In today's multi-media world, it's easy to catch the attention of many with pictures or video. If these photos or videos happen to involve a problem within a homeowners association, it's also easy to catch the attention of the local media. There was a recent story in the news of condo owners upset that their parking
Energy bills—like the temperature—always rise in the summer. But there are many inexpensive, energy-saving steps you can take to save money. (As always, be sure to consult with the association to get approval for any major home renovations.) Turn it up. Set your thermostat as high as possible. Start with 78 degrees when at home and 85 degrees when
According to the Denver Business Journal, Colorado's foreclosure-filing rate last month jumped up 21% from April of 2013. This after the foreclosure rate trended downward during the previous year. Each month approximately 1,350 Colorado homeowner are at risk of losing their homes. These are the reasons funding continues for the Colorado Foreclosure Hotline. The
Summer is right around the corner and that means one big part of many HOAs is about to take center stage: the community pool. Perhaps the most widely used amenity of any association, it's important that each community is prepared for pool season. Before the first splash into the water, make sure your community pool meets the checklist:
As the community association management industry continues to evolve and be impacted by laws and legislation, you can't help but notice how fast things change. Which is why the theme of this year's CAI's Spring Showcase was "Staying Ahead of the Curve". At the showcase CAI invited Derek Daly, a Hall of Fame Formula One race car driver, to speak
Minimize board activity outside of scheduled meetings and working sessions. Allow the manager time to complete the action items and collect the information required by the Board to make informed decisions. Constant dialogue outside of meetings consumes time, creates confusion, and causes burnout for both the manager and volunteer Board members. Exchanging occasional emails is
As the weather turns from the cold of winter to the sunny days of spring, it is the perfect time to walk your community and note what, if any, work needs to be done to keep your association looking its best. Regular site visits are conducted by community managers, but board members and residents can also take
With spring right around the corner, homeowners may be contemplating doing that home repair that has been left unattended all winter. If this repair is not covered by your Association, you may be wondering where to start in your search for a contractor. Let Hammersmith help. With all the different companies and contractors out there, it’s tough to find
Community management companies and the managers they hire can be a large part of the success of a homeowner’s association and board of directors. Unfortunately, the reverse effect can also take place. That is why it’s important to understand the roles of the community manager and the board, and how they best work together to
A week into the 2014 legislative session in Colorado and there’s already noise being made on the HOA front. Representative Jeanne Labuda (D-Denver) has informed CAI’s Colorado Legislative Action Committee that she has decided to proceed with the introduction of a bill that would regulate the transfer fees which management companies and managers may charge