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How your HOA can build community spirit
Community spirit: that intangible thing that binds associations together. But building it happens in very tangible ways. Best of all, it’s not as daunting as you might think. A tightly knit community can be created by having your association follow just a few simple steps. Let’s go over some of those ideas right here. -
Why association boards chose FirstService Residential
Finding a property management company to partner with your board isn’t easy. Find out how we can help you. -
3 common HOA maintenance styles
Nothing bites into your budget like maintenance issues. Whether it’s the grounds keeping and upkeep that you pay for on a regular basis or those surprise projects (natural disasters, anyone?) that sneak up on you, maintenance can account for an average of 25% or more of your overall expenditures. -
HOA lawsuit: Why community associations get sued and what to do if it happens to you
Your community or condominium association is there to protect the interests of all of its members. However, there may be situations when one or more residents don’t believe that the association is on their side. Hopefully, everyone involved can come to a reasonable solution, but if you can’t, it’s possible that your association – and even your board members – could become the target of a lawsuit. -
Prevent frozen pipes: Winter pipe safety measures
In this piece, we’ll take a look at some overall winter pipe safety measures, along with some steps you can take for overall plumbing wellbeing. -
Email Communication
You may be unaware that you are opening up all of your emails to scrutiny. When using a personal or work email address to conduct association business, there is a potential liability involved. -
How Can My Association Fund Capital Improvements?
Nothing lasts forever…and when it comes time to replace your high-rise roof, community pool or to add new amenities, your association will need to determine how to pay for it. All of these things – significant repairs and replacements, as well as new construction – are considered capital improvements. -
12 to-do’s for ultimate HOA landscaping maintenance
A good spring-cleaning can do wonders for your community association. Here are some tips to get your started. -
15 Things You’ll Want to Do Before Selecting an Insurance Agent
Insurance is one of the most important line items on your association's budget, but it is oftentimes the most expensive. Do you know how to select the right agent? -
How to Get Rid of Millipedes and How to Prevent Their Invasion
Ah, Florida nights. Perfect temperatures. And...a disgusting mass of undulating insects climbing up the side of your building? Learn how to get rid of millipedes. -
Avoid maintenance surprises with a property maintenance plan
There is no way to avoid surprises when it comes to the maintenance of your community. Preventative maintenance ensures that your systems are keeping future problems at bay; predictive maintenance is also effective. -
3 Cost Containment Strategies to Minimize Assessment Hikes
Your fiduciary responsibility is the most important commitment to fellow homeowners. Learn cost containment strategies that can save your association money. -
What to Know About an HOA Emergency Board Meeting During Trying Times
It's hurricane season again. As soon as June 1st rolls around, we are assaulted with hurricane preparedness pamphlets and emergency information at every turn. -
Can You Go After HOA Owners for Their Guests’ Damages?
Every community can expect to experience negligent or careless guests who will either cause a ruckus, or worse, damage association property. When that happens, deciding who should be held responsible for their actions can create a delicate – and potentially volatile – situation. Oftentimes, Boards may go after the owner, but they shouldn’t forge full-steam ahead without some sort of ammunition. -
Comprehensive Flooring Policy: How to Deal with Noisy Neighbors
Does it sometimes sound like your upstairs neighbors are bowling in their living room? Noises from above can be disruptive, but they might not be entirely your neighbor's fault. -
Energy Efficiency for Community Associations
Many community association boards and residents would like to implement energy efficiency measures in their communities. But what about the cost to get started? -
Estoppel Certificates: 7 Myths and the Real Facts
Estoppel certificates are a critical part of any real estate transaction and can be confusing. What's included, how are they created, what does it all mean? Learn more here. -
First Locally Transmitted Virus Case Confirmed for Zika in Florida
In February, the World Health Organization declared a public health emergency when cases of the Zika virus began to spread, impacting Florida. -
Five Simple Tips for Marketing Your Association
Nothing says a healthy community like full homes/units and bustling activity in common areas. Painting a pretty picture of a dynamic community to potential buyers takes minimal effort on the part of the board. -
Five Reasons to Embrace Florida Board Education
Board members benefit from taking continued education courses. Take a moment to read about the particular advantages that can be obtained. -
Six things you should know about flood insurance in Florida
As a Floridian, you're pretty familiar with flood insurance, but you may not be aware of the recent changes in the law. Learn more here! -
Five Tips for Creating a Condo Maintenance Checklist
Designing and executing a comprehensive plan for preventative maintenance must be a top priority for your building -
Five Ways to Get Ready for a Pool Inspection
A pool inspection can be a major source of anxiety for board members and residents. Don't throw in the towel; there are steps you can take to make sure your inspection goes...well, swimmingly. -
Four Ways to Assign Holiday Decoration Compliance Policies - Without Being a Scrooge
The holidays are a time of joy, cheer, softly twinkling lights and tasteful wreaths, but holiday decorations mean different things to different people. Learn four ways to manage this!