HOA amenities are the shared facilities, services, and features within a planned community or neighborhood as managed by a homeowners association (HOA). They are designed to enhance the quality of life for residents and provide recreational, social, and practical benefits. These amenities are typically funded through HOA fees paid by homeowners.    Read the article…………………………….

Living in an HOA community can be a rewarding experience with access to amenities and well-maintained surroundings. However, as a tenant, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights within these communities. This article will shed light on your rights and responsibilities, ensuring you’re well-informed and protected.   Read the article…………………………….

Community gardens have sprouted in popularity across the nation, offering a shared green space for neighbors to connect, cultivate, and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.  However, establishing a community garden within an HOA environment entails navigating a unique set of legal aspects. Understanding these legal considerations ensures your community garden flourishes while upholding HOA regulations and maintaining harmonious co-existence with neighbors.    Read the article…………………………….

You’ve lived in your community for a few years, and now you are determined to get more involved because you believe you can make a difference. Instead of jumping into the full commitment of serving as a Board member, you decide to ease into service for your POA and answer the call for volunteers to the architectural control committee (ACC), even though you are not entirely sure what that entails.    Read the article…………………………….

Foreclosure is a distressing event that can have a ripple effect on both homeowners and the communities they reside in. While the immediate consequences of foreclosure are often clear, it’s important to understand the long-term implications, particularly for homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and the individuals affected.    Read the article…………………………….

From dogs to cats and even goldfish, pets are beloved members of many households. In a community setting like a homeowner’s association (HOA), it’s essential to balance accommodating pet owners and maintaining harmony within the neighborhood.  HOAs often encounter pet-related challenges, from waste issues to noise complaints.   Read the article…………………………….

Getting the word out on the latest association initiatives helps your owners reap the benefits of an HOA and promotes a healthy and thriving place for people to live. However, not everyone has the time to attend regular board meetings, and other means of communication are essential for frequent updates.   Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in maintaining the aesthetic appeal, safety, and property values within communities across Louisiana, Colorado, and Texas. To ensure the smooth operation and upkeep of these communities, HOA boards rely on various checklists.   Read the article…………………………….

Navigating the intricate landscape of HOA laws in Texas can be a daunting task for both HOA board members and homeowners. The Lone Star State has its own set of unique regulations that govern HOAs (homeowners associations), impacting everything from property use restrictions to voting rights and dispute resolution. Understanding these laws is crucial to ensuring harmony and compliance within your community.    Read the article…………………………….

HOA inspections are an essential part of maintaining the aesthetic appeal and property values within a homeowner’s association. But what exactly does an HOA inspection entail, and why is it crucial for your community? In Houston, Texas, where property upkeep is vital due to the climate and rapid growth, understanding the ins and outs of HOA inspections becomes even more critical.   Read the article…………………………….

Moving into a new home is a whirlwind of excitement, packing, and adjustments — and if your new home is part of a homeowners association (HOA) community, there’s an added layer of information to process. A comprehensive, thoughtfully crafted HOA welcome letter is a fantastic way to ease the transition for new homeowners and demonstrate your HOA’s commitment to a welcoming community.    Read the article…………………………….

Managing a homeowners association (HOA) involves maintaining community standards and ensuring residents adhere to the governing documents. When violations occur, clear and effective communication is key. This article will explore how to write a friendly HOA violation letter that fosters a positive relationship with residents while addressing the issue at hand.   Read the article…………………………….

Are you an HOA board member or homeowner looking to make the most of your HOA meetings? Effective gatherings foster a thriving community, ensuring everyone is informed and engaged. Let’s delve into the different types of HOA meetings and essential tips for hosting them.    Read the article…………………………….

An HOA Resale Certificate, sometimes known as a Resale Package or Estoppel Certificate, is a crucial document in the real estate transaction process when buying or selling a property within a homeowners association (HOA). It serves as a comprehensive overview of the property’s standing within the HOA, offering vital information for both the buyer and seller.   Read the article…………………………….

When disaster strikes, your community’s safety is paramount. As an HOA board member, you have a critical responsibility to ensure that your community is well-prepared for any emergency. A well-crafted HOA emergency preparedness plan is your community’s best defense against the unexpected.   Read the article…………………………….

As a homeowner in Texas, managing your responsibilities within a Homeowners Association (HOA) includes staying current with HOA dues—fees that help maintain and enhance your community’s shared spaces and amenities.   Read the article…………………………….

Parking problems are common in many homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and can lead to frustration and discord among residents. Addressing these problems effectively is crucial for maintaining harmony and ensuring everyone has a fair and convenient place to park.   Read the article…………………………….

Our experience makes us uniquely qualified to guide you through understanding covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). While necessary for any association, CC&Rs can be complex and misunderstanding them could put your community at risk.  As your local HOA management company, we’re always here to help. Check out our comprehensive overview of what CC&Rs are and their purpose, aiming to equip HOA board members, associations, and community owners with the knowledge they need.   Read the article…………………………….

In our digital age, social media has become an indispensable communication tool, transcending individual interactions like keeping up with old friends and finding its way into the realm of community associations. For homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and condo communities, embracing social media can unlock a wealth of benefits, from fostering transparency and engagement to streamlining information from an HOA management company.   Read the article…………………………….

The HOA welcome letter and packet are essential tools for welcoming new homeowners into your community. This initial communication sets the stage for a positive relationship between the resident and the homeowners association (HOA). A well-designed HOA welcome packet ensures new homeowners transition smoothly into the community by providing key information, outlining expectations, and fostering a sense of belonging.   Read the article…………………………….

Are you an HOA homeowner in Dallas or Houston, Texas? If so, you’ll want to be aware of some new laws that went into effect on January 1, 2024. These new laws are designed to create more transparency and fairness in how HOAs assess fines against homeowners.   Read the article…………………………….

Navigating the world of homeowners association management can be complex, especially when it comes to addressing HOA violations. Clear and respectful communication is key to maintaining a positive community atmosphere. That’s where the HOA violation letter comes in. A well-crafted letter can effectively address rule infractions while preserving neighborly relationships.   Read the article…………………………….

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which came into effect on January 1, 2024, is a significant piece of legislation aimed at increasing corporate accountability and preventing illicit financial activities. While it primarily focuses on business entities, it also has implications for Homeowners Association (HOA) Board members. Understanding how the CTA impacts your HOA is crucial to ensure compliance and maintain the organization’s integrity.   Read the article…………………………….

As we near the end of the Summer months, it is essential for Associations to gear up for the Fall Season with strategic planning and proactive measures. This time of the year presents the unique opportunity to begin planning and making the crucial decisions to remain ahead of the curve. From reviewing financial reports, planning end-of-year Community Events, and scheduling preventative maintenance, the Fall Season is a pivotal period to ensure the Association’s success.    Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in maintaining a neighborhood’s community standards and overall well-being. However, they are not immune to legal troubles, and many HOAs are embroiled in lawsuits due to common issues that can often be avoided.    Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in maintaining community standards and property values. However, disputes between homeowners and HOA boards are not uncommon. Understanding the dispute resolution process can empower both homeowners and boards to reach amicable solutions while avoiding costly litigation.   Read the article…………………………….

Condominium living offers a unique blend of homeownership and shared responsibility. A critical part of that shared responsibility is understanding the insurance coverage that protects both individual unit owners and the condominium association as a whole. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of condominium insurance in Texas.    Read the article…………………………….

Updating and renovating common areas in a condominium complex can enhance property values, improve residents’ quality of life, and attract new buyers. However, these projects often involve navigating a complex web of legal requirements and considerations. This article will explore the key legal aspects to keep in mind when planning common area renovations in Texas.   Read the article…………………………….

Living in a condominium offers many benefits, but it also comes with the challenge of shared walls and close proximity to neighbors. Noise complaints are a common issue in condo communities, and if not handled effectively, they can lead to disputes, legal action, and a breakdown of community harmony.    Read the article…………………………….

The rise of platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has made short-term rentals increasingly popular. While this trend offers benefits to property owners, it presents unique challenges for homeowners associations (HOAs) and condominium associations. Enforcing short-term rental restrictions is crucial to maintaining community harmony, preserving property values, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable living environment.   Read the article…………………………….

Managing a homeowners association (HOA) or condominium association comes with major responsibilities. Board members are tasked with balancing the needs of the community against the legal, practical, and financial demands of managing an association. This article discusses ten frequent mistakes made by HOA board members, offering insights on how to avoid them for a successful and harmonious community.    Read the article…………………………….

Fall 2024 marks the closing stretch of another highly contentious election season. From local officials and issues such as school board members and bonds, to the U.S. Presidential decision, all different types of signs have appeared or will be appearing throughout communities over the next few weeks. For board members and managers, it is important to know how election signs can be regulated in community associations according to state law.   Read the article…………………………….

While there are many rewarding parts of being on an HOA board, one difficult aspect of the job is handling unhappy homeowners. Some people are always dissatisfied with those who have authority over them, but others might be legitimately upset or have something to say that you can hear and empathize with. Here’s how to handle this difficult situation so everyone feels satisfied in the end.  Read the article…………………………….

Whether you are part of an HOA board or you’re a homeowner who cares about seeing your association running well, you can understand the importance of making sure you get the right people in charge of the group. Even if that isn’t you, there are things you can do to try and ensure that you’re getting the very best people for the job every time.  Read the article…………………………….

When we talk about the joy of living in a neighborhood, it’s important to include the fact that city life comes with some very strong and wonderful connections. When you live in a neighborhood, you have a chance to interact with all sorts of people from your area on a regular basis. Community events are a great way for local communities to get together and have fun. It’s an opportunity for people to become closer as well.    Read the article…………………………….

Do you have a Homeowners Association (HOA) in your community? If so, it is likely that most of the members get along well and follow the rules. However, once in a while, you might come across an HOA violation. Every HOA has a set of homeowner association rules and regulations. But what happens when a neighbor decides to act against the rules?   Read the article…………………………….

Every homeowner must know their legal rights and responsibilities as a member of a HOA. Awareness of these will provide you with solid references when dealing with all HOA’s internal and legal issues. Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are essentially a form of small governments, which means they have their own types of legal and financial issues that can affect homeowners   Read the article…………………………….

Natural disasters can strike unexpectedly, causing devastation and disruption to communities. Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) play a crucial role in protecting their communities and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. When it comes to preparing for natural disasters, proactive planning and effective strategies can make a significant difference.  Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play a significant role in many communities, shaping the living experience for residents and ensuring the overall well-being of the neighborhood. While some individuals may have reservations about the rules and regulations imposed by HOAs, it is essential to recognize the numerous benefits they offer.   Read the article…………………………….

Homeowners’ associations (HOAs) are an integral part of many Texas communities, shaping the way neighborhoods are managed and maintained. Whether you’re new to a community governed by an HOA or contemplating a move there, you might have a range of questions about how these associations operate.   Read the article…………………………….

Budget preparation is an important annual exercise that sets the financial course for the entire year. Effective budgeting makes sure that necessary services are maintained, funds improvements, and upholds financial stability, whether managing a homeowners association (HOA), a condominium association, or a cooperative.  Here’s the ultimate handbook on preparing budgets for community associations.   Read the article…………………………….

The United States was founded on the principle of religious freedom. This is an aspect of our laws we learn in our earliest history class. The issue of religious freedom was so important to the Founders that the Free Exercise Clause of the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects citizens’ right to freely exercise their religion, though there are limitations to this. Almost 250 years later, numerous state and federal religious freedom laws have been adopted and cases have been litigated in both state and federal courts regarding government, quasi-government and entities imposing burdens on the exercise of religious freedom.   Read the article…………………………….

In Texas and nationally over the past 15 years we have seen a higher number of condominium projects being developed. The reasons vary, but include a desire for greater density as a means to accommodate higher land prices and/or construction costs, changing demographics, and/or a means to offer the option for homeownership with a higher level of service and amenities.   Read the article…………………………….

Houston, Texas, like many other cities with rich and vibrant communities, has its fair share of HOA disputes. These disagreements can range from minor misunderstandings to major conflicts that threaten the harmony of the neighborhood.    Read the article…………………………….

The increasing involvement of the Texas Legislature over the last few legislative sessions is forcing property owners associations (“POA”) to consider new approaches to governance. This is brought on by new laws and the unlikelihood of POAs being able to achieve the owner vote requirements to amend their governing documents. As a result, to ensure their governing documents comply with the new laws, POAs are turning to or adding an additional layer to their documents in the form of policies. This begs the question, what is a policy and how can it be used to assist in the governance of the POA with the other governing documents?    Read the article…………………………….

As summer heats up, so does the activity at community pools. A community pool offers residents a great way to cool off, relax, and socialize with their neighbors. Still, it’s important to remember that a neighborhood pool is not the same as a private pool. While a backyard pool is only subject to a homeowner’s personal rules, patrons of public pools must follow community rules in order to keep the pool clean and safe for all residents. Not only that, but a little common sense (and common courtesy) will go a long way toward making sure that everyone is able to enjoy themselves at the pool this summer.   Read the article…………………………….

In a gripping case that underscores the importance of community safety and responsible pet ownership, two women have filed a lawsuit against a homeowners association and several residents following a dog attack. The complaint was lodged by Roxanne Roy and Elizabeth Hill in the Harris County District Court on May 29, 2024, targeting Towne Lake Community Association, Inc., along with Mae Henri (a.k.a. Henri Courtney), Johnnie L. Courtney, and Kelley D. Courtney.   Read the article…………………………….

As an HOA board member, you play a pivotal role in shaping the community you call home. Whether you’re a seasoned board veteran or a newly elected member, understanding the depth and breadth of your responsibilities is crucial for fostering a thriving and harmonious neighborhood. In this guide, we’ll delve into the essential duties and roles of HOA board members, highlighting the importance of your contributions and providing insights on how to navigate the complexities of HOA management.   Read the article…………………………….

Put together the letters P, O, and A and you will have created an acronym with negative connotations for many people across the United States. As a result, state legislatures in many states are increasing regulations against an industry designed to be self-regulated by its members to protect property values. Moving into the Lone Star State, over the last several legislative sessions, the legislature has been actively involved in attempts to increase legislation. Fortunately, the Texas POA industry has responded in various ways to ensure it is abiding by the new laws and its concerns are heard and addressed by legislators.    Read the article…………………………….

Living in a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) can offer numerous benefits, from maintaining property values to fostering a sense of belonging. However, to truly make the most of your HOA experience, it’s best to understand how to engage effectively with it. Here are some practical tips and tricks to help you build a strong bond with your HOA for a better living experience.  Read the article…………………………….