Author: Emily Bell

Mariana Estrada Shares Insights on Technology, Teams, and Resident Experience

As technology continues to reshape the multifamily industry, finding the right balance between efficiency and the resident experience has never been more important.

In two recent features with Multifamily Executive, Mariana Estrada, RPM Living's Chief Strategy Officer, shared her perspective on the evolving role of on-site teams and how operators can leverage technology more strategically.

From reducing technology overload to helping teams focus on the work that creates the greatest impact, Mariana's insights highlight the importance of using data and tools to support smarter decision-making, stronger performance, and a better experience for residents.

Her contributions reflect RPM Living's commitment to innovation while keeping people at the center of the business.

Jason Shepard Promoted to Senior Vice President of Risk

RPM Living is proud to announce the promotion of Jason Shepard to Senior Vice President of Risk.

Jason's leadership, expertise, and strategic approach to risk management have played an important role in supporting RPM Living's communities, associates, and clients across the portfolio. His work continues to help the organization balance operational needs while protecting people, property, and profits.

As Jason shared:

"Our mission is two-fold: we support RPM's business objectives while safeguarding people, property, and profits. That means we must always be working to balance risk concerns with operational needs."

Jason was also recently featured in Multi-Housing News, where he discussed taking a smarter, more strategic approach to risk, technology, and long-term property performance.

The Best Daily Routine for You and Your Dog in an Apartment

Apartment life with a dog = routine is everything.

When your dog knows what to expect, they’re calmer. (And your shoes are safer.)

Start the morning with movement
Even a quick 10–15 minute walk helps burn that “what should I destroy today?” energy.

Build in a midday reset
A short walk, a toy rotation, or a frozen treat = mental stimulation > chaos.

Make evening walks slower, not longer
Let them sniff. Explore. Take their time.
It’s basically enrichment disguised as a walk.

Create a wind-down cue
Dim the lights. Sit in the same spot. Turn on a lamp.
Dogs love a signal that says: we’re done for the day.

A good routine doesn’t just make apartment living easier – it makes it better for both of you.

P.S. A walkable, pet-friendly community helps too. Just saying. Browse RPM Living communities across the US.

Cybersecurity Is Now a Business Priority

Cybersecurity is no longer just an IT responsibility – it's a critical business priority.

In a recent feature with Multifamily Executive, Roman Paylian, RPM Living's Director of IT Support Services, discusses how cybersecurity has evolved from a reactive function into a continuous, risk-based discipline that requires both anticipation and rapid response.

As technology continues to shape the multifamily industry, organizations must stay ahead of emerging threats while protecting data, operations, and the resident experience. Roman shares insights into the importance of proactive cybersecurity strategies and why businesses can no longer afford to view cybersecurity as an afterthought.

A Living Room Layout Trick Designers Use All the Time

When a living room feels comfortable and put together, it’s rarely an accident.

Interior designers follow a few simple layout principles that make spaces feel balanced and welcoming.

The good news – most of them are easy to apply in an apartment.

Create a conversation zone

The goal of a living room is simple: make it easy for people to sit and talk.

Arrange seating so chairs and sofas face each other or angle slightly inward.

When furniture points toward each other instead of only toward the TV, the room feels more connected.

Anchor the space with a rug

A rug helps define the living area and keeps furniture visually connected.

Ideally, the front legs of the couch and chairs should sit on the rug to create a unified space.

Use side tables strategically

Side tables make a room feel more practical.

Every seat should have somewhere nearby to set a drink, book, or phone.

It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.

Leave room to move

One of the easiest ways to improve a layout is making sure there’s a clear path through the room.

Furniture should guide movement, not block it.

When the layout flows naturally, the whole room feels calmer.

A thoughtful living room layout turns an apartment into a place people actually want to spend time.

And if you're looking for a community with living spaces designed for comfort and connection, browse RPM Living communities across the US.

415 Colorado Wins 2026 CoStar Impact Award

415 Colorado has been named a 2026 CoStar Impact Award winner for Commercial Development of the Year – recognizing excellence in design, execution, and market impact.

Developed by Stonelake Capital Partners, the mixed-use property integrates residential living with premier office space in the heart of Austin. The project reflects a thoughtful approach to urban development – bringing together functionality, design, and long-term value.

RPM Living Ranked #4 on NMHC Top 50

RPM Living has been ranked #4 on the National Multifamily Housing Council’s annual Top 50 Managers List – recognizing the nation’s largest apartment managers by portfolio size.

The ranking reflects the scale and strength of RPM Living’s platform, supported by 5,000+ associates, 150,000+ residents, and 260+ client partners across the country.

As the company continues to grow, the focus remains on what drives long-term success – people, partnerships, and meaningful experiences at every level of the business.

See the full list of NMHC rankings here.

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The Weeknight Dinner That Looks Fancy but Takes 15 Minutes

Some meals look impressive even though they’re secretly very easy to make.

This is one of those dinners.

If you ever want something that feels a little elevated but still fits into a busy weeknight, this quick salmon and veggie meal delivers.

What you’ll need

– Salmon fillets

– Olive oil

– Lemon

– Garlic

– Asparagus or green beans

– Salt and pepper

Step 1 – Preheat the oven

Set the oven to 400 degrees.

Line a sheet pan with foil or parchment for easy cleanup.

Step 2 – Prep the salmon

Place the salmon fillets on the pan.

Drizzle with olive oil, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top, and add minced garlic, salt, and pepper.

Step 3 – Add the vegetables

Place asparagus or green beans next to the salmon and toss them lightly with olive oil and seasoning.

Step 4 – Roast everything together

Bake for about 12 to 15 minutes until the salmon is cooked through.

That’s it.

Dinner is done, the kitchen smells great, and you only used one pan.

Apartment cooking works best when meals are simple, fast, and actually enjoyable to make.

And if you're looking for a community with kitchens designed for everyday living, browse RPM Living communities across the US.

The Lazy-Girl Apartment Brunch Board

Brunch is one of those meals that somehow feels both casual and impressive at the same time.

The secret – you don’t need to cook much at all.

A simple brunch board is one of the easiest ways to host friends, share food, and make it look like you put in a lot of effort.

Here’s the formula.

Start with a base

Pick a large plate, cutting board, or serving tray.

This becomes the home for everything else.

Add something sweet

Brunch needs a sweet option.

Good choices include:

– Croissants

– Muffins

– Pancake bites

– Sliced fruit

Anything easy to grab works perfectly.

Add something savory

Balance the board with something a little more filling.

Try:

– Scrambled eggs

– Breakfast sandwiches cut in halves

– Mini quiches

– Cheese and crackers

Include something fresh

Fruit brightens the whole board.

Berries, grapes, oranges, or melon all work well and add color.

Finish with spreads

Small bowls of jam, honey, cream cheese, or butter give people options.

Once everything is on the board, it instantly looks impressive.

Brunch doesn’t need to be complicated – sometimes it just needs a good setup and good company.

And if you're looking for a community that’s perfect for hosting friends and weekend brunches, browse RPM Living communities across the US.

Cerwin Thompson on Rebuilding the Multifamily Maintenance Workforce

Cerwin Thompson, Vice President of Facilities at RPM Living, joined The Lease-Up podcast from Multi-Housing News to discuss one of the industry’s most pressing challenges – rebuilding the multifamily maintenance workforce.

In the conversation, Thompson shares insights on compensation, retention, and career path development, emphasizing the importance of investing in teams through training and promotion from within. The discussion highlights a shift toward a more intentional, long-term approach to workforce development.

Listen to the full episode here.

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