A strong, well-functioning homeowners’ association (HOA) depends on committed board members who actively participate in governance and decision-making. However, many communities struggle to attract and retain engaged board members, leading to burnout, disorganization, and inefficiency. Encouraging homeowners to step up and serve on the HOA board requires strategic outreach, clear expectations, and a culture of […]
Building a Reserve Study: Colorado Rules and Regulations
In Colorado, where diverse climates and varied terrains present unique challenges for property maintenance, understanding the specifics of building reserve studies is essential for property owners and managers. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know about building reserve studies under Colorado’s rules and regulations: Read the article…………………………….
Vehicle and Property Use Regulations in Community Associations (NC)
Homeowners associations (HOAs) and condominium associations across North and South Carolina frequently navigate complex regulations regarding vehicle use and property restrictions within their communities. As boards work to maintain community standards and property values, understanding these regulations and ensuring consistent enforcement is crucial. This blog post explores areas of vehicle and property use regulations, their […]
Smart, Sustainable, and Cost-Effective HOA Amenity Upgrades
Did you know that well-planned HOA amenities can boost home values by up to 30%? Today’s homeowners expect more than just well-maintained streets—they want thoughtfully designed spaces that feel like an extension of their home. Whether it’s reliable Wi-Fi, inviting outdoor areas, or smart technology that simplifies daily tasks, modern residents seek features that enhance […]
Navigating Property Damage Claims: A Guide for Association Boards
When disaster strikes an association, it’s essential for the association board to act swiftly and effectively to navigate the complex landscape of property damage claims. Whether it’s fire, floods, mold, or wind damage, the role of the board in moving a property claim forward is crucial. Read the article…………………………….
Decoding Risk Assessments: Keeping Communities Safe and Legally Protected (MI)
Risk assessment is a primary management tool in ensuring the health and safety of others in your community. What many people perhaps are not aware of, however, is that there can be a legal liability for your Board & Community. Whether you’re wondering how to complete a risk assessment or are unsure of their relevance […]
The Essential Guide to HOA Financial Management: 5 Key Areas for Success
Managing the finances of a Homeowner Association (HOA) or condo association is much like running a business. You have customers (residents) who pay dues (revenue) in exchange for a service (maintaining the community). Effective HOA financial management is critical to ensure the long-term sustainability and operation of the community. Read the article…………………………….
How to Set Up Your HOA Bookkeeping System
When it comes to running a successful HOA financial operation, a solid bookkeeping system is arguably the most important aspect to get right. Proper bookkeeping makes every other aspect of financial management easier. In this post, we’ll walk through the four key elements to consider when setting up an effective bookkeeping system for your HOA […]
Seasonal Pond Maintenance (MI)
A number of articles and Q&A’s regarding pond care. Read the article…………………………….
Voting in and Around Association Meetings (NC)
We often get questions about how community association membership meetings can vote before, during, and after meetings. With changes made during COVID, there are now several options—so many that it can get confusing. Read the article…………………………….
All D&O Insurance Policies are Not Created Equally: Board Members Should Know Their Liability Risks (MA)
In our overly litigious society, it is said that anyone can sue anyone for anything. The volunteers serving on condominium association boards sometimes feel as if they can be sued by almost everyone for almost everything – an overstatement, perhaps, but an understandable one. It is certainly true that condo owners are not always happy […]
Condo Boards Can’t Ban Charging Stations (MA)
When Boston and Cambridge enacted “right-to-charge” ordinances in 2019 and 2022, respectively, codifying the rights of electric vehicle owners to install charging stations in multi-family buildings, industry executives predicted that Massachusetts lawmakers would eventually follow suit. They were right. Read the article…………………………….
What Does The HOA Architectural Review Committee Do?
The HOA Architectural Review Committee plays a critical role in preserving aesthetics and appeal within a planned community. This committee works hand-in-hand with the HOA board to review proposals, inspect for violations, and ensure visual harmony in the neighborhood. Homeowners should familiarize themselves with this committee’s role to better equip themselves for HOA living. […]
How can your HOA keep common areas safe and well-maintained? (CT)
Every HOA in North Haven values its shared spaces. From pools to playgrounds and clubhouses, these areas bring neighbors together and boost property values. But keeping these spaces in top shape takes more than just regular cleaning. It takes a smart plan to prevent damage and misuse. Read the article…………………………….
Maintaining Harmony: Best Practices for Enforcing Community Rules and Covenants
One of the most important roles a community association serves is garnering resident compliance for both community rules and declarations of covenants, conditions and restrictions (“Covenants”). If done well, enforcement fosters harmony and neighborly behavior within the community. Read the article…………………………….
Now Is the Time to Adopt Hurricane Protection Specifications (FL)
In a few short months, the 2025 hurricane season will be upon us, and it is important to start planning ahead. For many years, the Condominium Act provided that each board of a residential condominium was required to adopt hurricane “shutter” specifications including color, style, and other factors deemed relevant by the board. The Homeowners’ […]
Know Your Rights as an HOA Homeowner in Southwest Florida
Homeowners who live in a Southwest Florida HOA community have many rights, but not everyone is familiar with them. Whether you’re an HOA board member or a resident, understanding these rights helps you advocate for fair treatment, ensure compliance with Florida HOA laws, and prevent unnecessary conflicts. Read the article…………………………….
Regulating Short Term Rentals in Condominiums (FL)
It seems that the surge of tourism that Florida saw during COVID 19 is here to stay and with it, a surge of short term rentals in your Condominium Association. Given that short term rentals can significantly increase the traffic, noise, and liabilities your Condominium Association deals with on a daily basis, your Condominium Association […]
Promoting Civility in Community Associations (FL)
Learn how to promote civility in community associations with this informational webinar presented by Dan Tiernan from Campbell Property Management and Allison Hertz from Becker. Watch the webinar……………………….
How Self-Managed Communities Manage Their Business (NV)
One of the certainties of living in a co-op, condo, or HOA is that despite all having an equal stake in the financial and administrative success of the building or association, only a small percentage of residents choose to take an active role in the governance and management of their communities. In addition, many buildings […]
HOA Meeting Seating
The seating arrangement at meetings is critical to a productive outcome. Foreign diplomats are particularly careful in choosing the shape of the table and who sits next to who since the slightest faux pas can have disastrous results. In King Arthur’s day, meetings were held at a Round Table so that all could freely participate […]
Why Your Working Sessions May Not Be Working (CO)
By design, Members of the Association have very limited voting and decision-making authority. Board members are granted the authority to carry out most of the corporation’s business on behalf of the Owners who elected them. As a result, the Board must never waiver in recognizing the significance of their role. Members want to have complete […]
7 Habits of Highly Effective Board Members
Learn how to be an effective HOA or Condo Board Member by watching our recent webinar, “7 Habits of Highly Effective Board Members” presented by Dan Tiernan from Campbell Property Management. This webinar touches on the following 7 habits of successful HOA and Condo Board Members: Watch the webinar……………………….
Building A Financial Foundation
This webinar covers essential strategies for building a solid financial foundation for community associations, focusing on reserve funds and capital planning. We define the role of reserve studies and their importance in making informed financial decisions, especially for new board members and managers. The webinar explores various funding options, such as reserve contributions, special assessments, […]
To Amend or Not Amend the Declaration at a Meeting (NC)
Community associations across North Carolina often face significant challenges when attempting to amend their Declaration of Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (declaration). While the declaration is critical for maintaining community standards, amending the document can be a complex and arduous process, particularly when relying on a vote at a formal meeting. Read the article…………………………….
How Bankruptcy Affects Homeowners Associations (HOAs)
Bankruptcy can have significant financial implications for Homeowners Associations (HOAs), as it directly impacts assessment payments and community funding. When homeowners file for bankruptcy, the HOA becomes one of their creditors, which can lead to financial uncertainty for the association. Understanding how different types of bankruptcy filings impact HOA dues can help communities navigate these […]
Why HOA Architectural Approval Matters & How to Get It
The Architectural Control Committee (ACC)/Architectural Review Committee (ARC) plays a crucial role in maintaining property values and preserving the aesthetics of an HOA community. Without these guidelines, homeowners could make drastic, unapproved changes—leading to visual inconsistencies, legal disputes, and declining home values. Read the article…………………………….
Spring Landscaping Ideas for HOA Homeowners
Maintaining your home’s landscaping is a great way to do good for your homeowners’ association (HOA)—and your personal property. With pleasant weather, green grass growing, and flowers in bloom, spring is the perfect time to get things done. Read on to discover spring landscaping ideas for homeowners that are cost-effective and typically community compliant. Read […]
Why Financial Transparency Matters
Trust is the cornerstone of a thriving homeowners association, and nothing erodes trust faster than financial uncertainty. When homeowners don’t know where their dues are going, it creates confusion, frustration, and unnecessary tension between residents and board members. On the other hand, when financial transparency is a priority, communities operate with confidence, collaboration, and accountability. […]
The Challenge of Profitability in Management Companies
This month, CAM Leadership Institute’s CEO Adam Balkcom had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Davidson, COO of Action Management, for an upcoming CEO Group Mastermind training. When discussing management company profitability, he made a statement that resonated deeply: “Profits in this industry are like threading a needle. They are thin.” To achieve long-term […]
Monthly Condo Charges Rose Nearly 9% in Fourth Quarter of 2024 (NY)
Last week we reported that the average price of Manhattan condos far outstripped the average price of co-ops over the past decade. Average condo prices were up 15.2% (to around $2.84 million), while co-ops went down 1.3% (to $1.33 million). Read the article…………………………….
The Future of HOA Security: Smart Systems and Solutions
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have a responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment for their residents. As technology evolves, so do the solutions available to enhance community security. Traditional security measures such as gate guards, key-based entry, and security patrols are being supplemented – or even replaced – by smart security systems that offer real-time […]
Best HOA Board Nomination Statement Examples
Homeowners’ Association (HOA) board elections play a key role in shaping a well-managed and thriving community. If you’re thinking about running for a position, your HOA board nomination statement is your chance to introduce yourself, highlight your qualifications, and explain why you’re the right choice. Read the article…………………………….
Emotional Support Animals: Balancing Reasonable Accommodations and Access Restrictions (IL)
Navigating the complexities of reviewing and responding to requests for an emotional support animal can be challenging enough but the difficulty in responding to the requests can be further heightened in community associations that prohibit certain animals or prohibit the presence of animals altogether. How can a community association respond to a request for an […]
Dealing with Bullies in your HOA: How to Stop to Destructive Behavior
A thriving HOA board is one comprised of members focused on doing what is best for the association. All it takes for disruption and sometimes, total chaos, is one board member who exhibits bullying behavior toward others. The Merriam Webster dictionary defines bullying as, “to treat someone in a cruel, insulting, threatening, or aggressive fashion.” […]
How to Build a Financially Stable HOA: Best Practices for Budgeting
Your HOA’s financial health goes beyond making sure the bills get paid, it’s about setting your community up for long-term success. As a board member, apart from approving expenses, you’re also the guardian of financial stability. Budgeting, planning, and smart money management are key to ensuring your HOA can handle anything from routine maintenance to […]
HOA Plantasy
As homeowner associations age, both structures and landscape wear out. And just like those groovy harvest golds and avocado greens of the 70s, landscape tastes have changed. Fortunately, the varieties of plants available have made the options wonderful and numerous. The best news of all is that creative use of these options coupled with the […]
No, Oklahoma does not have a law prohibiting covenants or HOAs from restricting solar panels
Some solar panel installers and even attorneys are representing that Oklahoma statutes prohibit the restriction of solar panels by restrictive covenants in residential neighborhoods. It isn’t true, but even AI pushes the false narrative. What follows is the top line AI Overview for a Google search “Oklahoma solar panel law”: Read the article…………………………….
Budget and Reserve Reminders for Associations
As we close out the books for 2024 and begin audits, it is a good time to take a second look at our budget and financials for 2025. Here are some items that the associations should take a second look at before 2025 gets away from us. Read the article…………………………….
Champlain Towers South (Surfside, FL) Collapse Investigation
In the early morning of June 24, 2021, the eastern half of the twelve-story Champlain Towers South Condominium collapsed, killing ninety-eight residents of the forty-year-old building in Surfside, Florida. WJE was retained by attorneys representing the condominium association to determine the cause of the collapse and provide litigation support. Watch the webinar……………………….
Electronic Voting Pro Tips (CA)
By now, we’re all aware that electronic voting has arrived. Community associations that want to take advantage of electronic voting have been adopting election rules in compliance with the new law and are just now grappling with the new notice requirements for elections conducted with electronic ballots. Let’s dig a bit deeper and explore some […]
The 6 Top HOA Rules that Homeowners Overlook (And How to Avoid Them)
HOA rules are made to ensure the community can grow and be maintained for the benefit of all residents. However, not every rule is followed, despite the best efforts of the board and residents. Here are the most common rules overlooked and how you can keep them from being ignored. Read the article…………………………….
Florida’s Condo Regulations Put Seniors in Crisis and Threaten Economy
As a real estate and community association attorney with decades of experience, I’ve witnessed the transformative impact of legislation on our housing markets. Florida’s recent condominium safety regulations, born from the tragic collapse of the Champlain Towers South, are well-intentioned measures aimed at ensuring structural integrity and protecting lives. However, their unintended consequences are creating […]
HOA Technology Tools You Should Be Using in 2025
Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) manage everything from finances to maintenance, homeowner communication, and compliance with local laws. With evolving technology, HOA boards and property managers now have access to powerful tools that make management more efficient and transparent. The right technology can help streamline processes, reduce manual work, and improve homeowner satisfaction. Read the article…………………………….
Construction Defect Claims and Insurance Defense: What Community Associations Need to Know
Condominium, homeowner (HOA), and townhome community associations can face construction defect issues that can lead to costly legal disputes. Defects in design, workmanship, or materials can cause significant property damage and safety concerns that can leave associations to navigate repair costs, resident complaints, and potential litigation. Read the article…………………………….
The Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting a Bulletproof HOA Budget
A homeowners association budget is the financial blueprint that keeps a community association running smoothly. Without a well-planned budget, maintaining property values, funding necessary repairs, and covering day-to-day expenses becomes a challenge. For board members, the budgeting process can feel overwhelming—balancing income and expenses, preparing for unexpected costs, and keeping reserve funds at the right […]
Requirements for NC Real Estate Brokers That Manage Associations
Community managers of larger homeowner and condominium associations often hold professional designations that demonstrate their expertise and experience in managing association responsibilities. These credentials signify specialized training in financial oversight, legal compliance, and operational management, ensuring associations are efficiently and ethically managed. Read the article…………………………….
Can HOAs use garnishment to collect unpaid fees? (CT)
Homeowners’ association (HOA) members have a fiduciary duty to their community. That is, they must act in the best interests of the other homeowners. Sometimes, that duty encompasses the difficult job of collecting unpaid HOA fees. Read the article…………………………….
What Is a Lien on a Property? Insights From Your HOA Law Firm (GA)
What is a lien on a property and how does it affect your community? Whether you’re a board member or a homeowner, understanding your community’s collection guidelines and terminology can aid in protecting your finances as well as the health of your homeowner’s association. While the collections process may be elaborate, starting with the basics […]