Articles and News

Reset Filter

  • FLSA Overtime and Wages: How Boards Can Effectively Handle Claims

     Feb 16, 2017
    The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) establishes minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards affecting full-time and part-time workers in the private sector and in Federal, State, and local governments.” Why does this matter to you, as coop or condo board member? Ben Kirschenbaum, vice president and general counsel for FirstService Residential, said that the FLSA applies to all businesses that employ hourly workers, regardless of size.

  • Formalize the Following Co-op Rules and Regulation

     Jan 31, 2017
    High-rise living has more appeal now than ever! The wealth of amenities, unique culture, and concierge-level services draw a greater number and variety of people to vertical living each year. Of course, there are challenges. The density and close quarters of a condo or coop mean that residents need to be respectful of each other and sometimes that can lead to conflict and friction. Let’s take a look at some of the areas where concrete policies can help promote harmony and create order within a high-rise building.

  • NY State Service Dog Regulations in Your Community: 5 Things You Need to Know

     Jan 26, 2017
    For individuals with disabilities, having the assistance and companionship of a service dog can help them achieve a greater quality of life and assist in performing daily tasks. What happens if conflicts arise due to your New York City condominium’s or cooperative’s policies and your need for a service animal? As this is both a sensitive and relevant situation that many condos and co-ops can face, the following guidelines are intended to guide you and your board in clarifying information about service animals and the rights of individuals with disabilities in your community.

  • Professional Enrichment for Managers: The More You Know, the Better

     Jan 23, 2017
    Whether dealing with technology, administration or communication, on any given day property managers and managing agents are required to be jacks of all trades. And while some managers might actually have a practical background in plumbing or finance, it’s impossible for even the most seasoned professional to understand all aspects of running a multifamily property. That’s why engaging in continuing education is essential to maintaining a safe, successful, and financially solvent property. 

  • What is the Difference Between Mediation and Arbitration? Discover Community Conflict Resolution

     Jan 18, 2017
    Within a dense, urban melting pot such as New York City, condominiums and cooperatives flourish with diversity. Communities have a plethora of different personalities coexisting, so it’s a fact of life that conflicts or disputes may arise. While many parties may be able to settle their differences amicably through discussion and negotiation, sometimes disputes escalate into a complex situation. Here, we’ll give you a brief overview of what both conflict resolution processes entail and how they’re different.

  • 2017: Year of the Renter

     Jan 06, 2017
    Robert Scaglion, our executive managing director of new business development, provides commentary on where concessions and rents are headed in this New York Times article.

  • Home And Color Trends You'll Love in 2017

     Dec 27, 2016
    As you ring in the New Year, it’s the perfect time to take stock of your life. You get to look back at all of 2016’s good times and accomplishments, and you also get to plan ahead to make 2017 even better than the past year. You might even make a New Year’s resolution or two to help you improve your health and well-being. But what about your living space? If you haven’t taken a good look at your home decor recently, the time is now!
     

  • FirstService Residential Offers Active Shooter Training, NYC and Preparation for Building Staff

     Dec 16, 2016
    More than 370 mass shootings in the U.S. this year have killed 434 people and injured nearly 1,500 more. Due to these alarming statistics, FirstService Residential identified the value in educating both the company’s associates and building staff members on possible active shooter situations within residential properties. 

  • Roommates Divide and Conquer With Temporary Walls

     Dec 09, 2016
    FirstService Residential’s thought leadership is reflected in President Dan Wurtzel’s commentary in this article appearing in Sunday’s New York Times Real Estate section focused on tenants who have incorporated temporary walls into their living spaces to reduce the cost of rent and make living more affordable.

  • With Great Power Comes Great Opportunity

     Dec 07, 2016
    December’s Habitat magazine features an article about properties that became stronger and healthier after facing significant tragedies. FirstService Residential is credited with helping The Strand, a 300-unit condominium, quickly recover from the calamity.