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As Canadians anticipate spending the winter months knee-deep in snow and freezing temperatures, it’s likely that some residents in your condominium corporation community are anticipating spending some of their winter in a warmer climate.

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.

There are so many things to enjoy about living in a condominium community. Among them are the sense of community, the great amenities and the high standards. However, if your condo corporation’s finances aren’t stable, none of it is possible.

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.

Proper condominium management depends upon the annual budget for both short- and long-term financial planning. It’s important to follow some guidelines to ensure the success of the community and protect the investment of the owners.

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.

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.

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.

Life in a multi-family community is much more pleasant when residents and leaders each understand their individual rights and responsibilities. As in all aspects of life, respect for each other and adherence to the rules are key components to successful community relations.

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.

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.

As a board member of your condominium corporation you have many responsibilities. Within your role time management and organization are two vital aspects in the life of a board member, but what about communication? Let us offer you some tips on ways to best communicate as you fulfill your duties.

As a board member for your condominium corporation, you know that your community depends on volunteers to operate successfully. However, finding residents who are willing to be on your board of directors, join a committee or help at an event can be challenging.

A strong, healthy corporation requires every facet of property management to work in sync toward one common goal...true financial stability.

What are your property manager's responsibilities? Find out if they have what it takes. Upcoming Condominium Management Licenses and more.

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.

Now is the time for building engineers to winterize their buildings to protect them from harsh Illinois winters.

How do you resolve community conflict, prevent costly and time-consuming litigation and maintain a great reputation in the Nevada marketplace? Consider these three methods of alternative dispute resolution (ADR).

Catch our latest online discussion with our lifestyle gurus, who'll discuss this year's lifestyle trends, best practices and hosting virtual events.

To help you avoid the most common board blunders, we’ve identified four mistakes and some practical ways to avoid them. By preventing blunders, you can help steer your board in the right direction, which can ultimately help improve your overall community.

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?

Improved board meetings play a crucial role in building up your association’s reputation and relevance in the market, which ultimately helps improve property values. Learn the six principles for better board meetings.

These four components of a successful communication plan will help your board create and deliver effective messaging throughout the year.

FirstService Residential has helped boards and building owners save millions of dollars in energy costs, in part, through our Energy Aggregation Purchasing Program.