Many years ago, while living in a new town home community in Old Bridge, two of my neighbors with homes on the edge of the community decided to improve the nearby common ground with shrubs and trees. While their actions came from a good place, helping to beautify the property, it was a violation of… Read more »
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Posts Tagged: homeowner association
The True Cost of a Low Reserve Account Balance
When a community is new, a study is produced that outlines a budget to fund a reserve account in preparation for future expenses related to the inevitable deterioration of major components of the common property. The study can include things like entrance signs, light poles, siding, roofs and sidewalks. New community boards sometimes don’t see a need to build a reserve fund when everything is new,… Read more »
The Benefits and Burdens of Association Board Leadership
There are several reasons for a person to run for a community board position, and one is because he or she wants to improve their community through service. While it may seem like a simple job, being an active member of an association’s board can be a bit more complicated, especially if the community has issues that require… Read more »
The Importance of a Well-Maintained Property
The third of the five key attributes to a happily managed community is thorough and regular site maintenance. As spring gets into full bloom, maintenance crews and landscapers are out in full force repairing damage from the last several months. I once lived in an apartment building where the owner took preventive maintenance to an extreme – painting, improving and… Read more »
Successfully Finding a New Property Management Firm
Community association trustees, when looking for professional services, search for partners who will deliver deep industry knowledge and expertise for their community, turning in superior work at a price that matches commitment. With lawyers and engineers, association trustees understand the premium paid for retaining the best in the business. The same level of consideration should be afforded when selecting a property… Read more »
The Role of the Property Manager
As agents for the homeowner associations and commercial properties we manage in New Jersey, Sterling’s property managers are often seen by owners as the full decision-makers for the properties we serve. Nothing can be further from the truth. As much as a property manager has influence, he or she has no authority without the consent of the… Read more »
