The Journey from Groundskeeper to Vice President

In the bustling world of multifamily housing, Chris Carter stands out as a beacon of dedication and leadership. As the Regional Vice President at Carter-Haston Real Estate, Chris's journey from the ground up is a testament to hard work and a passion for property management. Carter-Haston has carved a niche in the industry, currently managing 20,000+ units, driven by a strong culture and innovative practices.

Chris Carter's story with the firm began 24 years ago, not as an executive, but as a humble groundskeeper. "I started at the bottom," Chris recalls with a sense of pride. "I moved up to leasing and gradually climbed the ladder." His journey is a powerful reminder that dedication and hard work can lead to extraordinary achievements. Today, as Regional Vice President, Chris oversees operations with the same passion that fueled his early days.

Real estate isn't just a career for Chris; it's a family legacy. "My interest in the industry began with my father, the co-founder of Carter-Haston," he shares. Being part of a family-run business instilled in him a deep-seated commitment to excellence.

What sets Carter-Haston apart from the competition? For Chris, the answer is clear: it's the culture. "Our culture is what truly makes a difference," he explains. "It's not just about taking people to lunch or buying flowers; it's about really getting to know our team members and creating a family-like environment." This strong, supportive culture has fostered a workplace where employees are eager to contribute, driving the company's success.

One of the projects Chris is particularly proud of is the company's venture into the smart home space. "At the end of last year, we conducted extensive research in the smart home sector," he notes. This initiative, along with their work in the electric vehicle (EV) space, showcases Carter-Haston's commitment to staying ahead of industry trends and continuously improving their properties.

Over the years, Chris has witnessed a significant shift in resident expectations. "Expectations have definitely increased," he observes. "When I was a site manager, the demands were not as high." Today, residents expect more, and Carter-Haston has adapted by enhancing their services and ensuring that maintenance and property management meet these elevated standards.

For those just starting out in real estate management, especially in maintenance-focused roles, Chris offers sage advice. "Have initiative, drive, and passion. Get your certifications, listen, and be open to constructive criticism," he advises. An open-minded approach and a willingness to learn are crucial for success in this dynamic industry.

Chris emphasizes the critical role maintenance plays in the leasing process. "Maintenance is essentially your 'front door' first impression," he explains. "If the grounds and curb appeal aren’t up to par, it negatively impacts leasing." Moreover, maintenance directly influences renewals; a poor maintenance experience can lead to lower renewal rates, highlighting the importance of high-quality upkeep.

When asked about the top maintenance-related issues in the industry, Chris points to three main challenges: HVAC systems, smart home technology, and supplier relations. "HVAC is number one, followed by smart home issues and the quality of work from vendors," he lists. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining the high standards that Carter-Haston is known for.

As the firm continues to grow and adapt, Chris Carter's leadership will continue to be a driving force behind the company's success. His journey from groundskeeper to Regional Vice President is not just a career path but a story of dedication, passion, and an unwavering commitment to excellence in the multifamily housing industry.