The Value We Found in Dallas-Fort Worth

Market momentum is creating an opportunity to strengthen our presence, grow the Auben brand and build the team for what comes next.

A recent GlobeSt article examined how technology talent is expanding beyond the markets that have traditionally dominated the sector. Dallas-Fort Worth stands out in that shift.

CBRE now ranks Dallas-Fort Worth No. 8 among North America’s tech talent markets. GlobeSt also reports that the region added 37,230 tech workers between 2022 and 2025, an 18.7% increase and the largest gain among U.S. markets included in the report.

Those numbers are about technology, but the signal is broader. Companies are investing in Dallas-Fort Worth, skilled workers are choosing the region and the market is gaining depth.

That matters to Auben because Dallas-Fort Worth is not a future market for us. It is our primary operational market and Regional Operating Center. Charleston remains our Corporate Headquarters.

Building more than a presence

Auben has always believed that real estate investors should benefit from local market expertise without giving up the advantages of a broader operating platform. Our integrated approach brings property management, project management, investment sales and an asset management mindset together around the owner and the performance of the property.

Dallas-Fort Worth gives us an opportunity to put that model to work at a greater scale. Being close to the market helps our teams understand what owners are experiencing, see changes as they happen and build stronger relationships with investors, developers, brokers and industry partners.

Presence alone does not build a brand. Performance does.

From a marketing perspective, our responsibility is to make the value of that performance clear. We need to show what Auben does differently, share useful local insight and make sure the right people understand how our teams help owners operate and grow their portfolios. We also need to be active in the relationships and conversations shaping the Dallas-Fort Worth real estate market.

The goal is not awareness for its own sake. It is trust, relevance and business growth supported by a reputation Auben has earned.

Building the team to support the opportunity

None of this happens without the right people.

Our recruiting approach is intentional because the work demands it. We do not want to hire our way out of a crisis or fill a seat simply because it is open. We want to build ahead of the work and bring in people who can contribute to Auben’s long-term success.

Experience matters, but it is not enough on its own. We look for people who reflect Auben’s six core characteristics:

Team Oriented: They work toward shared success and support the people around them.
Direct and Communicative: They communicate clearly, respectfully and early.
Solution Oriented: They bring answers, not just problems.
Always Accountable: They take ownership of their work and its outcome.
Sense of Urgency: They understand what needs to move and act on it.

Underdog DNA: They are resourceful, resilient and willing to earn the result.

These are not recruiting slogans. They are operating expectations. They help us identify people who can accept

feedback, solve problems, follow through and continue learning as the company grows.

Dallas-Fort Worth’s expanding talent base gives Auben access to people with a wide range of experience and perspective. Our job is to identify those who can succeed within our culture, serve our clients well and help strengthen the organization over time. We want to build real estate careers, not simply staff positions.

What comes next

Dallas-Fort Worth offers Auben a meaningful opportunity, but taking advantage of it will require discipline. We need strong local operations, integrated services, a clear and credible brand, productive industry relationships and people who know how to execute.

When those pieces work together, growth can create better outcomes for owners, residents, employees and the communities we serve.

This week’s blog comes to us from our Director of Marketing and Training, Lakyn Samaniego, and our Corporate Recruiter, Holly Moncibaiz!

Breaking Down Cost Segregation & Bonus Depreciation

Powerful Tax Strategies for Real Estate Investors

As real estate investors look for ways to maximize returns and improve cash flow, cost segregation and bonus depreciation have become two of the most valuable tax planning tools available. When used strategically, these techniques can significantly reduce taxable income and help investors keep more capital working in their portfolios.

What Is Cost Segregation?

Cost segregation is a tax strategy that allows real estate owners to accelerate depreciation deductions on certain components of a property. Rather than depreciating an entire building over the standard 27.5 years for residential property or 39 years for commercial property, a cost segregation study identifies assets that can be depreciated over shorter periods, typically 5, 7, or 15 years.

Examples may include:

Flooring and carpeting

Appliances and fixtures

Decorative lighting

Landscaping and site improvements

Parking lots and sidewalks

By separating these components from the building structure, investors can recognize a larger portion of depreciation expenses earlier in the property’s life cycle.

What Is Bonus Depreciation?

Bonus depreciation allows investors to immediately deduct a significant percentage of qualifying assets identified through a cost segregation study. Instead of spreading these deductions over several years, investors can take advantage of accelerated write-offs in the year the property is placed into service or the cost segregation study is completed.

When combined with cost segregation, bonus depreciation can create substantial upfront tax savings that improve liquidity and preserve capital for future investments.

How These Strategies Benefit Real Estate Investors

For many investors, the primary advantage is increased cash flow. Lower taxable income can result in reduced tax liability, allowing owners to retain more of their investment capital.

Potential benefits include:

Increased after-tax cash flow

Enhanced return on investment

Greater capital available for acquisitions and improvements

Improved portfolio growth opportunities

Tax-efficient wealth preservation strategies

These benefits can be especially impactful for investors with larger portfolios, high-income earners, and those actively acquiring rental properties.

Who Should Consider Cost Segregation?

Cost segregation is often most beneficial for investors who:

Own rental properties with substantial building value

Have recently purchased or constructed real estate

Expect significant taxable income from real estate or other investments

Plan to hold properties long enough to realize the tax advantages

Because every investment situation is unique, investors should work closely with qualified tax professionals to determine whether a cost segregation study aligns with their financial goals and tax strategy.

A Strategic Tool for Long-Term Wealth Building

Real estate investing offers numerous opportunities to build wealth, but understanding the tax advantages available can be just as important as selecting the right property. Cost segregation and bonus depreciation provide investors with powerful tools to accelerate deductions, increase cash flow, and create greater flexibility for future growth.

At Auben, we believe successful investing starts with understanding every tool available to maximize returns. For investors focused on scaling their portfolios and preserving capital, cost segregation and bonus depreciation remain two of the most effective strategies in today’s real estate market!

This week’s blog comes to us from our Houston Market Sales Manager, Kristen Brady!

Tune in to the latest episode of Real Estate Rewind on Thursday, August 27th, and be sure to leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends!

The Growing Appeal of 721 Exchanges

As multifamily investing evolves, more property owners are exploring 721 exchanges as a tax-efficient way to transition from direct property ownership into a diversified real estate portfolio.

Unlike a traditional 1031 exchange, which requires investors to purchase another property, a 721 exchange allows an owner to contribute a property into a qualifying real estate partnership or fund in exchange for ownership units. This can help investors defer capital gains taxes while gaining exposure to a broader portfolio of assets.

For owners of highly appreciated multifamily properties, 721 exchanges offer several potential benefits:

Tax deferral without the pressure of identifying replacement properties

Diversification beyond a single asset or market

Reduced management responsibilities through passive ownership

Estate planning flexibility by converting real estate holdings into partnership interests

As investors seek ways to preserve wealth, reduce concentration risk, and simplify ownership, 721 exchanges are becoming an increasingly attractive strategy. While they are not the right fit for every investor, they provide another option for those looking to remain invested in real estate while transitioning away from active property management.

At Auben, we’re seeing growing interest in strategies that help investors build long-term wealth while creating greater flexibility and diversification. 721 exchanges are one example of how today’s real estate owners are rethinking portfolio growth and succession planning.

This week’s blog post comes to us from our Houston Market Sales Manager, Kristen Brady!

Want to learn more about how we can help you build long-term wealth?

Connect with us next week in Austin, TX at IMN’s SFR/BTR Property Management & Operations Forum!

The Garage Premium in Build-to-Rent Townhomes

Walk through almost any American neighborhood and you’ll notice something interesting: Many garages aren’t filled with cars—they’re filled with everything else that makes up our daily lives. Whether it’s because we’re collectors, hobbyists, or simply like having extra storage, one thing is clear:

Americans love their stuff.

For build-to-rent developers and investors, that’s more than an interesting observation—it’s a business opportunity.

A recent study from Yardi Matrix and Hunter Housing Economics analyzed more than 1,500 rental townhome communities representing over 238,000 units to answer a question many developers have only loosely considered:

What is a garage really worth?

The answer surprised even seasoned industry professionals.

More Than a Place to Park

According to the research, a one-car garage generated approximately $1,680–$2,580 in additional annual rent, while a two-car garage produced $2,940–$4,440 per year in additional rental income. At a 6% exit cap rate, that translates to approximately $37,850 in additional implied value per unit—often exceeding the additional construction cost. 

As the authors conclude, ”The headline findings are unambiguous.” Garages are proving to be much more than an amenity. They’re a measurable value driver for modern build-to-rent communities. 

If you’d like to dive deeper into the research, you can read Brad Hunter’s full white paper and article here.

You can also watch Brad Hunter discuss the findings in this video:

The Hidden Value Isn’t Just Rent

Here’s where the research becomes even more compelling.

Communities with garages don’t simply collect higher rents—they tend to perform better operationally. Residents with garages move less frequently, resulting in lower turnover, reduced make-ready expenses, fewer leasing commissions, and less vacancy loss. The study estimates these operational advantages contribute an additional $350–$650 per unit annually in effective NOI.

In other words, the garage continues producing value long after the lease is signed.

Auben Sees It Every Day

The national research aligns with what our leasing teams experience across our portfolio.

Prospective residents regularly ask one of the first questions before scheduling a tour:

“Does it have a garage?”

Storage has become one of today’s most desired amenities. Whether it’s seasonal decorations, lawn equipment, bicycles, strollers, or simply a place to keep life’s extras, residents consistently place a premium on having additional enclosed space.

“We’ve found that garages do more than provide parking—they give residents the extra storage they’re looking for. The added space is something people are willing to pay for.” -Auben Team Member

These conversations reinforce something the data confirms: garages aren’t just appreciated—they influence leasing decisions.

Cedar Creek Put the Theory Into Practice

At Auben Realty, we’ve had the opportunity to see these findings play out in real time.

During the lease-up of Cedar Creek, homes with attached garages consistently outperformed nearby comparable communities by supporting stronger rental rates while maintaining excellent leasing momentum.

Cedar Creek Results

Average Rent: $2150

Comparable Communities: $1950

Monthly Rent Premium: $250

Lease-Up Timeline:8 months

Occupancy: 100%

Those results mirror the national research and reinforce what we’ve experienced firsthand: residents recognize the value of garages and are willing to pay for them.

A Down Side… The downsides point to dense urban markets and legacy stock-heavy markets where transit and urban density limit the need for garages or “no garage” is often well-established.  These markets have the smallest garage premium (4%-7%) as compared to markets where car dependency is great, demand for enclosed parking, or markets accustomed to garage living have garage premiums of (8-18%).

A Different Way to Think About Garages

Developers have traditionally viewed garages as another line item in the construction budget.

But perhaps that’s the wrong way to look at them.

National research, combined with our own experience leasing build-to-rent communities, suggests that garages do far more than provide a place to park a vehicle. They create additional storage, support today’s renter lifestyle, differentiate communities from nearby competition, and contribute to stronger financial performance.

That doesn’t mean every market is the same.

In dense urban environments and legacy markets where public transit is widely available—or where older housing stock has historically been built without garages—the premium tends to be much smaller. In these locations, the value of enclosed parking is often outweighed by walkability and established housing patterns, resulting in garage premiums of approximately 4%–7%. By contrast, suburban markets where residents rely heavily on personal vehicles and have come to expect attached garages routinely see premiums ranging from 8%–18%. 

For Auben’s markets across the Southeast, that distinction is especially meaningful. Many of the communities we serve are suburban, vehicle-dependent, and attract residents who value both convenience and additional storage. Our leasing teams hear it every day, and our experience at Cedar Creek reinforces what the national research demonstrates: garages consistently help homes stand out in the marketplace.

The garage isn’t simply another amenity to list in a marketing brochure. It’s becoming a structural driver of rental income, resident retention, and long-term asset value. Developers who evaluate garages solely as a construction expense may be overlooking one of the most impactful investments they can make in a build-to-rent community.

Sometimes the highest return on investment isn’t found inside the home.

It’s waiting just beyond the garage door.

This week’s blog post comes to us from Ivan Jenkins!

Augusta: Off the Radar to On the Rise

Augusta gets a bad rap.

Aside from the not-so-small golf tournament that happens every spring, Augusta is rarely on the radar for many people not from Georgia. Even for those from Augusta or within close proximity, the city’s reputation often takes a serious beating.

I have witnessed locals and non-locals referring to it as Disgusta, Atlanta’s Red-Headed Stepchild, Little Chicago (because of historical corruption), close to everything, an epicenter for brain drain and many more unflattering things.

I think Augusta is an incredible place to work and also to live. Apparently so do a lot of other people according to a recent LinkedIn study.

I am not native to Augusta and prior to moving to the city in 2006, if you mentioned Augusta, I would have been as likely to head to Maine as I would have been to head to Georgia.

In 2006, as an aspiring real estate investor, I found myself loading my U-Haul in New York City with books and CDs and moving to the second biggest city in Georgia with a desire to begin my investing career in earnest.

There were several things that caused me to move to Augusta including

Being home to my first mentor
Having a network of other real estate acquaintances
Having an abundance of aged inventory of scatter-site single family homes

But what really stood out about Augusta then and still now, is its affordability. As GlobeSt said in its summary of the recent LinkedIn article:

The metro’s labor market and housing data point to a region trying to balance growth with affordability. LinkedIn reports that 11.9 percent of jobs in Richmond are remote and 11.4 percent hybrid, with a median income of $64,585 and an average home listing price of $553,215.

What Augusta was for me, and what I think it can be for many professionals, is a very reasonably-priced, high-quality-of-life place to earn and learn.

Augusta’s real estate market is affordable now and was even more affordable in 2006. The low price of entry and reasonably-priced labor market proved to be very accommodating of the many mistakes I would make, especially early in my career.

It was much easier to bounce back from losing 10% on the flip of a 150k home than it would be on a million dollar home. As the entire world of real estate imploded several years later, I would also learn how resilient the Augusta market was.

One of the things that I did not realize until many years later was how beneficial Augusta was for setting conservative and practical cash flow expectations.

In my early days in Augusta, it was very common to find cashflowing real estate so I assumed all real estate should cashflow. This thesis allowed me to navigate the GFC with investments intact, bruised and beaten, but not defeated.

As my investments have expanded to other markets, this conservative cashflow philosophy has been tremendously beneficial to ensuring my investments weathered many other tumultuous market shifts consistently prioritizing yield over speculative equity plays.

It’s been 12 years since I lived in Augusta but whenever I go back it still feels like home. It’s where I became a husband, a father and was the perfect environment to build Auben from the ground up.

This week’s blog post comes to us from our Founder, Tyson Schuetze!

Be sure to listen to the latest episode of Real Estate Rewind to hear about what Augusta was like in the early days of Auben Realty and listen to Tyson reminisce on the early days with his father, Bill Schuetze, and Natalie Walls!

Listen now and be sure to leave a review, subscribe, and share it with your friends!

Spotify: https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/9IIF1VUWn5b

YouTube: https://youtu.be/tillUv94U4U

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-three-properties-to-auben-the-untold-origin-story/id1896884714?i=1000780267020

American Homeownership: Does our population actually own 65% of their homes? Not Exactly.

For decades, homeownership has been hovering around 65%.  However, this closely monitored statistic may have a glaring flaw that The Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis just uncovered.  The flaw being counting legal adults that still live at home with their parents, as part of the general population that actually own their own home.  Naturally, this inclusion is inflating American homeownership by approximately 12%, or millions of people.  The Minneapolis Fed developed a new way, a more accurate way in my opinion, to calculate homeownership in America.  They dubbed it the Homeowners-To-Population Ratio, or HPOP. 

How does HPOP affect the numbers?

It removes the obvious flaw from this decades old calculation and gives us a much more accurate percentage of homeownership, which is actually hovering around 53%.
This statistic worsens as you further fragment the population, i.e. HPOP for 35 years of age and younger hovers around 22%. 
If traditionally calculated, homeownership is represented as 37%, a swing of 15 points!

This new statistic negatively impacts the optics surrounding American homeownership and, more crucially, elevates the issue of housing affordability to new heights.  It raises the obvious question, why is true homeownership so low in the largest, most robust, most diverse economy in the world?

A silver lining surrounding this topic, until affordability is addressed at a federal level, is individuals seeking homeownership that have some degree of means and/or the opportunity to move states, can find housing that truly fits their needs and their budget.  For example, Hawaii, New Mexico, Delaware, California, and New Jersey have some of the worst percentage drops in homeownership between the traditional calculation and HPOP, while other states like North Dakota, South Carolina, West Virginia, Kentucky and Alabama have less of a percentage drop between the calculations.

Looking Ahead

In conclusion, HPOP is a much more accurate way to calculate American homeownership, and it negatively impacts the optics and the realities surrounding homeownership and housing affordability.  Armed with this new statistic, hopefully the public and private sectors can continue to work and collaborate together and increase American homeownership overall, and at a minimum, provide enough high quality, affordable rental housing to bridge the gap.

This week’s blog post comes to us from Blake Collier!

Connect with our Houston team to learn more about how build-to-rent homes offer an alternative route!

The Real Cost of Homeownership: Buying vs. Renting Affordability

Many renters believe that buying a home is beyond their budget because the monthly mortgage payment appears to be much higher than their rent. While that is sometimes true, the actual cost of homeownership can be closer than many people realize once federal tax savings and long-term equity growth are considered.

Example

Assume a tenant earning $75,000 per year currently rents a home for $1,850 per month. Instead, they purchase that same home using the following financing:

Purchase Price: $290,000

Down Payment: 3.5% ($10,150)

FHA 30-Year Fixed Mortgage: $279,850

Interest Rate: 6.5%

Estimated Monthly Housing Payment

Principal & Interest: $1,769

Property Taxes: $242

Homeowners Insurance: $150

FHA Mortgage Insurance: $128

Total Monthly Payment: $2,289

Tax Benefit

During the first year, the homeowner is estimated to pay approximately:

Mortgage Interest: $18,100

Property Taxes: $2,904

Total potential itemized deductions: $21,004.

For a single taxpayer in 2026, this exceeds the standard deduction by about $4,900. Assuming a 22% federal tax bracket, the homeowner would save approximately $1,078 in federal income taxes, or about $90 per month.

This reduces the effective monthly cost of homeownership to approximately $2,199.

Compared to renting at $1,850 per month, the homeowner is effectively paying only about $349 more each month.

Building Wealth

Unlike rent, a mortgage payment builds ownership. A portion of each payment reduces the loan balance, increasing the homeowner’s equity. In addition, homes have historically appreciated over time, although appreciation is never guaranteed.

Assuming a conservative 3% annual appreciation, after five years the homeowner would have approximately:

$46,200 in home appreciation

$17,900 in mortgage principal paid down

$10,150 original down payment

Total Estimated Equity After Five Years: Approximately $74,000

Success Story

This brings me to the story of an acquittance of mine many years ago. She was a single woman in her mid-20s. I mentioned to her that, with the tax savings discussed above,she could own a home and pay about the same, or maybe even a little less each month than she was paying in rent. From that point forward, she was determined that she was going to purchase a home.

It did not take her very long to find the perfect house. Offer was made, accepted and a short time later, she was moving in. She sold this house 6 years later when she relocated. However, in the 6 years that she owned this home, the house appreciated 75% over what she had paid for it. She was able to use this equity to purchase her new home in her new city and was able to continue to increase her net wealth.

Conclusion

Every buyer’s financial situation is different, and homeownership may not be for everyone. However, for many qualified renters, the difference in monthly cost may be far smaller than expected, while the opportunity to build long-term wealth through homeownership can be substantial.

This week’s blog post comes to us from Wayne Snyder. Connect with him today on LinkedIn!

Rent or Buy: Identifying the Best Course of Action

A question we often ask real estate investors is whether they want to “Rent or Sell”? We do this as a way to encourage them to always consider the ideal portfolio composition and calibration. Depending upon the investor’s current goals and strategies, this question often prompts owners to consider their best move forward that they may not have considered at the time. They may realize that the best move is to sell the asset and reinvest the proceeds into a better asset or a better market that Auben Realty operates in.

Similarly, renters should ask themselves whether they should “Rent or Buy” as they are mapping out their financial goals and strategies. This is a key planning decision as a recent study conducted by the National Association of Realtors shows that in 2025, the net worth of homeowners is 43 times greater than that of renters.

For renters who have never owned their own home, the financial costs of owning a home can seem overwhelming. You may think that you cannot afford to pay a monthly mortgage payment, real estate taxes, homeowner’s insurance and all of the maintenance and up-keep costs. That could seem to be a financial burden that you cannot undertake.

However, you are already covering all of those expenses and more with every monthly rent payment you make. Your rent payment is paying for the landlord’s mortgage and financing expenses, the annual real estate taxes, their homeowner’s insurance, an allowance that covers all maintenance and upkeep costs plus most likely a monthly profit margin for the owner.

Understandably, a major hurdle for a first-time home buyer is being able to afford the down payment. Many are under the misconception that they must have at least 20% of the purchase price to put down in order to obtain a mortgage. However, there are many programs available for first time home buyers where you may qualify for a no down payment or a minimal down payment mortgage program. There are several lending options available such as FHA with a minimum down payment of 3.5%, VA for qualifying military personnel has no money down options and USDA financing offers 0% down payments for eligible buyers in qualifying rural areas and certain suburban locations. In addition to these programs, there are also creative financing options. One such program is Ownify, which requires only 2% down. Another program is Divvy which is a rent-to-own program that allows buyers time to improve their credit scores so that they can secure a mortgage in the future.

If you want to learn more about how you may qualify for these types of mortgages and determine if the path to homeownership may very well be within your reach, you are encouraged to speak with a trusted real estate agent or directly with a mortgage lender who can explain the various programs available and show you how to begin your journey to home ownership.

This week’s blog post comes to us from Wayne Snyder!

Why Houston, TX Is One of the Most Diverse Real Estate Investment Markets Today

Houston continues to stand out as one of the most attractive real estate investment markets in the United States. Driven by strong population growth, a diversified economy, and relatively affordable housing, the city offers investors a rare combination of stability, scalability, and long-term upside.

A Market Built on Growth and Diversification

As the fourth-largest city in the U.S., Houston’s strength lies in its economic diversity. While energy remains foundational, the market is supported by healthcare, technology, logistics, and manufacturing—creating a stable employment base that fuels consistent housing demand.

This balance allows Houston to perform across market cycles, making it less vulnerable to the volatility seen in single-industry metros.

Strong Fundamentals Driving Demand

Houston’s investment appeal is rooted in a few key advantages:

Sustained population growth driving housing demand
Relative affordability compared to other major metros
Job creation across multiple industries
Expansion-friendly geography enabling new development

For investors, these fundamentals translate into reliable rental demand, multiple entry points, and long-term appreciation potential.

Lifestyle, Amenities, and Livability

Houston’s continued growth is fueled not just by economics, but by quality of life. The city offers:

A diverse and nationally recognized dining scene
World-class healthcare via the Texas Medical Center
Expansive parks and outdoor spaces like Memorial Park and Buffalo Bayou
Professional sports, arts, and entertainment
Access to major highways and proximity to the Gulf Coast

These factors support tenant demand and long-term asset value.

A Diverse Investment Landscape

Houston stands apart for its true investment diversity, offering opportunities across:

Single-family rentals
Multifamily assets
Build-to-rent communities
New construction and value-add opportunities

Combined with a wide range of price points, this allows investors to scale and adapt strategies without leaving the market.

A Real-World Opportunity: Willow at Sierra Vista

Houston’s fundamentals come to life in real-world opportunities like Willow at Sierra Vista—a purpose-built rental community located in a high-growth submarket.

This project features new construction, single-family rental homes within a master-planned community, designed to meet the increasing demand for high-quality rental housing.

Why It Stands Out

Turnkey, Scalable Investment Model Designed with efficiency in mind, the community allows investors to scale into a repeatable model within a professionally structured environment.

Immediate Cash Flow + Long-Term Upside Homes are positioned to generate day-one rental income, while benefiting from continued expansion and appreciation in the Houston market.

Low Maintenance, Modern Construction With premium finishes, energy-efficient features, and smart home systems, these homes are built to minimize CapEx while attracting high-quality tenants.

Community-Driven Appeal Located within a master-planned development with amenities, the project enhances tenant experience—supporting occupancy, retention, and long-term stability.

Why It Matters

Willow at Sierra Vista highlights what makes Houston unique:

Access to new construction at attainable price points
Ability to achieve both cash flow and appreciation
Scalable opportunities in high-growth corridors

In Houston, opportunity isn’t confined to established neighborhoods—it’s expanding into strategically developed communities designed for long-term growth.

The Bottom Line

Houston isn’t just growing—it’s evolving into one of the most diverse and accessible real estate investment markets in the country.

With strong fundamentals, a balanced economy, and real opportunities like Sierra Vista, the city offers investors a clear path to building durable, income-producing portfolios in a market built for long-term success.

This week’s blog comes to us from Market Sales Manager for Auben Texas, Kristen Brady!

More Than a Conference

A Reminder of the Power of Collaboration

Last week, we had the opportunity to attend the NARPM Southern States Conference alongside several of our other fellow Auben team members. While conferences are often known for the education, vendor booths, and networking opportunities, we left with something much more valuable, renewed appreciation for the power of relationships, community, and continuous growth.

One of the things we love most about Auben is that we truly believe we are better together. Whether it’s our owners, residents, vendors, or team members, our success is built on relationships. This conference was a perfect example of that.

Throughout the event, we had the opportunity to connect with industry partners from across the country. We shared challenges, celebrated wins, exchanged ideas, and learned from one another. It was a reminder that no matter how long you’ve been in this industry, there is always something new to learn and someone who has faced a challenge similar to your own.

What stood out to us as a team most wasn’t necessarily a specific class or presentation, it was the people.

We watched experienced industry leaders freely share their knowledge with newer industry leaders. We saw vendors genuinely focused on helping property management companies improve their businesses rather than simply selling a service. We listened to conversations filled with collaboration, accountability, and a desire to make our industry better.

Those interactions reminded us of several of Auben’s core values.

Direct and Communicative was evident in so many of the conversations throughout the conference. People were willing to have honest discussions about challenges, share what was working in their businesses, and openly exchange ideas. Some of the most valuable moments came from straightforward conversations where people were transparent about their experiences and willing to help others navigate similar situations.

Team Work was on full display throughout the event. Success is much more rewarding when it is shared, and the best leaders understand that helping others succeed ultimately strengthens everyone around them.

And perhaps most importantly, the conference embodied what we often call our Underdog DNA. There was a shared understanding among attendees that success doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from showing up, putting in the work, learning from failures, and continually pushing yourself to improve.

One of our favorite parts of the conference was experiencing it alongside our fellow Auben team members. Being able to learn together, challenge each other’s thinking, and discussing how we can bring new ideas back to our markets made the experience even more meaningful. Conferences are valuable because of the information you receive, but they become impactful when you have a team committed to putting that information into action.

We are incredibly grateful to the organizers, speakers, sponsors, vendors, and attendees who made the event possible. More importantly, we are grateful to be part of an organization that continues to prove that relationships still matter.

As we returned home and shared our thoughts, we didn’t just bring back notes and ideas. We brought back renewed energy, fresh perspectives, and excitement for what lies ahead for our team, our residents, our owners, and our company.

Because at the end of the day, property management isn’t just about houses.

It’s about people.

And people are what make this industry so rewarding.

This week’s blog post comes to us from Brandie Mejia and Jocelyn Forcht-Langfitt!