January 15, 2019
The pros and cons of owning a house or condo that’s part of a homeowners association cover pretty much everything and the kitchen sink. Your relationship with the HOA can be reassuring, annoying, and sometimes even risky. On the plus side, the HOA often foots the bill for major expenses, such as when a roof… Read more »
September 11, 2018
Hurricane Florence, now a Category 4 storm, is approaching the US East Coast with winds of more than 130 mph. The hurricane is expected to make landfall in North or South Carolina sometime between Thursday and Friday, just after the average peak of the hurricane season. Many areas are at risk of devastating winds, rainfall, and flooding. Governors… Read more »
September 3, 2018
I recently received the following request from a multifamily investor: “Can you please send me a marketing plan post purchase for an apartment building I am buying (my bank wants this)?” This is a fantastic question! When you approach a bank to finance your apartment deal they most assuredly will want to see your apartment… Read more »
June 29, 2018
Imagine your surprise. You buy a home in a community knowing full well that you’ll become a member of your local homeowners association only to learn that your homeowners association is really a subassociation and you’re bound to follow the rules of a bigger “master” association. If you’re thinking, “I’ve never heard such a thing,”… Read more »
June 14, 2018
NEW MARYLAND LAW PREVENTS DEVELOPERS FROM RETAINING DISPROPORTIONATE HOA VOTING CONTROL A new law, effective October 1, 2018, will prevent developers from retaining disproportionate voting control after selling a majority of lots within a homeowner association (“HOA”) subdivision. This law ends the practice where some HOA developers created governing documents that gave them multiple votes… Read more »
May 21, 2018
The scene was tense, with shouting, threats, and concerns about objects being thrown. Despite repeated pleas for quiet, anger and tension hung over the room. Menacing faces glared at the speaker in front at the head table. Is this a description of the latest episode of the Jerry Springer Show? No, it’s just another dysfunctional… Read more »
April 25, 2018
Being a member of a homeowner association (HOA) or community association board is an important role and one that should not be taken lightly. After all, you hold responsibility for members of your community, not just in a business sense, but also as a neighbor and friend. If you are an HOA or community association… Read more »
April 24, 2018
Noise is an inevitable reality in condominium communities. Condominium dwellers live in such close proximity, it’s essential that we consider the effect noise will have on our neighbors when deciding on floor coverings, where to mount the flat-screen television or when to knock out a wall. We—you and your neighbors—all have a right to… Read more »
April 18, 2018
The sun is back! Take advantage of it with your grandchildren. Get excited for spring! Flower buds are starting to peek out. Birds are returning to the neighborhood. The sun feels warmer and brighter than it has in months, and the arrival of daylight saving time means it stays light later, too. Leave those… Read more »
February 12, 2018
We wanted to bring a unique scholarship opportunity to your attention. Please share with anyone you know that has a High School Senior. The Washington Metropolitan Community Associations Chapter is having a Scholarship Contest. It’s open to all high school seniors graduating in May or June 2018 who reside in the immediate Washington metro area… Read more »
February 9, 2018
As more people rely on the internet to shop, bank, file taxes and more, thieves are finding more ways to steal personal information. While many people take the necessary precautions to keep their details safe, thieves may still be able to attain personal information by hacking into the systems of larger businesses. How can you… Read more »
November 3, 2017
Blackstone Management Holiday Office Hours Thanksgiving – Closed Nov. 23 and 24, Reopen at 8am Nov. 27 Christmas – Closed Dec. 25, Reopen at 8am Dec. 26 New Years – Closed Jan. 1, Reopen at 8am Jan. 2