Among the many hazards that can threaten any multifamily building, fire ranks right at the top. Local news is replete with stories about the property loss, structural damage, and even death that a fire can cause. While horrific in small properties, fire can be even more dangerous in multifamily buildings. Read the article…………………………….
What Is An Architectural Review Committee?
An Architectural Review Committee (ARC) is a group of community members who volunteer their time to help maintain the aesthetic appeal and property values of the community. The ARC reviews and approves or denies proposed exterior modifications to homes and properties within a homeowners’ association (HOA). Read the article…………………………….
HOA Event Ideas For The Holiday
The holiday season is a time for joy, community, and connection. For HOAs, it’s an excellent opportunity to strengthen bonds among residents and foster a sense of belonging. Hosting holiday events can bring numerous benefits to your community, creating lasting memories and enhancing the overall living experience. Read the article…………………………….
Bank Commitment Letter Pitfalls for Condominiums (FL)
When a condominium association is seeking to obtain a loan, too often the board is signing the Bank’s commitment letter before having that document reviewed by legal counsel. While some banks will permit the association to amend the commitment letter after the fact, through revisions to the loan documents, others will not permit that to […]
The Owner’s Account Is Already in Collections – Why Do I Have to Send a New Notice of Late Assessment for a New Special Assessment? (FL)
Community associations have become very familiar with the statutory requirement that a 30 day Notice of Late Assessment must be sent to an owner prior to turning the account over to an attorney for collections. However, confusion over the need to send a Notice of Late Assessment often arises when an association adopts a new […]
The Three Key Elements of Properly Noticing a Special Assessment Meeting (FL)
Special assessments are becoming more and more common in community associations. As the frequency of special assessments increases, so does the possibility of delinquencies in payment of the special assessments. A crucial element of collection of a delinquent special assessment is proving that the special assessment was properly adopted at a properly noticed board meeting. […]
Legal Considerations for Shared Amenities in Condominiums (TX)
Condominium living offers a unique blend of private ownership and shared resources. Those shared resources — the pool, gym, clubhouse — are often a big draw for potential buyers. But shared spaces come with shared responsibilities and, inevitably, the potential for disputes. Read the article…………………………….
5 Surveys Every Community Manager Should Be Running
Managing a residential property isn’t just about maintenance and finances—it’s about creating a thriving community where residents feel heard and engaged. One of the easiest ways to achieve that? Surveys. Read the article…………………………….
Transforming Arvada Gardens: A Community’s Path to Safety, Modern Design, and Higher Property Values (CO)
Big changes are underway at Arvada Gardens, a community in Colorado that is undergoing a major transformation! This multimillion-dollar renovation project has been in the works since RowCal took on the management of the property in the spring of 2022. With a focus on addressing significant structural issues and enhancing the overall appeal of the […]
Fire Safety & Building Materials
Fire safety is a critical aspect of homeownership, especially in regions prone to wildfires like Colorado. By selecting fire-resistant m aterials and implementing specific construction techniques, you can significantly increase your home’s resilience to fire. Ongoing maintenance and fire hazard awareness are critical to protecting your community from fire hazards. In this article, we’ll explore […]
Why a Community Mission and Vision Statement Matter: Building the Future of Highlands Ranch (CO)
At the Highlands Ranch Community Association (HRCA), our mission and vision serve as the guiding principles behind everything we do. HRCA was honored to have been named CAI-RMC’s Association of the Year to have HRCA’s General Manager, Mike Bailey, appointed Community Manager Excellence in Service in 2024. With over 30,000 residential homes and 1,500 commercial […]
Community Roadmap – Annual Calendars
How do you chart your course? For me, an annual calendar serves as a roadmap of tasks that need to happen each week, month and year. It helps in tracking deadlines and knowing when something is supposed to happen (hello, pool opening!), while providing the Board with insight into my activities as their manager. Read […]
Effective Association Violation Letters Employ Clarity and Professionalism
Maintaining community standards and ensuring residents adhere to governing documents are among the primary functions of associations and their boards of directors. When residents run afoul of a community’s rules and policies, associations and their property managers should utilize clear and effective communications, such as a violation letter, to alert them of the infraction and […]
Winterizing Your Community: Maintenance Tasks Your HOA Can’t Ignore
Are you prepared for a repair bill of up to $5,000 for a single burst pipe? What about a six-figure settlement following a slip-and-fall incident on an icy walkway? These are just two issues your HOA could face if winter preparations aren’t handled early. Winter weather can be unpredictable in most parts of the country, […]
The Power of HOA Community Recycling Programs (CA)
Sustainability is becoming a cornerstone of modern living, with communities across the globe seeking ways to reduce their environmental impact. For Homeowners Associations (HOAs), adopting eco-friendly initiatives not only helps protect the environment but also enhances property values, fosters community engagement, and contributes to the overall quality of life for residents. One of the most […]
7 Tips: What to Do Before Renting Out Your HOA Home
Leasing can provide a steady stream of extra income for landlords and property owners. However, if the rental home is part of a homeowners’ association (HOA), it may be more difficult to put the home up for lease. HOAs have rules and regulations that can limit rental potential, so it’s important you understand what’s allowed, […]
How to Audit Financial Statements: A Step-by-Step Guide to Ensure Accuracy
An important process guaranteeing the quality, dependability, and conformity of financial data is auditing financial statements. Whether your position is that of an auditor, a company owner, or a stakeholder, knowing how to conduct a financial audit helps you maintain openness and make wise judgments. This guide will walk you methodically through the procedure. Read […]
Should board members be paid for their work?
If you’ve ever served on a board for a condo or HOA community, you can easily appreciate how much work is involved. Board members are elected volunteers, meaning they do not get compensated for any of their work. If they did get paid, the Foundation for Community Association Research estimates that their hourly wage would […]
Financial Management Tips for HOA Boards: Ensuring Long-Term Success
Managing a Homeowners Association is no small task. As an HOA board member, you’re responsible for maintaining your community’s finances, making decisions that affect your neighbors, and ensuring everything runs smoothly for the long haul. One of the most important aspects of this job is financial management. Proper budgeting, managing reserves, collecting fees, and strategic […]
Winterizing Your HOA Property: Essential Maintenance Tips (IL)
Winter in Chicago is no joke. Between icy sidewalks, snow-packed roofs, and biting winds, the cold season can become a logistical nightmare for homeowners’ associations (HOAs). If you’re managing an HOA, it’s up to you to ensure the property is prepared to handle whatever winter throws its way. Otherwise, you’re looking at costly repairs and […]
5 Tips: How to Prepare for Rising HOA Insurance Rates
Homeowners’ association (HOA) insurance serves as a safety net should something go wrong on community property. Meant to protect the association from liability if there’s an accident, injury, or damage in shared spaces, proper insurance coverage is not just a good idea—it’s necessary for safeguarding your community. Read the article…………………………….
HOA Group Think
Homeowner associations are often portrayed as the detached governed by thankless volunteers. It’s the blind leading the blind or rather the clueless in charge of those that could care less. So how should this union of the unwilling go about acquiring the wisdom it needs? Read the article…………………………….
What’s Your Exit Strategy? Why Every Owner Needs One
People start and sell management companies for many reasons. Regardless of the reason for exiting, having a strategy in place allows owners to maximize the value of their business, make it attractive to potential buyers, minimize taxes, and achieve their personal and financial goals. It also allows owners to leave the legacy they desire and […]
Understanding the responsibilities of being a board member
Condoleezza Rice once said, “Public service is a privilege. It’s not about you. It’s about people who need your help.” This sentiment encapsulates the fundamental principle that guides individuals who serve as board members in Florida condominiums and homeowners’ associations. Board members are not honorary ciphers, they are leaders entrusted with the critical task of […]
Committee collaboration: How effective teamwork ensures community success
Committees play a crucial role in the success of community associations, offering valuable support to both board members and community managers, but effective committee collaboration requires good communication and a clear understanding of roles and responsibilities. Without communication and clarity, it can be a constant tug of war between boards and committees for control and […]
Reasonable Accomodations (IL)
For years, owners and occupants have had the right to request reasonable accommodations or modifications from community associations to allow disabled individuals to fully use and enjoy their units, with assistance animal requests being the most common. Starting January 1, 2025, a new section (18.12) of the Illinois Condominium Property Act will require boards to […]
How Your HOA Can Make a Difference (CA)
Lawns were once the quintessential landscape of many communities, including Homeowners’ Associations. However, as we face a rapidly changing climate and increasingly severe droughts, we need to start transitioning to a more sustainable form of landscaping. That’s why Valley Water encourages all Homeowners Associations (HOA) to convert non-functional grass lawns into beautiful, water-wise landscapes featuring […]
Ho, Ho, Horrible! Holiday Decorations May Create Legal Land Mines for Condominium Association Boards
Do you hear what I hear? Holiday music is already playing everywhere. Children are creating pages-long lists of the gifts they want. And association board members are envisioning the holiday decorations – from the divine to the detestable – that owners will want to display and wondering what on earth to do about them. Read […]
Creative Ways For Co-op and Condo Boards to Balance Their Budgets
In their quest to balance budgets, many co-op and condo boards rely, with reluctance, on one of two unappetizing options: raising monthly charges or levying an assessment. But there are more palatable ways for boards to balance their budgets. Read the article…………………………….
Maintaining Quiet Hours During Thanksgiving: A Friendly Reminder From Your HOA
When celebrating Turkey Day this year, it’s important for you to remember quiet hours during Thanksgiving. If you live in a homeowners association community, there’s a good chance that you have certain rules to follow, including noise rules. Violating these rules can lead to several consequences, such as notices, fines, and suspension of privileges. Read […]
How HOAs Can Prepare for the Holiday Season: A Comprehensive Guide (CA)
The holiday season brings excitement, gatherings, and, for HOA boards, a few extra tasks to ensure everything runs smoothly. Preparation is essential for community harmony, safety, and organization during the festive months. Here’s a guide on how HOAs can effectively prepare for the holiday season and promote a positive experience for everyone involved. Read the […]
Maximizing Community Value with FHA and VA Certifications
What if your community could attract more homebuyers, maintain strong property values, and offer easier financing options—all with just a few strategic certifications? That’s exactly what FHA and VA certifications can do for your community. These certifications help expand financing options for a broader range of buyers, boosting your community’s value and ensuring long-term financial […]
HOA Pools: The basics of swimming pool insurance
Swimming pools are one of the most common and desirable amenities in managed communities. Your pool is an important feature for your residents that enhances their lifestyles daily, but do you have proper swimming pool coverage? As a board member, ensuring your property has adequate swimming pool coverage is your fiduciary responsibility to your association. […]
Addressing Florida’s Condo Crisis and How to Fix It
The aftermath of the Champlain Towers tragedy has led to a flurry of legislative responses, but are they hitting the mark? Was the Florida Legislature’s response to the Champlain Towers tragedy misguided in terms of overlooking some key factors that led to that deadly collapse and placing some obligations on the parties least able to […]
Hosting Thanksgiving Gatherings: HOA Guidelines To Keep In Mind
Hosting Thanksgiving gatherings in HOA communities involves extra things to consider beyond party food and activities. From guest rules to noise regulations, homeowners should know how to balance their parties with HOA guidelines. Otherwise, the HOA could slap a violation on you and even charge a monetary fine. Read the article…………………………….
Cleaning Up Fall Lawns
With winter right around the corner, it’s time to clean up during fall’s final weeks. While the changing of leaves is beautiful, those vibrant leaves are likely scattered across your lawn, in your gutters, flowerbeds, or the street drains. Do what you can to get your lawn tidy before winter sets in, and your home […]
Surviving the Holiday Season as an HOA Board Member (NC/SC)
The holiday season can be a stressful time for board members, but with the right approach, you can navigate it successfully! Managing a community during this busy period and handling the conflicts that often arise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are some valuable tips to help you effectively manage your HOA community and reduce […]
How to Avoid Frustrating HOA Landscaping Fees
For many homeowners, landscaping fees are one of the most contentious aspects of living in a community with a homeowners association (HOA). According to a recent survey from Frontdoor.com, 1 in 3 homeowners have experienced HOA challenges serious enough to consider moving. Violation notices for landscaping issues are among the most common — 42% of […]
Since its first condo in 1970 Vancouver has become the poster city for a global phenomenon (BC)
The city of Vancouver’s first condominium complex is a modest, pleasant-looking six-storey building. Built in 1970 at 5350 Balsam, it continues to provide 24 units on a quiet, leafy street in the Kerrisdale neighbourhood. You could say it’s a historic site. Balsam House, as it’s known, marks the dawn of Vancouver’s remarkable condo revolution, which […]
Lead on: How effective mentorship can transform communities
In the dynamic world of community associations, effective leadership is crucial. But traditional top-down approaches in leadership often fall short in fostering true engagement and loyalty among board members and community managers. By integrating mentorship into daily interactions, community association leaders have the unique opportunity to inspire their fellow volunteers, colleagues, or teams, improve engagement, […]
You Have More Control Over HOA Insurance Costs Than You Think!
Are rising HOA insurance premiums stressing your board? You may have more control than you realize! In this episode of HOA Insights, Kevin Davis and Robin Manougian delve into effective strategies for controlling HOA insurance costs and minimizing risks. They explore key factors, including the importance of proactive maintenance, budgeting for reserves, and understanding the […]
Emergency Preparedness and Crisis Management for HOAs
Homeowners’ Associations are an essential part of many communities, providing structure and maintaining the quality of life for residents. However, managing an HOA isn’t always smooth sailing. When an emergency or crisis hits—whether it’s a natural disaster, a financial issue, or a legal dispute—HOA leaders are often expected to handle the situation swiftly and efficiently. […]
The Future of Smart Home Technology in HOA Communities
Imagine this: you’re coming home on a chilly Chicago evening, your favorite playlist already humming softly as the door unlocks at your arrival. The lights adjust, your thermostat dials to the perfect setting, and security systems run a final check. There is no need for manual adjustments; it’s all taken care of, thanks to smart […]
Four Signs It’s Time to Look for a New HOA Management Company
Does managing your community feel like a never-ending cycle of paperwork, budgetary surprises, and vendor headaches? Managing a community is demanding enough, but when operational tasks pile up, communication stalls or financial clarity is lacking, the negative impacts create a domino effect through the entire board and community. Watch the video………………………….
How a Holiday Party Can Build Community in Your NYC Condo
Imagine stepping into your building’s beautifully decorated lobby, warmly greeted by neighbors who were once just faces in the elevator. In a condo or co-op, a holiday party is more than just a seasonal celebration—it’s a chance to build a genuine sense of community. Hosting a holiday gathering can help you get to know your […]
How to Increase Homeowner Engagement in Your HOA Community (IL)
Let’s be real: most of us barely know our neighbors. In fact, studies show over half of Americans don’t even know the folks living next door. If you’re a board member for your HOA, you might feel the challenge of trying to bring the community together in a world where door-knocking feels outdated, and people […]
Overcoming neglect: An Iowa community’s maintenance and reserve funding challenges
Generating adequate reserve funding in your community can seem like a daunting task, but doing so is a necessary step in providing for ongoing preventative maintenance, funding structural inspections and repairs, and safeguarding your community’s future. Take, for example, Cobblestone Owners Association, a 157-unit townhome community in Urbandale, Iowa. The community was forced to tackle […]
Exploring the Benefits of Electronic Voting in HOA Elections
Technological advancements in the community management industry continue to simplify processes and improve efficiency. One of the most important advancements that offers huge homeowner convenience is the option to conduct elections electronically. While effective, traditional voting methods come with their share of challenges that electronic voting (e-voting) can help overcome. Before considering e-voting for your […]