Whitney Kahrs Career Background
What is your biggest career achievement?
- To date, my biggest career achievement is the drastic change made at Aqua on the Levee during my first year as Property Manager. I started my career with CIG Communities in August 2020 at Aqua which is a 237 unit mid-rise in Newport, Kentucky with an abundance of potential. From December 2020 to December 2021, my team raised our average monthly occupancy over 7%, resulting in a decrease of over $400,000 in vacancy loss compared to 2020. Aqua was also awarded “Best Apartment Community” in City Beat’s Best of Cincinnati 2021 contest. I would credit this success to my desire to lead from the front. I do not manage from my desk alone. I lead by example and never hesitate to roll up my sleeves and help in any area that is needed. I have developed an amazing team at this property who has continued to exceed goals and expectations. In doing so, this has also given me the opportunity to accept a promotion to Area Manager with CIG Communities. I am now overseeing not only Aqua on the Levee but also our newest addition to our portfolio, Aspire Kenwood which is a brand new 248 unit mid-rise in Cincinnati, Ohio.
What is your ultimate career goal within the rental housing industry?
- My ultimate career goal within the rental housing industry is simply to continue to grow in my professional knowledge and abilities. I do not wish to limit my goals to a specific position or job title. I will always strive to be the best that I can be in my current role and continue preparing myself for the next step that is right for me. Property management is an ever-evolving field and I thoroughly enjoy being apart of an industry that I feel is limitless.
What's one rental housing trend you have your eye on?
- The overall dependency of technology in the rental housing industry has gotten my attention. We are now able to work completely remotely with prospects from start to finish. From virtual tours, online applications and payments, to electronically signing lease documents- it can all be done without ever visiting a leasing office. Due to the pandemic what was once a trend geared towards millennial prospects, is now being utilized by all.
The companies that can continue to grow in the convenience of virtual leasing and stay ahead of the industry standards will be the stand outs in years to come. Now more than ever, it is important to be able to bring an on-site level touring experience to the comfort of the prospect’s homes. I foresee virtual tours of not only model units but also amenity spaces, exterior areas and specific available units being the expectation in the near future.