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August 10, 2026
Welcome to People and Properties, the Cohen-Esrey newsletter where we celebrate the successes of our team members and keep you informed about what is happening in the Cohen-Esrey world. If you have something you would like to share or an achievement that you would like to celebrate, please send it to Lee Harris at lharris@cohenesrey.com. If you are on a property, please print and distribute this newsletter to each member of your property team. You can also find People and Properties on KnowledgeNet. Click here to view previous editions.
A Home With a Skyline View
Geneva Tower in downtown Cedar Rapids, IA, was built in 1971. It was developed by a coalition of Linn County Presbyterian churches as a nonprofit housing community to provide affordable apartments for elderly residents and adults with physical or mental disabilities. The 12-story building contains 183 apartment units and has remained an important source of affordable housing in downtown Cedar Rapids. The tower sits on the southeast edge of downtown within walking distance of medical facilities, grocery shopping, public transportation, churches, restaurants, government offices, and cultural attractions along the Cedar River. In June 2008, Cedar Rapids suffered major flooding. Although floodwaters did not reach the residential floors, they inundated the building’s first level where critical mechanical systems were located The building had to be completely evacuated until repairs were completed.
Studio apartments are 500 square feet and rent for $920 per month.One-bedroom apartments are also 500 square feet and rent from $885 to $1,100 per month. Residents enjoy a large community and TV room along with on-site laundry facilities. Unit interiors boast large windows that provide a spectacular view of the city. The building is pet friendly. Qualified residents receive rent subsidies through a Housing Assistance Payments contract with HUD.
Cedar Rapids is the state's second-largest city and serves as the economic and cultural hub of eastern Iowa. Situated along the scenic Cedar River, the community blends a strong manufacturing heritage with a growing technology, healthcare, and financial services economy. Major employers such as Collins Aerospace, Transamerica, and Mercy Medical Center help drive a diverse employment base, while the city's entrepreneurial spirit continues to attract new businesses and investment.
Known as the "City of Five Seasons," Cedar Rapids celebrates the idea of taking time to enjoy life beyond the traditional four seasons. Residents enjoy numerous parks, trails, and recreational opportunities, along with popular attractions including the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library, the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, and the Paramount Theatre. The revitalized downtown offers restaurants, entertainment venues, and community events throughout the year.
Cedar Rapids has also demonstrated remarkable resilience. Following the devastating floods of 2008, the city invested heavily in flood mitigation and downtown redevelopment, creating a stronger and more vibrant community. Today, Cedar Rapids continues to experience steady growth while maintaining its reputation as an affordable, welcoming place to live, work, and raise a family.
Cara Beck (2025) is the Senior Property Manager, and Jayme Dannen-Deal (2024), Regional Vice-President is currently serving as the Regional Manager. Michael Gioia (2020), is the Senior Property Accountant, and Nancy Lewis (2021), is the Property Accounting Assistant.
We welcome the following new team members to Cohen-Esrey and the Nexus 5 Group.
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Alyssa Gonzalez – Heritage at Cottonwood Creek – San Marcos, TX – Leasing Agent
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Danielle Oneal – Intrada St. Louis – St. Louis, MO – Leasing Agent
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Sealess Bonham – Centennial Park – Kearney, NE – Property Manager
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Keith Moore – Fairfield West Townhomes – Lincoln, NE – Maintenance Technician
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Charles Strobl – The Landing at 818 – Sun Prairie, WI – Leasing Agent
Transformational Construction
Construction continues at Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) future communities.
More site work at Overlook 157 in Asheville, NC.
Unit interior flooring installation at Overlook 157.
Meet the Heritage at Cottonwood Creek Team
Meet the Heritage at Cottonwood Creek team. L-R: Robert Lucero (2026), Maintenance Technician; Christopher Alonzo (2026), Property Manager, Alyssa Gonzalez (2026), Leasing Agent, and Ben Carpenter (2025), Regional Vice President.
Heritage at Cottonwood Creek is a 233-unit market rate and affordable community in San Marcos, TX, that was developed by the Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG).
HR Corner
By Marilee Scheid (2019), Director of Learning and Development
Building Connections That Matter
As we settle into the second half of the year, August is a great time to focus on one of the most important aspects of a positive workplace connection.
While our daily responsibilities keep us busy, taking time to build relationships with our teammates and residents can make a meaningful difference. A simple conversation, a genuine thank-you, or offering to help a co-worker can strengthen trust, improve collaboration, and create a more enjoyable workplace for everyone.
Strong workplace relationships don’t happen by chance – they’re built through small, consistent actions. When we take time to connect, we create an environment where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to do their best work.
At Cohen-Esrey, this aligns closely with our Core Values:
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Integrity – Building trust through honest and respectful communication.
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Commitment – Supporting one another and following through on our promises.
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Customer Fulfillment – Creating positive experiences for our residents through meaningful interactions.
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Team Member Fulfillment – Encouraging, recognizing, and investing in one another’s success.
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Community Impact – Strengthening the communities we serve by fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Every interaction is an opportunity to reinforce these values.
Small Actions Make a Big Difference
Connection doesn't require a grand gesture. Consider making one intentional connection each day by:
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Welcoming a new teammate or resident.
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Thanking someone for their help or recognizing a job well done.
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Taking a few minutes to check in with a coworker.
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Asking a resident how they're doing and listening with genuine interest.
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Helping before someone must ask.
These simple moments create stronger relationships and contribute to a culture where everyone feels they belong.
Why Belonging Matters
People thrive when they feel connected. A workplace built on trust, respect, and collaboration helps us communicate more effectively, solve challenges together, and better serve our residents.
Each of us contributes to the culture of our organization through the choices we make every day. By leading with kindness, showing appreciation, and supporting one another, we create a workplace where people enjoy coming to work and are inspired to make a positive difference.
As you move through the month, consider this question:
Who can I intentionally encourage or connect with today?
The answer may be as simple as starting a conversation, expressing gratitude, or lending a helping hand. Those everyday actions are what build exceptional teams and extraordinary communities.
Thank you for everything you do to support one another and make Cohen-Esrey a place where our people and our communities can thrive.
The Delinquency Champions!
By Michele Rollo-Burns (2018), Director of Leasing and Revenue
Each month we recognize communities and teams that have excelled at rent collections. The Key Performance Indicator (KPI) is 2% or less Current Resident Rent Balances. For the month of July 2026, we have 30 properties that are Delinquency Champions or made Honorable Mention, down from 32 the prior month. Strong rent collections ensures that we can pay the bills. Congratulations to each team!
Historic Buildings of Cohen-Esrey
Cohen-Esrey has a long history of developing and/or managing some really cool historic buildings. In this series, we feature one such building in each issue.
Maple Senior Residences
Maple Senior Residences in Hiawatha, KS, is an example of historic preservation meeting an important community need. Built in 1940 at 722 Oregon Street in downtown Hiawatha, the building was formerly an A&P grocery store. A small single-story brick structure adjoining the building was once a café. The Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) undertook the redevelopment of this property which was completed in 2009 using the federal affordable housing tax credit program, transforming the former commercial structure into affordable housing for older adults.
Today, the community consists of 10 affordable apartments designed specifically for seniors, including one- and two-bedroom homes. During the renovation, CEDG preserved many of the building's historic architectural features while modernizing the interior with elevators, accessible floor plans, updated mechanical systems, and contemporary apartment amenities. The project helped breathe new life into a prominent downtown landmark while supporting Hiawatha's ongoing downtown revitalization efforts.
Maple Senior Residences continues to provide quality housing that allows residents to remain close to local shopping, healthcare, restaurants, and community services. By giving a historic building a new purpose, the development preserves a piece of Hiawatha's architectural heritage while providing safe, comfortable, and affordable housing for the city's senior population.
Core Value of the Month
Congratulations, Emily!
Emily Tew, formerly our Accounting Assistant Supervisor, gave birth to Jane Esther Tew on July 30, 2026, at 9:30 PM. Emily’s husband Ethan, has a smile a mile wide! Baby Jane was 7 pounds 9 ounces and 19 inches long at birth. Former Chief Operating Officer, Mark Fletcher is once again a proud grandpa. Congratulations to Emily, Ethan, and Mark on this joyous occasion!!
Way to Go, David!
Kurt Parrett (2008), Property Accounting Manager, is pleased to announce that David Garrett (2024) has been promoted to Property Accounting Assistant – Supervisor. Throughout his time as an Accounting Assistant, David has consistently demonstrated professionalism, expertise, and a commitment to helping others succeed. His dedication and strong work ethic have made a positive impact on our team.
We are excited to see David step into this leadership role and look forward to the experience, guidance, and support he will bring to the Property Accounting Department. Please join us in congratulating David on this well-deserved promotion!
The Changing Renter: What Residents Expect in 2026
The apartment resident of 2026 is not the same renter the industry served just a few years ago. Rising home prices, changing work patterns, evolving technology, and shifting lifestyle priorities have reshaped what people expect from the communities they call home. Today's residents are looking for more than an apartment – they want convenience, responsiveness, value, and a sense of community.
One of the biggest changes is the continued growth of the "renter by choice" population. While many households still aspire to homeownership, higher mortgage rates, elevated home prices, and rising insurance and property tax costs have made purchasing a home less attainable for many Americans. Others simply prefer the flexibility that renting provides. This means apartment communities are increasingly serving residents who could purchase a home but choose to rent because it better fits their financial goals or lifestyle. As a result, expectations for apartment living continue to rise.
Service has become one of the strongest differentiators. Residents increasingly compare their apartment experience not only to other communities, but also to the customer service they receive from leading retailers, hotels, and technology companies. They expect maintenance requests to be acknowledged quickly, communication to be clear and proactive, and questions to be answered without unnecessary delays. Even when problems cannot be resolved immediately, residents appreciate timely updates and transparency. Consistent communication often matters just as much as the speed of the repair itself.
Technology also plays an increasingly important role in the resident experience. Online leasing, digital document signing, mobile rent payments, maintenance portals, package notifications, and text messaging have become standard expectations rather than premium amenities. Residents want the convenience of managing much of their apartment experience from their smartphones while still having easy access to friendly, knowledgeable team members when personal assistance is needed. The most successful communities are finding the right balance between technology and human interaction.
Value has become another critical consideration. Residents understand that operating costs – including insurance, utilities, payroll, taxes, and maintenance materials – have increased substantially in recent years. At the same time, they expect rental rates to reflect quality, service, and well-maintained communities. Value is no longer measured simply by monthly rent; it is judged by the overall living experience. Clean common areas, attractive landscaping, reliable maintenance, safe environments, and responsive management all contribute to residents feeling they are receiving good value for their housing dollars.
Community has also taken on renewed importance. While residents appreciate privacy, many also seek opportunities to connect with neighbors and feel part of something larger. Well-planned resident events, volunteer opportunities, fitness programs, seasonal celebrations, and thoughtfully designed gathering spaces help foster these connections. A welcoming community can improve resident satisfaction while encouraging longer tenancy and stronger referrals.
Flexibility is another growing expectation. More residents work remotely at least part of the week, creating greater demand for dependable high-speed internet, quiet workspaces, and floor plans that support home offices. Pet ownership also continues to influence housing decisions, making pet-friendly policies, dog parks, walking areas, and convenient pet amenities increasingly valuable. Communities that recognize these lifestyle changes are often better positioned to attract and retain residents.
Today's residents are also paying closer attention to sustainability. Energy-efficient lighting, water-saving fixtures, recycling programs, and environmentally responsible landscaping practices appeal to many renters because they reduce utility costs while demonstrating responsible stewardship. While sustainability initiatives may not always drive leasing decisions on their own, they increasingly contribute to a property's overall appeal.
Finally, residents expect authenticity. They want to know that management teams genuinely care about their concerns rather than simply following procedures. Simple actions – remembering a resident's name, following up after a maintenance visit, celebrating lease anniversaries, or responding empathetically during difficult situations – can create lasting impressions. These personal interactions often determine whether residents renew their leases and recommend the community to friends and family.
The multifamily industry has always been centered on providing housing, but today's residents expect much more than a place to live. They seek convenience, communication, technology, flexibility, and exceptional service delivered by people who care. Apartment communities that consistently meet these expectations will not only improve resident satisfaction but also strengthen occupancy, increase renewals, and build lasting relationships. In an increasingly competitive market, creating a positive resident experience is no longer just good customer service – it is one of the industry's most important competitive advantages.
A Healthy Tip
By Franci Rabinowitz (2025), Recruiter
The Power of Connection
As summer begins to wind down and routines start to settle, August is a great time to focus on something that impacts every aspect of our well-being – human connection.
Whether it's chatting with a co-worker, checking in with a resident, sharing lunch with a teammate, or simply saying "good morning," meaningful connections can improve both our mental and physical health.
Research shows that people who feel connected to others experience less stress, greater resilience, improved job satisfaction, and even better overall health. At work, strong relationships help us communicate more effectively, solve problems faster, and create a positive environment for both our teammates and our residents
🤝 Why Connection Matters
Healthy relationships can:
• Reduce stress and feelings of isolation.
• Improve mood and overall mental well-being.
• Increase teamwork and collaboration.
• Boost engagement and productivity.
• Help build trust with coworkers and residents.
Sometimes, the smallest interactions can have the biggest impact.
💬 Simple Ways to Connect
Meaningful conversations don't have to take a lot of time.
Try one of these this week:
• Invite a coworker for a 15-minute coffee or walking break.
• Introduce yourself to someone you don't work with regularly.
• Send a quick thank-you or recognition message to a teammate.
• Ask a resident how they're enjoying the community—and really listen to their response.
• Put your phone away during lunch and enjoy a conversation with someone nearby.
😊 Kindness Is Contagious
Acts of kindness benefit both the giver and the receiver.
Consider:
• Complimenting a teammate on a job well done.
• Holding the door for someone.
• Offering to help when a coworker seems busy.
• Writing a handwritten thank-you note.
• Celebrating someone's success, big or small.
A few moments of kindness can brighten someone's entire day.
💡 Did You Know?
• Strong social connections are linked to lower stress levels and improved heart health.
• Positive interactions with others can trigger the release of oxytocin, sometimes called the "feel-good" hormone.
• Employees who feel connected to their coworkers are often more engaged, collaborative, and satisfied at work.
• Even a brief 10-minute conversation can improve your mood and strengthen workplace relationships.
🌻 August Wellness Challenge: Make One Meaningful Connection Each Day
This month, challenge yourself to intentionally connect with one person each workday.
It could be:
• A teammate you don't normally work with.
• A new resident.
• A longtime resident you haven't spoken with recently.
• Someone who could use a little encouragement.
Small moments of connection create stronger teams, happier communities, and a healthier workplace for everyone.
Your Connection Checklist
✅ Start one meaningful conversation.
✅ Recognize or thank a teammate.
✅ Check in with a resident.
✅ Take a Walk & Talk with a coworker.
✅ End the day by reflecting on one positive interaction.
Remember, wellness isn't just about eating well and exercising – it's also about building relationships that help us thrive. A simple conversation, a kind word, or a genuine smile can make a lasting difference.
Cities of Cohen-Esrey
Amarillo, TX: The Yellow Rose of Texas
Amarillo, TX, sits in the heart of the Texas Panhandle and serves as the region's economic, cultural, and transportation hub. With a metro population of roughly 276,000, the city combines the conveniences of a metropolitan area with the friendliness and affordability of a smaller community. Positioned along historic Route 66 and Interstate 40, Amarillo has long been a crossroads for travelers and commerce.
The city's economy is anchored by agriculture, cattle ranching, food processing, healthcare, manufacturing, and energy. It is widely recognized as one of the nation's leading cattle markets, with millions of cattle feeding in nearby operations each year. Major employers include Tyson Foods, Pantex Plant, BSA Health System, and Northwest Texas Healthcare System.
Residents enjoy numerous recreational opportunities, including Palo Duro Canyon State Park, the second-largest canyon in the United States, located just south of the city. Amarillo also features a revitalized downtown, the Amarillo Botanical Gardens, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, and the famous Cadillac Ranch art installation.
Housing costs remain well below the national average, making Amarillo an attractive destination for families, retirees, and businesses alike. Continued investment in healthcare, education, and commercial development has supported steady economic growth while preserving the city's welcoming atmosphere. With its strong work ethic, central location, and expanding opportunities, Amarillo continues to be an important center for business and quality of life in the Texas Panhandle.
The Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) is currently redeveloping the 164-unit Village Park Apartments as an affordable housing community in Amarillo.
An Empowerment Story
By Page Gerard (2026), Assistant Property Manager – Geneva Tower
How has Cohen-Esrey Empowered Me to Thrive?
Working at Cohen-Esrey has been a fantastic step up for my career. The support and resources available have allowed me to flourish and succeed as an Assistant Property Manager. Every day allows me to build new skills and improve past skills rather than repeat daily mundane tasks. I am passionate about helping people find housing and this company has given me the confidence and knowledge to truly excel in this field. Cohen-Esrey has Empowered Me to Thrive as it has offered me a clear path for growth; building an environment where my voice is heard and my well-being valued.
Fun Photo!
What in the world?! You are looking at a marshmallow Peep dangling off the roof of the City Center Square building in downtown Kansas City, MO, outside the window of yours truly, Lee Harris. There is a very funny story about several years of pranks involving Peeps. In this instance, a Maintenance Technician took a fishing pole with a Peep on a hook and lowered it to be positioned in exactly the right location outside the 27th floor where we had our corporate offices. You can imagine how startled I was to see this . . .
This is How It’s Done . . .
We Are Better Together!
By Maelin Seamons (2022), Marketing Coordinator
For the past ten years, Jade Leak has built her career around serving residents, and that commitment is paying off. As the Property Manager at Panorama Heights in Colorado Springs, CO, Jade has consistently delivered exceptional customer service, earning the No. 2 spot on the NPS Leaderboard after holding the top position for the previous three months.
Regional Manager Charlie Kinnard (2025) has witnessed Jade's leadership firsthand and credits much of her success to the way she serves both residents and her team. "Jade is an all-around fantastic leader that I wish I could clone," he said. "She is firm but fair and consistent across the board. Many residents appreciate this because they understand it creates a better community experience."
For Jade, property management is about much more than leasing apartments. "I want to provide a community for residents who may have never lived somewhere where people truly care," she said. Creating an environment where residents feel welcome and supported is what she enjoys most about her role.
That philosophy is reflected in her daily routine. Jade makes it a point to greet everyone she sees – whether they're walking past her office, in the hallway, or spending time on the playground. "I stop everyone who passes my door to see how their day is going and what I can do to make the community even better," she explained. Those small conversations help build trust long before a resident ever has a concern to discuss.
Jade believes her success on the NPS Leaderboard comes from treating every resident like an individual. "I take the time to meet with each resident and show them they are more than just a number or a rent payment," she said. "I want them here, and I'll help them any way I can."
When challenges arise, she believes listening is the first step toward finding a solution. She meets with residents one-on-one, encourages them to share their concerns, takes notes during the conversation, and works with them to establish a timeline and plan of action. "Sometimes people just need to know they matter," Jade said. "I build communities on my properties – not a steady income."
Charlie says that commitment to residents is exactly what sets Jade apart. "She goes above and beyond to help when residents need it. She listens, provides solutions, and never underdelivers on her promises," he said. "Her smile, professionalism, and positive attitude are contagious, and she lives our Core Values every single day."
When asked what advice she would give other Property Managers who want to provide exceptional customer service, Jade didn't hesitate. "Listen, listen, listen," she said. She also encourages managers to follow up, remember residents' names, and make every person feel welcome whenever they walk through the office. Her personal motto – "WE ARE BETTER TOGETHER" – captures the culture she has created at Panorama Heights, and the reason residents continue to recognize her with outstanding satisfaction scores.
