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Your strata council is working on next year’s budget. You know how important the budget is, what it means to the future of your strata. You know that your fiduciary responsibility is the most important commitment you make to your fellow homeowners. And you’ve planned , and figured, and followed all the budgeting steps , but you’re still staring at the one thing NO strata council wants to do: an increase in strata fees. Before finalizing that increase, take a long, hard look at cost containment strategies that can save your strata money and help optimize your operating budget.

As a homeowner, you want to live in a place that accentuates your style – from a beautiful sense of arrival or exquisitely decorated building lobby, complete with freshly pruned trees and lush landscaping – but unless your strata council has strategically planned out your strata’s budget, you can forget all of that.

It takes a lot to build a great community. You need committed residents, a dedicated strata council, and a clear understanding of everybody's roles and responsibilities.

What makes a community a great place to live? A lot goes into it, but it’s no secret that often depends on community engagement.

It’s that wonderful time of year! Many of us are shopping online to get that perfect gift for our loved ones. And, for those doing last-minute shopping, we don’t want to have to worry that something will go wrong with our deliveries.

Strata corporations need to have policies in place to function well. However, if you create new rules without adequately considering all their potential effects, or if you don't enforce them properly, things can go awry. Follow these tips when creating strata policies to avoid creating problems within the community.

Condo living has its perks: amazing urban locations close to public transportation, being part of a community without having to do yard work or home maintenance, enjoying amenities like fitness centres, party lounges and pools at your doorstep. Just don’t forget that those perks come at a price – a monthly strata fee. What are strata fees and how are they determined?

Not all strata managers have what they need to give you great service. Learn what it takes to be a great strata manager.

The Canadian Senate passed Bill C-45, known as the ‘Cannabis Act’, in June 2018 which legalized the recreational use of cannabis across Canada. The first G-7 country to do so! When Bill-C45 goes into effect on October 17 th , Canadians will be able to purchase, consume and grow cannabis as well as make cannabis-containing products at home, such as food and drinks.

Some community associations simply get three proposals and price quotes, and go with the lowest bidder. That sounds easy, but buyer beware – there is much more to the bidding process than many board members realize. Sometimes simply choosing a vendor by its low price will get you exactly what you pay for. Here are some best practices on simplifying the bidding process and maximizing the value your association receives.

Being part of a Homeowners Association is rewarding – yet it can also be challenging at times. Board members are often tasked with difficult duties ranging from proper financial stewardship to navigating community conflicts, and much more.

Is your association really prepared for an emergency? Learn how to develop an HOA emergency preparedness plan in 8 steps.

How does your California association handle maintenance? Discover your association's unique maintenance style.

Download our complimentary guide, 7 HOA Email Blunders to Avoid to learn what you should and should NOT be doing via email.

Great policies can help your association run smoothly, enhance the resident experience and improve your reputation. Here are five questions to ask before creating a new HOA policy.

Living in a high-rise is unlike any other experience. The amenities, concierge-level services and proximity to cultural and entertainment options can be particularly appealing. Vertical communities can face challenges related to the close quarters of residents. Here are some policies to consider to create a more harmonious environment for all.

How do you tackle alignment as a group of diverse individuals with unique values? Follow these four tips on HOA agreement to find out.

Is your maintenance job turning into a capital improvement? Are you ready for a big capital improvement expenditure? Read on to get answers to your top questions about maintenance, capital improvements and useful life.

Does your association manager have the right tools, resources and support to take your association to the next level?

Learn why effective HOA policy starts with a strong communication plan.

Enforcing HOA policies is nobody’s cup of tea, but having good policy enforcement in place helps improve the resident experience and elevates your reputation. Follow these 4 principles for healthy policy enforcement:

A healthy and effective California homeowners association will not only find great volunteers and committee members, but will empower them to drive positive change in the community. How can your association make this happen?

Association leadership plays an important role in creating harmonious communities. This applies to board members and community management professionals to work in partnership. Here are seven steps to a happy community.

Are you getting the best returns on your reserve funds? Most California board members are not sure. Here are six ways to improve your reserve fund returns and create an HOA investment policy.