The PACE Awards
2026 Timeline & Evaluation Process
The PACE Awards are designed to recognize operational excellence through a structured, consistent, and professional evaluation process. Below is what participating properties can expect in 2026.
2026 Timeline
March – April 15, 2026
PACE Regular Entry Period: Submit your property’s entry at the regular rate during this window.
April 16 – April 30, 2026
Extended Entry Period: Final opportunity to enter PACE 2026 at the extended deadline rate. No entries will be accepted after April 30.
June 9 – Late September 2026
PACE Evaluation Period: Evaluations begin June 9 and are conducted onsite through a surprise visit from a pair of trained PACE judges.
November 20, 2026
PMA Annual Awards Ceremony Winners will be announced at the PACE & EPIC Awards Luncheon at the North Bethesda Hotel & Conference Center.
The Evaluation Process
PACE evaluations are designed to reflect the authentic prospective resident experience while assessing operational excellence across multiple performance areas.
Surprise Visit Format
- Evaluations are conducted by two trained judges.
- Judges arrive unannounced during the evaluation window.
- Visits occur Tuesday through Friday.
- Evaluations take place between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Visits will not occur during the first seven days of the month or on Federal holidays.
This format ensures fairness and consistency across all participating properties.
What Judges Evaluate
Judges assess each community using an established scoring rubric focused on:
- Exterior Curb Appeal
- Interior First Impression (Reception Area, Leasing Center, Front Desk/Lobby)
- Management and Property Operations
- Building Interior and Common Area Appearance
- Resident Services and Common Area Amenities
- Available Unit Tour
- Maintenance Practices
Each property is evaluated against defined performance standards to ensure objective scoring.
Scoring Standards
PACE honors only truly exceptional properties.
- Only one award is presented in each category.
- If minimum scoring standards are not achieved, no award will be presented in that category.
This preserves the integrity and prestige of the PACE Awards.
Preparing Your Team
Because visits are unannounced, participating properties are encouraged to:
- Maintain consistent readiness throughout the evaluation window
- Ensure leasing and maintenance teams understand PACE standards
- Review the PACE Prep Kit and Sample Score Sheet
For many communities, preparing for PACE becomes a catalyst for stronger daily operations and team accountability.
Submit Your 2026 PACE Entry in the Awards Portal