Meet the Team

CMCA, CAM

David W. Phifer

CEO

David Phifer is the founder and CEO of Apartment & Condominium Concepts Unlimited, Inc. Mr. Phifer is a licensed real estate broker in the State of Colorado and has also received the designation of Certified Apartment Property Supervisor from the National Apartment Management Accreditation Board. Additionally, Mr. Phifer is the past President of the Apartment Association of Metro-Denver, and also the past President of the National Apartment Association.

Prior to founding ACCU, Inc., Mr. Phifer had fifteen years experience in Property Management of multifamily property management. He began his career in Property Management as a Residential Manager in 1964 to supplement his income while attending the University of Minnesota. In 1970, Mr. Phifer was hired by Godwin Bevers Development Corporation in Colorado Springs. Here Mr. Phifer was in charge of the firm’s multi-family housing division. In 1974, Van Shaack and Company employed Mr. Phifer to work in the companies property management division.

In June of 1979, Mr. Phifer founded Apartment & Condominium Concepts Unlimited, Inc., realizing that Denver’s need of a multifamily housing management company utilizing the expertise of Denver’s most prominent property managers and support staff. Apartment & Condominium Concepts Unlimited has assimilated one of the finest groups of property management professionals available in the Denver Metropolitan area.

Mr. Phifer’s goal remains to craft one of Denver’s premier property management organizations and build upon his years of experience and expertise. Through an open-door policy, Mr. Phifer is always accessible to his staff and homeowner association clients.

CMCA, CAM

James Phifer

President
Licensed Colorado Community Association Manager

James Phifer, the President of ACCU, Inc., has used his experience and expertise to lead one of the top HOA property management companies in Denver, Colorado. With a deep commitment to the community management industry, James has been instrumental in driving ACCU's success and its dedication to providing exceptional services to community associations throughout Colorado.

James Phifer's journey in community management began at an early age, inspired by his father, David Phifer, the founder of ACCU, Inc. He joined the company with a vision to carry forward his father's legacy and the same dedication to the industry.

Under James's leadership, ACCU, Inc. has thrived as a local, family-owned business that stands out in an industry marked by corporate consolidation. He has combined the traditional values of personalized community management with the power of modern technology to bring transparency and efficiency to ACCU's operations.

James is deeply committed to the success of ACCU's clients. He believes that community management is not just about contracts; it's about fostering a sense of community and enhancing the quality of life for residents. This commitment is reflected in ACCU's personalized approach to serving homeowner associations.

Beyond his role at ACCU, James is actively involved in industry advocacy efforts. He understands the challenges that community associations face, from regulatory changes to rising costs, and works diligently to support legislative measures that benefit ACCU's clients and the community management industry.

James Phifer envisions a future where ACCU, Inc. continues to lead the way in innovative and effective community management. His goal is to ensure that ACCU's clients receive the highest level of service while navigating the ever-evolving landscape of community association management.

Outside of his professional commitments, James enjoys spending time with his family, racing cars, and inspires to be a home Chef. He is a dedicated advocate for community engagement and strives to make a positive impact on the communities ACCU serves.

Karli Phifer

Executive Director of Operations and Finance

Karli's expertise in company management has been instrumental in enhancing the functions of ACCU, Inc. She brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her role, having earned a degree in Business Management with a focus on Accounting and in Marketing.

Karli’s passion for networking, education, continuous improvement, and her leadership have been instrumental in the growth of ACCU, Inc. Under her guidance, the company has thrived, and she is committed to ensuring that it continues to provide exceptional service to its clients.

In addition to her work with ACCU, Inc., Karli is an active member of the community. She served as the 2023 President of the Community Associations Institute Rocky Mountain Chapter, an organization dedicated to serving, supporting, and educating community association board members, managers, and business partners, and is currently the Board Treasurer. Her commitment to this organization reflects her dedication to improving the lives of those around her.

Samantha Avila

Executive Director of Administration

Samantha Avila is a highly experienced professional with a proven track record in executive level administration services. With a passion for delivering results, she has a strong commitment to excellence. Samantha has worked hard to build the administrative services team for the organization and she has been responsible for developing and implementing a range of policies and procedures to ensure the smooth running of the company.

Under her leadership, ACCU, Inc. has seen marked improvement in productivity, customer service and organizational effectiveness. Her strategic vision and ability to optimize processes and resources have led to improved results in all areas. With her keen eye for detail and ability to build strong working relationships, Samantha is a driving force behind making positive change in the workplace. She is committed to providing a positive environment and pursuing ambitious projects while focusing on keeping her team motivated and energized.

Samantha is an invaluable asset to ACCU, Inc. She has built a successful working relationship with her team, and together they have achieved great results in customer service and the betterment of HOAs. She is passionate about making a difference and is continuously striving to make ACCU, Inc. an even better place to work.

Amanda Phifer

Business Manager

Amanda is a highly accomplished Business Manager with over 20 years of industry experience. She embarked on her career journey at ACCU, Inc. in 2004 as an Assistant Manager, and since then has availed herself of various opportunities to expand her skillset and expertise in different aspects of Property Management. Notably, she spent a decade serving as an Executive Assistant for Commercial Property Management, honing her proficiency in that sphere before deciding to return to ACCU, Inc. to oversee the organization's day-to-day office and business operations.

As the key orchestrator of a diverse array of services and resources that facilitate the smooth functioning of the organization, Amanda's brilliance and determination are evident in her strategic planning, innovative problem-solving, and results-oriented processes.

Collaboration is key for Amanda, and she takes great pride in cultivating a work community that values mutual respect and effective communication.

Brittney Tyler

Manager of Community Associations

Brittney is a seasoned professional serving as a Community Association Manager at ACCU, Inc., a prominent firm based in the vibrant city of Denver. With a keen focus on new construction management and developer transition, Brittney brings a wealth of expertise to her role, ensuring smooth operations and successful project completions.

Within ACCU, Inc., Brittney collaborates closely with a diverse team of industry specialists, leveraging their collective knowledge and skills. This collaborative approach includes working alongside certified public accountants to maintain financial transparency, sales leaders to maximize property value, and professional association managers to uphold community standards.

Before her tenure at ACCU, Inc., Brittney gained valuable experience in various sectors. She honed her leadership and operational skills through managing restaurants, where she developed a knack for organization and customer service excellence. Additionally, Brittney thrived in the dynamic field of real estate, excelling in new construction sales with Richmond American. Her background in these diverse industries has equipped her with a multifaceted skill set that she seamlessly applies to her current role.

Driven by a passion for fostering thriving communities and facilitating seamless transitions, Brittney approaches each project with dedication and attention to detail. Her commitment to excellence, coupled with her extensive experience, makes her a valuable asset to ACCU, Inc. and the clients she serves.

cheryl-ann

Manager of Community Associations

With over two decades of experience in the Community Management Industry, Cheryl-Ann has been instrumental in cultivating vibrant, interconnected communities across various settings. From single-family homes scattered throughout the metro area to high-rise condominium associations and historic districts nestled within Denver's Lo-Do district, Cheryl-Ann's influence has been felt far and wide.

Her hallmark is the ability to infuse a consistent and positive voice into every facet of community management, fostering robust relationships with community members, board officials, and staff alike. Cheryl-Ann is deeply passionate about her vocation, recognizing effective communication as fundamental to organizational success. Drawing from her extensive background working with diverse communities, she possesses a unique talent for crafting strategies that benefit all stakeholders involved. Her approach focuses on fostering efficiency and positivity, fostering collaboration and trust to cultivate a cohesive and productive community environment.

Looking ahead, Cheryl-Ann is eager to deepen her connections within communities, championing an ethos of inclusivity and continuity for all residents.

Connor Kelly

Manager of Community Associations

Connor is a Community Association Manager at ACCU, Inc Denver. He started his career in the management industry, gaining skills in areas such as sales, customer service, employee satisfaction, maintenance, auditing, etc. He has recently acquired his Real Estate License and hopes to translate his knowledge to Community Management. Connor seamlessly integrates a love for community, customer relations, and personal interests into his everyday approach.  

Connor is a Chicago native and went to School at the University of Colorado, Boulder. While at the University, he fell in love with Colorado and decided to move to Denver post-graduation.  

In his free time, you can find Connor immersed in the world of sports, both as a spectator and an active participant. From shooting hoops with friends to golfing and skiing on weekends. As well, he comes from a big family with two brothers and two sisters, family is very important to him. A few times a year, Connor likes to travel back home to Chicago or fly out to San Francisco to visit family.   

 

Janice Zarifi

Manager of Community Associations CMCA

Janice is a highly accomplished industry manager with two decades of experience in the field. Her professional journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence and a drive for continuous learning. She is recognized as a Certified Manager of Community Associations and holds a certification as an Association Management Specialist, underscoring her dedication to upholding the highest standards in her profession.

With 21 years immersed in the industry, Janice has amassed a wealth of expertise across various facets of association management. Her depth of knowledge and strategic insights make her a valuable asset in any professional setting. Janice's hands-on experience, combined with her certifications, positions her uniquely to navigate the complexities of community associations and association management with precision and expertise.

In her career, Janice has consistently demonstrated leadership, problem-solving skills, and a collaborative approach to achieving organizational goals. Her ability to adapt to changing landscapes and her proactive mindset has enabled her to deliver impactful results throughout her career. Janice's passion for her work and her commitment to professional development continue to drive her success and make her a respected figure in the industry.

A proud Colorado native, she cherishes family time with her three children and three grandchildren. When not working, Janice indulges in the diverse recreational offerings of our picturesque state during winter, and in summer, you'll find her camping, fishing, hiking, and gardening.

Josh Walton

Manager of Community Associations

Joshua Walton embarked on his professional journey within the dynamic realm of Real Estate, where he honed his expertise across diverse domains including wholesaling, residential, and commercial property management.

By day, he assumes the pivotal role of a Community Association Manager, diligently overseeing operations and fostering vibrant communities. Beyond his professional commitments, Josh finds solace and fulfillment in his passions for sports and culinary arts, seamlessly balancing his multifaceted pursuits with finesse.

Kami Sharp

Licensed Manager of Community Associations, CMCA

In 2015, Kami received an Associate Broker license from Armbrust Real Estate Institute. Kami immediately pursued the property management side of real estate. After just six months of being an assistant manager, Kami passed both the CMCA and CAM licensing and became a portfolio manager.

Kami believes in a team-based approach to the daily operation of the communities she manages. In addition, Kami works together with board members to develop priority lists and goals to carry out deferred maintenance issues. Kami also works with the board and the HOA’s legal team to create policies and procedures for the betterment of the community. Kami still currently holds her CMCA designation and Associate Broker’s License.

Kami recently became Division Manager for ACCU Rents. She oversees all operations for the rental units that ACCU manages. Kami is actively pursuing the growth of this division by creating marketing material for ACCU Rents.

When Kami is not at work, she enjoys spending time with her Son. Her son is very active in baseball, which keeps the entire house busy.

Melissa Stern

Licensed Manager of Community Associations, CMCA

In 1994, Melissa received an associate degree in applied science. Melissa grew up in the Property Management industry with her parents and began her career in Property Management in 1997 and has worked in Property Management for 26 years.

Melissa takes a proactive approach to the daily operation of the communities she manages. In addition, Melissa works together with the Board members to develop goals to carry out policies and procedures for the betterment of the community. Melissa holds her CMCA designation and continues her education in Community Association Management through CAI.

When Melissa is not working, she enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren. Melissa enjoys doing many crafts, camping, and traveling as often as she can. Melissa also has two Huskies and a chihuahua, which keep her just as busy as her children and grandchildren do.

Tim Atkins Jr.

Manager of Community Associations

Timothy Earl Atkins Jr, Tim for short, started his community-driven career in the Non-profit industry in Northern Virginia in 2016. During his time with Care Net National and the PHCC Educational Foundation, his experience grew in Digital Marketing Management, Communications and Event Operations.

His community focus led him to Denver in 2020 where the next adventure started with an out-of-state management company and their partnership with a 1,024-unit, single-family, 55+ community. This is where Tim gained his experience in Property Management, fell in love with Colorado and her people, and later continued in the field with homegrown company ACCU Inc.

Tim is known for being a leader in every situation, improving processes, and cultivating relationships with industry experts. He believes that a strong and thriving community starts with an intentionality towards progress.

In his personal time, he and his wife look for the best spots for food when he hasn’t sparked up the smoker in his yard for brisket.

Tina McFarlin

Regional Vice President

Tina is a Montrose, CO native. After graduating from Montrose High School in 1985, she moved to Denver to further her education. She earned several degrees including but not limited to, a MSW in Social Work, which she did for many years. In 2014, Tina decided it was time for a career change and found herself drawn to HOA Management after sitting on her own HOA Board of Directors for over 10 years. Now, after 36 years in the Denver area, Tina has moved back to Montrose. Over the past years of visiting and performing a market analysis, she saw a need for Community Association Managers here in Montrose.

Along with her extensive training and experience in the field, she has brought with her a great sense of what Client/Homeowner Services and HOA Management needs are in the industry. Through not only consulting with homeowners, other property managers and business owners, she exels at helping them find solutions through consistent communication, education, and focused events.

Outside of work, Tina enjoys spending time with her family, golfing, hiking, biking, sailing, skiing, snowshoeing and all the other great outdoor activities Colorado has to offer. She is a Montrose Rotary Member and also enjoys volunteering for her community and believes in giving back.

Yvonne Garcia

Manager of Community Associations

Yvonne, a Denver native, worked for ACCU, Inc. as on-site staff while obtaining her BS in Mathematics from CU Denver. She has had a professional career serving the Denver Metro Community in public health and other non-profits but opted to return to property management having never found an industry she enjoyed more. Yvonne enjoys working with a diverse population and the ever-changing challenges of property management and is delighted to be a member of the ACCU portfolio management team.

In her free time, Yvonne can be found volunteering in her own community, watching sports, and spending time with friends and an enormous extended family. Seriously, there are hundreds of them.

Robert Raak, CPA

Finance Controller

A graduate of the University of Colorado at Boulder, Robert is a Certified Public Accountant and has over 30 years of experience in financial services, including accounting, investments, and retirement plans.

He spent a dozen years at trust companies which administered retirement plans. His various positions included Training Instructor, Operations Manager, New Business Manager and Mutual Fund Manager. He held Series 7 (General Securities) and Series 66 (Registered Investment Advisor Representative) licenses. He helped design and managed a special IRA product marketed to investment club members and supervised account transfers to the Wall Street broker/dealer firms.

Robert’s next position was Vice President of Finance & Controller at an indirect auto lending originator serving credit unions. He managed the internal accounting systems, produced all monthly financials, supervised the funding of over $1 billion annually of auto loans, invested cash balances, and actively supported financial auditors and State of Colorado Banking Division and NCUA examiners.

Robert has two grown children and is an avid traveler.

Beth Lanser

GL Accountant

Beth has worked in accounting for many years and has applied her skills and knowledge to numerous communities throughout her career.  She began as a file clerk and has worked her way up through different accounting positions through the years.  Beth specializes in accounts payable, accounts receivable and producing operating reports for various communities.

Beth works closely with community treasurers to ensure efficient and timely financials for the properties. Beth’s experience is appreciated not only with staff and board members, she also excels in her relationships with the industry’s leading auditors to provide a stable and functioning department that is vital to ACCU’s core values. 

Beth is a Colorado native and when she is not crunching numbers she enjoys, gardening, quilting, and keeping her cats out of trouble. 

Carol Lovato

Accounts Receivable

Carol has been with ACCU, Inc. for 6 years. She joined our team with more than a decade of Accounting Experience. Her Accounting career began with a Freight company and after a few years, decided to make the move into the HOA World.

Her drive, passion to learn and bringing ideas to the table that will provide increased productivity for the company make her an excellent asset to our team. She is a fast learner and is always welcoming to industry changes. She is passionate about her professional development and learning new skills that will not only help her, but the organization succeed.

Carol is a Denver Native through and through! When not at work she enjoys spending time with her children and grandchildren, site seeing, traveling, and of course shopping!

Jenna Williamson

GL Accountant

Jenna is awesome!

Katherine Zamora

GL Accountant

Katherine's journey within ACCU, Inc showcases a remarkable trajectory of growth and adaptability. Starting as an Assistant Community Manager, Katherine demonstrated exceptional organizational skills and a keen eye for detail, swiftly earning recognition for her dedication. She then transitioned to the role of Accounting Administrator where she embraced new challenges with enthusiasm, mastering financial processes and streamlining operations with finesse. Her relentless pursuit of excellence led her to evolve further, assuming the position of GL Accountant. Here, Katherine's analytical prowess and strategic thinking come to the forefront as she navigates complex financial landscapes, ensuring accuracy and integrity in every transaction. Her journey is a testament to her commitment to personal and professional development, embodying ACCU, Inc.'s ethos of fostering talent and rewarding ambition.

Outside of her work at ACCU, Inc., Katherine finds balance and joy in kickboxing, providing both physical release and mental focus. When she's not training, Katherine indulges in her passion for reading, finding both escape and inspiration in the pages of her favorite books. But above all, Katherine treasures the moments spent with her family.

Lorinda Romero

Banking Services

Lorinda Romero boasts a 25-year tenure in the accounting field, with expertise spanning Accounts Receivable, Collections, Payroll, and some Accounts Payable. Currently, she specializes as a seasoned Banking Specialist, dedicating the past decade to ACCU, Inc.

A devoted team player, Lorinda thrives on assisting others and cherishes her work community. She has a passion for continuous learning, always aiming to better herself each day.

Outside of work, Lorinda treasures her family, which includes her husband, four daughters, six grandchildren, and three dogs. Family holds a paramount place in her heart. Additionally, she enjoys camping, hiking, and traveling.

Ruby Dungca

Accounting Admin

In her six years in the Customer Service Industry, Ruby has honed her expertise in phone, email, and chat support, as well as providing remote administrative aid to a wide range of clients. This diverse experience has not only sharpened her skills but also enriched her understanding of client needs and expectations.

Ruby is known for her dedication and reliability, consistently delivering dependable results that clients can count on. Her quick learning ability has enabled her to adapt swiftly to new challenges, driving her ongoing commitment to expanding her knowledge and skills.

Transitioning to a new role as an Accounting Admin, Ruby's passion for learning and self-improvement remains steadfast. Although the field may differ, she carries forward her strong work ethic, keen attention to detail, and aptitude for rapid learning. Ruby eagerly looks forward to seizing this opportunity for professional growth and contributing to her team's success.

Ry Brown

Accounts Payable

Ry is a seasoned Accounts Payable Specialist with an eye for detail and a passion for maintaining financial accuracy. With a background in Business Management and Finance, Ry plays a vital role in ensuring that all financial transactions are processed efficiently and accurately.

With Ry on board, our Accounts Payable department continues to thrive, contributing to the financial stability and success of our Associations. If you have any inquiries or require assistance with any financial matters, feel free to reach out to Ry. She is always ready to assist and ensure that our financial operations run smoothly. 

Outside of the office, Ry enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with  her family.

Daisy Zamora

Administrative Assistant Supervisor

Daisy Zamora is a seasoned Administrative Assistant at ACCU, Inc., where she serves as the Community Manager's Assistant Supervisor. With over 5 years of dedicated service to the company, Daisy has established herself as an indispensable asset within the realm of Homeowners Association (HOA) management.

Driven by a passion for helping others, Daisy finds immense satisfaction in ensuring that homeowners understand their HOA thoroughly and can navigate the company's software with ease. Her commitment to excellence is evident in her exceptional attention to detail, adept problem-solving skills, and clear communication.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Daisy's world revolves around her two cherished boys. Whether they're exploring the outdoors or enjoying quiet moments at home, family time is paramount. When she's not busy with her boys, Daisy finds solace in immersing herself in a captivating TV show, movie, or book.

With a wealth of experience in the administrative industry and a genuine dedication to serving her community, Daisy Zamora embodies professionalism, compassion, and unwavering commitment in all aspects of her life.

Ana Ramos

Assistant Manager of Associations

Ana Ramos, a seasoned professional with a robust background in customer service and product training within the mobile technology sector, now assumes the role of Quality Success Manager in a thriving Community Management company.

With a successful track record in enhancing customer satisfaction and product knowledge, Ana seamlessly transitions her skills to the dynamic realm of community management.

Known for her customer-centric approach, Ana leverages her experience in product training to drive quality assurance initiatives. Her diverse skill set positions her as a catalyst for ensuring success within the communities she serves.

As Ana Ramos transitions from shaping customer service and product training in mobile technology to steering quality success in community management, her dedication to excellence remains unwavering.

Ana Ramos

Ashley Shaw

Administrative Assistant

Ashley Shaw is a seasoned professional with a wealth of experience spanning over 15 years in the realm of customer service. Throughout her career, Ashley has honed her expertise across various facets of customer interaction, including sales, retention, de-escalation, and delivering world-class customer service.

Her journey in the customer service field has equipped her with a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in fostering positive client relationships. Ashley's dedication to excellence shines through in her ability to not only meet but exceed client expectations at every touchpoint. Ashley consistently demonstrates her commitment to delivering exceptional service.

Ashley has consistently been recognized for her outstanding performance and unwavering dedication to client satisfaction. Her strong communication skills, coupled with her innate ability to empathize and connect with clients, have been instrumental in building lasting relationships and driving positive outcomes which shows she is a great asset to ACCU, Inc. and our clients. 

In her personal time, Ashley is proud to be a 'boy mom,' raising energetic and adventurous young men who constantly keep her on her toes and busy during baseball season. Ashley and her family have a passion for classic cars from the 'golden era' of automotive design which includes restoring, collecting, and learning about these vintage vehicles. 

Diana Casillas

Front Desk Administrative Assistant

Diana was born and raised in Colorado, where she developed a strong work ethic and a passion for helping others.

In 2016, she graduated from the University of Northern Colorado with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Sociology. After working in the psychology field for some time, Diana realized that she needed a change and transitioned into the property management industry. She has since thrived in her role and found fulfillment in helping support residential communities.

She has always been known for her kindness, patience, and willingness to go above and beyond to help others. Her love for learning and personal growth has driven her to continuously seek out new opportunities for development. She is always eager to learn new skills and take on new challenges, which has allowed her to adapt and thrive in different work environments.

Outside of work, Diana enjoys spending time with her family and indulging in her favorite pastimes. Whether she's binge-watching a new series, taking a leisurely walk, or treating herself to a shopping spree, Diana makes the most of her free time and cherishes the moments spent with loved ones. 

Kaye Ann Verdugo

Administrative Specialist

Kaye has an 11-year background in Customer Service and experience in document approval which led her to her current role as an Administrative Specialist.

She helps with onboarding new associations, construction billing and admin billing. She's known for having great attention to detail, efficiency, and a desire to always be willing to help.

This is her first gig in the Association Management world, and so far, she is loving every single bit of it!

Lela Sharrow

Admin Assistant

Marta Yates

Admin Assistant/Data Entry

Marta began her real estate career in 1985 with Beta West, a part of the US West Division of Real Estate. She swiftly advanced to portfolio development and later transitioned to the property management division.

In 2000, Marta joined Coldwell Banker Commercial, where she contributed to both the commercial and HOA divisions. During her tenure, Coldwell Banker merged with Spectrum Commercial Real Estate Solutions.

Now at ACCU, Inc., Marta leverages her extensive experience and expertise in HOA management.

Pamela Ortegon

Assistant Manager of Associations

Pamela Ortegon is the Administrative Assistant at ACCU, Inc. She loves helping people by understanding their needs and providing the best solution for each of them. Pamela has spent most of her career in the administrative industry, gaining experiences in areas such as customer service, organization, problem solving, communication and all with exceptional attention to detail.

While managing many administrative requests is her primary job function by day, Pamela also enjoys being a helpful resource for her team in all the needs within the company.