June 26, 2024
A reserve study is a vital capital planning tool for HOAs and condominium associations that provides directional guidance and an in-depth analysis of community assets. The initial reserve study requires an onsite inspection and thorough examination of the reserve fund status to establish a prioritized schedule of capital improvement projects and a reserve funding plan… Read more »
March 5, 2024
U.S. homeowners can lower home energy bills, lower federal income taxes and increase home comfort by making energy efficiency home improvements that qualify for up to $1,500 in federal income tax credits. Consumers who make energy-efficient upgrades can also reduce their personal carbon footprint because using less energy at home means emitting less pollution too…. Read more »
March 5, 2024
We wanted to share an article recently published in a national trade publication called Common Ground. The article entitled High Times covers the use of marijuana in homeowners’ associations around the country. We have been getting an increasing number of complaints about the smell and usage of marijuana and thought this article could bring light… Read more »
June 12, 2023
Does your association have a business continuity plan in place? In an emergency, it’s much easier to work from a plan rather than thinking on your feet. Setting up a business continuity plan and testing it may seem like an overwhelming task, but once in place, it gives everyone involved Peace of Mind. Consider… Read more »
March 22, 2023
A Connecticut condo association board tried to force the removal of a dog after holding multiple hearings and concluding it was vicious (Copper Square Ass’n, Inc. v. Bonell). But a court found the board dropped the ball and denied to order removal. The case involved a dog named Bo, who lived with a tenant in… Read more »
February 10, 2023
Classified alongside pollutants from vehicles, pesticides, and more, pet waste is considered highly toxic and a nearly never-ending nuisance in community associations. “Not only is dog waste unsightly and unpleasant, it can be dangerous if it’s not properly removed,” says Diana Kavadias of pet waste removal service DoodyCalls. “The waste contains harmful bacteria associated with… Read more »
January 27, 2023
Lower back strain is one of the most common injuries related to shoveling snow. The following measures can help you prevent injuries and keep your back healthy while shoveling: · Before the first snowfall is predicted, make sure you have a proper shovel. The best shovel is one that is light weight, ergonomic and has… Read more »
October 1, 2022
It’s that time of year—you’re exchanged your swimsuit for sweaters and scarves just in time to roll up your sleeves and prepare you home for cooler weather. As we watch summer fade into the sunset, consider adding the following items to your winterization checklist, and ensure your home is in tip-top shape for the fall… Read more »
September 23, 2022
As anyone on a condo, co-op or homeowner association (HOA) board knows too well, board meetings can be extremely delicate situations. Board members don’t always agree with each other, discussion about a single, minor issue can eat up entire meetings, and those who speak the loudest aren’t always looking at the issues with the best… Read more »
September 21, 2022
As we come into the winter season you will be changing your HVAC from AC to heat. This is the time we recommend having the HVAC unit serviced to avoid break downs and leaks. Below are some helpful tips of what you can do and what your maintenance company should be doing once or twice a… Read more »
September 15, 2021
Each year you receive a draft of the proposed budget for review and comment. A lot of work goes into preparing the budget. It’s a complex activity that has to start early so the budget can be finalized and approved prior to the beginning of the new fiscal year. Here’s how we do it: The… Read more »
April 23, 2021
Though time-consuming, finding tenants for your property owners is of paramount importance. You need to prioritize key selling points to garner quality leads and then deliver a positive living experience in order to maintain tenants and reduce turnover. According to Invesp’s Khalid Saleh in an article entitled, “Customer Acquisition Versus Retention Costs,” attracting a new… Read more »