AIC CAC case studies
AIC CAC · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The AIC Certified Apartment Counselor (CAC) credential is a professional designation for people working in residential property management - leasing consultants, assistant managers, property managers, and resident-relations staff who want a structured, credential-backed command of apartment operations. It signals that a holder can run day-to-day operations, lease and renew units legally, handle resident concerns professionally, read a property budget, and manage maintenance and risk in a way that protects both owners and residents. The AIC CAC case studies are 5 cases and about 2,869 words.
1The 4% Budget Gap Mid-Year
You manage a 180-unit community. In June, the owner's asset manager sends the YTD operating statement: revenue is 1.8% under budget (occupancy 93% vs.
551 words, about 3 min2The Reasonable Accommodation With a Paper Trail Problem
A resident with a documented disability submits a written request for a reserved parking space near her unit, supported by a letter from her physician stating she has limited mobility. The property has 12 reserved spaces assigned by waitlist; all are occupied, and the current waitlist is 7 deep.
631 words, about 3 min3The Applicant With a Criminal Record and a Co-Signer
An applicant applies for a 2-bedroom at 1,650/month. Credit score 610, income 4,900/month (about 3x rent), no eviction history, but a 2019 felony conviction for possession with intent to distribute, released 2021, and a 2023 misdemeanor for disorderly conduct.
581 words, about 3 min4The Deferred Roof and the Insurance Renewal
A 96-unit property built in 1998 has a 22-year-old shingle roof. Two units reported ceiling stains after heavy rain; a roofer inspected and found granule loss, several lifted shingles, and a recommendation to replace the roof within 12–18 months at an estimated 145,000.
553 words, about 3 min5The Star Leasing Agent and the Fair Housing Line
Your top leasing agent, who closes 40% of the community's leases, has a habit of steering prospects: she tells families with children that the ground-floor units near the playground are "better for kids," and she tells older prospects that the building "tends to be quieter, more their speed." She also routinely waives the application fee for prospects she likes and quotes a slightly lower rent to close deals, telling them she will "make it work." A new agent reports the pattern to you. Confronted, the star agent says she is just "being helpful and closing deals," and reminds you she is the reason occupancy is at 96%.
553 words, about 3 min