Residence San Antonio Apartment Association

RESIDENCEThe SAAA MAGAZINE

San Antonio Apartment Association March/April 2013

In This Issue...• Legislative Day Photos• Installation of Officer Photos• 1st Ever PAC Clay Shoot Winners • Industry Achievement Award Winners and Casino Night Photos• Legal Update - New HUD Ruling

TAA Legislative Day...2013

Visit u

s onli

ne at

www.saaa

onlin

e.org

Visit u

s onli

ne at

www.saaa

onlin

e.org

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org2

INAUGURAL PAC CLAY SHOOT

CASINO NIGHT

CONTENT

January 25, 2013 - National Shooting Complex

February 28, 2013 - Venues at Valero

5 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGEFrom Renetta Quintana, NRP

7 LEGISLATIVE DAYTAA Legislative Conference in Austin, TX

11 EDUCATION CLASSESSave the date for these amazing classes!

12 INSTALLATION OF OFFICERSWelcome the new Board of Directors

16 PAC CLAY SHOOTPhotos and winners at the event!

20 INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENT AWARDSList of award recipients and more

23 CHILI COOK-OFFGet ready for some fun!

24 MAINTENANCE MANIACompetition to be the best!

26 CASINO NIGHTThanks to our sponsors for a great event!

30 NEW OPTION FOR APPRAISAL APPEALSA message for IROs

33 LEGAL UPDATENew HUD Rule

40 PAC BUSINESS EXCHANGEand Wine Tasting - New Date!

SAAA STAFFExecutive Director | Teri [email protected]

Director of Communications | Kimberly [email protected]

Director of Education | Jennifer [email protected]

Director of Finance & Operations | Kevin [email protected]

Director of Government Relations | Hector Morales, [email protected]

Director of Member Services | Darlene [email protected]

Director of Programs and Events | Amy Sanchez, [email protected]

Executive Assistant | Debbie [email protected]

Administrative Coordinator | Rose [email protected]

Legal Counsel | David Fritsche 210.227.2726 | [email protected]

16

26

San Antonio Apartment Association7525 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78249, 210.692.7797 or 877.306.4108,

Fax 210.692.7277 or 877.316.1984; www.saaaonline.org

Mission Statement: The San Antonio Apartment Association offers the support and opportunity for owners, managers and suppliers of the rental housing industry to relate, exchange ideas and experiences, and estab-lish high standards. The Association serves as a professional, unified voice to address common issues affect-ing our industry and community at the local, state and national levels. The Association maximizes resources to provide our members with benefits such as access to quality educational programs, information through research and legislative involvement, and the enhancement and growth of professionalism within our industry while serving the community.

“The Residence” Magazine is published bi-monthly by the San Antonio Apartment Association, Inc. Circulated free to members. Entire contents are the © Copyright 2012 of the San Antonio Apartment Association, Inc., all rights reserved. The San Antonio Apartment Association, Inc., expressly reserves the right, in its sole discretion, to reject advertising which may subject the San Antonio Apartment Association, Inc., to liability under statutory or common law. Contributed material does not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of the San Antonio Apartment Association. Printed at Shweiki Media on FSC Certified Paper (www.fscus.org/paper).

THE RESIDENCE SAAA MAGAZINE

www.saaaonline.org | March/April 2013 3

PRESIDENTRenetta Quintana

NRP Group

PRESIDENT-ELECTMike Rust, CAPS

Shelter Corporation

VICE PRESIDENTMatt Lusk

Impact Floors

TREASURERAllyson McKay, CPM

Lincoln Property Company

SECRETARYCheree Allee

Greystar

PSC PRESIDENTDelfina Aguilar

Appliance Warehouse

PAST PRESIDENTSKelley Liserio - HomeSpring Residential ServicesDonna Schmidt, CPM - Fogelman Management Group

DIRECTORS AT LARGEJulie Agne-Highsmith, CAM - Embrey Management ServicesSteve Colella, CPM - McDougal PropertiesAmber Edwards - Resource ResidentialSelina Lazarin - Westdale Asset ManagementJody Marquez - Implicity ManagementBen Ross - BNP InvestmentsSteve Ross - Bob Ross RealtyDebbie Wiatrek - Capstone Real Estate ServicesCeline Williams - Alpha-Barnes Real EstateDelfina Aguilar - Appliance WarehouseScott Milgrom - Signs NowMary Tranchell - Vamvoras PlumbingLiz Johnson - Bexar TowingApril Chapman, CAS - The Liberty Group

PRODUCT SERVICE COUNCIL President - Delfina Aguilar - Appliance WarehousePresident-Elect - Scott Milgrom - Signs NowVice President - Mary Tranchell - Vamvoras PlumbingSecretary - Liz Johnson - Bexar TowingApril Chapman, CAS - The Liberty GroupEmery Johnson - Phoenix Recovery GroupBarbara Savona - Sprout MarketingHolly Stuckey - Apartment FinderNicole Plummer - CORT Jason Hall - PathfinderMatt Lusk - Impact FloorsDavid Walker - Gratr Landscapes

LIFETIME BOARD MEMBERSBarbara MacManus, CAM, CAPS, CPM, Mac Real Estate Bob Ross, Bob Ross Realty (Dec.)

TEXAS APARTMENT ASSOCIATIONPresident - Scott Wilder, CAPSVice President at Large - Mark HurleyDelegates - Kelley Liserio, NCP; Matt Lusk; Allyson McKay, CPM; Renetta Quintana; Mike Rust, CAPS; Donna Schmidt, CPM; Mark HurleyAlternates - Delfina Aguilar; Cheree Allee; Steve Ross; Marc Ross; Nancy Payne, CAS______________________________________________________

NATIONAL APARTMENT ASSOCIATIONChairman - Alexandra Jackiw, CAPS, CPMRegional Vice President - Mike ClarkDelegates - Kelley Liserio, NCP; Allyson McKay, CPM; Renetta Quintana; Steve Ross, NAA IRO Chair; Mike Rust, CAPSAlternates - Cheree Allee; Donna Schmidt, CPM; Marc Ross, NAA Treasurer; Teri Bilby

BOARD OF DIRECTORS


MARCH4 Cook-off Committee Meeting - 1:00 p.m. - SAAA5 Expo Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA5 PSC Meeting - 10:00 a.m. - SAAA7 Programs Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA7 American Red Cross Kick-off Luncheon - 11:30 - Aldaco’s Sunset Station7 Community Relations Committee Meeting - 1:00 - Aldaco’s Sunset Station7 Final Membership Drive - 5:00 p.m. - Perico’s8 IRO Committee Meeting - 10:30 a.m. - SAAA10 NAA Capitol Conference - Washington, D.C.19 Rental Housing Laws Seminar - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA19 Education Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA20 CertifiedPoolOperator-8:00a.m.-Northside Nautitorium20 Executive Committee Meeting - 1:30 p.m. - SAAA20 Board of Directors Meeting - 3:30 p.m. - SAAA21 CertifiedPoolOperator-8:00a.m.-Northside Nautitorium22 Government Affairs Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA23 Maintenance Mania - 1:00-4:00 p.m. - Helotes Fairgrounds23 Chili Cook-off - 4:00-8:00 p.m. - Helotes Fairgrounds25 Ambassador Committee Meeting - 3:30 p.m. - Perico’s26 Taking Your Career to the Next Level - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA28 Buddy Committee Meeting - 8:30 a.m. - SAAA28 New Member Orientation - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA28 Communications Committee Meeting - 9:30 a.m. - SAAA28 Membership Committee Meeting - 10:30 a.m. - SAAA

APRIL2 PSC Meeting - 10:00 a.m. - SAAA4 Programs Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA5 CAPS - 8:00 a.m. - SAAA9 Leasing Bootcamp - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA9 Education Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA10 Leadership Lyceum Class - 8:00 a.m. - SAAA10 Outreach Committee Meeting - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA10 Executive Committee Meeting - 1:30 p.m. - SAAA10 Board of Directors Meeting - 3:30 p.m. - SAAA11 Community Relations Meeting - 4:00 p.m. - County Line11 Pre-Fiesta Mixer - 6:30 p.m. - La Hacienda de los Barrios16 Rape & Safety Awareness Seminar - 9:00 a.m. - SAAA17 CAM - 8:00 a.m. - SAAA18 Toolbox Lunch - 12:00 p.m. - SAAA19 IRO Committee Meeting - 10:30 a.m. - SAAA19 Protesting Your Taxes - 11:00 a.m. - SAAA23 CAM - 8:00 a.m. - SAAA23 Electrical Maintenance Technician - 5:00 p.m. - SAAA24 TAA Education Conference - Houston, TX25 Electrical Maintenance Technician - 5:00 p.m. - SAAA29 Ambassador Committee Meeting - 3:30 p.m. - Perico’s30 CAPS - 8:00 a.m. - SAAA

For more detailed information and future event dates, log onto

www.saaaonline.org!


RENETTA QUINTANA 2013 PRESIDENT | SAN ANTONIO APARTMENT ASSOCIATION

We have started 2013 off with a “bang”...our 1st Ever PAC Clay Shoot was a huge success!

What a great time and great opportunity to grow our PAC Funds, PAC Investors and bring more awareness to our members of the im-portance PAC plays in our day to day busi-ness operations.

Another great success was Legislative Day. We were able to represent our industry with over 50 participants who believe in support-ing or opposing legislative issues that can strongly impact our business. Thanks to all who helped us show our strength to our Leg-islative Representatives letting them know we

want our voices to be heard to continue sup-porting our industry.

In addition, our NAA Assembly of Delegates is attending Capitol Conference in Wash-ington DC to continue to take our message of “Taking Political Involvement to the Next Level.” We will convey our message of key issues affecting the apartment industry to congressional delegation during our visits on Capitol Hill.

Our Membership Drive is continuing until March 14th which gives everyone an oppor-tunity to bring in new members for our asso-ciation. Please contact Darlene@saaaonline or check saaaonline.org for meeting dates and more information on attending our mem-bership drive. Go Membership Drive Go!

The Industry Achieve-ment Awards on Feb-ruary 28th was a fantastic opportunity to award outstand-ing individuals from select management companies. Con-gratulations to all the Winners!

Our Speakeasy and-Casino Night was an unforgettable eve-ning of fun! Thanks to our Product Ser-vice Council for mak-ing this event a great night to remember!

Maintenance Mania is approaching on March 23rd at Hel-otes Fair Grounds from 12:00 – 5:00.

Maintenance Mania is a national program offered by NAA and presented by HD Supply in which maintenance technicians compete against each other in various skill-basedgames.EachNAAlocalaffiliatehasthe opportunity to have their maintenance technicians compete individually to win var-ious local awards and a chance to compete at the National Championship held at the annual NAA Education Conference & Exposi-tion. After Maintenance Mania is completed join the fun at our Chili Cook Off immediate-ly following.

Our Leadership Lyceum Program is about to start this year getting ready to cultivate our new set of future leaders for the asso-ciation. We want to continue identifying fu-ture leaders of the San Antonio Apartment Association. Through this program we can teach future leaders about advocacy, lead-ership, cultivating relations, legislative issues, education, membership and the ABC’s of the association. Building on the success of our Leadership Lyceum efforts will continue to be a priority for SAAA as we continue to focus on our future leaders and growing committee involvement.

Thanks to everyone who has increased their level of involvement to help us achieve our plan of work for 2013. We are off to a great start we need everyone to continue staying involved, staying the course to help achieve all the goals for 2013. For more information on how to get involved, join and serve on a committee please visit our web-site, www.saaaonline.org.

Moving forward our…..Success in Motion!

Renetta

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

www.supplyhq.com


www.bgstaffing.com

Your Local, Trusted Source for Multi-family Construction!

•Carpentry•Balcony&EntryLanding

Repairs•RoofRepairs•SidingRepairs&

Placement•ExteriorRehabs•ExteriorPainting•SidewalkRepairs•Welding•SubfloorRepairs•andmuchmore...


TAA Legislative DayWednesday, February 20, 2013 • Austin, TX

For information on future Legislative Days or government affairs issues contact [email protected].


210-499-5998 • apartmentguide.com

281-261-6334dixiecarpet.com 210-377-3116

forrent.com

210-325-7155 • apartments.com

210-697-9200coinmachcorp.com

210-615-8264 • cort.com

210-764-7773 • gratrlandscapes.com

210.348.0346 • bgstaffing.com

DIAMOND SPONSORS

210.310.1545 • colorsunlimited.org

800-431-3000 • hdsupply.com


210-389-9216impactfloors.com

210-525-7966 • thelibertygroup.com

512-836-9311 lonestarcarpets.com 210-212-4444

rasafloors.com

210-257-0000redicarpet.com

210-520-6699 signsnowsa.com

210-582-9586twc-sa.com

210-341-2004vamvorasplumbing.com 210-734-0000

worldwidepest.com

210-257-0000rotorooter.com


www.hsrconstruction.com


EDUCATION!

The Nuts & Bolts of Selling Seminar - presented by Barbara Savona, Sponsored by Time Warner Cable

Haording Seminar - presented by David Fritsche, Sponsored by Impact Floors

Toolbox Lunch - presented by Marty Ruona, Sponsored by RASA Floors

2013MARCH5 – CAM starts19 – Rental Housing Laws (Redbook Refresher) 20 & 21 - Certified Pool Operator26 – Taking Your Career to the Next Level28 - Toolbox Lunch

APRIL5 – CAPS starts9 – Leasing Boot Camp16 – Rape & Safety Awareness18 - CPR19 - Property Tax Appeals23 & 26 - Electrical Maintenance Technician (EMT)

MAY2 – Pool Rules14 - Fair Housing14 & 15 – Certified Pool Operator23 – Raising Rents/Increasing Revenue

JUNE11 – Budget Basics - Writing Owner & Variance Reports14 - Bed Bugs & Beyond!18 & 20 - Electrical Maintenance Technician (EMT)25 – NALP starts27 – Learn from the Top Dogs 2

Highlighted Classes are FREE for PEP!


January 17, 2013 - Club at Sonterra


SAAA 2013 Board of Directors • SAAA Product Service Council Stanley Hammer Award Winner: Walter Embrey


www.macgray.com


SAAA’s Heroes for the American Red Cross Campaign is underway!Our fundraising campaign runs from March 7th - May 7th!Get involved and give generously to support our partners

who are always first on the scene during a disaster!

Our goal is $25,000!Contact [email protected] to find out how you can help!

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org16www.centuryac.com

CLAY SHOOT WINNERS

Marty Gordonfor Fogelman Management

Matt Linderfor Camp Construction

Todd Millerfor Sunterra Landscape Service

(Nobie Ann Saenz accepted for him)

Tim Parmafor Scott B. Retzloff & Assoc.

Juan Carlos Suarezfor RASA Floors

Travis Kampfor D-Kam Construction. Inc.

ReyAnne Schmidtfor Gratr Landscapes

MontyHooper

for ABC Supply(not pictured)

THANK YOU to our Title Sponsor: TPI, Inc. Construction Services!


PAC CLAY SHOOT

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org18www.saws.org


////////////////////////////////////////

////////////////////////////////////////

////////////////////////////////////////

////

EDUCATION 2013

talk

Introducing our new...

Coming to: New Braunfels, March 22nd

Mission Hill Apartments sponsored by Apartment Guide

Boerne, May 16thKerrville, July 19th

Learn what we currently offer and tell us how we can better serve you! Preview

Online University classes, learn about our services, classes, events and more!

No charge!

9-10:30 a.m. each day listed above!


MAINTENANCE OF THE YEAR

Don DeMossThe Lynd Company

Efran (Frank) VeraTrails of Westlakes

Simply Better Rentals

Jesse ZermenoIngram Ranch

United Apartment Group

Jose PadillaThe Lodge on Perrin Creek

Implicity Management

Marco AdameCosta CadizNRP Group

Michael BrownBlanco Crossing

Drought Properties

Patrick SpenglerGreystar

Steven DelondeVillas of Oak Creste

Seldin Company

LEASING AGENTOF THE YEAR

Cassie BalderasCevallos LoftsNRP Group

Crystal CazaresOakhampton PlaceWeigand Omega

Kelsey BrownStone Oak Place

Drought Properties

Rolando RochaThe Lynd Company

Stephanie RoelCity View

Implicity Mananagement

Tabitha BenavidesThe Place at Commerce


Tara BurchAvana at the Rim

Greystar

Tiffany GomezTrails of Westlakes


ASSISTANT MANAGEROF THE YEAR

Angela SlaughterOakhampton PlaceWeigand Omega

Brandie BrackettHuebner Oaks


Jacqueline LampkinPrimrose at Monticello Park

Pinnacle

Kimberly DaxonLas Brisas & Lexington Apts.

Seldin Company

Kristin WalkThe Lynd Company

Leonice SouzaThe Lodge on Perrin Creek

Implicity Management

Lyndsie EadesTimbermillGreystar

Sabrina AlmanzaTrails of Westlakes


Sonia EsquivelCosta BiscayaNRP Group

MANAGER OF THE YEAR

Aurora Faircloth Rayo del Sol


Becky GarzaCity View ApartmentsImplicity Management

Debra PorterEvens Ranch & Mission Hills

Greystar

Krista TorrezCosta Cadiz, NRP Group

Lacy Mason The Lynd Company

Linda MataRosemont at Highland Park

Pinnacle

Marlene BrownStone Oak Place

Drought Properties

Monica FernandezVillas of Oak Creste

Seldin Company

Shyronn ThomasBella Madera, Harbor Group

Victoria TrautmanTrails of Westlakes



REGIONAL MANAGEROF THE YEAR

Christina Campos The Lynd Company

Joy PepperUnited Apartment Group

Julie Agne-Highsmith,CAM

Embrey Management

Kim LacyTrails of Westlakes


Kimberly MaderGreystar

For more event photos, go to www.saaaonline.org

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org22www.prolinepaving.com


DATE: March 23, 2013 TIME: 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. COST: $25 per person (pre-registered) $35 at the gate LOCATION: Helotes Fairgrounds

PRIZES AWARDEDfor Best Booth and Food!

Kid’s Corner...this year’s “Pit Stop”...will raise funds for American Red Cross, San Antonio Chapter!

Come out and enjoy the food, music and fun! Bring your whole family - don’t miss it!

Chili Cook-off

www.saaaonline.org


What is Maintenance Mania®?Maintenance Mania® is a national

program offered by NAA and presented by HD Supply (HDS), in

which maintenance technicians compete against each other in

various skill-based games.

EachNAAlocalaffiliatehastheopportunity to have their mainte-

nance technicians compete individu-ally to win various local awards and a chance to compete at the National

Championship held at the annual NAA Education Conference

& Exposition.

CASH PRIZES AWARDED!

Sponsorships available - contact [email protected] for informationWheels pick-up and participation handbook is available at SAAA offices (7525 Babcock Road)

or can be delivered to properties if requested.

Contact SAAA for more information: 210.692.7797

DATE: March 23, 2013 TIME: 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Check-in 11:00 a.m. Practice time: 11:00 a.m. - 12:45 p.m. Competition: Begins at 1:00 p.m. Location: Helotes Fairgrounds

•Cashprizesawarded:$75,$50and$25for1stthrough3rdPlaceineachgame! $225,$125and$100for1stthrough3rdPlaceoverallwinners!•Medalsawardedforwinnerofeachgame;medalsawardedfor1st,2ndand3rdPlaceoverallwinners•Additionalprizepackageawardedtooverallwinner•SpiritCupawardedtomanagementcompanyshowingthemostsupportfortheirteammembers!•Signs,banners,costumes,energy,enthusiasmwillbethejudgingcriteria•CertificatesofParticipationgiventoallthatcompete•HDSupplygivinghatstoallparticipants•NewplaquewillhangatSAAAwiththenameofoverallwinnerandcompanytheyrepresent•Anyoneisallowedtocompete(onlymaintenancetechnicianscoreswillbeforwardedtoNAA)•YourregistrationfeegetsyouintotheChiliCook-offforFREE!

Register to Participate! Come out to cheer on your team!

2011 Contestants



For more event photos, go to

www.saaaonline.org



Cash Cube: aka The Bugsy SiegelRoto-Rooter Photo Booth: aka the Al CaponeBexar Towing Jumbo Craps: aka the John DillengerLawOfficesofR.DavidFritscheThe Liberty GroupVamvoras Texas Hold ‘Em: aka the Bonnie & ClydeCarpet WarehouseGratr LandscapesRasa FloorsRedi CarpetRoof Doctor Roulette: aka the Bonnie & ClydeCORTRSI TexasTPI Painting & Construction ServicesWorldwide Pest Control Standard Craps: aka the Bonnie & ClydeBGStaffingSigns Now Money Wheel: aka the Lucky LucianoAlpha-Barnes Real EstatePavecon

Let It Ride: aka the Lucky LucianoM&M Painting and ConstructionThe Home Depot 3-Card Poker: aka the Lucky LucianoTime Warner CableH3O Water Systems Slot Banks: aka the Lucky LucianoPrime Time Towing Blackjack: aka the Lucky LucianoApartment GuideAT&TCoinmachFor Rent Media SolutionsGemstar ConstructionGerald’s Casino PartiesHD SupplyImpact FloorsKoolCote of TexasMaverick FlooringPathfinderInsuranceRamming Paving Company, LTDRepublic Services (x 2 tables)The Phoenix Recovery GroupTriple S Towing

The “Bootlegger” sponsorship:Allied Fire ProtectionApartment Finder MagazineApartments.comAppliance WarehouseAsset EssentialsAssurant Specialty PropertyAvilaRoofingLLCBenchmark LandscapesC & Z EnterprisesCentury A/C SupplyChurch ServicesColors UnlimitedDirecSupplyDixie Carpet InstallationsFitness In MotionFL Magic ConstructionFSI ConstructionGrowing SolutionsHarper Painting & ConstructionHEST Fitness ProductsHomeSpring ResidentialImplicity ManagementJMI ContractorsLone Star CarpetMaintenance Supply HQMocking Bird Landscape ServicesNational Credit SystemsPest Shield Pest ControlPremium CutsPro Defense Pest ControlSunterra Landscape ServicesT.F. Harper & AssociatesValet Waste

Thank you!



Thanks to a pilot project established by the Texas Legislature in 2009, commercial property owners with properties valued at more than $1 million can have their cases heard by a state administrative law judge from the State Office of Administrative Hearings (SOAH) rather than having to go to the courthouse when they disagree with an Appraisal Review Board’s findings. This process can take less than half the time at considerably less expense than a court proceeding.

Originally limited to six counties, the pilot project was expanded in 2011 so that it now covers many of the state’s major metropolitan areas, including Bexar, Cameron, Collin, El Paso, Fort Bend, Harris, Montgomery, Nueces, Tarrant and Travis counties. Although the program is not quite two years old, so far 84 appeals have been heard by administrative judges, and statistics indicate that more than half the total cases have been heard in Harris County.

While appraisal districts have won the majority of cases that have gone through the entire process, about half the cases filed in 2011 settled before going to hearing. Although there isn’t any data on the cases that have settled, anecdotally it appears that many of these cases have been decided in the property owner’s favor.

The pilot program is currently scheduled to run through the end of the 2013 tax year, but its main legislative champion, Rep. John Otto (R-Dayton), hopes to make the program permanent and expand its scope statewide. TAA spoke with Otto recently regarding this new process:

Q: What originally led you to introduce this legislation?A: In developing the SOAH hearings legislation, I wanted property owners with property in excess of $1 million in value to have an option after the Appraisal Review Board

(ARB) hearing that was less expensive than district court, similar to the arbitration process that is available for property owners with property less than $1 million in value.

Most of the complaints we heard when I chaired the Select Committee on Property Tax Relief and Appraisal Reform was the treatment at ARBs. Since SOAH was conducting hearings on other types of tax issues in the state, I determined that if I specified the type of appraisal education and training administrative law judges must have to hear a case, then over time a good appeals process should develop. The other benefit would be decisions that could be used in training ARB members.

Q: What do you think the prospects are for either extending or expanding the pilot project in the 2013 legislative session?A: Based on the results thus far, I believe there is a good possibility of expanding the SOAH hearings statewide in 2013.

Q: What do you think are some of the reasons why property owners should take their cases to SOAH rather than court?A: One of the big changes we made last session was to allow for the recovery of attorney’s fees if the property owner is successful. I was advised that many attorneys were steering their clients to district court because the award of attorney’s fees could be a negotiated item in reaching a settlement with the appraisal district.

So, we decided for the next two years to allow for that same type of recovery and see if it has an impact on the number of cases taken to SOAH. I believe the financial risks are smaller for a SOAH hearing compared to district court, and over time, I believe the SOAH judges will develop more expertise in deciding these cases.

Q: Has the program met your expectations?A: The program did not have the total

number of cases we expected in the first two years, but we received some good feedback as to what was happening (e.g. the issue of attorney’s fees being recoverable) and were able to make some changes last session.

Some of the cases originally filed were settled before they ever got to full hearings, so we really don’t know whether that would have happened without the option for the SOAH hearing. We don’t know whether the property owner in those cases would have gone to district court if the SOAH hearing had not been available. That decision is driven, I’m sure, by a cost/benefit analysis. Is the potential savings in property taxes in this year and future years enough to justify the financial costs to appeal?

I believe the SOAH appeal offers a less expensive alternative and, therefore, would qualify more property for an appeal of the ARB based on that cost/benefit analysis.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:Q: How long does the pilot project run?A: The pilot project continues through the end of the 2013 tax year (December 31, 2013).

Q: What counties are covered under the pilot project? A: Bexar, Cameron, El Paso, Harris, Tarrant and Travis Counties have been part of the pilot project since the beginning of the January 1, 2010 tax year. Properties located in Collin, Denton, Fort Bend, Montgomery and Nueces Counties were added to the program for a two-year period beginning with the January 1, 2012 tax year.

Q: Howdoesanownerfileanappeal?A: To appeal an appraisal review board order, a property owner must file a notice of appeal and make a $1,500 deposit payable to SOAH with the chief

A NEW OPTIONBy David Mintz, CAE, TAA Vice President of Government Affairs


appraiser of the appraisal district. Forms are available from local appraisal districts participating in the pilot program or on the SOAH website www.soah.state.tx.us.

Q: When does the notice have to be filed?A: The notice of appeal must be filedwith the chief appraiser no later than the 30th day after the date the property owner receives notice of the order.

Q: When does the deposit have to be paid? A: The deposit must be filed with thechief appraiser no later than the 90th day after the date the property owner receives notice of the order.

Q: Is the deposit refundable?A: Yes.Thedeposit,minusthe$300filingfee, is refundable if the property owner and the appraisal district settle before the appeal is heard. If the property owner and the appraisal district settle after the appeal is heard, the deposit is still refundable,but thefiling feeandoffice’scosts will be deducted.

Q: What happens if an owner fails to pay the deposit?A: The appeal will be dismissed, and the propertyownermaynotfileanappealtoSOAH subsequent tax year.

Q: How long does an appeal take?A: SOAH Administrative hearings are typically held within 30 days of the notice being filed. The hearing itself generallytakes a few hours.

Q: Does an owner need to be represented by an attorney?A: No, the owner may be self-represented or may use an agent, such as a property tax consultant. Under changes made in the legislature in 2011, an owner who successfully appeals can receive attorney’sfees.

Independent rental owners

POST ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS: What are my Property Tax Options?In addition to the SOAH hearings, especially when they may not be the best choice, a property owner does have other options when

attempting to seek relief from their property tax assessment. As with SOAH, there are advantages and disadvantages to these options.Property Valued over $1,000,000: SOAH OR DISTRICT COURT

Property Valued AT $1,000,000 or Less (and all single family homesteads): ARBITRATION

When SOAH is not your choice:ARBITRATIONThisalternativeisonlyavailableforpropertieswithfinalvalues(assetbytheAppraisalReviewBoard)of$1,000,000orlessandallsinglefamilyresidentialhomesteads regardless of value. For these property types this is the best alternative for seeking additional relief from the review board decision. For a $250.00 deposit, a property owner may present their evidence to an independent arbitrator.

Advantages: •Lowcost,resolutionwithinapproximately120daysofcasebeingfiled, •Noattorney’srequiredforanypartoftheprocess, •Ifpropertyowner“wins”thecase(finalvalueofarbitratorisclosertopropertyowner’srequestedvaluethandistrict’s) then $225.00 of the $250.00 deposit is refunded. Disadvantages: •Only45daystofilefromdateownerreceivescertifiedboardorder, •Severaldeadlineswithrespecttopresentingevidencepriortohearingmustbemet; •Decisionofarbitratorisfinalandcannotbeappealed.

DISTRICT COURTForpropertieswithfinalvaluesthatdonotqualifyforarbitration.Anownerhas60daysfromreceiptofcertifiedboardordertofilesuitindistrictcourt.

Advantages: •Legalrepresentationthroughouttheentireprocess, •Opportunitytoresolvethecasewiththeappraisaldistrictpriortoactuallygoingtotrialtherebyreducingthecoststothepropertyowner,SOMEoftheattorney’sfeesmayberecoverableattheendoftheprocess(recoverablefeeslimitedbasedonamountoftaxsavings) •Righttoappealanydecisionbythecourttoahighercourt.Disadvantages: •Minimumattorney’scostusuallystartaround$5,000andgoupfromthere •Processcantakeaslongasthreeyearsormoretoresolvethecaseandinvolvemultipletaxyears, •Attorney’smustbeinvolvedineachstepoftheprocess.Ifthecaseisnotresolvedpriortotrial,legalfeescanquicklyhit$40,000to $50,000 and possibly more depending on complexity of the case.

For more information on all of your property tax options, plan on attending the free

“The Nuts and Bolts of Protesting Your Property Taxes”

seminar on April 19th from 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. at SAAA.

For more information see page 43.

ByTimParma,SeniorPropertyTaxConsultantScott B. Retzloff & Associates

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org32www.coinmach.com

PRE-

MixerApril 11, 2013 / 6:30 p.m.at La Hacienda de los Barrios18747 Redland Rd San Antonio, TX 78259

$25 pre-registered / $35 at the door

Come join the fun with food, music and friends!Register online at www.saaaonline.org.


legal updateDAVID FRITSCHELAW OFFICES OF R. DAVID FRITSCHE | SAN ANTONIO APARTMENT ASSOCIATION LEGAL COUNSEL


legal update


legal update

March/April 2013 | www.saaaonline.org36www.CrimeCleanofTexas.com

www.rotorooter.com/rrba

www.meyersmithinc.com


legal update


MEMBErship

WELCOME TO THE SAAA FAMILY!

NEW MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

TEXCON is a member of the multi-family construction industry. Owner, Steve Tuzzio started in the business at the age of 17 and now 22 years letter is just as dedicated and passionate about the work that he contracts as he was when he started. Steve believes in supporting the community that he raised his family in and demonstrates his commitment by hiring locally and presiding over all projects. By offering diverse services such as concrete, roofing, painting construction and welding, Steve is dili-gent in his attention to details and takes great pride in getting his projects complet-ed right the first time. If you would like an estimate or have questions email us at [email protected]. We’re always happy to help.

Your Local, Trusted Source for Multi-family Construction!

•Carpentry•Balcony&EntryLanding

Repairs•RoofRepairs•SidingRepairs&

Placement•ExteriorRehabs•ExteriorPainting•SidewalkRepairs•Welding•SubfloorRepairs•andmuchmore...


For questions regarding your membership, visit www.saaaonline.org

Join us in welcoming our NEW MEMBERSto SAAA!

VENDOR MEMBERS:All In One Employment SolutionsMichelle Soriano2300 W Commerce #204San Antonio, TX 78207(210) 541-8686Aioesinc.com Bank FinancialJohn Manos15W060 North Frontage RoadBurr Ridge, IL 60527(630) 242-7212 Bio-One San AntonioJohn Bland18502 Golden MaizeSan Antonio, TX 78258(210) 551-7791Bioonesa.com

Color GenesisTJ Johnson10004 Wurzbach Road, Suite 259 San Antonio, TX 78230(210) 340-4118cgcssa.com Complete LandscapesSusan BarruetoP O Box 3831Pflugerville, TX 78691(512) 252-0141 Contractors IncorporatedMike Hanigan106 Green Pasture DriveHutto, TX 78634(512) 733-0600Contractorsinc.com CoreLogic SafeRentSarah Matllon5550-A Peachtree Parkway, #600 Norcross, GA 30092(888) 881-3400Corelogic.com

Everest InstituteFrank Garcia6550 First Park Ten BlvdSan Antonio, TX 78213(210) 732-7800Everst.edu E-Z Washer Dryer Leasing, Inc.Lori Jones632 Ralph Ablanedo DriveAustin, TX 78748(512) 370-2400 Farmers Insurance/John Lester AgencyJohn Lester15102 Jones Maltsberger #103San Antonio, TX 78247(210) 403-2810 Gerald’s Casino PartiesGerald A. HoffmanP O Box 3006San Antonio, TX 78148(210) 590-7805Geraldscasinoparties.com Glidden Paints-THD BLineCindy McDonald2237 Waterford GraceNew Braunfels, TX 78130(830) 837-2005Glidden.com Hill HorticultureCarley Espensen930 Clydeville San Antonio, TX 78216(210) 494-6469Hillhorticulture.com

LPR Cleaning Solutions, LLCLiz Peterson-Roth11103 San Pedro, Suite 106San Antonio, TX 78216(210) 722-8209

Pegasus Carpet CareDavid M Saidt26002 Mesa Oak Drive San Antonio, TX 78255(210) 240-1400 Prime Time TowingBarbara J Perales9739 Cobb San Antonio, TX 78217(210) 561-5800 RSI TexasWes Bruce6016 Midway RdFort Worth, TX 76117(817) 834-8720Rsitexasinc.com

TRIPLE S TOWINGAlfredo XimenezP O Box 93124Austin, TX 78709(210) 646-7422 Vintage Reconstruction, Inc.Darcee Grivel26669 I H 10 W Ste #1Boerne, TX 78006(210) 492-4171Vintagetx.com OWNER/MANAGEMENT MEMBERS :Danette Bertschy8614 Rolling Access TrailFair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015(210) 885-5158 Fenix AJL LLCJose Luis Santamaria505 Triple CrownSan Antonio, TX 78108(210) 437-0724 Hunt Lane 534, LLCJack FrancoP O Box 430Kemah, TX 77565(310) 245-8084

Mavericks AssociationCharlene Mendez121 Hill StreetSan Antonio, TX 78212(210) 325-0546 McCurdy ManagementJacqueline McCurdy5025 Mayspring San Antonio, TX 78217(210) 243-9437 Presidium HCO LPJohn Kidd3787 Perrin Central BlvdSan Antonio, TX 78217(404) 783-8317 Simply Better Management Com-pany, LLCChristian Hinojosa423 West 55th Street, 10th FloorNew York, NY 10019(212) 506-5896 The Oaks on Bandera Mgmt ServicesGilberto Vergara1171 Bandera Road. (Office)San Antonio, TX 78228(210) 432-8412 Tora Enterprises, LLCJoanne Szewc7406 Steeple Dr.San Antonio, TX 78256(210) 441-8133 Westgate ApartmentsDavid Zawlocki333 Brahan BlvdSan Antonio, TX 78215(210) 271-7399Wg8satx.com

MEMBERSHIP


SAAA PAC

Business Exchange& Wine Tasting

May 145:00 - 9:00 p.m.

Granberry Hills6390 Granberry , San Antonio, TX, 78239

$500 per companyUp to two attendees per company

Limited spaces available

Contact [email protected] reserve your place in the Exchange.

2013

Special note on PAC donations:Contributions are not deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Contributions to SAAA PAC are voluntary and are used for political purposes. The amount indicated is merely a guideline and you may contribute more or less than the sug-gested amount. The Association will not favor or disadvan-tage anyone by reason of the amount of their contribution, or their decision not to contribute. You may refuse to contribute withoutreprisal.FederallawrequiresSAAAPACtorequestand report the name, address, occupation and employer for eachpersonwhosecontributionsexceedtwohundred($200)or more in a calendar year.


GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS

The world of government affairs is busy in Texas as the Texas Legislature just convened the 83rd Legislative Ses-sion. This is the time when all of our state senators and state representatives go toAustintocreateand/orchangelaws;and our TAA government affairs team in Austin is working diligently to protect ourindustry.Theyareanamazingteam;they were just named the #10 in the Top 10 Lobby Power Ratings by Capitol Insid-er. Make sure to congratulate them if you run into them.

STATE LEGISLATURETwo quick legislative bills that we’rekeeping an eye on and TAA is support-ing are HB 225 and HB 316. HB 225 by Representative Van Taylor of Plano would allow surcharges on credit card payments for rent. HB 225 by Represen-tative John Otto of Dayton would make a current pilot program which allows tax-payerswithproperties valuedover$1million to appeal ARB decisions to the StateOfficeofAdministrativeHearings(SOAH) permanent and extends the pro-gram statewide. Both of these bills would have a direct impact on our industry and we will keep you updated on how these bills move along the legislative process.

LOCAL – SAN ANTONIOAbsentee Property Owner Registration OrdinanceThe City of San Antonio staff is creating anordinancethatwouldrequireanyonewho owns property inside the city bound-ary and lives outside of Bexar County to register with the city. This registration

would requirea fee. If theowner livesoutsideTexas,theownerwillberequiredto appoint a local contact to be respon-sible for the property’s management and maintenance.

The ordinance is being considered as a way to combat properties that become a blight in communities. Often the city has difficultyreachingpropertyownerswhodo not live in the county, possibly due to erroneous contact information in county records. The city often needs to contact property owners when there are code compliance violations. If the city cannot reach the owners, then it becomes very difficult to rid the communities of thecode violations.

This ordinance has not yet passed and the city has included the San Antonio Apartment Association as a stakeholder in the process of creating the ordinance.

CITY COUNCIL RACESThe San Antonio City Council will have elections this coming May 11th. The races we will be keeping an eye on are District 3 with incumbent Councilwoman Leticia Ozuna who at this point has one opposing candidate. District 5 just re-cently became inundated with three op-posing candidates to challenge current Councilman David Medina. Lastly the other hot race will be District 8 in which the current Councilman, Reed Williams, has decided to not run for re-election;this has opened the door to three aspir-ing candidates. Stay tuned for the SAAA endorsed candidates.

SAAA PAC CLAY SHOOT TOURNAMENTSAAA PAC (Political Action Committee) helditsfirsteverClayShootTournamentat the National Shooting Complex in San

AntonioonJanuary25th;and itwasahuge success. Attendees had a blast (ha!). Theevent raised$4,400forPACand we only expect this amount to grow next year. We would like to thank every-one who attended and all of the event’s sponsors;thiseventwouldnothavebeenpossible without their support. You should know that many of the attendees had neverparticipatedinsuchatournament;some had never held a shotgun. Well, anyfears theyhadwentawayquickly.The National Shooting Complex’s staff provided training for new shooters, and made everyone feel comfortable. You don’t want to miss out next year, please be ready to register for the Second Annual Clay Shoot Tournament coming sooner than what you think!

This is all for now. Keep yourself informed by going to the Government Affairs sec-tion of our SAAA website at www.saaa-online.org. And as I’ve stated before, my door is always open to you, so if you haveanyquestions, suggestionsor con-cerns just come by or give me a call.

HECTOR MORALES, JR., M.P. AFF.DIRECTOR OF GOVERNMENT RELATIONS | SAN ANTONIO APARTMENT ASSOCIATION



SAAA events, seminars, classes and gatherings will be photographed and/or videotaped for future use in promotional materials. By entering the events, you are providing SAAA irrevocable permission to use your voice, image or likeness for any live or recorded video display, broadcast or other transmission, reproduction or other depiction in any media now or hereafter existing for any legal purpose without your consent. To unsubscribe from emails, faxes, or any information from SAAA, please email [email protected], 7525 Babcock, San Antonio, Tx 78249 Office 210.692.7797 Fax 210.692.7277. © Copyright San Antonio Apartment Association 2012.

REGISTRATION FORM:

Name:________________________________________ Company:______________________________________

Email:________________________________________ Mailing Address:________________________________

Phone:________________________________________ Fax:________________________________________

BILLING OPTIONS: q Invoice me q Check Enclosed q Prepay Option

Card No: __________________________________ Exp:__________Billing Zip Code:__________Sec. Code:_______Signature______________________________________________________________________________________It is the policy of the SAAA that all events and education seminar invoices incur a $2 billing fee, unless payment in full has been made prior to the invoicing of such event or if registration is being paid in full at the door.

Don’t Miss The Nuts & Bolts of Protesting Your Property Taxes

If you aren’t protesting your property taxes every year, you may be paying more than you should! Marc Ross will be speaking about self-protested property taxes and Tim Parma will be speaking about using a

professional to protest your property taxes. They will help you determine which method will work best for your business.

April 19th – 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Class is free - each person pays for their lunch*

SAAA Office: 7525 Babcock Road, San Antonio, TX 78249

OPEN TO ALL SAAA MEMBERS!*Bring your lunch or prepay $10 for pizza and a drink

Topic: Property Tax Protests Speakers: Marc Ross, Bob Ross Realty and Tim Parma, Ad Valorem Specialists

RSVP to Jennifer at [email protected] by April 17, 2013

Landlord 101: For Independent Rental Owners

LUNCH OPTIONS: q $Prepay $10 q Bringing my own lunch


Marti Parker San Antonio/AustinOrder Desk: 800-267-2985 Mobile: 210-854-7031

Serving Texas for Over 30 Years!

• Replacement • Renovations • New Construction •• Saturday Installs • One-day, Next-day Service •

www.dixiecarpet.com

www.ucscompanies.com

www.theprg.org

www.foundationexperts.com

www.fsiconstruction.com

www.surfaceconnection.com

www.hsrconstruction.com www.signswestaustin.com

210.826.1777Landscape Management Services• Lawn and landscape maintenance• Professional landscape design• Landscape installation Irrigation Services• Irrigation repair• Irrigation installationTree Services• Pruning• Removal/ Stump grinding• Demossing• Insurance claims

Serving the San Antonio Area

Since 1983

Thank you to all our Residence Magazine

SponsorsYou keep our industry strong!



BG Staffing .................................................6

Century A/C Supply ..................................16

Coinmach ................................................32

Crime Clean of Texas ...............................36

Dixie Carpet Installations, Inc. .................44

FSI Constructrion ......................................44

Foundation Specialists .............................44

Horton Horticulture ...................................44

HSR Construction, Inc. ..............................10

Mac-Gray ................................................14

Maintenance Supply Headquarters ...........5

Meyer Smith, Inc. .....................................36

North & South Pool Service .......................44

Phoenix Recovery Group .........................44

Pro-line Pavement Maintenance .............22

Rasa Floors & Carpet Cleaning ................48

Roto-Rooter ..............................................36

San Antonio Water Systems (SAWS) ...........18

Shweiki Media ..........................................46

Signs West ................................................44

Surface Connection.................................44

Texcon ........................................................6

TPI, Inc. ....................................................47

UCS ..........................................................44

industry experts


7525 Babcock RoadSan Antonio, Texas 78249

PRSRT STDAUTO

U.S. POSAGEPAID

SAN ANTONIO, TEXASPERMIT NO. 1935

Documents

Residence San Antonio Apartment Association