — replacing trailers with modular, upgrading non-trailer employee housing park-wide, and rehabilitating historic homes with Great American Outdoors Act funding. However, about 100 year-round employees working in Mammoth own homes in Gardiner, purchased in the late 1990s or early 2000s, when housing was affordable. More than half of those employees are expected to retire soon, leaving vacant positions open and no place to live for newcomers since housing is too expensive and no rentals near the park. “The previous strategy has been to chase the cheapest community, and that’s not working here,” said Cam Sholly, superintendent of Yellowstone National Park. Real estate prices are booming in Bozeman, Livingston, West Yellowstone, Cooke City and Gardiner, and “there is nowhere else to go.” Buying Land like a Dutton Before deciding to relocate to the West, urban dwellers need to understand the local community. Those interested in commercial real estate or apartment/condo buildings should be prepared to learn about property management, septic systems, wildlife management and land conservation. Finding service providers in remote areas can be challenging, and understanding the local medical and emergency services is crucial. It’s essential to be prepared for a life with fewer nearby amenities. Not everyone can have the luxury lifestyle with a Dutton helicopter there to transport quickly to the nearest hospital. For those considering a large land purchase, remember the unique considerations that come with ranch or multi-acre properties. Legal aspects include water rights, zoning and conservation easements, property taxes, land management and infrastructure needs. Suppose buyers are unfamiliar with rural land and the brutal winters in this area. In that case, they need to understand that there is a different type of upkeep and cost associated with owning and maintaining these properties. Westerncore Several demographics and cultural changes have occurred in local communities that have seen an influx of new residents inspired by Yellowstone. Long-time residents have had to adjust to the increase in population and real estate activity, as well as newcomers who moved to the area precisely because of the show. Changes are impacting local businesses,...
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center
Caring for Nature
Lake Erie Nature & Science Center (LENSC) was established in 1945 in Bay Village, Ohio and has inspired the community to appreciate and be responsible for our natural world. A unique combination of resources can be found only at LENSC: Live animal exhibits Wildlife rehabilitation services A public-access planetarium Nature-based preschool and animal program for all ages LENSC is one of the region’s most affordable and accessible destinations to learn about the environment. It offers free general admission and free wildlife rehabilitation services to more than 10,000 visitors annually. LENSC is committed to providing accessible nature education for people of all ages and help for native wildlife. “We look forward to completing our Wildlife Gardens Education and Renovation Project in 2025, which will transform the outdoor Wildlife Gardens to give visitors better visibility of the Center’s resident animals and wildlife rehabilitation efforts. At $1,900,000, it will be the largest capital investment in our free offerings for the public,” said Morgan Haines, marketing and development coordinator for LENSC. Yardi’s generous support is instrumental in helping LENSC provide free general admission to indoor and outdoor exhibits, nature-based programs for all ages, and wildlife rehabilitation services at no charge to the public seven days a week. Thousands of visitors Both humans and animals love and benefit from Lake Erie Nature & Science Center. In 2023, LENSC served more than 100,000 visitors through free general admission and admitted more than 1,800 animals into its rehabilitation facility. “Our enduring mission goals are to educate and inspire people of all ages about our Earth, our relationship to it, and how that relationship is shaping our quality of life and future,” explained Haines. Volunteer Opportunities Lake Erie Nature & Science Center coordinates corporate volunteer opportunities. For more information on corporate opportunities, please visit here and for individual opportunities, see here. Find future non-profit profiles at https://www.yardi.com/blog/category/giving. Yardi is Energized for Good! Visit www.yardi.org for more about our philanthropic...