The negotiated NDAA package was released, and NAA thinks we are well-positioned moving forward. While the final package includes a 1 percent BAH reduction for 2015, it does not include any long-term changes to housing allowances. Instead, they are deferring action on compensation and benefits changes until the commission review is completed next year. NAA believes this is a good compromise and will allow for continued outreach and education about the impacts of a broader BAH reduction on the MHPI. The bill is being positioned for House and Senate passage by the week of December 8th.

 

Brian Wilson, Environmental Specialist, City of Norfolk, Dept of Utilities

The City of Norfolk Department of Utilities has provided some helpful tips for minimizing owner plumbing costs as well as educational resources for our residents.

 

At MiMA in New York, a dog spa gives a whole new meaning to pet-friendly.

 

BGC Partners, parent company of Newmark Grubb Knight Frank, has agreed to acquire for $110 million Apartment Realty Advisors, of Atlanta, the nation’s largest privately held, full-service investment brokerage network specializing solely in the multi-housing sector, BGC announced Monday.

 

Michelle Singletary provides some interesting insights into the rent vs. buy calculation.

 

Join CVAA on January 23, 2015, for the RAMMY Awards! Walk the red carpet and take your seat to find out who you know that will bring home a RAMMY! Click the link for details and registration.

 

Click the link below for a list of all VAMA and affiliate chapter events around the state. There's lots happening in December and January...don't miss a thing!

 

Get to know your local Apartment Book/ForRent.com rep!

 

What an amazing turn-out from our industry leaders in maintenance! Click the link for a list of winners and some great photos.

 

Our annual Trade Show, this year titled "What's New?" featured a forum of experts from local economic development departments that provided us with beneficial information pertaining to each area, along with current and upcoming developments planned.

 

Patrick McCloud discussing what potentially prohibits great working relationships between vendors and management along with ideas on how to overcome that.

 

Click for photos of the Roanoke Valley Apartment Association's first annual Star Awards. Featuring the Distinguished Community Awards and Awards of Excellence together in one program. This event was a huge hit, producing a SOLD OUT crowd. Look for the list of winners in a related article in this month's newsletter.

 

And the Winners Are...

 

Annual Holiday Banquet; Distinguished Community Awards; 2015 Board of Directors; Winter Break Safety Tips; Downtown Blacksburg, Inc.

 

See the article for details on:
December 9 Trade Show and Silent Auction
December 12 IRO meeting