Here’s where you’ll find recent articles about FirstService Residential, as well as our impact on the areas we serve.
To boost awareness, communication and safety, many communities start a Neighborhood Watch Program. These programs are headed up by residents in a joint effort with local law enforcement. If you are considering starting a Neighborhood Watch program for your community, there are some important factors to consider.
Being a part of a committee for your homeowners’ association can be valuable in many ways. If you have ever considered, or are considering becoming an HOA, condo, or community association committee member then you are on the right path to leadership. Volunteering your time to serve on your HOA’s committee is a great way to learn about what is affecting your community, gain governance experience, and connect with your neighbors on a new and deeper level. Committees are also a great way to transition into a leadership role on your homeowners association’s board of directors. There are some top qualities of effective committee members. Do you have what it takes to serve on an HOA committee?
If you are a board member for your community or homeowners’ association, one of your many responsibilities is determining a fair and appropriate amount for your association’s assessments based off of the budget, reserve study and other factors. Chances are, your community’s governing documents require an increase in assessments to be tied to the Consumer Price Index (CPI) – a solution that standardizes the process and ensures fairness, but can also be confusing to many.
Perhaps your homeowners’ association has decided it’s time to change community management companies. You might be looking for a company that offers community management services that better suit your needs, or maybe your contracted partnership with your current management company is coming to an end.
A crucial role in your building’s image and service experience is your front desk staff. They are the first point of contact for your homeowners and guests, and will set the standard for their experience. As the “face” of your building, your front desk team is responsible for shaping the experiences and perceptions of everyone who resides in or has dealings with your community.
There are more and more social sites popping up each year - Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn, with even more on the way. People use these sites mainly for expanding their social or business networking, but they also serve as a great tool for those who are brand new to a community or new board members of their HOA. Here’s an overview to get you started.
Is installing electric vehicle (EV) charging stations the right decision for your community? If your community association is considering it remember this – you’ll be fulfilling an increasing demand and contributing to your association’s eco-friendly image. This decision can also contribute to a rise in your property values and attract new homeowners. If you’re having trouble knowing where to start, your community management company will be able to help guide you in the right direction.
It seems like a daily occurrence that we hear of a shooting on the news. These shootings can happen anywhere and at any time. This is why it is important for you to have set rules and safety measures so that you are prepared – because being prepared can save lives. And although it may seem like common sense, do you know what to do if there is an active shooter in your residential community or building?
Nearly 500,000 vehicles in the U.S. are electric. That means a half-million drivers can by-pass gas stations and significantly cut down on their carbon footprint. With a steady growth in electric vehicle purchases since their reveal in 2010, a demand for charging stations exists to keep their environmentally-friendly vehicles running. Is your HOA properly equipped?
Saving the planet and saving money can go hand-in-hand. Not only does recycling cut down on air pollution and landfill space, but it can also help you conserve electricity and water– which means savings for your homeowners’ association. Who doesn’t like the sound of that?
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