HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS

Q1 2025 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

Check out what we’ve been up to throughout Quarter 1, including 100% Clubs, Groundbreakings, Construction Updates, and much more!

In The News: 11th Largest Residential Property Management Company in Central Ohio

Homestead Companies has been recognized by Columbus Business First as the 11th Largest Residential Property Management Company and the 26th Largest Commercial Property Management Company in Central Ohio!⁠ ⁠This achievement reflects our dedication to excellence, growth, and service in the industry. As we look ahead to 2025, we’re excited to continue expanding, developing, and making an even greater impact in our community, creating exceptional spaces for people to live, work, and thrive.


Celebrating Big Wins for Ecco Park, Signature, and River Gate Apartments!

Throughout Quarter 1, we welcomed our teams at Ecco Park, Signature, and River Gate to the 100% Club! The teams have worked hard to reach full occupancy and provide the best resident life experience possible. We are so proud of everyone's dedication! Let's all give them a big congratulations! 👏⁠ 


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

Homestead Construction has been making great strides in 2025 with several exciting projects currently underway! The first quarter has seen significant progress and you can find the latest updates for each project from John Brinich, President of Homestead Construction, below. 

Lusso – Italian Village, Columbus, OH 

At Lusso, the amenity deck is fully complete and ready to be enjoyed just in time for the warmer weather. Furniture has been placed, making it the perfect spot to relax and unwind. 

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @lussoitalianvillage 

Kingsley Park – Canal Winchester, Ohio 

The clubhouse is now under roof, and MEP rough-ins are ongoing. The first two buildings are fully framed, with roof truss installation underway. Meanwhile, framing has officially begun on Building 3. Across the remaining pad sites, work continues on footings, slabs, and underground plumbing. 

The Retreat at Marysville – Marysville, Ohio 

The building is now under roof, and window installation is underway. Meanwhile, MEP work continues inside, keeping the project on track. 


Polor Plunge, March Madness, and More!

Our Homestead U communities have been busy planning exciting social events for their residents! From the annual Polar Plunge at our Live South Green Communities in Athens, OH, raising money for the SEO Food Bank, to friendly March Madness pools, there’s something for everyone. Residents can also join roommate mixers to meet new people, take part in game nights, and enjoy a variety of themed gatherings throughout the year. These events are all about bringing people together, building connections, and making our communities feel like home. Whether it’s for a great cause or just for fun, we love creating opportunities for our residents to enjoy where they live!


A First Look at Kingsley Park Apartments

Kingsley Park Apartments is officially under construction in Canal Winchester, Ohio! With construction underway and a brand-new logo, this vibrant community is on track to welcome its first residents in Fall 2025. Designed for modern living, Kingsley Park offers a perfect balance of style and comfort, featuring thoughtfully designed interiors, premium amenities, and inviting social spaces. Stay tuned for updates as Kingsley Park comes to life, bringing a fresh new living experience to the area!


Quarter 1 Champ Chain: Chad Plowman

Please join us in congratulating Chad Plowman, Superintendent for Homestead Construction, for winning our company-wide Quarter 1 Champ Chain Award!⁠ Chad's continuous hard work, dedication, and commitment to the company does not go unnoticed and we are lucky to have him as a member of our team.⁠ 

Here are a few things that his fellow co-workers had to say about him: ⁠

“Chad exemplifies the dedication and professionalism that defines our company. 

Chad has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and skilled execution on every project he oversees. His ability to foster clear communication among team members and stakeholders is unmatched, ensuring that each phase of construction is efficient and transparent. This quality has significantly contributed to Homestead Construction's reputation for outstanding performance and trusted relationships. 

Not only does Chad excel in managing complex projects, but his proactive approach to problem-solving and attention to detail elevate each project to new heights, aligning perfectly with our company’s mission of excellence. 

In conclusion, Chad Plowman is not just a superintendent; he is a key player in the continued success and growth of Homestead Construction. His passion for construction, combined with his commitment to excellence, makes him a deserving candidate for this recognition. Thank you for considering Chad for this honor.

Chad, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We appreciate all of your hard work and dedication. Thank you for being a dependable worker that we can always count on. We appreciate you!⁠


Employee Spotlight: Lauren McClinton

Job Title: Community Manager 

Community: Stella Apartments 

How long have you been with Homestead? 11 Months 

What were you doing before Homestead? Leasing at another property! 

Where are you originally from? Columbus, OH 

What are your favorite hobbies? Reading, tennis, and organizing. 

What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Speak your mind even if your voice shakes. 

If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? My Grandmother, Issa Rae, and Oprah. 

Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Serena Williams 

What is your dream vacation? Greece 

What is one thing you can't live without? Shea Butter 

What is your proudest moment at Homestead?  Being promoted to Property Manager 

What is on your retirement bucket list? Starting a book club 

 

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotions! We wish you continued success and appreciate all of your hard work and dedication! 

Hannah Will, Homestead Village Fort Wayne, Promoted from Village Ambassador to Community Manager 

Lauren McClinton, Stella, Promoted from Leasing Consultant to Community Manager 

Tone Smith, Clintonville Commons, Promoted from Maintenace Technician at Georgetown Apartments to Maintenance Supervisor at Clintonville Commons  

 

JANUARY

Tanya Brand, Homestead Village, 14 Years 

Jason George, Home Office, 8 Years 

Qiletha Caston, Home Office, 7 Years 

Doug Falor, Home Office, 5 Years 

Sharron Giles, Ecco Park, 4 Years 

Todd Jessup, University Village, 3 Years 

Larry King, River Park, 2 Years 

Jackie Radi, Orchard Grove, 2 Years 

   

FEBRUARY

Greg Burchwell, HSL Grove City, 17 Years 

Jerome Clements, University Village, 1 Year 

Brenna McGee, HSL Blacklick, 1 Year  

   

MARCH

James Vest, Orchard Grove, 7 Years 

Paul Zirkle, Appian Way, 5 Years 

Jennifer Spaulding, Ecco Park, 5 Years 

Lorrie Bitner, Home Office, 3 Years 

Mindy Henson, Home Office, 3 Years 

Savannah Matthews, University Village, 3 Years 

Tyler Barton, Home Office, 2 Years 

Chonsy Boualoy, Home Office, 2 Year 


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
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2024: A Year of Opportunities

Reflecting on 2024, we proudly celebrate an incredible year for Homestead Companies! From exciting grand openings to the successful completion of four properties, we achieved remarkable milestones, all thanks to our dedicated and talented team. As we look ahead to 2025, we're excited for the journey ahead and can't wait to see what new opportunities and successes await!

 

Reflecting on 2024, we proudly celebrate an incredible year for Homestead Companies! From exciting grand openings to the successful completion of four properties, we achieved remarkable milestones, all thanks to our dedicated and talented team. As we look ahead to 2025, we're excited for the journey ahead and can't wait to see what new opportunities and successes await!

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Q3 2024 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

Check out what we’ve been up to throughout Quarter 3, including the Annual Homestead America Summer Party, 100% Club, Leasing and Renewal Campaigns, Construction Updates, and much more!

Signature Joins the 100% Club

It's their SIGNATURE year! 🌟⁠

We're thrilled to announce that our team in Lexington, KY has achieved an incredible milestone by joining the 100% club for the 2024-2025 leasing season! The Signature team has put in tremendous effort to prepare this new development property for its first year. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication and look forward to continued success and growth.

Congratulations on this big accomplishment! 👏⁠


Homestead America’s Annual Summer Party

The Homestead America team celebrated the kicked off Quarter 3 with our annual Summer Party! This year’s event took place at Ten Pin Alley in Hilliard, OH, where the afternoon was packed with competitive bowling tournaments, delicious food, and plenty of laughter. It was a great opportunity for everyone to unwind, socialize, and enjoy each other’s company outside the office.

The event was a fantastic way to celebrate our team's achievements and further strengthen our bonds. We're already excited for next year's celebration! A big thank you to all of our team members for their hard work and dedication. 🎳


A Successful Year of Move-Ins for Homestead U!

We’re excited to celebrate another year of successful move-ins for our student portfolio, Homestead U! We would like to extend a huge shoutout to our incredible team members for their dedication and hard work in making it all possible. Their commitment has been essential in providing the best resident life experience possible. 👏

Welcoming new residents to our communities has been a rewarding experience, and we’re excited to create lasting memories with them in the months ahead. It’s officially time to gear up for the Fall 2025-2026 leasing season! Great job, everyone – here’s to another successful year ahead!


Construction at Lusso Apartments is Nearing Completion!

Exciting progress is happening at Lusso Apartments as we approach the final stages of construction. The pool and landscaping are now fully complete, and the patio and clubhouse furniture have been installed. Our team is putting the finishing touches on the stunning two-story clubhouse, and the amenity deck is in its final phase of development, bringing these luxurious outdoor spaces to life.

A big thank you to everyone involved in making this beautiful community a reality. We can't wait to continue welcoming future residents to Lusso Apartments!

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @lussoitalianvillage


Harlow Welcomes Their First Retail Tenant: Qahwah House Coffee!

We’re thrilled to announce that Harlow on Main has officially welcomed its first retail tenant, Qahwah House Coffee! Bringing the rich flavors of Yemen to Downtown Columbus, this vibrant coffee shop offers residents and visitors a unique and authentic experience. As Qahwah House continues to grow in Central Ohio, they’re excited to become a part of the Harlow community, providing a convenient and delicious spot to kick-start your day.

Stay tuned for more exciting updates as we look forward to welcoming additional retail tenants to Harlow on Main in the near future!


Introducing the 2025 Leasing & Renewal Campaign: THE GOOD TIMES!

We're thrilled to announce the launch of the 2024-2025 Homestead U Leasing & Renewal Campaign, THE GOOD TIMES! Our goal is to highlight the special memories that come with living at our properties, fostering a strong sense of community and encouraging residents to renew their leases. We remind our residents of the irreplaceable memories they've created here, encouraging them to renew their leases and continue enjoying this amazing chapter of their lives!  

The goal is clear. Let's inspire our residents to keep the good times going! We're tapping into their emotions by creating a sense of FOMO for those not living here or thinking about leaving. We want everyone to recognize that their time with us is irreplaceable, and we will bring energy, creativity, and enthusiasm to the table to showcase how incredible our community truly is. They won’t find better than us!  


2024 CAA Expo: Unveiling the World of TV Shows

The Homestead Bunch had a fantastic time attending the 2024 Columbus Apartment Association (CAA) Expo: Unveiling the World of TV Shows! 📺️⁠ ⁠

Our team had the opportunity to explore a variety of vendor setups, connect with industry professionals, and engage with our local community. A big thank you to the Columbus Apartment Association for organizing another inspiring event! We hope everyone who attended walked away feeling energized and ready to bring new ideas back to their teams. Looking forward to what’s in store for next year!


Quarter 2 Champ Chain: Felix Fortunato

Please join us as we congratulate our company-wide Quarter 3 Champ Chain winner, Felix Fortunato; Homestead's very own Maintenance Supervisor at Homestead Village Blacklick!

Here are a few things that his fellow co-workers had to say about him: ⁠

"Since Felix was hired as a floating maintenance technician this year, he has been a huge help to our team. He always has a positive attitude and will help anyone out at any time. He has taken extra emergency on-call and will also help out a teammate and another community with any issue that requires two people. When the opportunity came up, we promoted him to the Maintenance Supervisor role at HSL Blacklick."

"Felix has been a great asset here at Worthington Commons. He comes to work every day with a great attitude and willing to help. Completes every task we give him on time. Very knowledgeable and has good maintenance skills. Thank you for doing a good job."

Felix, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We appreciate all of your hard work and dedication. Thank you for being a dependable worker that we can always count on. We appreciate you!⁠


Employee Spotlight: Patrick Daugherty

Job Title: Development Manager

Community: Home Office

How long have you been with Homestead? 4 months

What were you doing before Homestead? Lifestyle Communities as a Director of Preconstruction and Amenity Development.

Where are you originally from? Orient, Ohio.

What are your favorite hobbies? Pickleball, beekeeping, riding electric bikes (I know it's cheating but it's fun), and working out (I go to a weird CrossFit gym).

What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Invest in Apple.

If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? Cory Ratai (he doesn't judge someone for liking a good PSL), Elon Musk, and Abraham Lincoln.

Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Little Richard.

What is your dream vacation? A week on Necker Island.

What is one thing you can't live without? I am fairly flexible and don't need a lot of material things, I do like convivence though. Apple pay would be the one thing I would not want to live without.    

What is your proudest moment at Homestead? The day I was hired. I am sure there will be more proud moments to come as I get to know the team and grow with Homestead.

What is on your retirement bucket list? Scuba diving the Great Barrier Reef.

 

JULY

Tammy Lusk, University Village, 13 Years 

Jerry Taylor, University Village, 13 Years 

Eric Kinney, University Village, 13 Years 

Donna Stage, Home Office, 13 Years 

Ashley Gall, River Park, 12 Years 

Chad Hudnall, River Park, 12 Years 

Debbie Sanborn, River Park, 12 Years 

Angie Slay, River Annex, 12 Years 

Vanessa Marcum, River Park, 12 Years 

Cecil Stage, University Village, 12 Years 

Ryan McGahan, Home Office, 11 Years 

Priscilla Robles, The Cottages of College Station, 6 Years 

Rey Orellana, University Village, 4 Years 

John Brinich, Homestead Construction, 3 Years 

Nigel Long, The View, 3 Years 

Shawn Radi, Village West, 2 Years 

Bob Rioch, River Park, 2 Years 

Jill Tackett, River Park, 1 Year 

Holly Owen, River Park, 1 Year 

Coltin Slenk, The Cottages of College Station, 1 Year 

 

AUGUST

Jeremy Gray, Worthington Commons, 3 Years  

Andy Bowers, Homestead Village – Blacklick, 3 Years  

Heather Osborne, Homestead Village – Miamisburg, 2 Years  

Aramis Vasquez, Worthington Commons, 2 Years  

Scott Van Winkle, Homestead Village – Beavercreek, 2 Years 

Dalton Arnett, Homestead Construction, 1 Year 

Ashley Gooch, University Village, 1 Year 

Ashten Bissinger, Hayden Park, Year 

 

SEPTEMBER

Leisha Maynard, 8 Years, Clintonville Commons  

Wilbur Taylor, 5 Years, University Village  

Sarah Schaffner, 4 Years, Georgetown Apartments  

Ashley Castle, 2 Years, River Park 

Cassie Skinner, 2 Years, Stella Apartments 

Steve Jamison, 1 Year, Hayden Park  

Laura Price, 1 Year, University Village 

Martha Chadwell, 1 Year, River Park 


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
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Q2 2024 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

Click to read more about what we've been up to in Quarter 2, from the Ben Franklin Awards and 100% Club to Furniture Move-ins, Construction Updates, and much more!

 

In The News: Top 5 Busiest Real Estate Developers in Central Ohio 

We made the list! 🗞️ ⁠ 

We are excited to announce that Homestead Companies has been ranked 5th among Central Ohio's busiest commercial real estate developers, according to the latest ranking by Columbus Business First. Last year, we had $151 million in real estate project costs, solidifying our position as one of the leading development firms in Columbus, OH. We want to give a special shoutout to all our team members who contributed to this achievement. Your hard work and dedication are greatly appreciated, and we couldn't have accomplished this without you!


The Tradition Continues: 2024 Ben Franklin Awards 

The tradition of the Ben Franklin Awards continues! Since 2006, our annual event has aimed to recognize and evaluate the excellence of our Homestead America properties. We are thrilled to announce the winners of the 2024 awards. A team of judges has visited all our properties to determine the best curb appeal, best team effort, and rookie of the year. This event reflects our unwavering commitment to maintaining and improving our communities.

Our on-site teams put in tireless efforts every year to enhance their communities. We are incredibly proud of their hard work and dedication to providing the best resident life experience. Congratulations to all the properties for their awards, and thank you for making our communities such wonderful places!
 

Best Curb Appeal – Homestead Village Blacklick

Best Team Effort –  The Village at Appian Way

Rookie of the Year –  Hayden Park


SkyGarden Joins the 100% Club

Welcoming our team at SkyGarden to the 100% Club for the 2024-2025 leasing season! ⁣⁠ 
⁣⁠ 
The SkyGarden team in Charleston, SC has worked so hard to get to 100% pre-leased and we are so proud of the hard work and dedication.⁠ Congratulations on this big accomplishment! 


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

The Homestead Construction team has lots of exciting updates to share! They've been hard at work on several projects throughout Quarter 2 and have continued to make significant progress. Check out the latest updates on each project below! 

Lusso – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

The progress at Lusso Apartments is incredible! The pool is currently being dug, the amenity building is taking shape, and the amenity deck is on track. We can't wait to see the finished product by mid to late August – fantastic work by all involved!

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @lussoitalianvillage

Stella – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

Our construction team is putting the final touch on the townhomes and this will be the final piece at Stella Apartments. The townhomes are leasing up fast and are expected to be fully leased by the end of July. Huge thanks to everyone who helped bring this project to life!

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @stellaitalianvillage

Signature – Lexington, Kentucky

Great news for our student housing team – Signature Apartments is nearly complete! Residents will be moving in mid July and enjoying the sparkling pool and trendy Instagram wall.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livethesignaturelife

Homestead Village – Fort Wayne, Indiana

We're thrilled to announce that Homestead Village has received its TCO and is now open for tours! This project is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. The village, landscaping, and first two floors look fantastic!

Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates - Homestead Village Fort Wayne


Getting Move-in Ready at Signature

Our team at Signature Apartments in Lexington, Kentucky has finished the first round of furniture move-ins! In just a few days, they moved hundreds of furniture pieces into each unit to prepare for the arrival of the first residents at Lexington’s newest student housing community.👏⁠ ⁠  

We want to give a big shoutout to our hardworking team members who made everything ready. Also, a big thank you to Wildcat Moving for their help throughout this process! 


Welcoming Our Newest Homestead Village Community to Fort Wayne, Indiana

We are excited to announce that our newest Homestead Senior Living community in Fort Wayne, IN has recently received their Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO)! Tours are now available, furniture is set up, offices are ready, and we are officially preparing for move-ins. With the addition of our Fort Wayne location, we now have five fully operational senior living properties!


Wrapping Up The Summer 2024 Homestead Hustle Challenge!

We have recently concluded our latest Homestead Hustle Fitness Challenge! Over the last several weeks, participants have been competing against one another to earn points by tracking their activities and earning badges. From completing 180 minutes of cycling to tracking minutes of stretching, our team members have been working hard to beat the challenge.

Congratulations to our GRAND PRIZE winner, Jason Schultz! Way to go! Jason ended the challenge with 10,289 points. He was followed by Hailey Fisher with 8,264 points, Shannon Latsko with 7,317 points, Jill Tackett with 7,082 points, and Qiletha Caston with 7,050 points, rounding out the top 5.

Thank you to everyone who participated! Great job!


Exciting Resident Events Across The Student Portfolio!

Our team members across the student portfolio have been busy planning fun events for their residents, including tie-dye workshops, bracelet making, baby goat visits, and crawfish boils! They have stayed focused on creating the best resident life experience possible. Next up, turn and move-ins!


Quarter 2 Champ Chain: Ty Knox

Please join us in congratulating Ty Knox, Community Manager at Lusso Apartments in Italian Village, for winning our company-wide Quarter 2 Champ Chain Award!⁠ His continuous hard work, dedication, and commitment to the company is admirable and we are lucky to have him as a member of our team.⁠

Here are a few things that his co-workers had to say about him: ⁠

"Ty had been a rockstar helping out at both Lusso and Stella as we transitioned to a new community manager. He is such an impactful and positive team member. His positive outlook and behavior is so infectious. He leads by example - he won't ask a team member to do something he wouldn't. He will come in early and stay late to support his team. He is hands-on and involved. We are very appreciative to have Ty as a part of our Homestead team!"⁠

Ty, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to seeing all that you will continue to accomplish in the future!⁠


Employee Spotlight: Chloe Thompson

Job Title: Village Ambassador

Community: Homestead Village Beavercreek

How long have you been with Homestead? 1 Year

What were you doing before Homestead? I was in college for graphic communications and in a graphic internship.

Where are you originally from? Winchester, Indiana

What are your favorite hobbies? I enjoy riding horses, drawing, and painting signs.

What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Do not let things that happen around you affect your goals; everything happens for a reason no matter how good or bad it may seem.

If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? My father, Cody Johnson, and my future self.

What is your dream vacation? I would love to stay in an over-the-water bungalow in Tahiti!

What is one thing you can't live without? I do not think I could live without having at least one pet.

What is your proudest moment at Homestead? That I have been able to help my community hit its first occupied goal!

What is on your retirement bucket list? I hope by the time I retire I will be able to relax, live comfortably, and be able to do anything I want, without worrying about how big the next paycheck will be.

Quarter 2 Promotions 

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotions! We wish you continued success and appreciate your hard work and dedication!

Sandy Goldberg – Schrock Park – Promoted from Assistant Community Manager to Community Manager 
Alicia Little – University Village – Promoted from Transportation Admin to Fleet Manager 
Gracen Broyles – Signature Apartments – Promoted from Leasing Consultant to Leasing & Marketing Manager 

April 

Bob Goddard, University Village, 10 Years 

Dustin Holskey, Home Office, 8 Years  

Samantha Burkholder, University Village, 8 Years  

Mikayla Lewis, The Valley, 6 Years  

Tammy Reed, Home Office, 5 Years  

Evan Mulcahy, Home Office, 4 Years  

Todd Westover, Homestead Construction, 3 Years  

Valerie Baugess, Home Office, 3 Years  

Audrey Higgins, Helix, 2 Years  

Luis Olivares, University Village, 2 Years  

Jon Bedzyk, Home Office, 1 Year  

Alenna Bible, University Village, 1 Year 

Madison Harrington, Lusso, 1 Year  

Chad Plowman, Lusso, 1 Year  

 

May  

Rae McKenney, Olde Towne, 17 Years 

Tim Kalb, Home Office, 8 Years 

Dearold Sealey, River Annex, 7 Years 

Eve Detter, Home Office, 5 Years 

Marcy Vazquez, Appian Way, 4 Years 

Kaitlyn Griffin, SkyGarden, 3 Years 

Tori Harris, Helix, 1 Year 

Andrea Jerome, Home Office, 1 Year 

Kayla England, Home Office, 1 Year 

Jeremiah Orta, Cottages at College Station, 1 Year 

Jason Schultz, Homestead Construction, 1 Year 

Alicia Little, University Village, 1 Year 

 

June 

John Baylous, Georgetown, 12 Years 

Guy Purington, Home Office, 11 Years 

Shannon Latsko, Home Office, 10 Years 

Isaac Greenwood, Helix, 8 Years 

Anne Smith, Home Office, 4 Years 

McKenzie McGonigal, The Valley, 4 Years 

Daniela Castillo, Homestead Construction, 1 Year 

Elise Mays, Home Office, 1 Year 

Mark Voirol, Homestead Construction, 1 Year 


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
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Q1 2024 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

Women in Construction Week, 100% Club, Ron Spangler Magic, Construction Updates, and so much more! Click to read more about what we’ve been up to so far in 2024!

 
 

Women in Construction Week 2024

In the first week of March 2024, our team celebrated Women in Construction Week by highlighting the talented women of Homestead Construction! We were thrilled to highlight a new team member each day and learn about what the construction industry means to them. We want to give a HUGE thank you to Jessica Spears, Andrea Jerome, and Daniela Castillo for their ongoing hard work and dedication. We appreciate all that they do for our Homestead Construction team! Check out the questions below to learn a little more about each team member:

Jessica Spears

  1. What is your current position? I was promoted to Assistant Project Manager in September.

  2. How long have you been with Homestead Companies? At the end of March, I'll have worked for Homestead for 1 year.

  3. What does it mean to you to be in construction? Being part of the construction industry offers me an unparalleled sense of purpose and fulfillment. It's not just about the physical act of building; it's about being an integral part of a team that collaborates effectively, forming strong bonds with colleagues and external partners alike. The opportunity to leverage cutting-edge tools and methodologies to oversee complex projects like Lusso exemplifies the dynamic and impactful nature of our work. For me, construction is about contributing my best to a collective effort that results in tangible, lasting achievements.

  4. What is your proudest construction moment/accomplishment? My journey with Homestead Construction stands out as a testament to personal growth and professional development. Starting with little to no experience in the field, I was propelled by a relentless drive to learn and contribute. This determination was recognized when, just six months in, I was promoted to my current role. This rapid advancement is not just a personal milestone; it symbolizes the potential for growth and achievement in the construction industry for those who are committed to excellence and continuous learning.

  5. What is your favorite thing about working in construction? The essence of construction, for me, lies in the synergy of teamwork and the tangible outcomes of our labor. There's a unique satisfaction in witnessing the direct results of our collective efforts, seeing structures rise and projects come to fruition before our eyes. This blend of collaborative spirit and visible progress fuels my passion for the field, making every day a rewarding experience.

Andrea Jerome

  1. What is your current position? Project Manager.

  2. How long have you been with Homestead Companies? Just under a year.

  3. What does it mean to you to be in construction? There is never a dull moment.

  4. What is your proudest construction moment/accomplishment? Ensuring Homestead Companies continues to develop outstanding multifamily housing that provides residents the best experience possible.

  5. What is your favorite thing about working in construction? Collaborating daily with architects, engineers, contractors, and vendors to guarantee projects remain on time and within budget.

Daniela Castillo

  1. What is your current position? Assistant Project Manager.

  2. How long have you been with Homestead Companies? 10 months.

  3. What does it mean to you to be in construction? I love contributing to the design and construction of new spaces and buildings for society and the urban environment.

  4. What is your proudest construction moment/accomplishment? My proudest construction moment was working on the tallest building in Latin America with Gold LEED Certification.

  5. What is your favorite thing about working in construction? My favorite thing about working in construction is that every day is different. There is always something new to learn, new construction systems, new construction methods/strategies, new softwares, new materials, etc. It is exciting to work with constant changes and challenges.


Big Wins for River Park, River’s Edge, and River Gate!

Throughout Quarter 1, we welcomed our teams at River Park, River’s Edge, and River Gate to the 100% Club for the 2024-2025 leasing season and they did it in record time, too! Congratulations to the teams in Athens, Ohio team on this big accomplishment - we are so proud of your hard work and dedication!


In The News: $1B Buckstone Project in Obetz

We’re excited to announce that Buckstone Flats was named in Columbus Business First as the first facility to open within a $1 billion development in Obetz, OH! Congratulations to the team for working hard to make this project so successful.

Check out the full article here: Columbus Business First


SkyGarden Nationally Ranked In Reputation Management

We're excited to announce that SkyGarden Apartments in Charleston, SC was ranked 28th amongst the top 100 student housing properties in the nation by J Turner Research! Congratulations to the SkyGarden team and their efforts to continue providing the best resident life experience possible! ⁠We're so proud of you all!

Click here for more information: 2023 Student Housing ORA Power Ranking


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

Homestead Construction has been making great strides in 2024 with several exciting projects currently underway! The first quarter has seen significant progress and you can find the latest updates for each project from John Gornall, Vice President of Homestead Construction, below.

Lusso – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

Building G and H are nearing completion at Lusso Apartments! Building F is continuing to move forward as the drywall installation and finish trades are in progress. The model will be open in early April to welcome VIP tours.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @lussoitalianvillage

Stella – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

All buildings have been certified for occupancy with the final touches being completed on building A. The parking garage has been completed and is currently being painted on the interior. The townhomes are progressing smoothly and we are looking forward to welcoming residents into them soon!  

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @stellaitalianvillage

Signature – Lexington, Kentucky

The project in Lexington, Kentucky is progressing very well with two buildings approaching completion. The other buildings are being framed and in various stages of completion. Construction team members are actively working on the pool and the final touches of the clubhouse.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livethesignaturelife

Hayden Park – Huber Heights, Ohio

Hayden Park Apartment are all certified for occupancy! Final touches are taking place on the last building while the landscaping is wrapping up. 

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livehaydenpark

Camden Park – Fort Wayne, Indiana

Camden Park is nearing completion with the final inspections pending on the last building.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livecamdenpark

Homestead Village – Fort Wayne, Indiana

Final touches are underway in the Village and common areas! Units in the B & C wings are facing completion while wing A is well underway with finish trades. We are excited to begin welcoming residents this upcoming spring! 

Follow us on Facebook for the latest updates - Homestead Village Fort Wayne


Magic at the Home Office

Our team members at the Home Office gathered together for an afternoon of fun with Ron Spangler Magic! Not only did we learn some impressive tricks, but we also shared plenty of laughs and were blown away by the incredible show. We're grateful to everyone who joined us and participated in the activities. It was a memorable event!


Quarter 1 Champ Chain: Savannah Matthews

Please join us in congratulating Savannah Matthews, Assistant Leasing & Marketing Manager at University Village, for winning the first company-wide Quarter 1 Champ Chain Award!⁠ Her hard work, dedication, and commitment to the company is admirable and we are lucky to have her as a member of our team.⁠

Here are a few things that her co-workers had to say about her: ⁠

"Savannah has stepped up and taken over more responsibilities with no complaints. She has handled herself with the utmost respect and composure. She has taken this transition smoothly and taken total control. Savannah's positive attitude, strong work ethic, and willingness to collaborate make them a valuable asset to the team. Her commitment to excellence is evident in every task she undertakes, consistently going above and beyond to achieve results and exceed expectations."⁠

Savannah, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to seeing all that you will continue to accomplish in the future!⁠


Employee Spotlight: Roderick Hutchinson

Roderick Hutchinson

Job Title: Community Manager

Community: The Cottages of College Station

How long have you been with Homestead? 7 Months

What were you doing before Homestead? I worked as a Community Manager with Campus Advantage.

Where are you originally from? Friendswood, TX

What are your favorite hobbies? Riding my motorcycle, traveling, and art.

What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? John 13:7 "Jesus replied, You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.”

If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? Will Smith, Lily Collins, and Alexandra Daddario

Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Drake

What is your dream vacation? Fiji

What is one thing you can't live without? My cat.

What is your proudest moment at Homestead? Having such a successful initial renewal push despite a challenging move-in.

What is on your retirement bucket list? Taking a 3 month vacation to Europe!


January

Johan Aleman, University Village, 1 Year

Tanya Brand, Homestead Village, 13 Years

Josh Bucior, The View, 1 Year

Qiletha Caston, Home Office, 6 Years

Doug Falor, Home Office, 4 Years

Jason George, Home Office, 7 Years

Sharron Giles, Ecco Park, 3 Years

John Gornall, Home Office, 1 Year

Todd Jessup, University Village, 3 Years

Lawrence King, River Park, 1 Year

Eric McIntyre, University Village, 1 Year

Jackie Radi, Orchard Grove, 1 Year

  

February

Cristol Alonso Colon, The View, 1 Year

Madison Bowers, River Gate, 2 Years

Greg Burchwell, HSL Grove City, 16 Years

Hailey Fisher, River Park, 1 Year

Matt Marshall, Home Office, 1 Year

Jake McGinty, The View, 1 Year

Zach Myers, Home Office, 1 Year  

March

Richard Arrington, Worthington Commons, 6 Years

Tyler Barton, Home Office, 1 Year

Lorrie Bitner, Home Office, 2 Years

Chonsy Boualoy, Home Office, 1 Year

Ruben Caro, Helix Starkville, 1 Year

Sam Casarez, The Cottages of College Station, 8 Years

Mindy Henson, Home Office, 2 Years

Emily Jones, Home Office, 2 Years

Savannah Matthews, University Village, 2 Years

Travis Robinson, Clintonville Commons, 3 Years

Amber Sandberg, The Cottages of College Station, 1 Year

LeeAnn Sapp, University Village, 2 Years

Jennifer Spaulding, Ecco Park, 4 Years

Jessica Spears, Home Office, 1 Year

James Vest, Orchard Grove, 6 Years

Paul Zirkle, Somerset Square, 4 Years


2023 Year In Review

Looking back at 2023, we can proudly say that it was an amazing year for Homestead Companies. It was a year of immense growth, opportunities, and remarkable achievements. We broke records, laid strong foundations, and achieved our goals, all thanks to our incredible team! We are thrilled to announce the successful roll-out of our 2023 Year In Review and can’t wait to see what 2024 has in store for us!


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
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Marketing Team Marketing Team

2023: A Year of Excellence

Looking back at 2023, we can proudly say that it was an amazing year for Homestead Companies. We broke records, laid strong foundations, and achieved our goals, all thanks to our incredible team! We are thrilled and excited for the journey ahead in 2024 and can't wait to see what it has in store for us!⁠

 

Looking back at 2023, we can proudly say that it was an amazing year for Homestead Companies. It was a year of immense growth, opportunities, and remarkable achievements. We broke records, laid strong foundations, and achieved our goals, all thanks to our incredible team! We are thrilled and excited for the journey ahead in 2024 and can't wait to see what it has in store for us!

Read More

Q3 2023 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

We have kicked off a new ERA of leasing! Join us as we show you all a glimpse of our 2023-2024 Leasing & Renewal Campaign, HU’s version.

 

A New Era of Leasing

Are you ready for it? 

This fall, as we kick off our Homestead U Leasing & Renewal Campaign, we're stepping into our very own Leasing Era! Taylor Swift's Eras Tour has recently captivated the attention of millions. It's all about the magic of eras, glam, personal reflection, nostalgia, and so much more! It's time to embrace our era and capture the hearts of prospects and our residents! 

We are diving deep into emotional touch points. Think about it: your college years hold some of your favorite memories. It's practically an era in itself! That is what we are aiming for with our residents. By showcasing our properties' era at the forefront, we are encouraging prospects and residents to feel as though we are where their favorite memories will be held. That's why they should choose to live with us!  

The HU properties are taking it to the next level with well-thought-out events and social media posts, exciting giveaways, and promotional materials. We have loved seeing this new era for HU unfold and look forward to seeing what else is planned for the future! 

#MyHomesteadEra


Another Successful HU Move-in!

Our HU teams had another fantastic year! Move-ins are complete, and the teams are now focusing on leasing for the 2024 season. In terms of preleased average, we’re excited to report that the portfolio is currently ahead of last year by 5.5% and nearly 10% ahead of 2 years prior, making it one of our most successful leasing seasons yet. Congratulations to everyone involved! Way to go!

Donna Stage, Regional Manager for Homestead U, was thrilled overall. “Turn is an adrenaline rush, and we are glad everyone survived. I wouldn’t trade student housing for anything.”


A Night At The Movies

Our team members from Homestead America had the opportunity to attend the Columbus Apartment Association 2023 Expo: A Night at the Movies! Located at the Makoy Center in Hilliard, Ohio, everyone enjoyed exploring all of the vendor setups and connecting with our community. Thank you to the CAA for putting together a fantastic event. We are all looking forward to next year! 


Entrata Summit

Another successful year at the Entrata Summit!

Shaun Kastner, Director of Systems and Training, and Qiletha Caston, VP of Systems and Compliance, spent a week in Salt Lake City, Utah, learning about new perspectives on all things multifamily. Their schedule was filled with insightful sessions and keynote speakers, and now they're returning feeling motivated!⁠

Thank you, Entrata, for hosting yet another amazing learning opportunity!


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

Homestead Construction has many projects underway and has continued to make significant progress over the last quarter! Below, you can find the latest updates for each project from John Brinich, President of Homestead Construction.

Lusso – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

The construction team is actively working on the framing of building H, simultaneous to the roof being installed on building G and the warehouse structure. Additionally, mechanical rough-ins are in progress for both Building G and F. 

Check out our website! - Living Lusso

Stella – Italian Village, Columbus, OH

The first units in building C are currently preparing to open! Building B is nearing completion at 90% and will be ready to open in December. As for Building A, the first units are scheduled to open in January 2023, while the clubhouse is expected to be ready in November.

Check out our website! - Living Stella

Signature – Lexington, Kentucky

Construction is well underway in Lexington, Kentucky! Mechanical rough-ins have been installed in four of the buildings, and the clubhouse is expected to open in December.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livethesignaturelife

Hayden Park – Huber Heights, Ohio

We now have 3 buildings open for residents and are expecting to wrap up the rest of construction by the end of the year. The pool and outdoor patio areas are now fully completed!

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livehaydenpark

Camden Park – Fort Wayne, Indiana

The pool and outdoor patio are being worked on, and the next step is to pour concrete. Landscaping is still underway and we're adding final touches throughout the property. Building 3 is currently being paved and the dog park is about halfway finished. We already have 3 buildings available for residents, and we're anticipating completing the rest of the construction by the end of the year!

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livecamdenpark

Homestead Village – Fort Wayne, Indiana

There are currently 2 buildings open and the third is expected to open for residents at the beginning of October.  The construction team is currently commencing exterior finishes. Overall, the project has been progressing well!


Quarter 3 Champ Chain:
Grace Benningfield

Please join us in congratulating Grace Benningfield, Community Manager at The Heights, for winning the Quarter 3 Champ Chain Award!⁠ Her passion, drive, and commitment to the company are admirable, and we are lucky to have her as a member of our team. Here are a few things that her fellow co-workers had to say about her: ⁠

"Grace has always been a great coworker and friend. If any help is needed anywhere, she is there to help. Nothing could have proved that more than when she had to step up and take over as community manager. So proud of her! If you know her, you know she deserves this!"⁠

Grace, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We look forward to seeing all that you will continue to accomplish in the future!⁠


Quarter 3 Medal of Excellence:
Madison Harrington

Please join us as we congratulate our Quarter 3 Medal of Excellence winner, Madison Harrington, Homestead's very own Leasing Consultant at Hayden Park Apartments in Huber Heights, Ohio! Madison has been a rockstar since day one, and we are thankful to have her as one of our team members. Here are a few things that her fellow co-workers had to say about her: ⁠

"Madison has been monumental in helping get Hayden Park leased up. Although she has only been here for under a year, she has made a huge impact and even traveled to help out to the new student community at the University of Kentucky, Signature."

Madison, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition. We appreciate all of your hard work and dedication. Thank you for being a dependable worker that we can count on, we appreciate you!


Employee Spotlight: Sarah Schaffner

Sarah Schaffner 

Job Title: Community Manager 

Community: Georgetown Apartments 

How long have you been with Homestead? Three years! 

What were you doing before Homestead? I worked in retail for a long, long time, selling fine jewelry and watches.  

Where are you originally from? Canton, Ohio. 

What are your favorite hobbies? I love to bake, do anything outdoors, and gardening. 

What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Your life will never be what you expect, so, enjoy every minute. That plan you might have will always change! Don't be afraid to do something you've never done. 

If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? My parents and my younger sister. And my 2nd grade teacher as a bonus! 

Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Do I have to pick just one? Rod Stewart! 

What is your dream vacation? Going to France and seeing the whole country.  

What is one thing you can't live without? Lipstick! 

What is your proudest moment at Homestead? Receiving the “Community of The Year” award last year. We have a great team that works incredibly hard. I was and am so proud of what we've accomplished. 

What is on your retirement bucket list? Travel, travel and more traveling!! Can't wait to just go everywhere. 


Quarter 3 Promotions

Grace Benningfield – Promoted from Business Assistant to Community Manager at The Heights 

Audrey Higgins – Promoted from Leasing Consultant to Leasing & Marketing Manager at Helix Starkville

Kaitlyn Griffin – Promoted from Leasing & Marketing Manager to Community Manager at SkyGarden 

Kyle Funkhouser – Promoted from Community Assistant to Full-time Leasing Consultant at The Valley 

Nikki Leonard – Promoted from Business Administrator to Community Manager at Helix 

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotions! We are wishing you continued success and appreciate all of your hard work and dedication!


July 

Donna Stage, Home Office, 13 Years 

Eric Kinney, University Village, 13 Years 

Jerry Taylor, University Village, 13 Years 

Tammy Lusk, University Village, 12 Years 

Vanessa Marcum, River Park, 11 Years 

Angie Slay, River Annex, 11 Years 

Ashley Gall, River Park, 11 Years 

Cecil Stage Jr, University Village, 11 Years 

Chad Hudnall, River Park, 11 Years 

Debbie Sanborn, River Park, 11 Years 

Ryan McGahan, Home Office, 10 Years 

Priscilla Robles, College Station, 5 Years 

Rey Orellana, University Village, 3 Years 

John Brinich, Home Office, 2 Years 

Nigel Long, The View, 2 Years 

Mike Sheets, River Annex, 1 Year 

Robert Rumfield, Georgetown, 1 Year 

Bob Rioch, River Annex, 1 Year 

Sarah Szymeczek, The Heights, 1 Year 

Shawn Radi, Village West, 1 Year 

  

August 

Jordyn Swoope, The Valley, 3 Years 

Chris Beardman, Home Office, 2 Years 

Jeremy Gray, Worthington Commons, 2 Years 

Andy Bowers, Homestead Village – Blacklick, 2 Years 

Yash Khanna, The Valley, 1 Year 

Heather Osborne, Homestead Village – Miamisburg, 1 Year 

Trishauna Champagnie, University Village, 1 Year 

Jay Heck, Village West, 1 Year 

Aramis Vasquez, Worthington Commons, 1 Year 

Sandy Millwater, Homestead Village – Miamisburg 1 Year 

Scott Van Winkle, Homestead Village – Beavercreek, 1 Year 

  

September 

Leisha Maynard, 7 Years, Clintonville Commons 

Terry Kellenberger, 6 Years, University Village 

Wilbur Taylor, 4 Years, University Village 

Sarah Schaffner, 3 Years, Georgetown Apartments 

Chris Hagaman, 2 Years, River Annex 

Cassie Skinner, 1 Year, Buckstone Flats

Sara Ralston, 1 Year, 2818 & Parkway College Station 

Alex Watters, 1 Year, University Village 


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
Read More

Q2 2023 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

The Homestead America teams gathered together for an afternoon of fun at the annual Summer Party! This year, employees participated in a game of Name That Tune for an afternoon full of laughs and prizes.

 

Homestead America Summer Party!

Homestead America recently gathered for their annual HA Summer Party! Held at Wolfe Park in Columbus, Ohio, the event was a blast and included good food, drinks, and yard games for everyone to enjoy.  

This year, employees participated in a game of Name That Tune for an afternoon full of laughs and prizes. Congratulations to all of our champions! We look forward to next year's event and would like to thank all of our employees for all of their hard work and dedication! 


In The News: Dave Made Columbus Business First Power 100 List!

We are thrilled to share that Dave Anderson, CEO and Founder of Homestead Companies, has been listed on the Columbus Business First Power 100 for the second consecutive year as one of the most influential leaders in Central Ohio!⁠ 
⁠ 
This accomplishment is a testament to his exceptional leadership and commitment to excellence. Congratulations to Dave and all the other leaders on the Power 100 making an impact in Central Ohio! 


In The News: 4th Busiest Central Ohio Developer

Homestead Development has been named the 4th Busiest Central Ohio Commercial Real Estate Developer by Columbus Business First. We are honored to receive this recognition and are grateful for the hard work and dedication from our team. 
 
With $268 million of development in the pipeline for 2023, we’re excited to be contributing to the growth of our community, and we look forward to providing the best resident life experience possible! 


2023 Ben Franklin Awards

Since 2006, a dedicated team of judges have traveled to our Homestead America properties to assess and recognize excellence in categories such as curb appeal, team effort, and rookie of the year. The annual Ben Franklin event serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to the maintenance and upkeep of our communities.

Our on-site teams work tirelessly to make improvements to their properties every year. We are so proud of everyone's hard work and commitment to providing the best resident life experience possible. ⁠Congratulations to all of the properties for their awards!

Best Curb Appeal – Georgetown Apartments⁠

Best Team Effort – Harlow on Main⁠

Rookie of the Year – Homestead Village / Beavercreek⁠, Ohio


Quarter 2 Champ Chain & Medal of Excellence!

Please join us in congratulating our Q2 Champ Chain winner, Grace Benningfield at The Heights in College Station, TX, and our Medal of Excellence winner, Lisa Mosley at Worthington Commons in Columbus, OH!  

See what their teammates had to say about them:  

"Grace has always been a great coworker and friend, if any help is needed anywhere, she is there to help. Nothing could have proved that more than when she had to step up and take over as community manager. So proud of her! If you know her, you know she deserves this!"
- Nominated by Cinthia Santos 

"Lisa is a good team leader and cares a lot about her community. She will keep your spirit high when it's low. That's why I think she deserves this nomination." - Nominated by Aramis Vasquez 

"Lisa goes above and beyond to help out everybody. She's a very good team player and she's not afraid to ask questions or to learn something new." - Nominated by Jeremy Gray 

"Since Lisa has been with Homestead, she has been a great student, teacher and leader.  I knew when I transferred over to Schrock Park, that Worthington Commons would be in good hands.  She is very compassionate when it comes to her work, the residents and the community overall.  She stepped up when change was happening at Worthington and when I was out for 10 weeks due to my surgery.  She made sure that Worthington ran smoothly and kept the renovations moving in a timely manner.  She communicates well with the Reno crew and Maintenance crew and they know her expectations to provide our residents with a home that they can be happy in.  That is why I think Lisa Mosley deserves the Chain of Excellence Award!" - Nominated by Jeannette Groves 

"Lisa stepped up when we were down a Community Manager and learned how to do invoicing, handled the renovations at WC, and kept leasing both Schrock Park and Worthington Commons. She made sure that the residents were taken care of and responded to in a timely manner."
- Nominated by Jennifer Radcliffe
 

We are so proud to have both of you on the team. Your dedication and hard work towards creating and providing the best resident life experience possible is truly appreciated! Congratulations!  


River Park, River’s Edge, The Valley, and The View Join the 100% Club!

Throughout Quarter 2, we welcomed our teams at River Park, River’s Edge, The Valley, and The View to the 100% Club for the 2023-2024 leasing season! Our River properties can be found at Ohio University in Athens, Ohio and The Valley and View are located at Penn State University in State College, Pennsylvania. A huge thank you to all of our teams for working hard to get 100% pre-leased. We are so proud of you – congratulations on this big accomplishment!


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

Homestead Construction has some exciting updates to share! We've made significant progress across various projects throughout the second quarter, and we're thrilled to announce the latest news from John Brinich, President of Construction.

The clubhouse at Hayden Park in Huber Heights, Ohio is now fully complete, and the first residents are expected to move in shortly. Over in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Camden Park, is now open for tours! The clubhouse has been fully completed and ready for everyone to enjoy.

Our team has been working hard at Lusso in Italian Village, and great progress is being made. The concrete is all set, and the construction team is now framing two out of three buildings on-site. We're scheduled to open our doors for residents on January 1st! We're also pleased to announce the progress at Stella in Italian Village. Buildings B and C are coming together with completed exteriors, and we're excited to start scheduling the first move-ins for late October. In the meantime, the interior of buildings B and C are being completed, while Building A is now under a roof, and the mechanicals are continuing to progress.

At The University of Kentucky, the Signature clubhouse is taking shape with completed framing and mechanical work underway. The clubhouse is projected to be ready in early November, and we're excited to welcome our first residents in May of 2024! Lastly, things are moving along smoothly at Homestead Village in Fort Wayne. Exterior finishes have started our interior units are currently having cabinets installed.

Stay tuned for more updates!


Employee Spotlight: Marykate Kramer

1. Name: Marykate Kramer

2. Job Title: Financial Analyst

3. Community: Home Office

4. How long have you been with Homestead? Just over 1 year 

5. What were you doing before Homestead? Property Management  

6. Where are you originally from? Hilliard, Ohio 

7. What are your favorite hobbies? Biking, Making Macarons, Paddle Boarding 

8. What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Don't be afraid to try new things that might not work out! 

9. If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? My great grandmother, Emma Stone, Anna Kendrick 

10. Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Chihuly the artist

11. What is your dream vacation? Winery tours in France  

12. What is one THING you can't live without? Espresso 

13. What is your proudest moment at Homestead? Helping close the student housing UK loan 

14. What is on your retirement bucket list? See the Northern Lights in Iceland 


Quarter 2 Promotions

Taylor Cooper – Promoted from Assistant Project Manager to Project Manager  

Robert Rumfield – Promoted from Leasing Consultant at Harlow to Assistant Community Manager at Georgetown 

Nigel Long – Promoted from Maintenance Tech at The View to Lead Maintenance Tech at The View and The Valley 

Josh Bucior – Promoted from Maintenance Supervisor at The View to Maintenance Supervisor at The View and The Valley 

Nikki Leonard – Helix, Promoted from Leasing Marketing Manager to Business Administrator 

Millie Rodgers – Harlow, Promoted from Community Manager to Senior Community Manager 

Heather Osborne –  Promoted from Community Manager at Homestead Village Miamisburg to Senior Community Manager over both Homestead Village Miamisburg and Homestead Village Beavercreek 

Congratulations on your well-deserved promotions! We are wishing you continued success and appreciate all of your hard work and dedication!


April

Bob Goddard, University Village, 9 Years 

Dustin Holskey, Home Office, 7 Years 

Samantha Burkholder, University Village, 7 Years 

Mikayla Lewis, The Valley, 5 Years 

Tammy Reed, Home Office, 4 Years 

Evan Mulcahy, Home Office, 3 Years 

Todd Westover, Home Office 2 Years 

Valerie Baugess, Home Office, 2 Years 

Audrey Higgins, Helix, 1 Year 

Luis Olivares, University Village, 1 Year 

Brent Chandler, University Village, 1 Year 

Dennis Mejia, University Village, 1 Year  

 

May

Rae McKenney, Olde Towne, 16 Years 

Tim Kalb, Home Office, 7 Years 

Dearold Sealey, River Park, 6 Years 

Eve Detter, Home Office, 4 Years  

Marcy Vazquez, Appian Way, 3 Years 

Mack Rosevear, 2818 College Station, 2 Years 

Kaitlyn Griffin, SkyGarden, 2 Years 

Marykate Kramer, Home Office, 1 Year 

Lisa Mosley, Worthington Commons, 1 Year 

Jesse Pennington, University Village, 1 Year 

 

June

John Baylous, Georgetown, 11 Years 

Guy Purington, Home Office, 10 Years 

Shannon Latsko, Home Office, 9 Years 

Isaac Greenwood, Helix, 7 Years 

Anne Smith, Home Office, 3 Years 

McKenzie McGonigal, The Valley, 3 Years 

Halle Jenkins, Home Office, 2 Years 

Cindy Toler, Helix, 1 Year 

Kris Mcintosh, Parkway, 1 Year 


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 

 
Read More

Q1 2023 HOMESTEAD HAPPENINGS!

Click to read more about what we have been up to so far in 2023!

 

Homestead America Starts the CEO Summit Tradition!

Kicked off by our CEO, Dave Anderson, The CEO Summit began with an inspirational speech that set the tone for the day ahead. From there, team members gave informative presentations on various topics, from effective communication strategies to the latest trends in community management.

But The CEO Summit wasn't just about learning new skills and strategies but also about building connections with other community managers. Throughout the day, you had ample opportunities to network with your peers, share best practices, and build relationships that could help you excel in your role long after the event had ended.

Whether you were a seasoned community manager or just starting out, The CEO Summit had something to offer you. By attending, you gained new insights, connected with other professionals, and left feeling inspired and energized to take your community management skills to the next level.

We look forward to next year!


In The News: ‘Age is a State of Mind’ at 55+ Communities

Older adults who want to blend an independent lifestyle with social activities and fewer maintenance responsibilities could find a 55+ community to be the right move. 

Such communities give older adults, whether they are working from home or retired, the opportunity to live with like-minded neighbors and be surrounded by amenities and activities that cater to their interests and needs.

Age is a state of mind, right?

In the past, many 55+ communities had been income-based, said Tanya Brand, Regional Manager at Homestead Village. Over the last several years, however, companies have begun to see a need for active, independent communities for this age group, especially for those looking for alternatives to assisted living facilities. 

“This kind of environment is brand new, in my opinion,” Brand said. 

Residents at Homestead Village like the all-inclusive price, which covers a variety of utilities, internet, and cable. The community also offers a salon, café, fitness center, game room, banquet room, and other amenities. 

“It’s just like an apartment complex, but it’s for 55 and over, independent, active living,” she said. 

At Homestead Village, residents aren’t responsible for maintenance, including landscaping, lawn care, and snow removal. 

Many residents who move in are downsizing, and as our population continues to age, there is a growing need for independent senior housing. Communities like Homestead Village Active Living 55 Plus provide an alternative to traditional retirement homes by offering a range of housing options designed specifically for seniors who want to maintain their independence while also having access to services and amenities that make daily life easier. By providing a sense of community, peace of mind, and opportunities for socialization and engagement, independent senior living communities like Homestead Village can help seniors live their best lives in their golden years.


Quarter 1 Champ Chain Winner: Joseph Jurcak

Please join us in congratulating Joseph Jurcak, Community Manager of SkyGaarden, for winning the Quarter 1 Champ Chain Award!⁠

Joe has been one of Homestead U's top performers since joining us when SkyGarden was added to our student portfolio. He has developed strong relationships with his team and residents and cares deeply about their well-being. His passion, drive, and dedication to excellence are admirable, and we are lucky to have him as a member of our team. ⁠

Joe, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, and we look forward to seeing all that you will accomplish in the future!⁠


Quarter 1 Medal of Excellence Winner: Heather Osborne

Please join us in congratulating Heather Osborne, Community Manager of Homestead Village Miamisburg, for winning the Quarter 1 Medal of Excellence Award!⁠

Heather has been described by her peers as helpful, knowledgeable, and kind, always offering creative solutions to the challenges we face. She has made a significant impact in her first year, and we are excited to see her grow with contribute to our organization.

Heather, congratulations on this well-deserved recognition, and we are so fortunate to have you on our team!


Big Wins for SkyGarden!

SkyGarden Joins 100% Club

In February, we welcomed our team at SkyGarden Apartments to the 100% Club for the 2023-2024 leasing season! ⁣⁠The SkyGarden team has worked so hard to hit 100% pre-leased occupancy and did it in record time, too! Congratulations to the SkyGarden team on this big accomplishment - we are so proud of your hard work and dedication!

SkyGarden Ranks 21st!

We are thrilled to share that SkyGarden has been ranked 21st out of the country's top 100 student housing properties by J Turner Research!⁠ This achievement is a testament to our team's hard work and dedication to providing an exceptional resident life experience. We are proud to continue our efforts in delivering the highest quality of service to our residents. Great job, SkyGarden!


Quarter 1 Promotions

Travis Hallman - Skygarden - Promoted from Maintenance Tech to Maintenance Supervisor

Cassie Skinner - Promoted from Assistant Community Manager at Georgetown to Community Manager at Tivoli

Todd Westover - Homestead Construction - Promoted from Project Engineer to Assistant Project Manager

Sara Ralston - 2818/Parkway - Promoted from Maintenance Tech to Business Assistant

Audrey Higgins - Helix - Promoted from Leasing Consultant to Senior Leasing Consultant

Congratulations on your new role!


Introducing Signature and Buckstone: Two New Apartment Communities with Brand New Logos

Exciting news for apartment hunters in the Kentucky and Ohio areas - two new apartment communities, Signature, and Buckstone, are currently in development and are set to welcome residents in the near future. Both communities have recently revealed their brand-new logos, signaling the start of their branding and marketing phase.

Signature is a student housing community located near the University of Kentucky. With 288 beds, it will provide ample housing for students in the area. The community is expected to be ready for move-ins for the Fall of 2024 school year, giving students plenty of time to secure their living arrangements before the school year starts. The community's logo features a stylized script font, evoking a warm yet modern feel.

Buckstone, on the other hand, is a multifamily community located in Obetz, OH. With 252 units, it offers spacious and comfortable living options for individuals and families alike. Buckstone's first residents are expected to move in during the Summer of 2023, making it a great option for those looking for housing in the near future. The community's logo includes an icon that will be carried throughout the branding.


The Blueprint: Insights on Construction

Homestead Construction has many projects underway, and they have made significant progress over the last quarter! Below, you can find the latest status updates for each project from John Gornall, Vice President of Operations for Homestead Construction.

Hayden Park Apartments - Huber Heights, OH

The Clubhouse at Hayden Park was nearing completion, with landscaping work underway as the final touches were being added. The roofing for buildings 1-3 had been completed, and the finishes and rough mechanicals were proceeding as planned. Building four was undergoing roofing work, and framing for Building five had already begun. For Building 6, the team was working on underground plumbing. Overall, the project was progressing well and on schedule.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livehaydenpark.

Camden Park Apartments - Fort Wayne, IN

The clubhouse at Camden Park was almost complete, with landscaping work in progress as final touches were added. Roofing for 5 out of 6 buildings had been successfully completed, and each building was sequenced in the correct stages of completion. Framing for the 6th and final building had begun. The exterior finishes were progressing quickly and turning out great.

Follow us on Instagram for the latest updates - @livecamdenpark.

Lusso - Italian Village, Columbus, OH

The construction of the parking garage is almost halfway finished, and once it's done, the framing work will begin. The primary entrance route is expected to open soon. Additionally, we are now getting the site ready to start building the second and third structures.

Stella - Italian Village, Columbus, OH

The parking garage has been finished, and the first-floor framing work has started on building A. Building B is currently focusing on rough mechanicals, while the framing work for Building C is almost done, and the roofing work is in progress. As for the Club House, we are currently working on underground plumbing.

Signature Apartments - University of Kentucky - Lexington, Kentucky

We are in the early stages of construction at Signature Apartments! Earthwork is nearing completion, and utilities and building foundations are getting ready to start.

Homestead Village - Fort Wayne, IN

The framing and roofing stages have been finished, and our focus has shifted toward working on the internal mechanicals. Additionally, we plan to commence exterior finishes in the upcoming weeks.


2818 and Parkway Get a $5 Million Facelift!

2818 Apartments and Parkway in College Station, Texas, recently underwent a $5 million renovation. The renovation included a revamped pool, basketball court, volleyball court, and hangout area with a fire pit, making it the perfect place for residents to relax with friends. The units received updated flooring, as well as new countertops and backsplashes.

Shannon Latsko, Regional Manager helped oversee the project and noted, “The $5 million renovation at 2818 Apartments and Parkway has shifted the market and solidified its position as the value leader in College Station. With updated amenities and renovated units, residents can enjoy high-quality living at an affordable price point."

2818 Apartments

Parkway Apartments


We’re Hiring!

Dear Homesteader,  

As a valued team member, we believe you have a network of talented professionals who could make great additions to our organization. That's why we're excited to announce our employee referral program, which rewards you for referring top talent to our company. 

For every candidate you refer who is hired and successfully completes their 90-day probationary period, you will receive a referral bonus of $250. Not only will you be rewarded for helping us find great people, but you'll also be helping to grow our company and expand our network of talented professionals. 

To refer a candidate, direct them to our job postings on our website and ensure they include your name in their application. If the candidate is hired and completes their probationary period, we'll make sure to send your reward to you promptly. 

Please remember that we're looking for talented professionals who fit our company culture and values well. We're interested in individuals who are passionate about what they do, take the initiative, and are committed to continuous learning and growth. 

Thank you for your commitment to our company and for helping us build a talented and engaged team. We look forward to hearing from you and receiving your referrals. 


Employee Spotlight: Joseph Jurcak

1. Name: Joseph Jurcak 

2. Job Title: Community Manager

3. Community: SkyGarden 

4. How long have you been with Homestead? Going on 2 years 

5. What were you doing before Homestead? Student Housing 

6. Where are you originally from? Hudson, Ohio 

7. What are your favorite hobbies? Golf, Ski, Surf 

8. What would you most likely tell your 13-year-old self? Buy land, they don't make it like they used to. 

9. If you could have coffee with three people, dead or alive, who would it be? John Jacob Astor, Donald J. Trump, Neil deGrasse Tyson 

10. Who is the most famous person you have ever met? Dave Chappelle 

11. What is your dream vacation? Ski The Swiss Alps 

12. What is one THING you can't live without? Chicken Wings 

13. What is your proudest moment at Homestead? SkyGarden Ranked #21 in the nation by J. Turner Research for 2022 

14. What is on your retirement bucket list? See the Great Pyramids 


January

Tanya Brand, Home Office, 12 years 

Jason George Hollands, Home Office, 6 years 

Qiletha Caston, Home Office, 5 years  

Doug Falor, Home Office, 3 years 

Cole Kinker, River Park, 2 years 

Sharron Giles, Hoover – HSL, 2 years 

Todd Jessup, UV, 2 years 

 

February

Kaitlyn Key, College Station, 5 years 

Gregory Burchwell, Hoover – HSL, 15 years 

Christina Johnson, River Park, 5 years 

Madison Bowers, River Park, 1 year 

Tyler Burns, The Heights, 1 year 

Jack Kerley, SkyGarden, 1 year 

Nicholas Troisi, The Valley, 1 year 

Amy McPherson, The Heights, 1 year 

Braiden Blaser, The Heights, 1 year 

Grace Benningfield, The Heights, 1 year 

Bradley Watson, The Heights, 1 year 

Patrick Swope, Miamisburg – HSL, 1 year 

Christopher Palmer, UV, 1 year 

 

March

Niya Mickens, Helix, 2 years 

Floyd Castle, N 4th St, 4 years 

Jim Vest, Orchard Grove, 5 years 

Richard Arrington, Schrock Park, 5 years 

Sam Casarez, College Station, 7 years 

Jennifer Spaulding, Hoover – HSL, 3 years 

Alexis Croce, The View, 2 years 

Travis Robison, Clintonville Commons, 2 years 

Michael Koch, The Valley, 2 years 

Lorrie Bitner, Home Office, 2 years 

Dasean Rogers, College Station, 1 year 

Emily Jones, Home Office, 1 year 

TJ Manfrass, Home Office, 1 year 

Mindy Henson, Home Office, 1 year 

Savannah Matthews, UV, 1 year 

LeeAnn Sapp, UV, 1 year 

Patrick Boland, College Station, 4 years 

Paul Zirkle, Orchard Grove, 3 years 

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2022: A Year of Growth

We have hit the ground running in 2023, and wanted to reflect on the growth, opportunity, and gratitude for Homestead Companies in 2022. This past year we broke new company records and explored new areas of our industry, and we are excited for what 2023 will bring.

 

We have hit the ground running in 2023, and wanted to reflect on the growth, opportunity, and gratitude for Homestead Companies in 2022. This past year we broke new company records and explored new areas of our industry, and we are excited for what 2023 will bring.

Read More