Kareena Carter is the Community Manager at Preserve at Westfields in Chantilly, Virginia! We had the pleasure of interviewing Kareena about her unique journey into property management and her experiences at Preserve at Westfields. From her spontaneous start in the industry to the daily challenges and rewards of her role, Kareena shares insights into what makes her job so fulfilling and the community so special. Join us as we delve into her story and learn more about the skills, experiences, and personal touches that define her career.

A Twist of Fate 

Sometimes, life takes unexpected turns that lead to incredible opportunities. Over a decade ago, I left Germany and moved to Charlotte, NC, with plans to explore the U.S. for six months. Little did I know, this journey would shape my career in property management. One day, while visiting my apartment’s leasing office to fax a document overseas, I was unexpectedly offered a job—complete with a housing discount. It was a spontaneous decision, but I thought, “Why not?” That decision ended up shaping the career I have today. 

Foundations of Preserve at Westfields 

I was the very first hire at Preserve at Westfields. I walked Phase I when it was nothing but concrete slabs, freezing air rushing through the unfinished spaces, and no electricity in sight. I watched this community come to life, met our first residents—some of whom still live here today—and took pride in being part of its foundation. This journey has been more than a job; it’s been a personal and professional evolution. 

A Day in the Life 

At Preserve at Westfields, no two days are ever the same. Some days, I rack up 30,000 steps running around the property; other days, I’m glued to my desk, solving challenges as they come. There’s always something new, whether it’s an unexpected hurdle or an exciting opportunity. Property management is never dull—that’s for sure! 

Building Bonds 

Building a strong sense of community starts with being present, approachable, and genuinely invested in the people who live here. I make it a priority to connect with residents beyond just assisting with maintenance requests or lease renewals—whether it’s through casual conversations, community events, or simply being a familiar and reliable presence. I also work closely with my team to create opportunities for residents to engage with one another, from hosting social gatherings to organizing initiatives that enhance their living experience. At the end of the day, a thriving community isn’t just about the buildings—it’s about the people who call it home, and I take pride in fostering that connection. 

Memorable Moments 

Managing people is, without a doubt, the most challenging part of leadership. But through humility, resilience, and determination, I’ve guided our team through difficult times and helped restore morale—always with the support of executive leadership. You can’t build excellence without harmony, and I take pride in fostering that balance. 

Triumphs and Trials 

Overcoming challenges—whether with my team or our residents—is hands down the most rewarding part of my job. The lessons I’ve learned in this role have been invaluable, and the fact that I’m still learning every day makes it even more fulfilling. 

Keys to Success 

To thrive in this role, you need to be humble, accountable, self-aware, coachable, and diligent. Attention to detail, strong communication, and an unshakable work ethic are also non-negotiables. If you’re not willing to master these skills at a high level, success will be an uphill battle. 

Words of Wisdom 

Come in ready to WORK. If you want to do this job right, don’t expect to coast. It’s a fast-paced, high-responsibility career, but if you give it your all, it can be incredibly rewarding. Work hard, play hard—that’s the motto. Start at the leasing level and work your way up. There’s no better way to understand the industry than by getting hands-on experience. Seek out mentorship from those who are exceptional at their jobs, learn from them, but also carve out your own approach. Growth in this field comes from a balance of guidance and personal development. 

Life Beyond Work 

In my free time, I love spending time with family and friends, traveling, reading, working on business ventures, playing with my two pups, binging great TV shows, watching IMAX movies, and exploring new experiences. Life is all about balance, and I try to make the most of my downtime. 

Final Reflections 

My time at Preserve at Westfields has been truly transformative. It has opened doors to incredible opportunities and introduced me to some amazing people. We have an incredible team and a fantastic group of residents. You hear horror stories about property management, and while we’ve had our fair share of wild moments (which I’ll save for another time), I’m grateful that here, they’ve been few and far between—and always manageable. 

Northwood Ravin recently joined forces with TreesCharlotte for an incredible day of environmental action, helping to preserve and expand Charlotte’s beloved urban forest! TreesCharlotte, a nonprofit dedicated to growing, diversifying, and protecting the city’s canopy, hosted a tree adoption event where more than 600 free trees were distributed to local residents. Volunteers not only helped make the event a success but also had the opportunity to take home trees of their own as a token of appreciation.

Among the diverse tree species planted were the pawpaw, bald cypress, tulip poplar, swamp white oak, sassafras, persimmon, and the stunning dawn redwood, each contributing to a healthier, more resilient environment.

But the urgency of TreesCharlotte’s mission has never been clearer. In 2022, Charlotte’s tree canopy covered 47.3% of the city’s land, but projections show a decline to 40% by 2050 if action isn’t taken. A study conducted by PlanIT Geo for the City of Charlotte and TreesCharlotte revealed a shocking loss—1,000 acres of tree canopy vanished in just four years, an area equivalent to the entire UNC Charlotte campus.

This event wasn’t just about planting trees—it was about protecting Charlotte’s future. With every tree planted, volunteers and residents played a role in fighting deforestation, improving air quality, and keeping the Queen City green for generations to come!

About TreesCharlotte

TreesCharlotte is a nonprofit partnership between the public and private sectors, dedicated to expanding, diversifying, and maintaining the city’s renowned urban forest. Through expert-led programs and trained volunteers, residents learn about the importance of trees and receive guidance on planting and care. The organization’s goal is to achieve 50% canopy coverage, foster a community-wide commitment to tree stewardship, and secure long-term funding to sustain its mission for future generations.

About Northwood Ravin

Northwood Ravin, a joint venture between Northwood Investors and Ravin Partners LLC, is a privately held luxury apartment development, construction and property management firm serving the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern United States. The Northwood Ravin team has developed, managed and constructed over 46 luxury apartment communities with a gross capitalization of over $3 billion. Northwood Ravin is based in Charlotte, North Carolina with additional offices in Raleigh, North Carolina and Tampa, Florida.  For further information on Northwood Ravin, please visit www.nwrliving.com.

When opportunity knocks, it’s important to answer — and that’s exactly what Gracen Clark did. Now serving as the Assistant Community Manager at Lodges at Fort Mill, Gracen’s inspiring journey with Northwood Ravin began with a simple social media post and has blossomed into a fulfilling career. 

How It All Started 

Gracen first learned about Northwood Ravin’s hiring event through a social media story shared by the team at her then-residence, another Northwood Ravin property. Intrigued by the post and in search of a new opportunity after recently moving to the area, Gracen decided to attend the event. 

“With previous experience in the industry, I saw the hiring event as the perfect chance to explore career possibilities with a company that aligned with my values and goals,” she shared. 

First Impressions That Last 

Walking into the hiring event, Gracen was immediately struck by the warm and welcoming environment. “The atmosphere was so inviting. From the moment I walked in, I felt like I was part of something special.” 

What stood out most to her was the authenticity and passion displayed by the Northwood Ravin team. “It was clear that the company fosters a positive and supportive work environment, which really resonated with me. I could tell right away that this was a place where I could thrive.” 

Saying “Yes” to Northwood Ravin 

For Gracen, joining Northwood Ravin was an easy decision. “The culture of the company really spoke to me. Northwood Ravin values professional development and employee well-being, which gave me confidence that this was the right place to grow my career.” 

She also found herself energized by the sense of community within the company. “The team’s energy and support were contagious. I knew I wanted to be part of something so dynamic and inspiring.” 

What Makes Northwood Ravin Stand Out 

Gracen’s onboarding experience reaffirmed her decision to join the team. “What surprised me most was how engaged and supportive the corporate office is with the onsite teams. From training sessions to one-on-one guidance from leadership, I felt connected and equipped from day one.” 

The company’s emphasis on collaboration, hands-on support, and accessibility to resources has been instrumental in helping Gracen excel in her role. 

A Rewarding Experience 

“No two days are ever the same in a lease-up,” Gracen explains when describing her favorite part of the job. “From working with prospective residents to finding ways to enhance the community, it’s incredibly rewarding to see everything evolve and grow.” 

Gracen also values the strong leadership and support system she’s found within Northwood Ravin. “I know I can always count on my manager and team for guidance, which makes all the difference.” 

Advice for Future Attendees 

For those considering attending a Northwood Ravin hiring event, Gracen offers this advice: “Go for it! It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the company, meet inspiring people, and get a true sense of the culture. You never know what doors might open for you.” 

Join the Northwood Ravin Family 

Gracen’s journey is a testament to the incredible opportunities and culture at Northwood Ravin. Whether you’re just starting your career or looking for a new chapter, attending a hiring event could be the first step toward something truly special. 

Ready to take the next step? Follow Northwood Ravin on social media or visit their careers page to learn about upcoming hiring events and opportunities. 

For Myasia Johnson, a simple sign sparked the beginning of a career change she never anticipated but now deeply cherishes. As a resident of Providence Row, she had passed by countless events in her building’s shared spaces. But on one particular day, a hiring event for Museum Tower caught her eye. Little did she know, it was the start of a remarkable journey. 

A Leap of Faith 

Myasia’s professional background was rooted in retail, a fast-paced environment where customer service and adaptability were key. While she had honed these skills over the years, she was ready for a change—a new challenge that would push her in a different direction. “I saw the sign for the hiring event and decided to come down,” she recalls. “I wanted to try something new.” 

Attending the hiring event at Museum Tower was a decision made on a whim, but Myasia was met with an experience that exceeded her expectations. “It was so welcoming and prepared,” she says. “You got one-on-one time with the team, and they really worked to find a place for you, even if you weren’t sure what you wanted to do.” The sense of community and genuine care she felt from the team left a lasting impression, making this hiring event a pivotal moment in her career journey. 

From Retail to Concierge at Museum Tower 

Soon after the event, Myasia joined Museum Tower as a concierge, stepping into a role that would allow her to leverage her customer service expertise while exploring new aspects of hospitality and community engagement. Transitioning from retail to concierge work wasn’t without its challenges, but the comprehensive training program at Museum Tower helped ease the shift. 

“The training has been great,” she shares. “There’s so much to learn, but the team has been incredibly supportive. It’s clear that they have your best interest at heart.” Myasia’s career transition from retail to concierge highlights the value of transferable skills in creating new opportunities. 

Building Relationships and Community 

For Myasia, the highlight of her new role has been the people. “The best part is building relationships,” she says with a smile. Whether it’s assisting residents, collaborating with colleagues, or creating memorable experiences, the human connections have been the most rewarding aspect of her journey. Working at Museum Tower has allowed her to form meaningful bonds while fostering a sense of community within the building. 

Career Tips and Advice for Job Seekers 

Reflecting on her experience, Myasia has simple yet impactful advice for others considering a similar leap. “Come as you are and come early,” she says. Authenticity and initiative, she believes, are key to making a great first impression and seizing opportunities. Her tips resonate with anyone looking to stand out at a hiring event or make a successful career transition. 

Looking Ahead: Growth and Opportunities 

Myasia’s journey from retail to concierge at Museum Tower is a testament to the power of stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing new opportunities. With her enthusiasm, dedication, and knack for building relationships, she’s found a role where she can thrive and make a difference. 

As she continues to grow in her position, Myasia is excited about the possibilities ahead. For those who might be considering a similar career shift, her story serves as a reminder that sometimes, all it takes is noticing the right sign at the right time and taking that leap of faith. 

Meet Justin Day, a concierge at Uptown 550, who discovered his passion for connecting with people in the most unexpected way. 

The Backstory 

Justin’s journey began as an Amazon delivery driver. One of his regular stops was The Village at Commonwealth (VCW), where he frequently delivered packages. Over time, he struck up a friendship with the concierge there, particularly Davante Gill. Their conversations sparked Justin’s curiosity about the concierge profession. 

Wanting to shift gears and start his career, Justin began asking Davante about the role. The more he learned, the more it appealed to him. When he spotted a hiring event for Northwood Ravin (NWR) on LinkedIn, he didn’t hesitate. He signed up immediately, ready to explore a new opportunity. 

Why He Said Yes 

For Justin, the decision to join NWR was a no-brainer. The company culture resonated with him, and the job was a perfect fit for his knack for talking to and helping people. 

“I love connecting with others,” Justin shared. “This role allows me to do just that every day.” 

Advice for Job Seekers 

Reflecting on his experience, Justin has some tips for anyone considering attending a hiring event: 

• Be Prepared: Do your research and know what the role entails. 

• Dress to Impress: First impressions matter, so look polished and professional. 

• Perfect Your Resume: A well-crafted resume can set you apart. 

Life at NWR 

Since joining NWR, Justin has embraced every aspect of his new role. “It’s been really fun, and I’ve learned so much,” he said. He especially values the camaraderie with his team, who work hard but always manage to have fun. 

Favorite Part of the Job 

For Justin, the highlight of his role is building relationships. Whether it’s with residents, coworkers, or visitors, he thrives on meaningful interactions. “The team is amazing, and the company culture is everything I hoped it would be,” he said. 

A Bright Future 

Justin’s story is a testament to the power of taking a chance and exploring new opportunities. From delivering packages to delivering exceptional service as a concierge, he’s found his niche and is thriving. 

Thinking about attending the NWR hiring event? Take Justin’s advice and go for it—you never know where it might lead. 

Event Details:

RSVP: Eventbrite Link

When: Tuesday, January 14th, 2025

Time: 8:00AM- 8:00PM

Where: Carraway Village, 350 Carraway Crossing, Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Ready to kickstart your new year with a new career? Northwood Ravin (NWR), a premier owner-operated property management, development, and construction company in the Southeast, is thrilled to announce a hiring event in the Durham and Chapel Hill area. Our onsite team members are instrumental in bringing our resident experience to life- and we want you to be a part of it!

Event Details:

• When: Tuesday, January 14th, 2025
• Where: Carraway Village, 350 Carraway Crossing, Chapel Hill, NC 27516
• Times: 8:00AM- 8:00PM
• RSVP: Eventbrite Link

Our hiring team will be onsite to meet with prospective candidates for the following positions:

• Maintenance Technicians
• Maintenance Managers
• Property Managers
• Leasing Associates
• Baristas
• Bartenders
• Concierge
• Bar Managers

At NWR, we own and manage 26 multifamily properties across the Southeastern United States, including single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments. We are dedicated to shaping the future of residential living by continuously innovating and pushing boundaries, making NWR one of the top-ranked property management companies.

This in-person event is your chance to meet our team, learn about our company culture, and explore available job positions. Prospective employees should bring a current copy of their resume and be ready to chat with NWR’s human resources team. Don’t miss out on this chance to make a great first impression and potentially land your dream job with us!

Don’t forget to RSVP for this event at the link provided above. Northwood Ravin looks forward to meeting all the amazing individuals interested in joining our “nest” and helping your career take flight!

In a recent Axios Charlotte article highlighting Charlotte’s most anticipated developments of 2025, Northwood Ravin stands out with two exciting projects: Metropolitan and Providence Square. These developments promise to redefine luxury living and urban convenience in the Queen City. 

Metropolitan 

Located in Midtown Charlotte, a bustling area known for its vibrant shopping, dining, and brewery scene, Northwood Ravin is transforming the skyline with the Metropolitan, a 27-story residential tower set for completion in late fall 2026. This premier development will feature: 

• 283 luxurious units, including two-story penthouses with private hot tubs. 

• Multiple outdoor pools to unwind and enjoy Charlotte’s sunny weather. 

• A private bar and an exclusive rooftop speakeasy, offering unparalleled entertainment options. 

The Metropolitan’s prime location and upscale amenities make it a standout choice for those seeking luxury and convenience in Midtown Charlotte. 

Providence Square 

In the prestigious SouthPark Charlotte area, Northwood Ravin is expanding its legacy with Providence Square, a transformative development that complements the existing Providence Row, a 660-unit multi-phase apartment community. Providence Square will introduce: 

• 220 townhomes and 1,529 multi-family units, catering to a variety of lifestyles. 

• Dedicated spaces for grocery stores, retail shops, and office spaces, creating a mixed-use community. 

The first phase of Providence Square is scheduled for completion in 2027, adding even more vibrancy to the SouthPark neighborhood and enhancing its reputation as a premier destination for living, shopping, and working. 

Why Northwood Ravin’s Developments Matter 

Northwood Ravin’s focus on innovative design and community integration ensures that Metropolitan and Providence Square will elevate Charlotte’s appeal as a dynamic and desirable city. These developments blend modern luxury with everyday convenience, attracting residents and businesses alike. 

Stay tuned for updates as these groundbreaking projects progress, solidifying Northwood Ravin’s position as a leader in urban development. 

At Northwood Ravin, giving back to the community is something that happens year-round. Our Charlotte corporate office and site teams are proud to have partnered with the Salvation Army Angel Tree program, bringing holiday joy to families in need!  

A History of the Angel Tree Program 

The Salvation Army Angel Tree program began in 1979 in Lynchburg, Virginia, thanks to the vision of local Salvation Army officers. They sought to make the holiday season brighter for families in need by providing gifts and essentials for children and seniors. By 1980, the program expanded to Nashville, Tennessee, and over the years, it has grown into a nationwide initiative, impacting millions of lives. 

Northwood Ravin’s Angel Tree Initiative  

The Northwood Ravin Charlotte corporate office launched their Angel Tree the week prior to Thanksgiving, offering all Charlotte employees the opportunity to bless either a child or grandparent. By participating in the Angel Tree program, Northwood Ravin employees are helping ensure that every family feels the warmth and magic of the season. 

Join Us in Making a Difference 

The holidays are a time for giving, and Northwood Ravin is honored to contribute to the incredible work of the Salvation Army Angel Tree program. We encourage others to join in this meaningful tradition and make the holidays special for those in need. 

Stay tuned for more updates on our community involvement and the impact of this year’s Angel Tree initiative. 

The thrilling search for the Sloan Spy came to an exciting close on November 11, 2024, after a competitive chase that saw over 200 participants racing to unlock clues and decode riddles. 

Evan Degraggenriedt, Lauren Carroll, and Engie Ramirez formed a team and traveled across Lower South End to visit local businesses in search of five keys. After learning about I Spy Sloan from a CLTBucketList post on Instagram, the trio signed up and set out to explore new spots and check out The Sloan at LoSo. 

“We made sure we didn’t eat because we knew a lot of them were restaurants,” said Degraggenriedt. “Then we went in an order that was closest and made a whole day out of it!”  

The I Spy Sloan campaign, designed to boost awareness of The Sloan at LoSo and show off the Lower South End neighborhood, offered participants the chance to discover new local gems. Reflecting on the experience, Ramirez shared, “all the places we went to were new, so it was fun to explore new places.”  

The Sloan at LoSo, a Northwood Ravin Signature Community, is making a splash in the Lower South End neighborhood. Since opening its doors in September, it’s become a trendsetter with its stunningly designed apartments and dynamic community campaigns! 

Inside The Sloan, kitchens offer ample storage with floor-to-ceiling cabinets and top-of-the-line appliances. In line with the community’s emphasis on green space, most apartments feature oversized balconies. Ramirez was particularly impressed by the Eurotub—an integrated bathtub and shower feature that extends the spa-like ambiance of The Sloan throughout the entire apartment. 

Get ready for an exciting adventure in the Lower South End neighborhood! The search for the illusive Sloan Spy starts on November 11, and participants can find them once they have collected five keys.  

Participants must visit five of the eight participating businesses around Lower South End, which can be found on the I Spy Sloan website. A purchase must be made from the business to earn a key or participants can tour The Sloan at LoSo to earn two keys. 

Once all keys are collected, participants must follow the Sloan Spy’s Instagram page for daily clues to uncover the spy’s hiding spots. Starting on November 11, clues will include cryptic messages and time windows for when the Sloan Spy will be at each location, spanning morning, mid-day, afternoon, and evening, seven days a week, until the Spy is caught.  

“Our goal was not only to showcase the community spirit and lifestyle of The Sloan but to highlight the exceptional local businesses that make this area such a unique and vibrant destination,” said graphic designer, Laurel Gabel.  

The scavenger hunt was launched with a kick-off event on October 29, 2024, at The Sloan at LoSo’s new Speak Easy, featuring an open bar, hors d’oeuvres, and the elusive Sloan Spy in attendance. 

The Sloan Speak Easy is split into a game room and bar. The game room boasts a poker table, shuffleboard and pool table. The other side has a full bar and banquette seating. The entire space is available for resident use throughout the day and rentable for private events.  

“We wanted to create a space that was moody and full of intrigue. Warm and inviting but with a touch of whimsy with the finishes and fixtures,” said interior designer, Carol Hall. “The game club side is the active part of the entire space but allows for the Speakeasy side to be more quiet and private.”   

Opened in September 2024, The Sloan at LoSo boasts 368 luxury units and plenty of green space. Unique amenities include a dog park, rooftop lounge, spa, and sauna. For a limited time, new applicants can receive up to ten weeks free after touring!