Chicago-based Draper and Kramer, Incorporated was recognized by Multi-Housing News with four 2024 Excellence Awards across three categories.
AJ Markowski was the gold honoree in the Leasing Professional category while Martha Gaitan-Manning received a silver award in the Property Manager of the Year category. Additionally, two properties from Draper and Kramer’s Chicago portfolio, 1350-1360 North Lake Shore Drive and Hubbard221, received silver and bronze honors, respectively, for Best Operations.
In the Leasing Professional category, Markowski’s gold honor recognized his role at 1350-1360 North Lake Shore Drive, a 740-unit vintage high-rise in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood where he is not only a leasing agent, but also a resident of the property. In his award entry Markowski noted how living in the building allows him to establish a unique rapport with residents and establish credibility with prospects. Markowski also supports applicants to the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA) Housing Choice Voucher program, offering guidance and assistance as part of the building’s participation in the initiative.
Gaitan-Manning’s Property Manager of the Year silver honor is the result of her accomplishments as property manager at North 680, a 180-unit rental property in Schaumburg, Ill. During her tenure at the property, she managed budgets, maintenance, capital improvements, resident relations and community events. She also oversaw marketing and leasing, helping maintain 94% occupancy and exceed retention goals. Most recently, Gaitan-Manning was promoted to manager of Burham Point, a 298-unit luxury high rise in downtown Chicago, following her success at North 680.
1350-1360 North Lake Shore Drive’s silver recognition in the Best Operations category reflects its strong retention rate as well as strong resident satisfaction metrics including a 2023 Resident Satisfaction award by SatisFacts, the multifamily industry’s premier authority on resident satisfaction and retention.
Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, Hubbard221 received a Best Operations bronze award based on its site team’s strong customer service and communication, prompt response to maintenance requests and high resident satisfaction levels according to SatisFacts, which awarded the property a 2023 Resident Satisfaction award. The 193-unit boutique luxury rental community also features a wide range of amenities to complement the lifestyle offered by its urban setting.
