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Buying in bulk savings
Three tips for buying in bulk savings
Oct 15, 2014As consumers, we’re familiar with saving money by purchasing products like food and household goods in bulk. But, can this same savings model be applied to the purchases and operational costs of a homeowner association (HOA), condominium or community association? -
Top trends in active adult communities
Top trends in active adult communities: How they are changing
Oct 06, 2014Mention the phrase “active adult communities” and a few images probably spring to mind. But whatever you’re thinking (and we’re guessing it involves golf carts), the reality is actually a lot more diverse. -
Lightbulb with green grass and dirt with a plant inside of it
Put an Energy Saving Program Together for a Multifamily Property
Oct 02, 2014Many HOAs and community associations would like to save energy and energy spending, but they think that putting an energy management plan into place for their multifamily property is difficult to accomplish. FS Energy's Chris Normandeau explains some basic, easy-to-do steps that can make a real impact on an association's energy usage and budget. -
HOA paperwork
Six organization tips for HOA paperwork
Sep 25, 2014Let’s face it: nobody puts “organizing paperwork” at the top of his or her favorite-things-to-do list. But maintaining good records is essential to the critical functions of your homeowner association (HOA), and following a system of organization can streamline your operations by increasing efficiency, providing transparency and preserving a history of communication. -
Three things to remember about life with your aging parent
Three things to remember about life with your aging parent
Sep 18, 2014As our parents age, we are fortunate to enjoy an ever-evolving relationship with them. With time comes perspective, and with that perspective comes a new way for adults to relate with their parents. -
HOA finances
Four ways to maintain your HOA financial fitness
Sep 12, 2014Keeping your homeowner association (HOA) or community association’s finances healthy works the same way as staying physically fit: don’t overindulge and make smart choices. And the upside is that the only thing you’ll have to exercise is good judgment. Here are some tips to help you do just that. -
community volunteerism
How to increase HOA and community volunteerism
Sep 03, 2014Regardless of the size of your community, or where it’s located, there is always one thing that every community association board and committee needs: resident volunteers. Unfortunately, however, volunteers are often a scarce resource. -
Back to school tips for parents and kids
Back to school tips for parents and kids
Sep 02, 2014As a parent, you know what back to school means. It’s more than a change in your schedule -- it’s a change in your whole reality. Rushing out the door. Blasting through the homework. Making second trips back to the house for forgotten lunch boxes, book order money or scarves. -
HOA succession planning
Establishing board member succession: A complete guide
Aug 28, 2014Thriving business organizations plan for succession. It’s built into their corporate strategy – team members with potential are identified early on, and then groomed for the leadership positions they’ll someday hold. -
Residential pool inspection checklist for your community
Residential pool inspection checklist for your community
Aug 26, 2014A health inspector is coming to assess your community pool. Are you prepared? If not, a pool inspection can be a major source of anxiety for your board members and residents. But don’t throw in the towel – there are steps you can take to make sure your inspection goes...well, swimmingly. -
Lightbulb with green grass and dirt with plant growing out of it representing green energy
FirstService Residential Sustainability Expo
Aug 25, 2014Reducing energy usage and costs, while increasing "green" living is vitally important not just for multi-family properties and residents, but also for the environment. In New York, FirstService Residential recently hosted its Third Annual Sustainability Expo and Symposium to help building staff and property managers increase their commitment and actions towards increasing efficiency and sustainability. Want to know more? Check out this recent spread in the Mann Management Report.
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HOA flooring rules
Understanding HOA flooring rules and protocol
Aug 25, 2014Could the upstairs neighbors possibly be any louder? It sounds like a war is going on up there with all the furniture moving. And when they walk around, it sounds like they’re stomping around in cement shoes. Enough is enough!