When a new prospect drives our properties for the first time, curb appeal is incredibly important. Curb appeal can make or break a close. For the last 10 years, partner and grounds associate Lori Case has been instrumental in helping us make a great first impression on new residents.
Lori joined The Connor Group in April of 2012. Over the last decade, she’s worked at nine properties and earned partner in 2020. Regional head and partner Sal Gracia believes Lori’s customer service is one of the best in the nation – and her resident satisfaction surveys prove it.
Partner and senior director Katie Powell says Lori is her go-to person, especially when situations arise at a new acquisition. In June of 2021, when we purchased Dovetree in Dayton, we found a family of beavers also lived there, and they were damaging our trees.
“We can’t just have beavers chewing down our trees,” Katie said. “So first, we realized it was a problem, and we needed a solution. Lori took it upon herself to research what we do, who we call and found a vendor to relocate the beavers at a much lower price than initially quoted.
“Lori acts like an owner. No matter what condition a property is in when we buy it, Lori takes it to an 8.5. Even before she earned partner, she owned the market.”
Lori’s impact at Hunters Chase drives results. In the last four years, Hunters has closed on three capital events. We asked Lori to share her 10+ years of insight with Loop…
How would you describe your last 10 years at The Connor Group?
Seeing our company grow over the last 10 years has been amazing. It’s been exciting to be a part of it, working alongside the elite people who work here.
What was your first property?
Stonebridge Apartments in Beavercreek, a 336-unit property. There was always something to do there. It was next to a shopping area called The Greene Town Centre.
How long have you been at Hunters Chase?
I’ve been there almost five years. I’ll hit that mark in September. It’s a similar construction to Steeplechase. At Hunters, I’m used to what needs attention, and I’ve built processes of what needs to get done and when. I drive the property daily. It helps to have a pattern or schedule for physical facility. You may not get everything done in one day, but you can chip away at it.
I also help at other Dayton properties too. Right now, I’m lending a hand at Austin Springs with valet trash and physical facilities. I’m also helping at Dovetree this week to pressure wash the pool.
Share a tip on getting to know residents.
Be friendly and say hello or acknowledge them with a wave. I do this when I’m cleaning the hallways and grounds. We want to present a friendly community that residents feel comfortable calling their home.
When planning your week, what’s your priority for grounds?
Curb appeal is number one because future residents drive your property first.
What’s your biggest Connor Group accomplishment?
Becoming a partner has been my biggest accomplishment. It feels pretty special to be recognized by my peers. The competitiveness keeps me humble and constantly keeps me striving to be better.
What’s your favorite part of our culture?
I’d say it’s our Core Values, whether you’re living them at work or in your life.
Who’s your mentor?
Katie Powell is my mentor. She has helped me grow and develop through the years. I believe we met within my first year of being hired. She’s a boss, but a friend; she plays both roles for me. Katie got me involved in the training classes, and I see that as a positive thing. Katie is someone I can always talk to about a problem. She gives great direct feedback and helps me handle whatever it is. Katie taught me to be the eyes and ears of the property.
Any advice on how to make The Connor Group a long-term career?
My advice would be to live our Core Values. Always follow our systems while learning and growing. Push to be the best at what you do. Attention to detail each day on items around the property improves the overall facility. If you see something, say something.