October 6, 2025

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.

Magnificence in Overland Park

Perry 81 is a market-rate apartment community in the Kansas City suburb of Overland Park, KS. The 350-unit property was built in 1986 and offers eight different floorplans. Residents enjoy an outdoor fire pit, clubhouse, coffee bar, swimming pool, outdoor kitchen and barbeque area, spa, business center, children’s playground and covered parking. Unit interior amenities include stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer, oversized pet yards off large individual patios, large balconies, and plank-style flooring. Residents can work downtown or in the southern part of the city with less than a 20-minute drive either direction. One-bedroom apartments range from 720 to 800 square feet and rent for $1,035 to $1,251 per month. Two-bedroom apartments range from 969 to 1,062 square feet and rent for $1,200 to $1,299 per month. Three-bedroom apartments are 1,236 square feet and rent for $1,727 per month. Cohen-Esrey Communities (CEC) manages Perry 81 for a Cohen-Esrey Apartment Investors (CEAI) partnership.

Overland Park, Kansas, lies in northeastern Kansas as a vibrant suburb of the Kansas City metropolitan area, about 13 miles southwest of downtown Kansas City. With a population over 200,000, it’s the second-largest city in the state. The city was founded in 1905 by William B. Strang Jr., who aspired to build a “park-like” community. Its land area spans around 75 square miles. Overland Park enjoys a climate that bridges humid continental and humid subtropical zones, yielding hot summers and cold, dry winters. Renowned for its parks, the city boasts more than 80 green spaces and features such attractions as the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens. Its school systems, safety record, business environment, and quality of life frequently earn national recognition.

Amanda Rivera (2023), is the Property Manager. Mike Napovanice (2025), Regional Vice-President is serving as the Regional Manager. Patricia Livingston (2025), is the Property Accountant, Kylie Brunette (2025), is the Accounting Assistant, and America Hernandez (2024), is the Accounts Payable Specialist.

We welcome the following new team members to Cohen-Esrey and the Nexus 5 Group.

Veronica Hawkins – Woolworth Estates, Omaha, NE – Property Manager
Kevin Osborne – Woolworth Estates, Omaha, NE – Lead Maintenance Technician
Achsah Root – Andover Park, Kansas City, MO – Assistant Property Manager
Denise Gonzalez – Sinclair Flats, Mankato, MN – Property Manager
Stacey Spangler – Heritage at Cottonwood Creek, San Marcos, TX – Property Manager
Todd Sorantino – Marshalltown Senior Residences, Marshalltown, IA – Maintenance Technician
John Willis II – Bastion Phase I, New Orleans, LA – Leasing Agent

Meet the Human Resources Team

Meet the Human Resources team. (Seated – L to R) Marilee Scheid (2019), Dee Krause (2022), and Jennifer Miller (2025). (Standing – L to R) Gina Long (2022), Sara Antar (2002), Val Quezada (2024), Franci Rabinowitz (2025) and Alexis Cruz (2024).

The Human Resources team is involved with recruiting, developing and monitoring HR policies and procedures, processing payroll, providing 401(k) support, administering the COBRA process, processing short-term disability and supplemental insurance claims, resolving benefit issues for team members, managing status changes to positions and updating the HRIS system, tracking leaves of absence, supporting onboarding, interviewing and selecting prospective team member candidates, and a myriad of other tasks.

Transformational Construction

Construction continues at Cohen-Esrey Development Group (CEDG) future communities.

Drywall hanging is underway at the Lofts at Creekview in San Antonio, TX.

Building exteriors are looking sharp at Heritage at Cottonwood Creek in San Marcos, TX.

The newly renovated office at Village Park in Amarillo, TX is fully functional.

Vertical construction is ready to begin at Overlook 157 in Asheville, NC.

Corporate Office Holds Annual Picnic

The Corporate Office Annual Picnic was held on September 18 at Antioch Park – a stone’s throw from the office. Here are some photos from the event. Thanks to Lisa Moore (2021), Debbie Van Dyne (1987), and Emily Tew (2022) for the Planning; Debbie Van Dyne, Lisa Moore, TJ Vetaw (2023), Kipp Keffel (2024), Noelle Wilson (2022), Marilee Scheid (2019), Brent Phillips (2021), Dominic Padilla (2024), Jalen Havel-Stephens (2024), America Hernandez (2024), and Emily Tew for the Set-up and Takedown; and Morgan Gassert (2022) for the photos. There were games, balloon-making, facepainting, and plenty of food.

Core Value of the Month

A Healthy Tip

By Jennifer Miller (2025), Director of Human Resources

Stay Sharp This October: Five Health Tips That Actually Work

October isn’t just about pumpkins and costumes — it’s National Health Month, a reminder to check in with your body and make changes that count. It’s the perfect time to reset before the holiday season hits. Here's how to use October to your advantage and actually improve your health.

1. Get Your Screenings – No Excuses

October highlights Breast Cancer Awareness, but it's also a great month to schedule all your annual screenings: mammograms, prostate exams, cholesterol checks, blood pressure, glucose levels. If it’s been over a year since your last checkup, book it. Preventive care saves lives — and money.

2. Check Your Mental Health

Fall can trigger seasonal depression (SAD). Days are shorter, and stress builds as the holidays approach. Be honest with yourself:

Are you sleeping well?
Feeling anxious or low more than usual?
Avoiding things you used to enjoy?

Take action early: talk to someone, add movement to your day, and spend at least 15 minutes outside daily. Don’t wait until you're burned out to get support. Remember, Cohen-Esrey offers an Employee Assistance Program to support you in these efforts. Please reach out to Human Resources for this supportive service available to you at no cost.

3. Eat Real Food – Not Just Pumpkin-Flavored Everything

Cooler weather brings comfort food cravings. That’s fine — just keep it real. Try this:

Roast seasonal veggies (squash, carrots, sweet potatoes).
Swap sugary snacks for fruit + protein.
Keep ultra-processed foods to a minimum.

Make 80% of your meals from whole foods. The other 20%? No guilt. Just balance.

4. Get Your Body Moving Before Winter Slows You Down

Don’t wait for a New Year’s resolution. Start small this October:

20-minute walks after dinner.
Weekend hikes or bike rides.
A short yoga session in the morning.

The goal? Build momentum now, so movement becomes your baseline – not a January scramble.

5. Get Your Flu Shot

October is prime time for flu vaccines — and it’s smart to stay ahead of respiratory season. Talk to your doctor or local pharmacist about what’s recommended based on your age and health status.

Bottom Line

October is your health checkpoint. Take it seriously, but don’t overcomplicate it. A few smart choices now can set you up for a stronger finish to the year.

Stay aware. Stay active. Stay ahead.

The Early Bird Gets the Worm!

By Michele Rollo-Burns (2018), Director of Leasing and Revenue

This saying is an old proverb meaning that people who start a task or arrive somewhere early have a better chance of success or securing a desired outcome. This is very applicable to property management. It is a win, win for us as well as our residents.

Offering Early Bird incentives builds goodwill with the residents. Acts of goodwill can increase the likelihood of a lease renewal, especially when combined with other retention efforts. It also ensures steady and predictable income for the property which can help all PM's meet the property financial goals.

Announce your Early bird program to all your residents in advance and have a set deadline to pay rent by a date in advance of the first of the month to be a part of the promotion.
Use "Loft" to send out reminders to all your residents monthly reminding them of the program and when rent needs to be paid
Display information about your program in your office to a reminder to all residents coming in as well as future residents visiting for tours.
Announce the winners every month. Do not use last names but ensure every month you send out a message congratulating the winners. This will help more residents jump on board with the program
Consistency is the name of the game. Consistent messaging, reminders and winner announcements will have your program successful in no time.

What can your residents get to pay their rent early? There are so many creative things you can offer at low cost that can get results. Always remember to get approval from your RM on what you can offer:

If approved, a small incentive off rent can be a big win for residents to pay early.
Unit upgrade items - Maybe a new set of blinds or a ceiling fan can do the trick. What about a smart thermostat?
A drawing for a larger item that goes to only one or two of the residents that paid early. Items can be a flat screen tv, gift cards, or even a carpet cleaning.
How about Bingo! If the residents pay their rent early, they get a bingo card, bingo numbers are pulled and posted daily in the portal

All in all, an Early Bird program for early rent payers as well as early lease renewals can build strong and lasting relationships with your residents that can increase retention and resident satisfaction.

Celebrating Our NPS Success!

By Kipp Keffel (2024), Director of Training and Customer Fulfillment

Over the past year, our properties have delivered an incredible transformation in resident fulfillment. Just twelve months ago, our overall Net Promoter Score (NPS) sat at an all-time low of -8. Today, thanks to the dedication and hard work of our property teams, we proudly stand at a positive +21, a whopping 363% overall improvement!

Even more impressive, we have recorded 12 consecutive months of positive NPS scores. This consistency marks a turning point for our organization and reflects the collective effort to put residents first. Month after month, our properties prove that Customer Fulfillment is not just a goal, it is the standard.

Monthly Momentum

The infographic above tells the story:

In September 2025, we reached a monthly NPS of +21.8, compared to -35.7 the prior year, a record-breaking +57.5-point improvement year-over-year!
Of the nine comparable months since launching our holistic survey approach in 2024, the portfolio has averaged a monthly +34-point gain year-over-year.
This shows not just a turnaround, but sustainable, ongoing growth.

Category Highlights

The year-over-year data indicates that we have seen significant growth across the portfolio and property types.

Affordable properties: saw 68% of properties either maintain or improve NPS scores year-over-year, averaging +33.33 points across the portfolio for properties that improved.
Market Rate properties: had 58% of the portfolio either maintain or improve NPS scores year-over-year, with an average increase of +35.54 points for properties that improved.

Resident Type

Senior housing: saw an impressive 81% of properties either maintain or increase NPS year-over-year, and an average increase of +34.47 points for properties that improved.
Family housing: performed strongly, with 63% of properties either maintaining or improving NPS year-over-year with an average increase of +33.3 points for properties that improved.

Unit Sizes

(120+ units): made the biggest strides, improving by an average of +38.7 points with 69% maintaining or improving NPS year-over-year.
(51–120 units): followed closely, with +36.6 points and 69% maintaining or improving.
(0–50 units): improved by an average of +28.2 points, with 63% maintaining or improving.

Entire Portfolio

Taken together, our entire portfolio delivered an average increase of +33.6 NPS points, with two-thirds of properties improving year-over-year!

The Challenge Ahead

While we celebrate these victories, our journey does not end here. The bar has been raised, and now it is time to push even higher. Imagine what we can achieve if we set our sights on consistently hitting improved NPS scores across the entire portfolio.

We know it is possible. The past year has shown that when we commit to listening, improving, and creating great resident experiences, we can transform outcomes. The next chapter is about taking this momentum further. Ensuring every resident feels heard, valued, and delighted with their community.

Together, let us not only maintain our success but strive for even greater excellence. With passion, teamwork, and a focus on fulfillment, there is no limit to what we can achieve.

HR Corner

By Sara Antar (2002), Payroll Administrator

Tips and Tricks to Ensure Timely and Accurate Payrolls

As a supervisor, ensuring accurate payroll requires a proactive and consistent approach to managing employee timecards. The most effective strategies involve clear communication, regular review, leveraging technology, and addressing issues quickly.

Before the pay period begins:

Set and enforce clear expectations. Define your company's policy on time tracking during onboarding and reinforce it regularly. Be specific about procedures for recording start and end times, taking breaks, and managing overtime.
Use automated reminders. Set up recurring reminders via email, company chat platforms (e.g., Slack), or calendar notifications. Automating this process saves you time and ensures team members get a nudge before the deadline.
Empower team members with self-service. Have your team review their own timecards weekly and require they approve their timecards. This encourages accountability and helps catch small errors before they become larger problems.

During the pay period:

Approve Time Off requests before reviewing timecard. Errors on timecards or missing punches are often time off requests that have not been approved. Please review your pending requests before reviewing the timecards.
Review timesheets regularly. Instead of waiting for the submission deadline, block off a small amount of time each week to review submitted timecards. This allows you to spot inconsistencies and address them while the details are still fresh in everyone's minds.
Catch common mistakes. When reviewing timecards, look for common errors such as:
- Missing clock-ins or clock-outs.
- Overlapping shifts or long workdays that might indicate a missed clock-out.
- Inconsistencies in recorded hours versus the team member’s standard schedule.
Inquire about anomalies. If you see a long or short shift, talk to the employee directly. There may be a legitimate reason, such as approved overtime, but it is important to confirm.

At the end of the pay period:

Audit for compliance. Conduct a final review of all timecards to ensure they comply with company policy and local labor laws regarding meal and rest breaks, as well as overtime. Compliance reports from time-tracking software can be a helpful tool.
Approve time sheets promptly. Delayed approvals can cause payroll processing delays and frustrate employees. Set a firm deadline for when all timesheets must be submitted and approved.

Managing discrepancies and improving the process:

Establish a clear correction process. Create an easy, non-punitive process for team members to report and fix mistakes on their timecards. This encourages honest reporting. Team members should submit all correction requests for approval using the timecard corrections feature on the mobile app.
Investigate the root cause. If a particular type of error is frequent, investigate the cause. It could be an issue with the system, a policy that needs clarification, or a training gap.
Provide feedback and training. Use timesheet reviews as a coaching opportunity. If team members are consistently making the same mistake, offer some resources for additional training to help them improve their timekeeping habits.
Reward consistency. Positively reinforce good timekeeping habits. Acknowledging team members who consistently submit accurate, timely timecards can promote a culture of responsibility.

Reminders for special issues:

Salaried team members should use PTO only in half day and full day increments.
Leave Requests should be approved in a timely manner.
Call-Out Emergencies are entered by the supervisors. Team members should NOT clock in to record time responding to emergency calls.
Bereavement pay requires the relationship to be noted on the timecard to determine eligibility.
Jury Duty Pay requires a receipt from the courthouse, not the summons
New Hires require schedules to be sent to payroll@cohenesrey.com prior to first day

Resources:

The Team Member Handbook and OASYS offer details for all payroll related items. Use these resources regularly.
Quick Connects are available every Wednesday at 2:00 PM Central.
Never hesitate to reach out to our payroll team for assistance anytime you’re not sure how to handle a situation.

The Revenue Growth Champions!

By Michele Rollo-Burns (2018), Director of Revenue

Each month we recognize communities that have realized stellar year-over-year (YOY) revenue growth. For the month of September 2025, here are the standouts with positive rent growth. Congratulations to each team for the progress made! Fourteen properties are on the list this month – one more than August.

Cities of Cohen-Esrey

Sioux Falls, SD: Gateway to the Plains

Sioux Falls, SD, the largest city in South Dakota, is a dynamic community known for its blend of natural beauty, economic opportunity, and Midwestern charm. Nestled along the Big Sioux River, the city gets its name from the cascading waterfalls that flow through Falls Park, one of its most recognizable landmarks. With a metrol population of nearly 300,000, Sioux Falls serves as the cultural, financial, and medical hub of the state, steadily growing while retaining a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.

The city’s economy is anchored by diverse industries, including healthcare, financial services, manufacturing, and retail. Sanford Health and Avera Health, two major regional healthcare systems, provide employment to thousands and position Sioux Falls as a center for medical innovation. Financial companies such as Citibank and Wells Fargo also have a strong presence, thanks in part to the state’s favorable banking regulations. This combination of sectors has created a stable economic base and contributed to low unemployment rates.

Sioux Falls offers a high quality of life, attracting both families and young professionals. Its extensive park system, with over 80 public parks and miles of bike trails, encourages outdoor recreation year-round. The city also boasts a vibrant arts scene, highlighted by the Washington Pavilion, which features theaters, galleries, and a science center. Annual events such as the Sioux Empire Fair and JazzFest draw crowds from across the region.

Education is another cornerstone of the community, supported by strong public schools, private institutions, and nearby universities such as Augustana University and the University of Sioux Falls. A growing emphasis on technology and entrepreneurship has also made the city a favorable environment for start-ups and innovation.

With its thriving economy, natural attractions, and emphasis on community, Sioux Falls stands out as a city that balances progress with tradition. It continues to grow as both a regional powerhouse and a place where residents enjoy a high standard of living.

Cohen-Esrey currently manages five apartment communities in South Dakota totaling 306 units including the 80-unit Western Heights Apartments in Sioux Falls, for a third-party client.

An Empowerment Story

By Kristina Skelton (2024), Property Manager, Summit at Osage

Kristina Skelton (2024), is the Property Manager at the Summit at Osage in Osage Beach, MO. Here is what she has to say about her Empowerment:

“Being a Property Manager isn't just about managing buildings and people. It's so much more than that! It's about growing under a set of guided values that shape every interaction, every decision, every fail, and every success. In my role as Property Manager here at Cohen-Esrey, I have discovered values, support and culture that Empower Me to Thrive in ways I never imagined.

Cohen-Esrey has a set of CORE values that are not just abstract ideas. They come from the very CORE (soul) of the company and are lived out daily! Commitment, Customer Fulfillment, Community Impact, Team Member Fulfillment, and Integrity! These are the values that have Empowered Me to Thrive!!

Commitment: One of the first things I noticed was the culture of Commitment. This company doesn't settle for mediocrity. We show up -for our clients, our residents, and for each other. I've been inspired to raise my own standards and hold myself accountable. This level of Commitment has given me the structure and support to push myself further, knowing that I'm backed by a company that values effort, resilience, and results.

Customer Fulfillment: What sets us apart in this industry is our dedication to Customer Fulfillment. It's not just about checking boxes or collecting rent – it's about truly understanding and meeting the needs of residents, property owners, and community stakeholders. I've learned how to listen better, anticipate needs, and go the extra mile. Seeing satisfied clients and residents respond positively to our work is fulfilling, and it motivates me to keep growing.

Community Impact: Working for a company that emphasizes impact means every role, every action, and every initiative matters. It's Empowering to know that my daily efforts – from leasing units to optimizing operations – directly contribute to the company's growth and reputation. This sense of shared purpose energizes me and fuels a desire to keep finding ways to make a difference.

Team Member Fulfillment: One of the most powerful experiences I've had is feeling valued as a team member. This company doesn't just say it cares about its people -it shows it. Through mentorship, ongoing training, recognition programs, and an inclusive culture, I've grown both professionally and personally because I'm part of a team that uplifts, supports, and believes in every individual's potential.

Integrity: Integrity is everything. Residents trust us with their homes. Clients trust us with their investments. And our teammates trust us with their time and collaboration. Working in an environment where Integrity is non-negotiable has taught me to lead with transparency, own my decisions, and act ethically – even when it's not the easiest path.

When values are more than just words, they become a powerful engine for growth – and I'm proud to be part of that journey here at Cohen-Esrey!”

A Fun Photo

Maelin Seamons (2022), Marketing Coordinator, has become very proficient flying the company drone to take photos. Here is some of her handiwork – a drone photo of our Corporate Office building.

NPS Leaderboards

The three NPS Leaderboards have been updated as of October 3, 2025. In the 50-Units or Less category, Willow Point (Concordia, MO) stayed on top with an NPS of +95.24. In the Properties 51 to 120-Units category, Pam Apartments (Pampa, TX) is firmly entrenched in first place with an NPS of +96.49. And in the Properties of More than 120-Units category, The Boulevard (Springfield, IL), stayed at the top of the list with an NPS of +87.50. There are 21 properties on Leaderboards – three less than last month. Our overall NPS has risen to +21!