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About the Property Management Association Apartment Community Excellence Awards

Anticipated to attract 200+ properties in 2026, the Property Management Association Apartment Community Excellence Awards offer a prestigious platform for showcasing management distinction and achieving industry recognition. Visit www.pma-dc.org/the-pace-awards for complete program information including categories and eligibility, the 2026 PACE timeline and evaluation process, and entry fees and policies.

Before You Begin Your PACE Entry

While the PACE evaluation itself is comprehensive, we have intentionally designed the entry process to be straightforward and efficient. Most properties are able to complete the submission in one sitting with the information outlined below. To complete your entry efficiently, please have the following information and materials available:

Property Information:

Property Name, Address and Office Hours
Management Company and Property Manager information
Property type* (Lease-Up, Market Rate, Senior, Affordable)
Year built

* Please review PACE’s official property type definitions before making your selection. Properties are categorized based on the information provided in the entry form. PMA reserves the right to reclassify entries to ensure fair and comparable competition.

Unit Mix & Rental Rates: To calculate your property’s average rental rate, you will be asked to provide:

The number of units by floor plan type (e.g., studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, etc.)
The current market rate for each unit type

Required Uploads: Four (4) high-resolution photos of the property (Exterior and common areas are strongly encouraged.)

Scheduling Information: PACE evaluations are conducted through an unannounced onsite visit. You will be asked to provide dates during the evaluation window (June 9 – late September 2026) when your property is not available for a PACE evaluation.

Brief Narrative Statement: You will be asked to provide a brief description of your property and explain why you believe it is PACE award-worthy. This narrative helps judges understand your community’s strengths, positioning, and operational excellence.

Payment Options

You may complete your entry using one of the following methods:

Pay Online (Credit Card): Submit payment immediately by credit card during the entry process.
Pay by Check: If you select Pay by Check, an invoice will be issued to the billing contact provided in your submission. The invoice is due within 30 days of receipt. Payment may be made by company chec, ACH, or credit card.

What Happens After You Complete Your Entry?

Your property will be included in the 2026 evaluation cycle beginning June 9.
Evaluations occur Tuesday through Friday, between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Visits will not take place during the first seven days of the month or on Federal holidays.
All evaluations are conducted by two trained PACE judges through an unannounced onsite visit.

Need Assistance?

If you have questions regarding eligibility, categorization, or submission requirements, PMA staff is available to assist prior to the evaluation window. Contact us here.