Making a Real Difference: How to Give Back to Our Communities
In Plantation, Florida, a property manager identified a basic need within his community and took action. By obtaining a box of 96 toilet paper rolls, he aimed to provide relief during challenging times. With the green light from the board, he successfully distributed these rolls to over 42 residents, finding immense fulfillment in the simple […]
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Avoiding Special Assessments for Associations
Special assessments can be an unwelcome necessity for board members, often required due to underfunded reserves that are needed for significant capital projects like roof or equipment replacements. Additionally, assessments might be necessary because of rising insurance premiums or budget deficits, leading residents to pay more than their regular monthly assessments, sometimes amounting to hundreds […]
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Heading South for the Winter? Here's How to Secure Your Home Before You Go
As the weather turns chilly and leaves begin to fall, many flock to southern destinations to enjoy milder climates. If you're among those escaping the cold, it's essential to ensure your northern home is safeguarded while you're away. Residents in regions like Canada and parts of the Northeast, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic can avoid costly damages […]
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Can Homeowners Association Fees Be Refunded?
Homeowners Association (HOA) fees are a key element of community living, providing the necessary funds to maintain shared spaces and amenities. Yet, questions often arise about these fees, especially their potential refundability. Let's examine the details of HOA fees while addressing questions such as "What are HOA fees," "How is operating surplus handled," "What level […]
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FAQs for Annual and Special HOA Meetings
Every homeowner association is required to hold annual meetings, often referred to as annual general meetings or AGMs, as well as special meetings when urgent matters arise that cannot be postponed until the next board meeting. Condo and HOA annual and special meetings must adhere to the association’s bylaws. These bylaws establish the necessary protocols, […]
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Mastering Social Media: Building Community Effectively
Social media can serve as an exceptional tool for marketing and communications within a community association. It offers a vibrant platform to inform residents, foster connections, and enhance member loyalty. However, a strategic approach is essential for effectively managing your community’s social media footprint. Some might wonder why a social media strategy is necessary, dismissing […]
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Airbnb & Short-Term Rentals: Protecting Multi-Family Buildings and Residents
The rise of the sharing economy is boosting platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway, which offer people the ability to rent out their homes on a short-term basis. This trend is having significant effects on multi-family buildings across North America. Here’s a strategic approach for condo boards and strata councils to safeguard their properties. *Why […]
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Thriving in Retirement: The Growth of South Florida's Industry
South Florida has become a prime destination for retirees, boasting the largest population of individuals aged 65 and older in the United States, and this number continues to rise. Over the next 15 years, 8,000 Americans will reach retirement age each day, leading many from the Baby Boomer generation to seek out Florida as the […]
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Fresh Strategies for Community Preventative Maintenance
While your community might not have a crystal ball among its amenities, you can still stay ahead of potential issues by implementing a community preventative maintenance schedule. Crafted by the Board, a designated committee, or in collaboration with a skilled property manager, such a plan is essential for keeping everything running smoothly and preventing unexpected […]
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Handling Misuse of Authority by HOA Board Members
Homeowner associations (HOAs) are integral to the effective management and smooth running of many neighborhoods. These organizations rely on volunteer board members who ensure communities thrive by maintaining a balanced and pleasant living atmosphere. From the president to the treasurer, each board role carries distinct responsibilities but is equally crucial in fostering a thriving community. […]
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