Sonya J. Carter, NAHPe, COS
Sonya J. Carter, is a seasoned property management executive with over 32 years of experience in multifamily housing. She has successfully overseen a diversified portfolio of communities, including Conventional, Student, Military, LIHTC, 202, and PRAC properties. Throughout her career, Sonya has led large-scale capital improvement projects, asset repositioning efforts, and complex rehabs while maintaining a focus on financial performance, regulatory compliance, and operational excellence. Her strategic approach to property management ensures that communities under her leadership are both well-run and responsive to resident needs. As Senior Regional Property Manager at SPM, LLC, Sonya is responsible for the operations of 15 communities across Alabama, Georgia, Washington DC, and New York. She is recognized for her ability to enhance team performance, strengthen client relationships, and drive results in portfolio management. Her expertise extends from development and management of multifamily housing portfolios to strategic planning for property performance and asset growth. With a strong track record in maximizing property values while maintaining exceptional service standards and resident satisfaction through responsive and proactive community management. Sonya is particularly skilled in team building and professional development, ensuring her staff is equipped to deliver high-quality resident experiences. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sonya is deeply committed to giving back to her community. She has volunteered with organizations such as Susan G. Komen, the Alzheimer’s Association, and The Red Barn, and has served in leadership roles with the Southeastern Affordable Housing Management Association (SAHMA). Her dedication to mentorship, community engagement, and ethical leadership has made her a respected voice in the property management industry, known for her integrity, expertise, and unwavering commitment to both residents and colleagues.
• Certified Specialist of Occupancy (COS)
• National Affordable Housing Professional – Executive (NAHPe)
• Licensed Property Manager
• South College – Associate of Arts and Sciences (A.A.S.), Business Administration, Management and Operations
• Communities of Quality, NAHMA, 2022
• Alabama State Conference Coordinator of the Year, SAHMA, 2019
• National Affordable Housing Management Association
• Southeastern Affordable Housing Management Association
• Race for the Cure, Susan G. Komen
• SAHMA Conference Coordinator, Alabama
• Director for Alabama, SAHMA
• Advisory Board Member, The Red Barn
• Alzheimer’s Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute much of my success to the guidance and mentorship of Angie Taylor, who taught me the importance of exceeding expectations and leading with intention. Over my 32-year career, I’ve had the privilege of seeing six of my team members promoted under my leadership—a testament to the power of mentorship and investing in others. My professional qualifications have also played a key role in my growth, including earning the Certified Occupancy Specialist in Affordable Housing certification from NAHMA, additional certifications through SAHMA, and maintaining my property management license in Washington, D.C. Completing core courses through University’s leadership and mentoring program further reinforced the value of continuous learning. Above all, I credit personal growth, self-motivation, and a commitment to excellence as the foundation of my professional journey. Staying curious, pushing myself to learn, and helping others succeed have been central to the career I am proud to lead today.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are service, education, and community engagement. Since 2018, I have served as the State Director of Education for SAHMA (Southeastern Affordable Housing Management Association) in Alabama, helping to guide and empower others in the affordable housing sector. I am also proud to serve on the advisory board for the Red Barn, an organization providing horse therapy for children with disabilities, which aligns with my passion for supporting vulnerable populations. Beyond my professional commitments, I actively participate in initiatives that promote health and awareness, including breast cancer and Alzheimer’s walks. These experiences reinforce my belief in giving back to the community and staying connected to causes that improve lives. For me, whether at work or in personal endeavors, integrity, mentorship, and service are guiding principles. I strive to lead by example, foster growth in those around me, and contribute positively to every community I am part of.