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The Difference Between Operating Costs and Condo Reserve Fund Expenditures
Sometimes confusion exists over what expenses the operating budget covers and those that are reserve fund responsibilities. If board members understand the difference between the two, it's much easier for them to make the correct decisions when managing the affairs of the condominium corporation. -
Seven Important Things to Know About Condominium Boards
Each condominium corporation in Alberta is required by law to elect a board of directors to manage the corporation on behalf of all the owners. This article gives more detail about the election process and the role of the board. -
The Sharing Economy Part 2: Reducing the Risks to Condo Associations and Residents
Short term vacation rentals are popular with both travelers and the homeowners that rent to them. Perhaps you have stayed in a home that was advertised on Airbnb or VRBO. Maybe you have rented your home this way. For the most part people love this alternative to staying in a hotel or a B & B. But what are the implications when the home is part of a multi-family community? What about the common areas and amenities for which all the owners pay upkeep? There can be insurance implications as well. This article discusses some ways the risks to the condominium and its residents can be reduced. -
Should You Consider Moving to a High-Rise Condo?
There are many things to consider when it is time to move. Maybe you’re moving to a new neighbourhood or a new city. What if you want a complete lifestyle change and are thinking about leaving your single-family home or townhome and considering moving to a high-rise condominium? Depending upon your goals, this may or may not be the right move for you. -
Six Simple Steps to Develop Your Condo Budget
A good budget provides the framework for the successful operation of a condominium corporation. Sometimes condo board members are daunted by this important undertaking. We have broken the task down into manageable steps to help you create a financial plan that will accomplish your goals. -
5 Ways to Stop Disagreements from Taking Over Your Board Meetings
If you’ve ever been a volunteer board member, you probably know the importance of board meetings. However, sometimes they are not as productive and professional as they could be. Delicate situations can arise. To keep your meetings focused, respectful and collaborative, put these helpful tips into practice. -
The Nuts and Bolts of Running a Great Condo Board Meeting
Love them or hate them, if you are a condominium board member you know that board meetings are essential to the successful operation of the community. But not all meetings are as effective as they should be. With some planning and guidelines in place this can be improved in short order. -
What are Your Property Manager’s Responsibilities
What are your property manager's responsibilities? Find out if they have what it takes. Upcoming Condominium Management Licenses and more. -
What Your Condo Corporation Needs to Know About the Legalization of Recreational Cannabis
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 C-45 goes into effect on October 17 th , Canadians will be able to purchase, consume and grow up to four cannabis plants, as well as make cannabis-containing products at home. -
Common Social Media Risks Texas HOAs & COAs Should Avoid
How do boards mitigate social media risks? We asked the expert. Watch the webinar to learn how to promote online engagement and avoid legal pitfalls. -
HOA Rental Policy: 5 Steps to Adopting HOA Rental Restrictions
HOA rental restrictions can bring several benefits to a community association if done properly. Here are five steps to follow when adopting HOA rental restrictions successfully. -
Winterizing Your Community Association
Now is the time for building engineers to winterize their buildings to protect them from harsh Illinois winters. -
Watch the Webinar: Lifestyle Trends for 2021
Catch our latest online discussion with our lifestyle gurus, who'll discuss this year's lifestyle trends, best practices and hosting virtual events. -
11 Critical Questions to Ask About Your HOA’s Maintenance Plan
Is your preventative maintenance plan in need of a check-up? Read on to learn the 11 questions you should ask to assess your HOA’s maintenance health. -
HOA Committees and Volunteers: 8 Tips to Rally Residents
An effective Utah homeowners association will not only recruit great volunteers and committee members, but will empower them to help improve the community. The question is – how do you get there? -
Staying Connected: Communication Best Practices for Board Members
These four components of a successful communication plan will help your board create and deliver effective messaging throughout the year. -
Delivering Value: FirstService Residential Energy Aggregation Purchasing Program
FirstService Residential has helped boards and building owners save millions of dollars in energy costs, in part, through our Energy Aggregation Purchasing Program. -
New York’s Climate Mobilization Act | Frequently Asked Questions
FirstService Residential helps condo and co-op boards navigate CMA compliance, avoid costly fines and identify incentive programs that reduce the cost of building upgrades. -
Local Law 97 Updates: Building Energy Grades & Emissions Compliance
Local Law 97 impacts roughly 50,000 buildings across the city, a majority of which are multifamily residential properties. -
Residential EV Charging Stations: Benefits & Incentives for Multifamily Buildings
FirstService Residential recommends that all boards and building owners consider the installation of EV charging stations and incentives available through NYSERDA and ConEd. -
Want to Become a Florida Community Association Manager? Here Are 7 Questions and Answers to Consider
Are you interested in becoming a Community Association Manager? It requires a passion for helping others, empathy, and dedication to providing quality customer service, among other things. Read our article to learn if it's the right fit for you. -
How an HOA Preventative Maintenance Plan Can Keep Your Community From Walking on Thin Ice
Cold weather is upon us, so now is the time for your HOA to make sure your maintenance program is on track. Read this article to learn more. -
How an HOA Preventative Maintenance Plan Can Keep Your Community From Walking on Thin Ice
As a property manager, you always have to make sure your preventive maintenance program is on track. Read this article to learn more. -
Should Your Community Install Car Charging Stations for Electric Cars
More Americans are switching from gasoline to electric vehicles (EVs). Residential properties are installing charging stations to stay relevant and positively impact property values.