EPISODE SUMMARY
What does it take to shake up the multifamily industry in a tech-driven age? In this episode of Multifamily Excellence, Jonathan Treble sits down with Terry Slattery, CEO of IDScan.net, to explore the leadership lessons and strategic insights behind his success.
From building ForRent to leading CheckpointID, Terry shares how innovative tech is transforming multifamily operations—reshaping resident experiences, safeguarding communities and streamlining processes.
With decades of innovation under his belt, Terry Slattery isn’t just riding the wave of technology—he’s helping lead it. But it’s not just about tech. Terry’s leadership playbook is built on adaptability, vision and a forward-thinking mindset.
Curious about scaling a company in a fast-evolving market? Terry’s leadership is rooted in adaptability, humility and a deep understanding of the people around him. From navigating the complexities of company acquisitions to launching startups, Terry reveals the importance of building a strong culture, surrounding yourself with the right team, and never underestimating the power of listening—both to customers and employees.
Whether you're a property manager aiming to boost resident satisfaction, an executive seeking innovative tech solutions or just fascinated by the future of real estate, this episode is your insider guide. Get ready to challenge the status quo, embrace new ideas and future-proof your multifamily operations with Terry Slattery’s expert insights.
Tune in and discover what it really takes to lead in an industry on the brink of transformation.
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Jonathan Treble’s idea to create a network of printing kiosks and self-service coffee stations has grown into a burgeoning company that services thousands of multifamily communities nationwide and in the Phoenix area.
In the evolving landscape of remote work, Jonathan Treble, CEO of WithMe, Inc., has positioned his company at the forefront by embracing a remote-first model. With a workforce spread across the United States and five different countries, Treble has successfully navigated the complexities of remote work, leveraging technology to enhance communication and collaboration. In a recent interview, Treble shared insights into how WithMe has thrived as a remote-first organization and the critical role communication plays in this success.
Picture this. Your residents, bleary-eyed from an early morning wake-up call or a long day at the office, walk into your lobby. Instead of being met with a run-of-the-mill pod brewer or an uninspired drip coffee machine, they’re greeted by a sleek, barista-quality, bean-to-cup machine that fills the air with the rich aroma of freshly ground coffee beans. It’s not just coffee; it’s an experience.
America’s love affair with coffee is undeniable. Nearly three in four Americans drink coffee every day, according to Drive Research’s 2024 Coffee Report. Bean-to-cup machines like SipWithMe deliver convenience, quality, and a little luxury—all without residents having to leave your apartment community.
Not all coffee machines are created equal, and SipWithMe is proof of that. It’s more than just a way to caffeinate—it’s a personalized café at your residents' fingertips. Here’s what makes SipWithMe a standout:
It’s one thing to offer coffee; it’s another to offer a coffee experience residents can’t live without. According to a recent survey from WithMe, Inc., 82% of residents in communities with SipWithMe called it an "essential" amenity. And it’s easy to see why. Sherry Haney, a Senior Property Manager at Security Properties, notes, "Our residents love the SipWithMe coffee and machine. I have received multiple compliments on the variety of brews they can select from, how the machine is easy to use, and the flavor of the coffee."
For residents, it’s all about:
Sure, residents love the coffee, but what about the property managers? SipWithMe isn’t just a perk for caffeine enthusiasts—it’s also a powerful tool for streamlining property management and boosting community appeal.
Here’s how SipWithMe makes life easier for property managers:
Bean-to-cup coffee isn’t just a trend—it’s a shift in how we think about amenities. With SipWithMe, property managers can offer residents the luxury of a café experience without leaving the building, while also keeping operations smooth and efficient.
Ready to take your multifamily property to the next level? Let’s talk about bringing SipWithMe to your community. Contact us today.
This e-book, inspired by a webinar co-hosted by WithMe and Flamingo, delves into the art of creating impactful resident events.
From emerging trends to mastering the design process from start to finish, learn how to elevate your planning skills and create resident events that will leave a lasting impact on your community.
Here's what's covered:
Starting a business is a thrilling journey filled with challenging financial decisions that can significantly impact the future of your venture. Thirty-eight percent of startups fail because they have run out of cash or failed to raise new capital, so one of the most critical choices entrepreneurs face is deciding whether to bootstrap or fundraise. Both methods have unique advantages and challenges, and the right choice depends on various factors, including the nature of your business, personal risk tolerance and long-term vision.
EPISODE SUMMARY
This episode of Multifamily Excellence is a masterclass in career evolution and strategic networking. Mike Wolber, Chief Sales Officer at Apartment List, shares the playbook behind his rise in the multifamily industry. His journey from the fast-paced world of Nike to leading high-performing teams in multifamily is a story of relentless ambition, prudent moves and calculated risks.
Mike doesn’t just talk about success; he embodies it. In this conversation, he reveals how the grit and obsessive preparation honed at one of the world’s most iconic brands became the foundation for his leadership style. From impactful roles at G5 and Rent Dynamics, to his current position at Apartment List, Mike has consistently driven growth and innovation, blending strategic vision with hands-on execution.
His isn’t just another corporate success story. Mike Wolber’s approach to leadership offers a blueprint for those who aspire to not just lead but transform. He dives deep into the importance of building a personal brand, making bold career transitions and the drive behind launching his own podcast, Modern Multifamily.
For those serious about elevating their careers—whether just starting out or already steering the ship—this episode is packed with actionable advice on building powerful networks, preparing like a pro, and leading with a vision that drives both personal and professional success.
Don’t just listen—take notes. Mike’s journey serves as a roadmap for anyone looking to make their mark in the multifamily space.
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There’s something special about shared spaces that bring people together, especially when those spaces offer more than just a place to sit.
In today’s world, where remote and hybrid work has become the norm, these hubs in apartment communities need to do more than look pretty—they need to function as versatile, work-friendly environments.
Earlier this year, Multifamily Executive reported that flexible coworking spaces and on-site cafes were at the top of multifamily renters’ wish lists. With over one-third of U.S. workers now working remotely full-time, according to USA Today, apartment communities are rethinking how they design common areas.
It’s not just about giving residents a desk in a quiet corner anymore; they want comfortable, tech-enabled spaces that make their workday easier and more enjoyable. Tamina Sheikh, former Senior Regional Property Manager at Willow Bridge Property Company, captured this perfectly in a recent webinar, noting that on any given day, "it’s about 20-30% of the property that is working from home."
So, how do property managers keep this growing segment of residents happy? By creating shared spaces that offer both productivity and a sense of community.
Today’s residents expect more than free Wi-Fi and a coffee table. They want well-thought-out shared spaces that include high-speed internet, seamless reservation systems, and amenities that actually enhance their work-from-home experience. This might sound like a tall order, but integrating these elements into shared spaces doesn't just benefit remote workers—it boosts resident satisfaction and retention, too.
Take PrintWithMe, for example. This seamless apartment printing solution fits perfectly into these coworking environments. Whether it’s for work-related documents or personal use, residents no longer need to clutter their apartments with bulky printers. Lindo Mayo, Property Manager at The Bottling Plant, shares that having PrintWithMe in common areas gives residents a "convenient alternative to having a printer set up in their apartment."
Plus, PrintWithMe’s ability to connect to any electronic device cuts out the usual headaches associated with traditional printers. No more troubleshooting or maintaining machines—just a quick, reliable print service that property managers don’t have to worry about.
And, of course, what’s a productive workday without coffee? That’s where SipWithMe steps in, offering residents barista-quality coffee without ever leaving the building. Within 60 seconds, SipWithMe can serve more than 20 different beverages, providing residents with the perfect pick-me-up to fuel their workday. With its easy-to-use technology and craft-roasted coffee, this resident coffee amenity ensures everyone has access to their favorite drinks without ever leaving the property.
Sherry Haney, Senior Property Manager at Security Properties Residential, said she has “received multiple compliments on the variety of brews they can select from, how easy the machine is to use, and the flavor of the coffee.” SipWithMe is a shared amenity that not only provides residents with the fuel needed to carry out their days but also helps build community and encourages residents to have organic interactions with one another.
PrintWithMe and SipWithMe aren't just crowd-pleasers for residents—they're game changers for property managers, too. In the fast-paced world of property management, where balancing day-to-day operations and building relationships with residents is key, managers need solutions that simplify their workload. Thankfully, these hands-free, hassle-free printing and coffee amenities do just that, helping save time, reduce operational headaches and effortlessly cut costs.
In today’s competitive multifamily market, offering amenities that cater to work-from-home residents is a must. With solutions like PrintWithMe and SipWithMe, property managers can elevate their shared spaces while reducing operational headaches. Easy installation, minimal upkeep, and a boost in resident satisfaction—all with one smart investment.
For more information on how PrintWithMe and SipWithMe can transform your property’s common spaces, contact us today.
In the world of specialty coffee, few stories are as vibrant and full of character as that of SipWithMe’s national roaster partner, Metropolis Coffee Company.
Founded in 2003 by a dynamic father-son duo, Jeff and Tony Dreyfuss, Metropolis’ origins are as unique as the brand itself.
Legend has it that Jeff and Tony, fueled by their love for great coffee—and perhaps a few too many double shots—found themselves at a roaster manufacturer’s booth after participating in an espresso-drinking competition.
Whether it was the caffeine buzz or their shared passion for coffee, the world may never know, but the pair impulsively purchased a 12 kg roaster without a plan for where to put it. And just like that, Metropolis was born.
Jeff and Tony, a philosopher and a linguist, respectively, infused the brand with their love for science fiction, fantasy, and lore. This creative and modern approach quickly positioned Metropolis as the coffee brand that Chicago didn’t know it needed.
What started as a small operation has since evolved into a robust coffee empire. Today, Metropolis roasts in an impressive 18,000-square-foot roastery along the North Branch of the Chicago River, and they just opened a state-of-the-art cafe at O’Hare. Despite this growth, they’ve stayed true to their roots, still operating the cozy Edgewater Café where it all began.
Metropolis’ reach now extends far beyond Chicagoland. You’ll find their meticulously crafted coffee in hundreds of multifamily communities, partner cafés, restaurants, grocers, hotels and offices across North America, Europe and the Middle East. Yet, no matter where their coffee is served, the essence of Metropolis remains the same: an approachable, community-focused brand where everyone has a seat at the table.
At Metropolis, coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a craft. Each batch is hand-roasted to order, with meticulous attention to detail. Their commitment to freshness is unmatched, with every batch nitrogen-flushed to preserve ultimate flavor. This dedication to quality is a reflection of their love for the bean.
It also isn’t just about creating exceptional coffee. It’s about making a positive impact on the global coffee community. All of Metropolis’ coffee is purchased well over the fair trade price from transparent and sustainable brokers and farmers. This commitment ensures that everyone involved in the coffee supply chain benefits, from the growers to the consumers.
Metropolis believes that great coffee should improve the lives of everyone who touches it. This ethos is not only reflected in their sourcing practices, it also means fostering a diverse and supportive environment for their employees and putting immense love and care into every aspect of roasting, packaging, and brewing.
In line with their commitment to fostering a supportive coffee community, Metropolis Coffee created Metropolis Workshop. This co-packing service was designed to help other coffee companies—competitors included—scale their operations without compromising on quality. By sharing their expertise, Metropolis Workshop embodies the company’s dedication to collaboration and community support within the coffee industry.
Metropolis Coffee isn’t your average roaster. With their quirky outlook inspired by the worlds of science fiction and fantasy, they’ve created a brand that’s both innovative and grounded in tradition. Their mission, “Great Coffee for Everyone,” is more than just a slogan—it’s a promise to make great coffee accessible, sustainable and welcoming to all.
In partnering with Metropolis Coffee, SipWithMe isn’t just offering multifamily properties a great cup of coffee. We’re sharing a story—one that’s filled with passion, creativity and a dedication to making the world of coffee a better place. Every sip of Metropolis Coffee is a testament to their commitment to quality and community.
Just like Metropolis, SipWithMe believes that great coffee should improve the lives of everyone it touches (it’s no wonder we make such a great team). In our case, this means creating moments of joy for residents and simplifying life for property management teams.
With all-inclusive pricing, customizable packages, and innovative Cup Allowance technology, SipWithMe not only helps property managers keep costs in check while delivering an exceptional coffee experience. By collaborating with the nation’s top craft roasters and embracing state-of-the-art bean-to-cup devices, we elevate a daily ritual into something truly special. But it’s more than just coffee—it’s about bringing people together, sparking new friendships, and deepening connections within the community.
To learn more about how Metropolis is pursuing their mission to craft “great coffee for everyone,” visit metropoliscoffee.com.
To bring SipWithMe to your multifamily community, get in touch!
Executing resident events is the most common strategy that apartment communities use to build a sense of community.
WithMe’s “4 Ways to Plan Impactful Resident Events” webinar, co-hosted with Flamingo, brought together a group of the industry’s foremost event experts to delve into the art of creating impactful resident events.
Moderators Becky McLaughlin (vice president of marketing at WithMe) and Jude Chiy (founder of Flamingo), alongside powerhouse panelists Shellie Greer (director of Ovation lifestyle at Ovation Property Management) and Brooke Sandella (manager of national events and community engagement at Equity Residential), shared insightful perspective on the current state of resident events and offered compelling strategies for curating memorable and meaningful experiences.
Here are four key takeaways from the dynamic discussion that took place.
1. Think outside the box if you have a modest event budget.
Every year, Flamingo conducts exhaustive research for its State of Resident Events Report. This pioneering report sheds light on virtually every aspect of multifamily events, from the primary challenges property managers are facing to the types of events that are most popular. It also provides valuable benchmarks for the multifamily industry, drawing insights from hundreds of apartment communities across the United States.
According to Flamingo’s latest report, an overwhelming 35% of property managers cite budget constraints as the biggest obstacle to hosting events they believe would be valuable for their residents.
Working with a modest budget can be challenging, but there are numerous creative hacks that can be used to maximize and supplement event budgets:
If you have a set budget for an event, calculate the maximum number of residents you can accommodate within that budget and cap attendance accordingly. To give all of your residents an equal opportunity to attend, employ a first-come, first-serve RSVP policy and set up a waitlist. That way, if someone decides to cancel, another resident can take their spot.
If you have a limited event budget for the year, with only a few hundred dollars allocated per month, focus on quality over quantity. Instead of hosting a low-budget event each month, invest in one high-quality event each quarter. This approach will ultimately have a greater impact and provide more value to your residents.
Consider introducing a nominal lifestyle fee, which can supplement your budget and give you the opportunity to curate a wider range of events that target everybody’s interests and needs.
If there’s an event you want to host that’s outside your budget, have your residents pay a discounted rate and underwrite the remaining cost.
This approach has the benefit of increasing attendance and engagement, because when residents are paying to attend an event, they are usually more likely to show up.
Amenities and amenity spaces can serve as the foundation for outstanding budget-friendly events. For instance, if you have a printer amenity, print out blank coloring pages and host a coloring party that’s fun for all ages. Leverage a coffee amenity by hosting a tasting event or happy hour.
As an added bonus, you’ll remind residents about the incredible amenities your community has to offer and help drive utilization.
2. Research proves that events increase positive online reviews and increase overall resident satisfaction.
The time and expense associated with resident events often deters property managers and property management companies from investing in them. Thanks to Flamingo’s research, there’s now data to prove that events increase the volume of online reviews and overall resident satisfaction - both essential to attracting new residents and retaining existing ones.
Approximately 55% of participating property managers reported that events lead to new online reviews for their properties within three days. Building on this self-reported data, Flamingo conducted an in-depth analysis of online review scores, revealing a direct correlation between event budgets and review scores. Properties with the top 10% highest review scores allocate, on average, $1,121 per month for events, while those with the lowest scores allocate only $693 per month.
A deeper analysis of resident satisfaction data uncovered a strong correlation between overall resident satisfaction and the number or quality of events. Researchers combed through internal resident reviews and surveys, discovering that when the presence of events was mentioned, 89% of the time it was in a positive review. Conversely, in 87% of cases where a resident mentioned the lack of events, that resident was either neutral, unhappy, or very unhappy.
Events also have a significant impact on intent to renew. In 82% of instances where a resident mentioned the presence of events, they reported their likelihood of renewing as “yes” or “probably.” Conversely, in an astounding 100% of the cases where a resident called out a lack of events, their reported likelihood of renewing was rated “no” or “probably not.”
These findings underscore the importance of investing in resident events. Not only do they boost online reviews and satisfaction, but they also significantly influence residents' decisions to renew their leases. By prioritizing events, property managers can create a vibrant community atmosphere that attracts new residents and retains current ones, ultimately driving long-term success.
3. Experiential events are trending.
Flamingo’s research reveals that happy hours, pool parties and outdoor movie nights are currently the most popular resident events. However, you heard it here first - the next big trend is experiential events. Property managers have noticed a significant rise in resident demand for creative workshops and classes. Examples include:
These educational and creative events inherently bring together niche groups of people with similar interests, sparking genuine connection and friendship.
4. Let your unique resident community dictate your event mix.
Ultimately, regardless of your budget or current trends, the key to executing impactful resident events lies in understanding your residents and their unique interests.
Begin by analyzing basic demographics. Does your community include a large number of children and young families? Are your residents mainly young professionals? Take it a step further by engaging in conversations with your residents. Be intentional about discovering their likes, interests and preferences.
Once you've gotten to know your residents and their preferences, step outside your comfort zone and don't be afraid to experiment. It's okay if an event doesn't attract a large turnout; this simply means that particular event type doesn't resonate with your community. Experimentation is beneficial, as it helps you discover what truly works and allows you to refine your future events for maximum engagement.
For more expert insight on planning and executing resident events that will have a lasting impact on your community, watch the full webinar: