A True Homecoming: Lewis Apartment Communities Celebrates 95% Occupancy Milestone

Lewis Apartment Communities recently celebrated a significant milestone with Homecoming at Kiley Ranch achieving 95% occupancy, marking the successful lease-up of our fifth multifamily development in northern Nevada. This 306-unit luxury apartment and townhome community in Sparks represents a major achievement for the Lewis Group of Companies, which has been developing in northern Nevada for over 50 years. The project showcased remarkable team growth and collaboration, evolving from a small operation to a dedicated seven-member team that successfully navigated the challenges of leasing all 23 buildings while maintaining the company’s reputation for excellence in both development and property management.

The journey to this milestone reflects both the physical transformation of the property and the team’s evolution. “I arrived at Homecoming at Kiley Ranch when there were just 3 buildings open. Now all 23 are open!” notes Fred Henschel. While Community Director Colette Levine reflects on the team’s growth: “At first it was just myself in the office and AJ running maintenance. Then Aileen joined us, next came Fred, Nancy, Thomas, Jovani and finally Miriam. We are an incredibly strong team when all working together.”

The lease-up process brought both challenges and rewards, with team members embracing the intensity of the experience. “The lease-up has definitely been a journey—some days were tough with all the pressure and fast pace, but overall, I really enjoyed the challenge. Seeing the numbers climb and knowing we were making real progress was super motivating,” shares Assistant Community Director Aileen Carver. The pace could be relentless, as Levine recalls: “It has been exciting and tiring, thrilling and a challenge. Now we are over 95% I am relieved that we succeeded but sad that the crazy days of 7 move-ins in one day are over!”

For team members who joined the effort, the experience fostered both personal growth and collective pride. “The lease-up process had its challenges, but it was also a great learning experience. I appreciated how the team supported one another through the busy times,” explains Leasing Consultant Nancy Valdez. Even those who arrived later in the process felt the impact of the team’s dedication, with Leasing Consultant Jovani Flores noting: “Even though I came in toward the end of the lease-up, it was great to jump in and be part of the momentum. I could tell how much effort had already gone into getting us this far, and it was inspiring to see the team in action.”

AJ Manning, who began the journey as the sole maintenance team member, offers perspective on the intensity of the lease-up process: “Due to the nature of being so far behind in opening dates and finally getting the property open, it was exciting. However, there was a challenge in this as well, as quickly opening buildings to recover lost revenue was difficult with only Colette and me on the property. The days we had up to 8 move-ins in a day, and the long hours that went with it. We persevered and learned through the process. The team that we gained through this can’t be replaced. We have grown into a family, learning to help one another through our difficulties, never stopping to say, ‘that’s not my job.’ I’m grateful for the leasing staff who have hung in there and supported our growth together every step of the way. We share the good times and the bad times. With the lease up being all but over, the real work for maintenance begins. I know I have a crew up to the challenge, and I am very thankful for all their hard work to make us stand out above the rest.”

The most recent addition to the team, Maintenance Technician Miriam Arcos Morales, exemplifies the company’s appeal to dedicated professionals: “I have wanted to work for Lewis for some time now and am honored that I have been given the chance. I came in just a few weeks ago but am already loving the culture and enjoying keeping Homecoming at Kiley Ranch running smooth and looking great.”

The achievement of 95% occupancy represents more than just numbers—it embodies the culmination of months of hard work, team building, and dedication to residents. “Reaching 95% feels like a big accomplishment, and it’s nice to see all the hard work pay off. I feel proud of what we’ve achieved and grateful to have been part of it,” reflects Valdez, while Carver adds: “Now that we’re at 95%, I feel proud and a little relieved. It’s amazing to see how far we’ve come as a team, and I’m grateful to have been a part of it.” As the team looks ahead, Levine’s enthusiasm remains undimmed: “Bring on Phase II I say!”