Member Dori Rones Looks Back on Over 20 Years of Camaraderie

By Diane Sears

As a longtime member of the Florida Apartment Association, Dori Rones has built up a lifetime of experiences. She still remembers the first time she became involved.

“My first experience with FAA was almost 20 years ago at The Diplomat Hotel during the annual conference,” she said. “I was brand new to For Rent and the multifamily industry. While the venue was spectacular and seminars were enlightening, the ability to make connections and the camaraderie among the industry is what sparked my interest to engage and get involved.”

That was enough to keep her engaged for decades, and during that time she has built not only her knowledge through FAA’s education programs but also many relationships that have been invaluable to her. 

“I was new to the industry, and my FAA colleagues took me under their wing immediately and have provided guidance throughout my career,” she said. “I have been very fortunate to work for the same company, For Rent – now Apartments.com/CoStar — during my almost 20 years in multifamily and have been an active member during this time. FAA provides a platform to connect suppliers and owners/management companies and creates opportunities for us to elevate our brand and strengthen our partnerships.”

For Rones, the sense of camaraderie is one of the biggest advantages FAA offers her as a member.

“What other industry bands together in crisis whether or not it benefits their company’s bottom line?” she said. “Be it hurricanes or the recent COVID-19 situation, FAA is a community that works together to better the lives and position of all members.”

One memory that sticks out in her mind is the 2004 FAA conference, which was held at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando — at the same time as Hurricane Charley. It was an experience that would bond the attendees for life. She had this to say about it:

 “Hurricane about to hit us in Orlando, Florida. For Rent’s EPIC party. If you attended, you understand!”