Homeowner’s associations get a bad reputation. HOAs are known for rules about house color, where to place your basketball hoop, and when you should bring up your trash cans, but one York County HOA is quickly building a good rep. by helping a family in their neighborhood after a devasting house fire. Read the article………………………..
North Bay Village residents of condo deemed unsafe receive checks after donation from Channel 7 Foundation (FL)
Some residents in North Bay Village have received a helping hand weeks after they were ordered out of a condominium. North Bay Village Mayor Brent Latham on Wednesday delivered checks to those who were displaced when their building was deemed unsafe in April. Read the article………………………..
Social events may not be proper common expenses, depending on governing documents (FL)
Q: I live in a community governed by a HOA. In the past, we have always had a small portion of our budget set aside for social and community events (i.e. holiday parties, community room gatherings, etc.). Our most recent holiday party was canceled at the last minute. First the board indicated that they would not […]
Backyard Event Rentals: Problems Posed for Homeowner Associations
Homeowners may wish to engage in backyard event rentals to earn supplemental income. For example, some homeowners may rent out their pool and backyard space for parties. While this might seem like a clever opportunity for homeowners to make an extra buck, such backyard event rentals will likely cause tension between homeowners and their HOA […]
Tips For Starting A Community Garden
Industry-wide, green standards—like responsible use of renewable resources, a focus on indoor and outdoor air quality, and sustainable living practices—are now prioritized in homeowners’ associations (HOAs). By implementing environmental initiatives, HOAs have the opportunity to beautify their communities, save money, and even raise the value of homes. Read the article………………………..
Help Me Help My Neighbors – When the Best of Intentions End In the Worst Results
An issue that has come up quite often as of late is that of a board wanting to help its individual community members while still maintaining its fiduciary obligations to the association. Perhaps there is an owner who is struggling to afford assessments, perform upkeep on the property, or can’t afford a major repair to […]
Health and Wellness in HOA Communities: How to Promote Healthy Lifestyles
It’s no secret that many homeowners associations (HOAs) struggle to provide their communities with the opportunity for healthy lifestyles. The truth is, integrating a health plan into your association isn’t as difficult as it may seem. Read the article………………………..
How to Keep Owners Engaged in the HOA
Owners make up the heart of any HOA. They elect the board of directors. Their HOA fees fund community projects. They provide a volunteer workforce for the community. The owners in your HOA are extremely important. The following are some tips to keep them engaged and active in the community. Read the article………………………..
Community Collects Donations for Hundreds Displaced by Miami Gardens Condo Fire (FL)
The Miami Gardens community is coming together to help the hundreds of people who lost just about everything in a massive condo building fire last month. The non-partisan organization Faith In Florida partnered with churches, the Miami Dolphins, the Miami Gardens community and other leaders to collect items and donations for those who lived at […]
A life-size fake camel appeared in Tartesso. Now it’s gone, but its legacy lives on (AZ)
The camel, dubbed “Kami” in the roughly 280 comments that followed Ferreira Dublin’s post, was immediately knighted as the community’s new mascot by residents in the comments. Read the article………………………..
Community comes together to help families who lost everything in condo fire (FL)
Help is coming to the families that have been displaced after they lost everything in a huge condo building fire on Saturday. The assistance is coming to a Red Cross shelter in Miami Gardens from nonprofits, individuals and some pretty big companies. Read the article………………………..
Don’t Have An HOA Community Garden? Time To Start One Now
An HOA community garden is a great way to engage residents and add some life to the neighborhood at the same time. But, how exactly do you start one? Read the article………………………..
A condo board’s guide to fixing people problems
Attempting to fix a condo board’s problem does not usually result in calling the police. If a fight breaks out at a condo board meeting and the police are called to assist, most directors recognize that there is a problem. These types of problems usually escalate over time. Fortunately, most condo boards will never find […]
Moloka?i residents honored for environmental volunteerism (HI)
A group of Moloka?i residents has been recognized for its environmental volunteerism for the Adopt-A-Highway program in Maui Nui. The Kawela Plantation Homeowners’ Association is the newest recipient of the No Ka Oi Highway Hui Award, a program of the Department of Transportation Highways Division – Maui District. It recognizes Adopt-A-Highway groups for their exemplary […]
How to Create and Implement Sustainable HOA Practices
The World Happiness Report just released its annual list of the world’s happiest countries. Meanwhile, U.S. News ranks countries each year on quality of life. The World Happiness Report criteria defining happiness includes GDP, life expectancy, generosity, social support, freedom and level of corruption income. U.S. News’ rankings look at tangibles such as quality of […]
How to Increase HOA Homeowner Participation
An effective way to increase homeowner participation in homeowner associations (HOAs) is to encourage homeowners to get involved in events and to volunteer for the HOA Board of Directors or recognized committees. As obvious as this may sound, HOA boards and Committee members must find creative ways to increase community participation. In this article, we […]
HOA Homefront: How to find peace in your HOA (CA)
With the holiday season upon us, a traditional wish is for peace and goodwill. Let’s not only extend this wish to family and friends but pursue “peace on earth and goodwill toward all” toward one’s HOA neighbors, too. Read the article………………………..
Condo Column: The giving season (NH)
I love Christmas. I really do. Sadly, it seems to be the only time of year when people are allowed to be nice to one another for no reason. You wish someone a Merry Christmas and they actually pause, light up a little bit, say thank you, and give a return Merry Christmas. And each […]
Safe harbors: Community associations built to be places of open discussion and respect
As mounting gun violence across the U.S. continues to alarm the public, community association experts urge everyone to remember that homeowners associations, condominiums, and cooperatives—neighborhoods millions of Americans call home—are places of tolerance, open discussion, and respect. Read the article………………………..
Condo Column: The giving season
I love Christmas. I really do. Sadly, it seems to be the only time of year when people are allowed to be nice to one another for no reason. You wish someone a Merry Christmas and they actually pause, light up a little bit, say thank you, and give a return Merry Christmas. And each […]
Port Huron neighborhood to ring bells for Salvation Army (MI)
For the seventh consecutive year, residents of the Sherman Woods Homeowners Association in Port Huron will support the Port Huron Salvation Army in its annual Red Kettle fundraising campaign Read the article………………………..
‘Does our hearts good’: Residents of damaged Daytona Beach Shores condo share Thanksgiving (FL)
Even with Tropical Storm Nicole still fresh in their minds, and the damage from the storm still evident at their coastal property, Dimucci Twin Towers residents carried on with what has become a Thanksgiving tradition. Read the article………………………..
Lakewood Ranch neighborhoods add community response programs (FL)
Although a Community Emergency Response Team team has served the original Lakewood Ranch CDD neighborhoods for 15 years, neighborhoods in the Stewardship District have established their own CERT programs to provide better reach throughout the area. Read the article………………………..
Tips for Being a Good Neighbor in a Community Association
As a neighbor, it’s important to consider how you want others to treat you and how you can respect them in return, especially when living in a neighborhood governed by a community association, as there may be additional expectations placed on all residents. Read the article………………………..
Finding Purpose in Your Community Association
As an owner or resident in a community association, it is important to understand the purpose of community associations and the ways in which your community association can thrive. We often tend to focus on the negative aspects of community association living, such as: too many rules, too much oversight, the one (or two) bad […]
6 Tips for Planning HOA Events (AZ)
As the cooler temps are amongst us, what better time to get together for community activities? There is much to do during the fall months, no matter where you live. Let us talk about some fun events HOA Boards could offer in your community this fall and, most importantly, how to execute them effectively! Read […]
5 Wonderful Ways To Honor Veterans In HOA Communities
Veterans Day holds a significant meaning in the United States. During this day, Americans take part in activities that support and celebrate veterans and military personnel. Here are some of the best ways to honor veterans in HOA communities. Read the article………………………..
Venetian Golf and River Club says ‘THANKS!’ (FL)
Hurricane Readiness Team. The HRT is composed of over 60 resident volunteers who are organized to provide a total assessment of any damage on property, address special needs of residents and provide extra security to the community, according to a news release. Read the article………………………..
Here’s How to Boost Morale on Your HOA Board
Managing an HOA isn’t easy; the work and time requirements can be daunting, especially when the HOA board members feel their efforts aren’t appreciated. As a result, boosting morale on your HOA board can sometimes seem impossible. Still, these five tips will help you increase the happiness of your board members, so they’ll be more […]
Homeowner Participation Makes Better Associations
As an owner of your home, you are a member of an organization, and there is more to it than just paying your monthly assessments. It would be best if you familiarized yourself with your Governing Documents. If you are unsure what those are, they include your Association’s Declaration, Bylaws, and Rules & Regulations. Read […]
Using Artistic Works Legally During Community Events
As I write this blog post, I am listening to country music in Nashville, Tenn., while attending the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) annual conference. Listening to the beautiful melodies reminds me how powerful music can be. Read the article………………………..
Happiness and Harmony in the Perfect HOA: Homeowner Compliance
The end is in sight, folks! We’ve spent a lot of time discussing what it takes to create “the perfect HOA.” A strong foundation made up of governing documents, knowledgeable board members, engaged homeowners, and emergency planning is the basis of that achievement. So what’s the final piece of the puzzle? Read the article………………………..
Community spirit and generosity grow in Waterloo condo garden (ON)
When the residents in our condo building at 265 Westcourt Pl. in Waterloo saw a large blank palette of flower bed in April, they began to think “garden.” Eight families formed an informal Beechmount Garden Club and began, with the permission of the condo board, to clear, dig, sow and reap. Read the article………………………..
Tips to Take Your Association’s Playground From Drab to Fab
If you have noticed that your association’s playground needs a little TLC, it is not necessarily a bad thing. First of all, it probably means that it is getting a lot of use which is great for the community. Secondly, innovations are always coming, even with something as classic as a playground. Read the article………………………..
Ways to Keep HOA Residents Happy
Everyone wants to live in a happy community filled with friendly, kind neighbors. Board members and community managers work hard every day to make that dream a reality. But, such a lofty goal can seem near impossible when faced with the realities of CC&Rs violations, construction projects, and broken pool keys. When faced with a […]
6 Helpful Ideas to Increase Participation in Your HOA
Strong, healthy communities require participation and cooperation from HOA Board members, homeowners, volunteers, and HOA managers. But it seems that most people are busier than ever and being available for HOA meetings or events doesn’t always make it to the top of their to-do list! Read the article………………………..
The Preserve, which aimed to be a ‘New Town,’ turns 50 (MN)
They hailed it in 1970 as a “New Town” planned community, a $200 million development that would eventually put 15,000 additional residents in Eden Prairie amid a unique blend of housing, shopping, and natural areas. The Preserve neighborhood didn’t turn out exactly as planned. And yet, as the homeowners association that has paralleled it turns […]
4 Items for your Community Association Party Checklist
Block parties, cookouts, and outdoor social activities in condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome associations can bring residents together. These events can strengthen community bonds and provide a great opportunity for board members to meet and connect with fellow neighbors. Read the article…………………..
How Your HOA Board Can Help Improve Owner Retention in Your Community
Stability is part of the appeal of an HOA neighborhood. Builders and families looking to create a sense of timelessness in the consistent aesthetic, community parks, and manicured streets. Read the article……………………….
6 Dublin subdivisions receive grants to beautify the neighborhoods (OH)
The entrances of six Dublin neighborhoods are getting a facelift, thanks to the 2022 Beautify Your Neighborhood grants. Established in 2011, the matching grant program provides annual funding assistance to support Dublin homeowner and civic associations in enhancing neighborhoods with sustainable beautification projects that enhance and benefit the wider community, according to Aisling Babbitt, a […]
9 Fun, Easy, and Safe Ways To Build Community Spirit
Many of us have spent the past two years and change hunkering down at home—often to the point that we barely know what our neighbors look like anymore. But now that the pandemic appears to be receding in many areas and with the weather warming up, it’s a good moment to get a little more […]
Branded Community Merchandise Ideas for Your HOA
One of the best things about living in a planned community is the sense of togetherness that often comes along with it. While your HOA is probably already doing things to foster a sense of community, there’s something you may not have tried yet: branded merchandise. Read the entire article……………………………….
9 HOA Fourth Of July Celebration Ideas To Foster Community
Holidays only come every once in a while. So, when they do, homeowners associations should take the opportunity to plan social events designed to foster a sense of community among residents. Here are the best HOA Fourth of July celebration ideas to get you started. Read the entire article……………………………….
Why can’t co-ops (and condo’s/HOA’s) cooperate when disaster hits?
Today, there’s no expectation that neighbors will help each other rebuild after a catastrophic loss. But there are communal obligations and risks to cover through insurance for subdivisions, condominiums and cooperatives, as well as the risk of harm to others through liability coverage. Read the entire article……………………………….
Is it “safe” for community associations to allow food trucks on common areas? (NC)
Food trucks are very on trend right now, and many homeowner and condominium associations are considering inviting them to gatherings and community wide parties. Hopefully, boards think before they make a call and reach out to their attorney or manager to make sure that they are proceeding legally. Here are some thoughts to consider when […]
Fun Ways To Welcome New Residents To Your Community
When new residents move into a neighborhood, the association’s efforts to welcome them goes a long way in making them feel at home and part of the community. Read the entire article……………………………….
Treasure Lake hosts dedication ceremony for Veterans Memorial (PA)
Overlooking the lake, it features granite monuments dedicated to the six branches of the U.S. military, as well as granite benches, a decorative retaining wall, landscaping and a brick walkway with stepping stones named for individuals who have served the country. Read the entire article……………………………….
How to Prevent Community Gossip
Gossip is harmful in all organizations, and homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are no exception. The spread of rumors and misinformation can cause division, hinder operations, and undermine productivity. As a board member, keeping gossip out of your community shows residents your commitment to peace, harmony, and easy living. Read the entire article……………………………….
Homes, HOAs & Harmony?
Homeowners associations, commonly referred to as HOAs, are becoming increasingly popular in many residential communities due to the draw of various amenities and the orderly aesthetic of the homes. Read the entire article……………………………….
Adding a Little Free Library in a community association
Q: I love the concept of “Little Free Libraries” and would like to start my own, but I live in a community association that does not allow additional structures to be built. Do you know if they exist in community associations and how they got approved by the association board? Read the Q&A……………………………….