EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Multifamily Excellence, Samuel Mtunga, principal at XFD Real Estate Partners, chronicles his riveting journey from temp laborer in student housing to co-founder of one of its most formidable management companies.
Samuel candidly reflects on the challenges he faced in XFD’s early years. He describes how limited resources and evolving needs required him to deftly juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, which proved to be crucial for the company's initial growth and success.
He also discusses the critical lessons he learned while scaling the company. He stresses the paramount importance of developing effective processes, emphasizing the need for teams to understand their goals, the reasons behind these goals and the methods to achieve them.
Samuel also delves into how his leadership style has evolved throughout the years. He reflects on the experiences that prompted him to transition from being a purely results-driven leader to one who fervently believes that personal connections can greatly enhance team performance.
SUBSCRIBE
Move over winter, spring, summer and fall. In multifamily, the heavy hitters are budget season and peak leasing season.
A staggering 70% of moves occur between Memorial Day and Labor Day, creating a three-month frenzy of online inquiries, tours, screenings, applications, move-ins and move-outs.
This demanding and pivotal point of the year requires careful planning and strategic execution to maximize occupancy rates and rental income. And the time to prepare is now.
In this blog, we'll explore essential strategies and tactics that can help lay the groundwork for a successful peak leasing season.
Conduct thorough market research.
Well before peak leasing season arrives, it is essential to conduct comprehensive market research. Analyze local economic trends, employment data, population growth and housing market dynamics to gain insight into the rental landscape. Understanding market conditions sets the foundation for setting competitive rental prices and tailoring marketing strategies effectively.
Also consider touring other multifamily properties in your area to find out what amenities, services and upgrades are available to renters in the market. This can help you find strategic ways to stand out from the competition.
Tackle routine maintenance.
Preventive maintenance not only enhances property safety and appeal but also demonstrates a commitment to resident comfort and satisfaction.
Quiet winter months present the perfect time to tackle these tasks, which can include:
One of the most effective ways to identify safety hazards, critical repairs and improvement opportunities is to tour your own property. Think like a prospective resident. Be cognizant of even the smallest cosmetic improvements that could make a big difference to someone seeing your community for the first time.
Audit your online presence.
Thorough and attention-grabbing online listings will exponentially increase your inquiries and the likelihood you’ll fill vacancies. Invest significant time and effort into elevating your digital presence, both on your own channels and on third-party rental platforms.
Start by evaluating all of your existing listings for accuracy. This includes your own website and social media profiles. Is all of your contact information still accurate? Is your list of amenities up-to-date? Has your pricing changed?
Next, ask your friends and family where they’re searching for rentals. In our technology-driven world, the methods people use to find new homes constantly shifts and evolves.
On every platform, thoroughly and vividly describe each available unit, leverage high-quality media and highlight the features that make your property stand out from the competition.
During peak leasing season and beyond, it’s imperative to actively engage with prospects and residents on digital platforms. Respond to all inquiries promptly and make it a point to make everyone feel important.
Update physical collateral.
Chances are, you still leverage a few key pieces of physical collateral in your marketing efforts. Take time to conduct a thorough audit of all of it:
Make sure all information is accurate and up-to-date, including:
Finally, make sure you have adequate quantities of everything on hand well in advance of the busy spring and summer months.
Review and modify lease agreements.
Clear and transparent lease agreements contribute to positive resident experiences and mitigate potential disputes during the leasing process.
To mitigate the risk of a lawsuit, carefully review leasing and addenda language to ensure it complies with current legal requirements and best practices - especially as they relate to fair housing standards. To ensure compliance, check federal and state online resources or consult an attorney.
Carefully inspect model unit(s).
With a constant stream of people flowing in and out of your model unit, wear and tear is inevitable. Ahead of peak leasing season, make sure everything in your model is in pristine condition and perfect working order. Make repairs as necessary, and also update decor to fit current design trends and aesthetics.
Elevate your amenities.
Amenities are one of the primary ways to grab the attention of prospects, but the right ones continue to bring value after move-in, increasing satisfaction and retention.
As you’re evaluating new amenities ahead of peak leasing, don’t underestimate the power of some of the more unassuming ones, like a community printer. The Wall Street Journal said it best - no one wants a printer, but everyone wants to print. Tech-enabled solutions like PrintWithMe empower residents to print from their own devices, on their own time. In a recent survey, 82% of residents said they considered it an “essential” amenity at their property. Who knew a small amenity could make such a big difference?
Also consider replacing amenities with uncontrollable or skyrocketing costs (let’s be honest - that’s usually the coffee machine). Thankfully, new solutions tailored to the needs of multifamily, like SipWithMe, can simultaneously elevate the resident experience while controlling costs and reducing OpEx.
For expert guidance and perspective on selecting amenities, tune in to WithMe’s upcoming webinar, “Amenities Your Residents Will LOVE.” Experts from Bozzuto, Draper and Kramer, and Asset Living will be weighing in on the amenities today’s residents expect, as well as the ones poised to shape the future.
And if you’ve ever been curious about how tech-enabled amenities can make a difference in your community, check out how they delivered convenience, satisfaction and cost savings at four luxury properties.
Curate your event calendar.
If you haven’t had an opportunity to fill your 2024 calendar with thoughtfully curated resident events, late winter is the perfect time to solidify your strategy.
Not only is a calendar brimming with events an incredible tool for attracting new residents, it also helps exponentially increase resident satisfaction and retention.
If you need inspiration, check out our e-book, “Home Is Where Your Apartment Is: Building Community to Enhance Resident Retention.” It offers a host of diverse concepts and themes that you can leverage for in-house planning, as well as a robust list of third-party vendors that can assist you in taking your planning and execution to the next level.
Level up your landscaping.
You only have one chance to make a first impression. Don’t underestimate the value of making the exterior of your property just as inviting and well-appointed as the interior.
If your grounds are beautiful and impeccably maintained, prospects will immediately recognize that you take pride in your property and are committed to ensuring it is always in optimal condition.
Lean into AI and Automation.
Relationship building is essential in property management, but thoughtful implementation of automation and AI, especially in back-end processes, has the power to increase operational efficiency and make the leasing process better for everyone.
Take applications. Automating the application process eliminates the need for manual paperwork that is prone to human error, and it gives prospective residents the freedom to complete it on their own time.
The approval process is another area where human error can create bottlenecks and costly errors. New technology efficiently, objectively and accurately screens prospective residents, effectively eliminating bias and non-compliance with fair housing laws.
Embrace virtual touring in its many forms.
With so many prospective residents conducting their initial searches online, visually appealing digital content can make a significant impact. Capture the essence of your multifamily property through immersive virtual tours, sweeping drone footage and captivating professional photography.
Empower prospective residents to assess your property on their own time by investing in digital leasing tools that facilitate virtual showings and video walkthroughs.
Thanks to apps like TikTok and Snapchat, younger generations have become accustomed to consuming content via video. To meet these renters where they are, it’s imperative to develop a presence on these apps - and get creative!
Train and prepare your staff.
Equip your on-site team with the necessary training and resources to handle the increased demand during peak leasing season. Conduct refresher training sessions on leasing procedures and customer service skills to ensure a seamless experience for prospective residents. Empower your staff to address inquiries efficiently and provide personalized assistance to enhance satisfaction.
By implementing these strategies now and staying ahead of the curve, you'll be well-positioned to not only survive but thrive during peak leasing season and beyond!
As property owners and managers face the ongoing challenge of retaining residents in competitive housing markets, cultivating a strong sense of community has emerged as a powerful and effective solution.
From setting the stage at move-in to hosting engaging events that continually foster a sense of belonging, turning four walls into a home requires ongoing and intentional effort on the part of on-site teams.
WithMe recently brought together a panel of multifamily experts to explore this important topic, and we have created an engaging and informative e-book inspired by the dynamic conversation that took place. This valuable resource offers a wealth of effective strategies for building community in multifamily properties.
Here's what's covered:
Combating the Epidemic of Loneliness
Beyond enhancing resident satisfaction, community building addresses a societal issue: loneliness. With loneliness linked to a wide variety of significant health risks, property managers have a unique opportunity to combat the “epidemic of loneliness” by fostering environments of belonging and acceptance. Discover how prioritizing community engagement can contribute to holistic well-being and societal resilience.
Making a Great First Impression
Relationship building should begin at the very first interaction with a prospective resident. Find out how to develop an inviting and engaging tour that not only helps prospective residents envision themselves living in your community, but makes them feel at home before they ever sign a lease.
Moving into a new apartment can be a transformative and sometimes stressful event, so providing a positive and seamless move-in experience is crucial. Uncover tips for personalizing the process and establishing a strong foundation for a lasting resident-property manager relationship.
Planning and Executing Memorable Events
Events serve as catalysts for fostering connections among residents. Through careful planning and engagement, property managers can curate events that resonate with a wide array of residents, ultimately contributing to higher satisfaction and retention rates. Discover a host of diverse concepts and themes you can use to plan your own events, as well as incredible third-party vendors that can assist you in taking your planning and execution to the next level.
Building an Online Community
In an increasingly digital world, online platforms serve as invaluable tools for communication and engagement. From texting critical updates to maintaining an active social media presence, on-site teams can leverage digital channels to facilitate connection and collaboration among residents. Find out which platforms today’s tech-savvy residents expect to be able to find you on, as well as valuable third-party vendors that can help you streamline your communication efforts and enhance the resident experience.
Measuring Success
While quantifying the impact of community-building efforts can be challenging, the positive "halo effects" are undeniable. From increased retention rates to improved online reputation, thoughtful programming yields tangible benefits for multifamily properties. Gain insight on how to effectively gauge the response to your efforts and refine your strategies to ensure ongoing success in enhancing community living.Through personalized experiences, engaging events and digital connectivity, multifamily properties can foster environments where residents thrive.
By embracing the principles outlined in this e-book, property managers can elevate community living and drive long-term success.
There are numerous business advantages to vertical integration in multifamily, like increased control over the supply chain, improved efficiency and enhanced customer experience.
However, it also poses unexpected challenges, like preserving company culture. As companies expand vertically, and their workforce becomes dispersed across various locations, maintaining a unified and cohesive culture becomes a nuanced task.
Consider the following questions:
In a recent episode of the "Multifamily Excellence" podcast, WithMe Founder and CEO Jonathan Treble interviews Matt Fiascone, president of The Habitat Company, digging into the intricacies of preserving culture in vertically integrated companies.
Habitat, based in Chicago, is a full-service real estate company managing a diverse portfolio of property types, from affordable housing communities to luxury high-rise towers. With over 16,000 units, they operate across the United States.
As a vertically integrated company, Habitat employs over 700 people. Roughly 90 of them are corporate employees, primarily based in the Chicago office, with a few in the regional office in Detroit. The vast majority, approximately 90% of the company, is situated in the field, across various sites.
So, how do you preserve a unified culture across such diverse work environments?
Defining Vertical Integration in Multifamily
Before we delve into the intricacies of preserving culture, let's define vertical integration in the context of real estate. Vertical integration refers to the ownership and operation of various stages of the real estate investment and development process within a single company.
This includes activities such as property management, development, construction and investment. By controlling multiple aspects of the real estate process, vertically integrated companies aim to streamline operations, reduce costs and enhance overall efficiency.
Strategies for Cultivating Unity
Both Matt and Jonathan emphasize the significance of intentional effort in building and sustaining a cohesive culture. While challenges may arise in preserving culture across diverse habitats, strategic solutions can foster unity. Let’s delve into these strategies.
Advice #1: Overcoming Physical Barriers
Maintaining cultural aspects in field environments, where digital interactions may not always be feasible, poses a unique challenge. Acknowledging these limitations is the first step toward innovative solutions that bridge the cultural gap.
While certain cultural traditions may seem impractical in the field, this challenge presents an opportunity for innovation. Explore alternative ways to celebrate holidays, incorporate dress codes or address hot-button cultural issues. By adapting traditions to suit the unique dynamics of field environments, a more inclusive and unified culture can be fostered.
Advice #2: Seamless Communication Channels
Establishing effective communication channels between corporate and field teams is crucial for maintaining cultural alignment. Implement platforms and tools that facilitate transparent and frequent communication, allowing both sides to stay connected and informed about company values, updates and initiatives.
Advice #3: Inclusive Decision-Making Processes
Foster a sense of belonging by involving field teams in decision-making processes. Solicit their input on matters that impact them directly, creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone feels their voice is heard and valued.
Concluding Thoughts
In vertically integrated multifamily companies, preserving culture is both a challenge and an opportunity. By acknowledging the nuances of diverse work environments and implementing strategic solutions, organizations can foster unity and success.
Want to learn more about preserving culture in vertically integrated companies? Listen to the full episode of Multifamily Excellence on your preferred platform. Don't forget to leave a review and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!
LISTEN AND SUBSCRIBE
Every champion has a secret weapon, and some of the most powerful tools in multifamily are programmatic, self-serve amenities.
Thousands of property managers across the country partner with WithMe to give their properties a competitive advantage through tech-enabled resident amenities that make the lives of staff and residents easier.
Read four stories of how property managers took their communities to the next level using WithMe amenities to deliver convenience, satisfaction and cost savings.
Welcome to Black History Month! This annual observance, which takes place throughout the month of February, provides an opportunity to reflect on the profound impact that African-Americans have had on history, culture, science, politics and countless other facets of human achievement.
Black History Month traces its roots back to 1926 and the pioneering efforts of Carter G. Woodson. During the second week of February, to coincide with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, Woodson initiated a week-long celebration dedicated to showcasing the achievements of Black Americans. Over the years, his celebration evolved into the month-long observance we recognize today, serving as a platform to amplify the stories, struggles, triumphs and contributions of African-American individuals throughout history.
To mark the occasion, we thought it would be fitting to honor African-American innovators who have made noteworthy contributions to our two passions - printing and coffee!
Black Inkfluence on Printing
George Washington Carver: Ink Inventor
Born into slavery in the 1860s, George Washington Carver bravely rose above his tumultuous childhood and earned a bachelor’s degree from Iowa State Agricultural College. He went on to earn a Master of Science and lead the agricultural department at the Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute.
After the Civil War, fields in the South were practically barren from years of solely growing cotton, leaving the economy in ruins. Passionate about improving the economic condition of the region’s impoverished farmers, Carver encouraged them to plant legumes to restore nitrogen levels in the soil and provide a potent source of protein for their diets.
While the plants thrived, there was little market demand for the harvested produce. Consequently, Carver undertook the task of innovating new and lucrative applications for the crops. His efforts yielded an astonishing 325 novel uses for the peanuts, sweet potatoes and soybeans cultivated by the farmers — among them, the unexpected creation of printer ink!
Carver’s ink was composed of cowpeas, sweet potatoes, soybeans and peanuts. Today, based on his innovative formula, most oil-based printer ink still leverages linseed or soybean oil as a solvent to combine pigments, and the ink dries through evaporation.
William A. Lavalette: Printing Press Pioneer
Unfortunately, very little is known about William A. Lavalette, the inventor behind two separate patents focused on printing press innovations.
Patent 208184 offered critical improvements to the printing press, and Patent 208208 outlined Lavalette’s own visionary variation of the technology.
In 1878, the year he was awarded his patents, Lavalette was living in the northeast. He passed away on January 9, 1914, at the age of 73.
Clatonia Joaquin Dorticus: Photo Development Deviser
Born in 1863, and believed to be of Afro-Cuban descent, Clatonia Joaquin Dorticus revolutionized the photographic print and negative wash machine.
During the development process, photographs and negatives had to be soaked in chemical baths. To neutralize the chemicals and control the time they impacted the print, a wash had to be applied. Unfortunately, it was easy to “overwash” prints, leaving them with a dulled appearance.
Dorticus set out to design a machine that helped prevent the “softened or dulled” effect produced by overwashing, while also improving the “permanency of the negatives” and preventing “tearing and bruising of the photographs.” His washer provided “continuous movement of the pictures during washing,” which kept prints from sticking to the side of the tank. It even helped conserve water, thanks to automatic registers and shut off. The tank’s removable bottom helped further protect the prints and negatives from any residual chemicals and sediments.
Dorticus also patented a photo embossing machine, designed to give photographs a 3D effect, where “an equal pressure” was “distributed over the entire surface of the photographic film.” It “operated with ease and rapidity” and was the “embodiment of simplicity, strength, and durability which can be produced at a very small cost.”
Elements of both of Dorticus’ patents were cited in new ones for decades to come.
Contributions of Black Coffee Connoisseurs
Though painful to discuss, it is a well-known fact that the first coffee exported to North America and Europe was harvested by slaves. As time went on, enslaved Africans were responsible for preparing and serving coffee for their slave owners. Despite the significant role the African diaspora played in coffee’s history, very little is known about the Black leaders and innovators who undoubtedly shaped its trajectory.
Even today, African-Americans are vastly underrepresented in the coffee industry, and research shows they are far less likely than other ethnic groups to select coffee as their preferred beverage.
Thankfully, there’s one woman on a mission to uncover the trailblazers of the past and improve representation in the future.
Phyllis Johnson: Coffee Crusader
Phyllis Johnson, founder and president of BD Imports, a socially responsible coffee importer, has been working tirelessly to identify and raise awareness about Black changemakers in coffee’s history, as well as bolster African-American involvement in today’s coffee scene.
Her 2018 article, “Strong Black Coffee,” is a must-read. It offers important and eye-opening perspectives from 14 different African-American professionals in the coffee industry, as well as valuable insight on how to effectively improve representation and visibility.
The article also chronicles Johnson’s quest to uncover the Black innovators and visionaries who have made important contributions to coffee throughout history. She spotlights one particularly brave and endeavoring soul, Rose Nicause, who managed to single-handedly pave the way for African-Americans (and women) in coffee.
Rose Nicause: Early Entrepreneur
Rose Nicaud was a pioneering enslaved woman who set up what is believed to be the very first mobile coffee shop near the New Orleans French Market. Over time, Nicaud sold enough coffee to not only purchase her freedom, but to move into a permanent shop.
Her success inspired other enslaved women to create their own coffee blends and ultimately led to the growth of coffee shops throughout the city.
Thankfully, as of late, some incredible new African-American leaders have emerged in the world of coffee, furthering the groundwork laid by Nicause and Johnson.
Bartholomew Jones and Renata Henderson: Coffee Couple
Started by Bartholomew Jones and Renata Henderson, a husband and wife duo, Memphis-based Cxffeblack is working diligently to shed light on coffee’s dark history. The brand was inspired by Jones’ keen observation that coffee shops are teeming with coffee from predominantly Black countries - but rarely attract Black customers.
Cxffeeblack strategically employs an all-Black supply chain, and Jones’ intention is “to redistribute the wealth from the profits in that coffee back into Black communities globally to help redistribute a lot of the wealth that was taken from our ancestors.”
Henderson oversees the roasting in a nod to Ethiopian tradition, where women have served as roasters and baristas for thousands of years - a fact that has virtually gone unknown until now. Memphis’ first Black female roaster, Henderson actually traveled to Ethiopia to hone her craft.
For more on Cxffeeblack, check out their official documentary and feature in COOL HUNTING.
As we embark on this month-long journey of reflection and education, let us commit ourselves to fostering a deeper understanding of the Black experience, acknowledging the resilience, creativity and perseverance that has shaped and continues to shape our world. By recognizing and appreciating the achievements of Black pioneers, leaders and visionaries, we move towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.
Multifamily proptech company brings its innovative coffee amenity to Nashville, with Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. serving as exclusive roaster partner.
Chicago - (February 8, 2024) SipWithMe debuts in Nashville this week, offering multifamily properties access to an advanced bean-to-cup amenity featuring locally roasted coffee from Frothy Monkey Roasting Co.
SipWithMe not only transforms the coffee experience for residents, it also reduces operating expenses by up to 60%. Stocked with three craft roasted coffee blends, SipWithMe machines can brew more than 20 different hot beverages in less than 60 seconds. Residents can easily customize and order drinks via electronic devices or a built-in HD screen.
In Nashville, all SipWithMe devices will feature three meticulously chosen blends: Brute, Howler and 12South.
“Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. is the perfect partner for us in Nashville,” says Jim Carbone, Vice President of Operations at WithMe, Inc. “Our collaboration reflects a shared commitment to making lives better through exceptional coffee experiences.”
With a deep-rooted passion for coffee, Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. has become a staple in the Nashville coffee scene, offering specialty grade, ethically sourced coffee roasted to perfection. Each cup of Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. coffee embodies their love for the communities they serve, their farming partners and the planet we all share.
“We're excited to team up with SipWithMe to bring our coffee to multifamily properties in Nashville,” says Ryan Bledsoe, Education Director and Coffee Service Tech Manager at Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. “SipWithMe's dedication to quality and service mirrors our own values, and we look forward to enriching Nashville’s coffee culture together.”
Apart from Nashville, SipWithMe serves multifamily properties across dozens of markets across the United States, including most major metros.
About Frothy Monkey Roasting Co.
Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. is a Nashville coffee roaster serving wholesale and individual coffee customers with ethically sourced, specialty grade coffee and professional coffee services. Committed to excellence and sustainability, Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. takes pride in sourcing high-quality beans from around the world and meticulously roasting them to perfection. Whether supplying cafes, restaurants, or individuals, Frothy Monkey Roasting Co. is dedicated to delivering exceptional coffee experiences while supporting ethical practices throughout the supply chain. For more information about Frothy Monkey and its range of coffee offerings and services, visit www.frothymonkey.com/coffee.
About WithMe, Inc.
WithMe, Inc. makes people's lives better every day through convenient, technology-powered amenities for the multifamily industry and beyond. WithMe’s PrintWithMe and SipWithMe solutions make resident printing and coffee simple, helping property management leaders deliver an elevated living experience and meet evolving resident needs for remote/hybrid work spaces, while simultaneously decreasing spend, controlling costs and saving time for staff. PrintWithMe powers printer amenities and staff solutions at thousands of multifamily, cafe and coworking locations across all 50 states. SipWithMe, which is now available in major markets, is disrupting the coffee amenity category. WithMe is an Inc. 5000 fastest growing company, appearing on the list for the past three consecutive years, as well as a 2023 Inc. Power Partner. Learn more at www.withme.com.
EPISODE SUMMARY
In this episode of Multifamily Excellence, Matt Fiascone, president of The Habitat Company, offers intriguing insight into his illustrious career.
Starting with his serendipitous foray into the real estate industry, Matt recounts his journey through the evolution of asset management - from manual, paper-based processes to today’s sophisticated digital tools - emphasizing the necessity of adapting, learning and staying current with technological advancements.
Matt also discusses the transformative impact mentorship has had on his career, both as a mentee and a mentor. He calls on other real estate leaders to guide the next generation and foster a culture of continuous learning and growth.
Throughout the episode, Matt lends insight into his personal leadership philosophies. He offers a powerful and fascinating narrative on crisis leadership, explaining how shared sacrifice, solidarity and foresight successfully kept his team together and prevented layoffs during the pandemic. Additionally, he presents a wealth of effective strategies for preserving culture in vertically integrated companies with highly dispersed teams.
SUBSCRIBE
As property owners and managers face the ongoing challenge of retaining residents in competitive housing markets, cultivating a strong sense of community has emerged as a powerful and effective solution.
This e-book, inspired by a webinar hosted by WithMe, includes valuable insight and effective strategies for turning four walls into a home.
Coffee saves lives!
It may seem like an overly dramatic statement, but believe it or not, your morning coffee could be positively impacting your health!
Beyond its delightful taste and the immediate energy boost it provides, scientific studies have uncovered a wealth of health benefits associated with America’s favorite morning beverage. Nutrition experts at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine note that coffee is a rich source of antioxidants, and it also contains many other active substances that result in much more than just a quick pick-me-up.
Without further ado, let's delve into the top health benefits of drinking coffee and how it contributes to a longer (and happier) life.
In 2017, the British Medical Association's BMJ published the results of an extensive analysis of nearly 220 research studies on coffee. Researchers determined that coffee drinkers were 17% less likely to die early from any cause than non-coffee drinkers.
In 2022, The Annals of Internal Medicine corroborated those 2017 findings, publishing research that correlated moderate consumption of unsweetened and sugar-sweetened coffee with a lower risk for death. Participants who drank 1.5 - 3.5 cups of coffee per day had a 30% lower risk of death from any cause during the study.
Coffee may play a pivotal role in enhancing the body's processing of glucose or sugar.
One review of 30 independent research studies found that each cup of coffee consumed per day lowered the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 6%.
A 2014 Harvard study that tracked nearly 124,000 people revealed that over a four-year period, participants who increased their coffee intake by more than 1 cup a day had an 11% lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Participants who decreased their intake by 1 cup per day had a 17% higher risk of developing the disease.
Why? Studies have found coffee preserves the function of the beta cells in the pancreas, which produce the insulin responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. The antioxidants in coffee may also directly impact insulin sensitivity, inflammation, and metabolism — all of which contribute to the onset of the disease.
Coffee consumption not only lowers the likelihood of developing Parkinson's, but it also has substantial health benefits for those already diagnosed. The caffeine in coffee may help slow the progression of the disease, and in 2012, research published by the American Academy of Neurology revealed a daily dose of caffeine equivalent to two 8 oz. cups of black coffee could help control the involuntary movements characteristic of the disease.
Dark roast coffee emerges as a hero in DNA maintenance.
In a study published by The European Journal of Nutrition, a test group drank 500 milliliters of dark roast coffee per day, while the control group consumed water. On the last day of each period, blood tests assessed the level of DNA strand breakage. The coffee drinkers had significantly fewer strand breaks compared to the water drinkers.
Similarly, a 2011 article in Molecular Nutrition and Food Research revealed that drinking 750 milliliters of coffee reduced natural DNA breakage by one-third, and that reduction continued several hours later.
In a 2012 study published in The Journal of Alzheimer's Disease, researchers tested the blood caffeine levels in seniors with mild cognitive impairments (MGI), a potential precursor to severe dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Over a 2-4-year period, participants whose initial blood levels contained caffeine amounts equivalent to about three cups of coffee were far less likely to have progressed to full-blown dementia, and none of them converted to Alzheimer’s.
The aforementioned BMJ report revealed that consuming 3 cups of coffee a day results in a 30% lower risk of stroke.
A similar review of 21 studies showed that drinking 3-5 cups of coffee daily was associated with a 21% lower risk of stroke.
In 2021, the American Heart Association published the results of a study focused on data from three top heart disease studies: the Framingham Heart Study, the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study, and the Cardiovascular Health Study. Researchers found that drinking one or more cups of caffeinated coffee each day significantly reduced a person's long-term risk of heart failure.
An exhaustive 2023 review of the literature published on the link between coffee consumption and cardiovascular disease led researchers to report that moderate coffee consumption leads to a decrease in all-cause and cardiovascular-related mortality, hypertension, cholesterol, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation.
Researchers hypothesize that coffee helps to improve blood vessel control over flow and pressure.
In 2015, the Journal of the National Cancer Institute published the results of a study that observed the coffee-drinking habits of more than 447,000 people over a decade. Participants who drank four or more cups of caffeinated coffee each day had a 20% lower risk of developing melanoma than those who drank decaf or no coffee at all.
In an analysis of seven studies that included 330,677 participants, researchers found a 24% reduced risk of depression when comparing the highest (4.5 cups/day) to lowest (<1 cup) coffee intakes. They also found an 8% decreased risk of depression with each additional cup of coffee consumed.
A study following 263,923 retirees found that those who drank four or more cups of coffee a day were almost 10% less likely to become depressed than those who drank none.
Studies have shown that holding a hot beverage substantially increases feelings of connectedness and trust. Read all about it in our recent blog post!
Have you ever wondered if your morning brew does more than just wake you up? Well, it turns out that coffee benefits extend into realms we seldom consider, such as athletic performance. Yes, you read that right. Is coffee good for you when it comes to your workout routine? Absolutely!
Caffeine, the primary component of coffee, is a powerful ergogenic aid that can significantly enhance physical performance. It increases adrenaline levels in your blood, preparing your body for intense physical exertion.
Additionally, caffeine breaks down body fat, making free fatty acids available as fuel.
This means, with a cup of coffee pre-workout, you might find yourself running faster or lifting heavier than you thought possible.
For all the coffee lovers out there, enjoying your favorite beverage responsibly is paramount to reaping the health benefits without any downsides.
First and foremost, listen to your body. Each person's tolerance to caffeine varies, and it's crucial to adjust your intake accordingly.
Second, avoid loading your coffee with excessive sugar and cream. These additions can negate the positive effects of coffee by adding unnecessary calories and fats. Opt for healthier alternatives, like almond milk or a dash of cinnamon.
And finally, timing is everything. Enjoying your coffee in the morning or early afternoon can prevent sleep disturbances.
This question often brews confusion among coffee enthusiasts. The consensus among health experts is that 3-4 cups per day (up to 400 milligrams of caffeine) are considered safe for most adults. This amount has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of several diseases.
However, it's essential to consider individual sensitivity to caffeine, as some people may experience anxiety or jitters, even with small amounts. Pregnant women and individuals with certain health conditions should consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Remember, when it comes to coffee, more isn't always better. Drinking coffee within these guidelines can help you enjoy its perks without risking negative effects.
In the quest to enjoy the health benefits of coffee, it's easy to forget that what we add to our cup can significantly impact its nutritional value. While black coffee is low in calories and rich in antioxidants, adding sugar, syrups, or heavy cream can transform your healthy beverage into a calorie-laden treat.
To keep your coffee beneficial, consider alternatives like stevia for sweetness or plant-based milk for creaminess. These simple swaps can help maintain the integrity of your coffee, ensuring you enjoy all the coffee benefits without compromising your health goals.
While we've discussed the myriad health benefits of coffee for adults, it's important to note that coffee isn't recommended for everyone. Children and adolescents, in particular, should steer clear of caffeine. Younger bodies are more sensitive to caffeine's effects, which can lead to sleep disturbances, increased heart rate, and heightened anxiety.
Instead, encourage water, milk, or herbal teas for the younger crowd. By keeping coffee to the adults, we're keeping coffee to the people who can truly enjoy the health benefits of coffee — without risking long-term effects.
For those who experience acid reflux or GERD, the thought of giving up coffee can be upsetting. However, you don't have to miss out on the ritual of enjoying a warm cup. Decaffeinated coffee offers a great alternative, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of coffee without the caffeine that can trigger acid reflux symptoms.
Recent studies suggest that decaf coffee still retains the antioxidants and nutrients found in regular coffee, meaning you won't have to compromise on the many benefits of coffee. Switching to decaf can be a game-changer for those sensitive to caffeine.
The evidence is compelling – your morning cup of coffee might be doing more for you than just waking you up. From warding off neurodegenerative diseases to improving mental health, coffee has become a surprising ally in our quest for a healthier and happier life.
The next time you savor that steaming cup of joe, know that you're not just indulging in a delightful ritual but also contributing to your overall well-being.
A truly exceptional coffee amenity not only has the power to deliver these life-saving health benefits in the form of a great beverage, but it can also transform every facet of multifamily living. Learn more about how SipWithMe can help elevate your resident experience, decrease your operating expenses, and build a stronger community.