Corporate Housing News

“A rising tide lifts all boats”. That phrase was used by John F Kennedy back in 1963. It has become an aphorism that an improved economy will benefit all. I think of this phrase when I consider the importance of being a CHPA member. The corporate housing world, or the month-to-month furnished rental segment, is a small sliver of the overall housing or lodging market. For our industry to succeed, we all must contribute to that success. If our industry is going to thrive, each of us must operate with excellence, uphold high standards, and contribute to strengthening the profession as a whole.

And that, in essence, is what being a CHPA member means to me.

Corporate housing, often described as the month-to-month furnished housing or mid-term rental sector, is a specialized, service-driven slice of the broader housing and lodging landscape. It’s a small industry, but it plays an outsized role for the people who rely on it: relocating professionals, displaced families, traveling healthcare workers, military members, and those navigating life transitions. The experience we deliver matters. The professionalism we demonstrate matters. The trust we earn matters.

This is why I believe membership in the Corporate Housing Providers Association (CHPA) is more than a credential; it’s a commitment. A commitment to professionalism, ethics, operational consistency, and to the high-quality furnished housing experiences that define our industry at its best.

Why Standards Matter Now More Than Ever

Over the last 4-5 years, we have seen many new operators in or around the corporate housing space. Since the onset of COVID-19, many operators have shifted their short-term rental business into a mid-term rental model, realizing that month-to-month furnished rentals make sound business sense. More inventory and more options for the customer will bring more success to the industry. With that said, I want to make sure everyone who is operating in this space or a similar space is doing it well and maintaining a high level of professionalism. For one of us to succeed, we all need to succeed.

More providers and more inventory can absolutely be a positive development. Increased supply means more options for guests, more opportunities for partnerships, and more visibility for our industry. But growth without standards is risky. Not all newcomers understand the operational rigor, compliance expectations, or service-driven culture required by corporate housing. And unfortunately, as we’ve seen, poor performance by even one highly visible brand can cast a shadow on all of us.

The recent collapse of Sonder is a prime example. Whenever a company in or adjacent to our space experiences significant public challenges, the ripple effects touch everyone. Clients become hesitant. Stakeholders question the model’s stability. The reputation of furnished housing as a whole can take a hit, even when the vast majority of operators are responsible, compliant, and service-focused.

• This is why standards, ethics, and professionalism matter.
• This is why CHPA matters.
• This is why membership is not passive; it’s an active commitment to strengthening the industry.

The Value of Community and Collaboration

One of the things I appreciate most about CHPA is that it brings together operators of all sizes, from start-ups to long-established providers. We may compete in the marketplace, but within CHPA, we collaborate. We learn from each other. We share challenges and solutions. We push one another to do better.

This industry is stronger when operators don’t exist in silos.
It’s stronger when we share insights on regulations, risk management, guest satisfaction, operations, and technology.
It’s stronger when we work together to anticipate market trends and prepare for what’s ahead.

CHPA provides the structure and community for this collaboration. Through conferences, work groups, task forces, educational programs, accreditation, and certification opportunities, the association provides every member, large or small, with the tools needed to excel.

Raising Expectations: Ethics, Professionalism & Guest Care

I’ve always believed that operators in our industry should hold themselves to exceptionally high standards. Corporate housing sits at the intersection of hospitality and housing. That means our responsibilities are different, and often greater, than those of standard landlords or short-term rental hosts.

We are responsible for making sure our guests feel safe and supported.
For ensuring units are well-prepared, well-maintained, and thoughtfully furnished.
For responding quickly and professionally when issues arise.
For aligning guest expectations with the realities of each property or market.
And for operating ethically in a world where shortcuts may be tempting but never worth the risk.

CHPA membership reinforces these expectations. It signals that an operator is committed to doing things the right way, even when it costs more, takes longer, or demands more expertise.

If we want this industry to grow, thrive, and gain the trust it deserves, we must collectively embrace these responsibilities. CHPA helps keep us accountable.

Why I Believe So Strongly in CHPA

I’m passionate about this industry, and I’m passionate about CHPA because I’ve experienced firsthand how much stronger it makes us. I’ve been involved with CHPA for years, volunteering, serving on task forces, attending events, and contributing wherever I can. I believe deeply in what this association stands for.

My company is not only a CHPA member but also a CHPA-accredited provider. Our entire executive team has earned the Certified Corporate Housing Professional (CCHP) designation because we believe knowledge, professionalism, and credibility matter.

CHPA has given me a platform to contribute to the future of our industry. It has given our company the guidance, recognition, and validation that help us stand out. And it has connected me with colleagues who share my values and my belief that we rise by lifting one another. I have also made many lifelong friendships!

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Commitment

The corporate housing industry is evolving. New operators will continue entering the space. Technology will reshape the way we manage units and serve guests. Regulations will keep changing. Client expectations will increase. And competition will intensify.

In this environment, the operators who succeed will be those who prioritize professionalism, transparency, and operational excellence. CHPA membership is one of the clearest ways to demonstrate that commitment.

I plan to remain active in CHPA for many years to come. I want to continue helping raise the bar, supporting fellow providers, and strengthening the foundation on which this industry is built.

If you’re a new operator, a growing provider, or simply someone looking to improve, CHPA is one of the best resources available. And if anyone ever has questions about CHPA or the corporate housing industry, I’m always happy to connect. Collaboration is how we grow and how we lift the tide for everyone.

Thank you for the opportunity to share why CHPA membership means so much to me, and why I believe it is essential to the continued success and credibility of our industry.

About the Author

Gabriel Wacker
Vice President of Sales & Marketing – Viciniti

Gabriel Wacker is a seasoned executive with more than 25 years of leadership in the corporate housing industry. He began his career with Transitions Group in Wichita, Kansas, in 1998, advancing through multiple roles before becoming Vice President of Sales & Marketing. Based in Kansas City for over two decades, Gabriel is a proud Jayhawks and Royals fan and enjoys life with his wife and two children.

A University of Kansas Alum, Gabriel holds industry credentials including Certified Relocation Professional (CRP) and Certified Corporate Housing Professional (CCHP). Recognized for his strategic, client-focused approach, he has strengthened brand visibility, improved operations, and guided Viciniti to win the prestigious Company of the Year – Tower of Excellence Award.

As an employee-owner, Gabriel is passionate about empowering teams, delivering exceptional customer experience, and promoting sustainable, high-quality housing solutions across the Midwest and beyond. In addition to CHPA, he is actively involved in AAKC, ERC, GBTA, and NAA.