Beyond the Work: Tales in Multifamily Maintenance

56 - The 'Why' Behind Maintenance Practices

In this episode, host Chris https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-caramanica-3b287666/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-caramanica-3b287666/], and industry expert and Chadwell Supply University Director, Nichole Curl https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichole-curl-7b154638/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nichole-curl-7b154638/], share insights on the importance of evolving maintenance training, understanding the why behind the training, and navigating the rapid changes in HVAC technology and regulation. If you're committed to future-proofing your properties and empowering your maintenance teams, this discussion offers critical perspectives. In this episode: - Nichole’s background from anatomy and physiology to multifamily maintenance leadership - The persistent gaps in maintenance training, especially in fair housing and technical skills - The outdated perception of training being solely hands-on and why a blended approach is essential - How industry shifts in HVAC refrigerants and regulations impact maintenance and costs - The importance of understanding the why behind maintenance tasks to improve safety, efficiency, and resident satisfaction - The impact of COVID on HVAC industry transitions and the story of refrigerant development - Strategies for investing in maintenance staff, reducing turnover, and aligning skills with future technology trends - The role of attitude, communication, and the "why" in resident retention and satisfaction - Predictions for the next five years: the future of multifamily maintenance in a fast-evolving industry Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Nicole Curl and Her Journey 02:08 From Anatomy to Multifamily Maintenance 03:58 Bridging the Gap: Understanding Maintenance and Operations 07:28 The State of Maintenance in the Industry 12:05 Transitioning Refrigerants: The HVAC Challenge 21:30 Recognition and Passion in Training 23:09 The Importance of Understanding 'Why' in Training 26:25 The Debate on Hands-On Training vs. Conceptual Learning 28:13 The Importance of Structured Training 31:00 Evolving Skillsets in Maintenance 33:31 The Cost of Training vs. Operational Efficiency 37:12 First Impressions and Resident Retention 39:57 The Impact of Utility Costs on Resident Choices 43:59 Investing in People for Long-Term Success 47:01 The Future of the Industry: Embracing Change This episode is brought to you by Chadwell Supply https://www.linkedin.com/company/chadwellsupply/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/chadwellsupply/] Chadwell Supply is the largest privately-owned maintenance and renovations supply company in the United States, exclusively serving the multifamily housing industry from local warehouses across the country. Our success is a direct result of a passion for providing unforgettable service. Chadwell Supply is a knowledgeable, solution-oriented partner our customers know they can trust. To learn more about Chadwell Supply University: https://www.chadwellsupply.com/?utm_source=jennifer_carter&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=multifamily_media_network [https://www.chadwellsupply.com/?utm_source=jennifer_carter&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=multifamily_media_network] 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts!

055 - Revolutionizing Affordable Housing Standards

In this episode, Cliff Kornegay https://www.linkedin.com/in/nspirecliffkornegayquadel/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/nspirecliffkornegayquadel/] , a key architect of the NSPIRE standards and former HUD expert, shares insights into the development, application, and future of property inspection standards in affordable housing. Cliff discusses the evolution from UPCS to NSPIRE, the importance of focusing on units, and how data and AI are transforming property management. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Cliff Kornegay and His Background 04:07 The Journey to NSPIRE Standards 07:06 Cliff's Unique Experiences in Inspections 09:50 Transitioning from HUD to Private Sector 12:49 Understanding the NSPIRE Standards 15:57 Focus on Unit Inspections 18:48 Application of Standards Beyond Affordable Housing 22:00 Reflections on NSPIRE and Future Improvements 25:48 Understanding the New HQS Standards 28:11 Impact of Common Area Inspections 30:51 The Importance of Fire Safety Standards 32:45 The Significance of Understanding 'Why' Behind Standards 37:40 Future Revisions and Clarifications in Standards 43:36 Current Trends in Affordable Housing Management 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at https://multifamilymedianetwork.com/ [https://multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #PropertyInsights #InspectionTips #BeyondTheWork #Multifamily #AffordableHousing #NSPIREStandards #PropertyManagement #HousingInspections #RealEstate #HUD

054 - Dirty Maintenance Nation: A New Era in Training

In this episode, Chris Caramanica interviews Lex Vance lex.vance79@gmail.com , the creator of Dirty Maintenance Nation, who shares his journey from a broke musician to a maintenance technician and content creator. Lex discusses the inception of his YouTube channel and Facebook group, which aim to provide training and support for maintenance professionals. He highlights the importance of community, the challenges faced by technicians, and the need for better training and tools in the industry. Lex also shares personal anecdotes and insights on how to improve as a maintenance technician and the significance of investing in one's skills. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lex Vance and His Journey 03:05 The Birth of Dirty Maintenance Nation 07:11 The Impact of Maintenance Training Videos 11:08 Engaging with the Audience: Responses and Feedback 15:05 Challenges and Misconceptions in Maintenance 19:17 Content Creation: The Process Behind the Videos 23:06 The Karate Kid and Maintenance Training 26:02 Representation of Maintenance Professionals in Media 28:02 Essential Tools for Maintenance Technicians 31:58 The Current Generation of Maintenance Technicians 37:11 Investing in Maintenance Training and Pay 40:00 Advice for Aspiring Maintenance Professionals 43:16 BTW OUTRO.mp4 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at www.multifamilymedianetwork.com [http://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

053 - Problem Solving in Multifamily Maintenance with James Duffy

In this conversation, James Duffy of Towne Properties https://www.linkedin.com/company/towne-properties/posts/?feedView=all [https://www.linkedin.com/company/towne-properties/posts/?feedView=all] emphasizes the importance of troubleshooting and understanding failure points in technical work. He advocates for a methodical approach to problem-solving, encouraging individuals to analyze issues deeply rather than simply replacing parts. This approach not only enhances technical skills but also increases one's value in the field. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Multifamily Maintenance 02:37 James Duffy's Journey in Maintenance 05:56 The Pride of Problem Solving 09:32 Team Dynamics and Maintenance Strategies 14:43 Recruitment and Training in a Challenging Market 21:01 The Human Element in Maintenance 21:51 Handling Emergencies with Calm 25:25 The Role of Maintenance Professionals as First Responders 28:57 Recognition and Awards in the Industry 32:27 Life Beyond Work: Family and Hobbies 34:37 Advice for Future Maintenance Professionals 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at www.multifamilymedianetwork.com [http://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement

52 - From Grounds to Greatness: Corey Gregory's Journey

In this episode, Chris Caramanica interviews Corey Gregory, linkedin.com/in/corey-gregory-39a094395 [http://linkedin.com/in/corey-gregory-39a094395] a maintenance supervisor with over 20 years of experience in the multifamily industry. Corey shares his journey from starting as a grounds technician to becoming a supervisor, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, employee benefits, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn for professional growth. He discusses the challenges faced in property management, the significance of mentoring the next generation, and balancing work with family life. Corey also shares his aspirations for the future of the maintenance industry, focusing on the need for skilled tradespeople and the impact of technology. 00:00 Introduction to Corey Gregory and His Journey 06:15 The Importance of Employee Benefits in Maintenance 11:23 Embracing LinkedIn for Professional Growth 13:35 Mentoring the Next Generation of Maintenance Professionals 18:09 Learning the Trade: Corey’s Path to Maintenance 24:43 Handling Challenges in Property Management 27:59 Balancing Work and Family Life 30:14 Future Aspirations in the Maintenance Industry 🔔 Click subscribe to @MultifamilyMediaNetwork on YouTube and stay up to date on our growing lineup of multifamily industry leaders and must-hear conversations! 📰 Sign up at www.multifamilymedianetwork.com [http://www.multifamilymedianetwork.com/] to receive our newsletter and explore our library of podcasts and blogs from today’s multifamily experts! #CustomerExperience #PersonalizedService #ActiveListening #CXStrategies #EarnedProspects #CustomerSatisfaction #Referrals #MultifamilyLeadership #ResidentExperience #PropertyManagement