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Find Blog Articles for Florida’s Condo, HOA and the Management Industry. 

Our national team recently completed this striping and sealcoating job in Weston, FL!

Our national team recently completed this striping and sealcoating job in Weston, FL!

Do you have properties across the nation? Contact ASP, we will assign an account manager for all of your properties and handle it from there.


Join us Wednesday at the Palm Beach Condo & HOA Expo!

Make sure to stop by booth 332 and meet a few of our local account managers 😉


PARKING LOT &
PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS

OUR WORK

  • HOA
  • MULTIFAMILY
  • UNIVERSITIES/SCHOOLS
  • COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE
  • MUNICIPALITIES
  • INDUSTRIALDo you have questions about asphalt sealing in West Palm Beach? The best way to protect asphalt surfaces is to sealcoat asphalt parking lots. If you are looking for the most trustworthy Asphalt Sealcoating Palm Beach Gardens company look no further than Atlantic Southern Paving!Asphalt is durable and flexible, but it can also deteriorate. It is possible to double the lifespan of asphalt by applying asphalt sealcoating. This protects the asphalt from future damage.

    Continue reading to learn about the environmental factors that can cause asphalt surfaces to deteriorate. To schedule a free assessment and request a quote from one of the best paving companies West Palm Beach, please call Atlantic Southern Paving and Sealcoating.

    Asphalt Oxidation and The Sun

    Sealcoating asphalt in West Palm Beach homes is a great way to protect your property from oxidation and ultraviolet rays. Asphalt starts to deteriorate at a microscopic level as soon as it is installed.

    The asphalt’s binders begin to harden when it is exposed to oxygen. The asphalt surface can crack and become brittle from the continued hardening. Rainwater, moisture, and oxygen can penetrate pavement surfaces even if they have the smallest cracks.

    The asphalt subbase can be affected by water and moisture. This can cause it to weaken and lose its strength. Sealcoating is very helpful as it protects the surface against oxidation and fills surface voids.

    How water damages asphalt

    The asphalt sealcoating of parking lots and driving surfaces allows them to resist water and prevent it from contacting the asphalt surface. Water can seep through asphalt, particularly when it is heavy rain.

    Water can cause sub-base to become softened if it collects. Soft subbases can cause potholes or expensive repairs. Sealcoating asphalt surfaces create a protective layer that repels water. Sealcoating asphalt surfaces can help you save significant money on future repairs.

    Oil and Gas Spills

    Parking lots and asphalt surfaces must withstand harmful car chemicals like oil and gas. Particularly vulnerable to chemicals from automobiles are parking spaces.

    The asphalt can soften if it is contaminated with gasoline or automobile oil. Oil or gasoline can penetrate asphalt pavement and cause sub base to degrade.

    Asphalt sealcoating is made up of additives that protect asphalt from chemicals used in automobiles. You can also fill surface voids to reduce the depth of oil and gas that can penetrate asphalt.

    Professional Asphalt Sealcoating In West Palm Beach

    It is important to find a reliable and experienced contractor to sealcoat your West Palm Beach property. Atlantic Southern Paving and Sealcoating provides asphalt maintenance and construction services for more than two decades.

    Every job we do is completed with customer satisfaction in mind. Atlantic Southern Paving can be reached at 954-518 4315 to speak with an expert about sealing asphalt surfaces. Ask for a free estimate on sealing your property.

    Asphalt Sealcoating Palm Beach Gardens

 

 

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You want to know why some tile sealers for ceramic and porcelain are better than others?

You want to know why some tile sealers for ceramic and porcelain are better than others?

Let me share what I believe you want to know to make a smart decision.

 

What Should You Look For & Look Out For When Choosing A Tile Sealer?

LOOK FOR:

1) The supplier or the manufacturer is very clear that their sealer will bond to ceramic and porcelain because this type of surface is very dense. It is very impermeable. You CAN NOT just use a standard concrete surface sealer on ceramic and porcelain tiles. Check for that, first of all.

2) The tile sealer product will form a film on the surface and is not just a penetrating or impregnator type sealer.

NOTE:
Impregnator types of products can’t bond or soak into the tile surface. They do very little to change the look of the tile and typically, this type of sealer will rub off very quickly, forcing you to seal the porcelain or ceramic tiles repeatedly.

LOOK OUT FOR or BEWARE OF…

Materials That Are Lacking In Store-Bought Tile Sealer Products… Making Them Ineffective.

First of all, any sealer you choose for ceramic and porcelain tile must have adhesion promoters that will allow the product to bond to that surface.

The components found in standard surface treatments or surface sealers simply won’t work.

Secondly, make sure if you want to change the look of the tile or the sheen of the tile, the product is a film-forming product, not just a penetrating or impregnator sealer.

These do very little to change the look of the tile and will not last for long on a very dense, impermeable ceramic or porcelain surface.

What Kind Of Results Do Ineffective Floor Sealers Produce?

If you use a product that’s not developed specifically for ceramic and porcelain tile, what’s going to happen is:

  • It may put a film over the surface, but because there’s no way for it to absorb into the surface. It’s going to lift and peel very quickly.
  • It may last a few weeks, but after any standard use or cleaning of any kind, lifting and peeling will very quickly show up.
  • If you use penetrating types of sealers, you won’t see any change in appearance, or very little at all because there’s nowhere for those components to penetrate the tile.

What Should You Be Aware Of Before You Buy A Tile Sealer?

3 Specific Things To Look For In A Tile Sealer That Will Provide Superior Results:

  1. You need to have adhesion promotion technology that allows for covalent bonding to a very dense ceramic or porcelain tile surface.
  2. You need to use urethane technology, which is very durable, UV resistant. Your product needs to have two parts to create a very tough cross-link that produces an industry-leading seal over the tile and grout.
  3. Your sealer needs a high amount of polymer in the product for durability and protection, around 50% solids, which is much higher than standard floor finishes.

The Advantages Of Sealing Ceramic And Porcelain Tile.

  • Easy Maintenance and Cleaning
  • Protective Shield Across Tile & Grout
  • Eliminate Grout Odor
  • Maintains Wet Look
  • UV stable, Non-Yellowing
  • Chemical Resistant
  • Excellent Abrasion resistant
  • Increased slip resistance options

Where Should You Use Ceramic And Porcelain Tile Sealer Products?

Typical Uses:

On the commercial side, you’re going to have restrooms, shower facilities, kitchens, showrooms, entrance-ways, hallways, lobby areas and stairways, both interior and exterior.

On the consumer or residential side, in the living areas, kitchens and the bathrooms.

These areas below are where you should look for a tile sealer that will make the floor much easier to clean, give it wet look if desired and also be resistant to chemicals, pet and food stains.

  • Bathrooms/ Restrooms
  • Kitchens and Dining Areas
  • Lobby and Hallways
  • Stairs and Entrances
  • Tile and Grout Surface
  • Floors and walls
  • Ceramic and Porcelain
  • Stone and Concrete
  • Interior and Exterior
  • Etc.

Surface Preparation

Proper preparation is critical to ensure an adequate bond.

The ceramic and grout must be thoroughly cleaned with an appropriate cleaner. For cleaning and restoring old ceramic, porcelain tile and grout to like-new condition, we recommend using an alkaline cleaner formulated for ceramic and porcelain tile.

This will cut through tough grease, soap scum and soil stains. For shower stalls and outside applications, we recommend you use an acid-based cleaner to lightly etch the surface and ensure greater adhesion in wet conditions. This can also remove tough, hard water deposits, grout haze and efflorescence.

What Do You Need To Know About A Gloss, Matte Or Satin Finish?

Substances that may soil the tile and grout are urine or other organic matter or even aggressive cleaning chemicals.  This is where a two-part product, like GlazeGuard® Ceramic and Porcelain tile sealer really produces results.

It’s a very tough, hard-wearing sealer. It puts a barrier across the tile and the grout, eliminates odor and makes the entire floor much easier to clean and maintain. For addition slip resistance ( anti- slip properties) GlazeGuard® Plus should be used.

high gloss sealer for porcelain tiles

GlazeGuard Gloss sealer is developed specifically for ceramic and porcelain tiles. It will put a clear sealer across the floor tile and grout, giving it a high gloss wet look appearance, as well as provide a barrier that will protect against chemicals and soiling and make the floor much easier to clean.

GlazeGuard Satin finish is designed to specifically bond to ceramic and porcelain tile. It also gives the floor a wet look appearance and puts a nice medium sheen across the tile and the grout. The satin finish provides a protective barrier that will resist water, chemicals and make the floor much easier to keep clean.

GlazeGuard Matte finish is designed to specifically bond to ceramic and porcelain tile, and it will deliver a natural low sheen look to the tile and provide a barrier across the floor, both the tiles and the grout. It’s very chemical resistant, very water-resistant and makes the tile much easier to keep clean.

Glazeguard PLUS Anti Slip Coating For Tile, Vinyl, Wood, Concrete Floors And Metal

GlazeGuard® Plus is a solvent-free, virtually odorless, urethane coating with exceptional adhesion and performance properties. The addition of CoverGrip achieves high slip resistance, significantly reducing the potential for a slip in accordance with the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) standards.

The Best Tools And Equipment To Use.

In order to apply a ceramic and porcelain tiles sealer, you need to approach it as if you were painting the floor.

You will need:

  1. A good quality roller
  2. A roller tray
  3. A little hotdog roller or brush for sealing around the edges.

We recommend a roller that is a good quality 3/8th nap microfiber. Change out rollers after 60 minutes of use with a fresh one. We also recommend that you only mix the amount of product that you can use in about 60 minutes.

Make sure the room is well lit and that you take your time and apply the product. The product needs to be fully mixed before you use it. Use a mixing stick to slowly mix the material, then pour it into a roller tray. Then roll it out just like you were painting a floor.

Cleaning And Preparing Tiles Before Applying A Sealer.

We always tell people to be fussy about cleaning porcelain tile before sealing it.

Remember, you’re going to seal it with something that’s going to last several years. Make sure there’s no dust or dirt on the floor. Any footprints or stains will be locked down by the sealer.

So be fussy about cleaning it. You should use a High pH tile and grout cleaner that will remove dirt grease stains.

If applying GlazeGuard to areas that are frequently exposed to water or cleaning chemicals, like showers or restrooms, we recommend you micro-etch the surface with something like our PreTreat Mild Acidic Ceramic Tile Cleaner. It will prepare the surface and give you better adhesion for the GlazeGuard® sealer.

After Applying The Product, What Ongoing Floor Care Is Recommended?

One of the key advantages of using our GlazeGuard tile sealers is that it makes cleaning and maintaining the floor much easier.

You don’t need to use harsh or aggressive chemicals. You just need to use mild detergents or mild soap to clean the surface. The dirt won’t stick to the surface as it does with untreated tiles.

You don’t have to use a concentrated level of cleaning supplies, which should reduce your costs noticeably.

It’s also important to keep dust and dirt and sand off the floor. It’s a good practice to use mats at entrance ways to trap dirt, dust and grease before they get onto the floor.

What Are Customers Saying About Glazeguard®?

Contractors-and-Consumers-use-GlazeGuard-2

 

Our Clients Love The Entire Glazeguard® Product Line For A Few Key Reasons:

  • They are very water-resistant and prevent stains and discoloration from excessive exposure to moisture or continuous immersion.
  • They are very chemical resistant and prevent harmful and staining substances from getting through to the floor below.
  • They improve the appearance of ceramic and porcelain floors and walls, for much longer than store-bought sealers.
  • They don’t strip off easily and require gentle cleaning with everyday soaps or detergents.
  • They reduce the costs of cleaning, maintenance and labor because once sealed, dirt, stains and discolorations are a thing of the past.
  • And if something goes wrong, the customer can simply strip that local area and re-apply the GlazeGuard® product.
  • They protect both the tile floor and the grout, to keep surfaces clean and odor-free.

Every product in the GlazeGuard® line makes ceramic and porcelain floors look pristine and easy to maintain. And applying them is easy enough for the average do-it-yourself consumer.

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Drones capture thousands of high-quality photos as they move in and around buildings at different altitudes.

Drones capture thousands of high-quality photos as they move in and around buildings at different altitudes.

Drones capture thousands of high-quality photos as they move in and around buildings at different altitudes.

Performing drone inspections on a consistent basis allows property managers to observe time-dependent changes such as concrete deterioration, roof wear and tear, and hurricane damage.
At SRI, our FAA-certified pilots perform drone surveys of residential and commercial properties throughout South Florida.
Learn more about our drone services @ https://ow.ly/Qy6u50QWZNw

DRONE SURVEYS

Red circle blog post icon

Drones take many videos and high-quality photos as they move in and around buildings at different altitudes. In a single mission, hundreds of data points can be captured for later use. That data provides a historical record to aid in insurance claims, maintenance and future renovations. At SRI, our FAA-certified pilots perform drone surveys of residential and commercial properties throughout South Florida. We use Catalogger image management software to easily store, search and access image and video data.

FAA-Certified Drone Pilots

All of our pilots have passed the FAA’s Small UAS Rule (Part 107) examination and maintain their flying credentials by passing recurrent examinations every two years.

Image Management with Catalogger
With a simple interface, Catalogger allows users to quickly access and share drone survey photos to guide maintenance, repair, and improvement projects. Image data is stored on the cloud and can be viewed on multiple devices via a password-protected portal.
Mission Planning With Recorded GPS Coordinates

Allows for repeated flights along the same path. Missions can be scheduled periodically to observe time-dependent changes such as concrete deterioration, roof wear and tear, hurricane damage, and modifications to surrounding structures.

Catalogger image management system logo
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Discover the Power of HOA Websites!  From simplifying admin tasks to enhancing community engagement, learn why every HOA needs a website.

Discover the Power of HOA Websites! From simplifying admin tasks to enhancing community engagement, learn why every HOA needs a website.

5 examples of HOA websites (plus important features)

Almost every company and business has a website today – and for good reason. Anyone who wants to know more about you, or the products or services you provide, is going to search for you online. A well designed, user-friendly website helps ensure prospective clients convert to long-term customers.

Download our free HOA website template/guide

Now, a homeowners association isn’t exactly like a business, but there are many similarities. HOAs must keep homeowners informed, collect payments (in the form of fees or dues) and  advertise the community to prospective homebuyers. These are just a few of the many reasons why HOAs are strongly encouraged to have their own community website.

Table of contents

 

How a website can help HOAs operate with fewer glitches

An HOA website acts as a secure platform for sharing and receiving essential information like news, announcements, notices, forms, governing documents, resources, directories, and more.  Instead of having to ask management or the board about upcoming member meetings or request an architectural change form, owners can log on to the association’s website and immediately get everything they need from one place.

The best websites will have a secure portal or page that only members can access. This helps with information sharing while being mindful of security and privacy.

Public photos of events, amenities and the HOA can also be shared to showcase the best of your community and entice prospective buyers. It’s an affordable and effective way to advertise.

Administrative tasks, such as maintenance requests or payments, can be streamlined and automated when they are brought online. Best of all, having an online system keeps everyone more accountable. Once a payment is made or a request is submitted, proof of that action is immediately available to management and owners.

 

Some states have made websites mandatory for associations  

In some states, websites are actually required for larger communities. In Florida, if your condo association has 150 or more units, then it must have a website that complies with specific requirements (timeshare units are excluded).

Texas just put a similar rule into effect for HOAs with at least 60 lots, or any association under contract with a management company. These HOAs must make the most current version of the association’s “dedicatory instruments” relating to the association or subdivision—and filed in the county deed records—available on an internet website. Information must be maintained by the association or management company working for the HOA; it must be made available to all members.

When it comes to maintaining a happy and efficient HOA, communication is key. User-friendly technology has given HOAs an opportunity to improve connectivity and engagement. A website is one tool that will help HOA members to stay informed and involved. Apathy can lead to a fractured and stagnant HOA; a website encourages the opposite.

 

 Why don’t more HOAs have websites?

Websites have come a long way, and with so many DIY platforms available, it’s become much easier to make one. But some boards may still be apprehensive about having a community website, while others may be worried about the time or costs involved in maintaining it. These are valid concerns, and it is important to discuss the following points with your HOA board before you move forward with getting a website:

  • What problems will the website aim to solve for owners, board members and management?
  • Can (and should) the HOA maintain the website on its own?
  • How much can the association afford to spend on a website? There are hosting fees and maintenance fees to consider in addition to the initial cost of the site
  • Has the board spoken with an attorney about the website and what information should be gated?
  • What are the requirements of the association? What features would it like the website to have?
  • Does the state or municipality have any requirements when it comes to HOA websites?
  • Can the website integrate with any of our current online systems?
  • Is there an HOA software company that could offer more options and features?

 

Getting a custom website

If the budget is available, many HOAs will elect to have someone else build their website for them. It’s usually a less stressful process when there’s a professional taking care of the hard stuff. While there are dozens of exceptional web designers out there, it can be hard to find the right one for your community.

Consider taking a less traditional route and hiring an HOA software company to build a custom site for you. Condo Control has a professional in-house designer available, and we work exclusively with residential communities. That means we’re in a better position to build an HOA-specific website than other developers.

Furthermore, we’ll make sure that owners have a password-protected section where they can easily find community news and information. Owners also have the option to login to their personal Condo Control account directly from the HOA website. From there, they can make online payments, book amenities, submit service requests/ architectural change forms and much more.

 

Make sure you get these 5 features

Your HOA website should be built based around the specific needs and goals of your community. That may mean you only need a few pages. Conversely, you may require multiple pages if your owners prefer to get documents and information online.

That being said, most communities will want to have the following features available to owners:

 

Desktop and mobile-friendly design

Your website must be available through mobile and desktop. Mobile traffic accounts for almost half of web traffic worldwide. According to Statista, In the first quarter of 2021, mobile devices (excluding tablets) generated 54.8% of global website traffic. Basically, more and more people are visiting websites through their phones. The convenience and ease of access means this trend will continue.

 

Community calendar

One of the best ways to ensure your owners show up to events is to integrate a community calendar right into the website. This is an easy way to keep everyone in the loop. When used collaboratively with HOA management software, admins can add events from the system and include details for meetings, social activities and even things like garbage pickup. These activities will then appear on the website calendar. Plus events can be added ahead of time or as they come up – it’s a flexible and simple solution.

 

Document storage

Giving owners 24/7 access to forms and governing documents, or board members a place where they can store and review every item relating to HOA business, is a gamechanger. Trying to keep papers organized is a lot of work, and trying to locate that one item you need in a file cabinet of folders is even harder. With online document storage, owners simply need to log in to the password protected area of the website, enter a keyword and they should be able to find what they’re looking for in seconds.

 

Resident maintenance requests

Since we’re keeping with the theme of simplifying and streamlining processes, online resident maintenance requests is another must-have website feature. Digital forms can be submitted by owners, and they can do this while they’re watching tv or commuting to work (since your site is mobile friendly). Management can see when new forms are submitted and request to receive notifications if they forget to follow up after a certain number of days.

 

Digital bulletin board and announcements

Communication is often the biggest issue impacting HOA communities. Sometimes, management thinks they are sharing enough, but owners still want more. Having an online system to post updates, notices and other information is an effective, cost-efficient solution. Messages can be created and shared in seconds, and associations forgo the print and mailing costs. Management can include links and attachments with these messages, too. Set expiry dates for time-sensitive announcements, or keep them up on the board for the entire year.

 

5 examples of great HOA websites

Below are some great examples of simple, user-friendly websites:

 

Lake Linganore Association

About the association

Lake Linganore is a very large association located in Maryland. It has dozens of private amenities available to users, including beaches, basketball courts, a dog park and even an events tent. Lake Linganore water is used as the primary source of drinking water for the City of Frederick, and it’s the emergency back-up water supply for Frederick County. It holds over 500-million gallons of water!

 

Why we like this website

The Lake Linganore site is very easy to navigate. There is contact information listed on the site, and a few small dropdown menus so as not to overwhelm the user. The visuals are also “on-brand,” or representative of the association’s qualities and characteristics. The interactive sections, such as the amenities map and historical timeline, is a great way to attract prospects.

 

Solano Grove

About the association

Solano Grove is a well-established community located in Jacksonville, Florida. It is an older condominium community, but that just means the units are more spacious than some of the newer builds.

 

Why we like this website

Solano Grove’s website offers users a clean and visually appealing space. There is just enough information; everything you need is easy to find. Owners won’t have a hard time figuring out where to login or register for the password-protected section.

 

Surfsong Condos

About the association

Surfsong Condos has 72 condominium units, a lovely clubhouse situated next to an oceanfront swimming pool and hot tub, and two tennis courts. Located in San Diego, atop a ninety-foot bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it is a truly beautiful place to live.

 

Why we like this website

Surfsong’s website sets the tone for the community. It is organized, but has a fun, laidback feel too. Not only are there photos of the area, but the website also offers visitors a breathtaking video of the condo community as well.

The site encourages new owners to sign up for an account using information they would have received in their welcome letter. Moreover, it has a small list at the bottom of the website informing owners of the information they will be able to obtain on the password-protected section.

Detailed contact information for the management team can also be found at the bottom of the website so that anyone who wishes to speak with them can get in touch quickly and easily.

 

Deering Bay Marina

About the association

Deering Bay Marina, located in South Miami-Dade County, is a pristine marina community that caters to lovers of boating, nature, and outdoor sport. Members have access to some of the best fishing spots around.

 

Why we like this website

Beside the beautiful photos of this stunning marina, Deering Bay Marina’s website has lots of helpful information readily available. For example, you can check local tides and weather, and any slips that are for sale or for lease. Members can access a password-protected section of the site as well where they will get to see information and updates released exclusively for them.

 

The Willows HOA

About the association

The Willows HOA Resort Living boasts the perfect climate with tranquil and beautiful landscapes bordering the Bay. The Willows’ 201 homes are adjacent to Alameda’s shopping mall. There is a large clubhouse, perfect for parties and a gym as well as an inviting pool.

Why we like this website

The design is ideal for HOAs looking for a simple, straightforward layout. Updates to the community are posted on the landing page for ease of access and immediate viewing by community members. Important HOA documents are accessible with a login from the home page. Tabs at the top take you directly to the specific page, without a long dropdown menu to scan.

 

Bonus: An HOA website template created by Condo Control

Condo Control offers all of the must-have features that we highlighted earlier on. Our HOA management software supports and works directly with the websites our team creates. We build professional, user-friendly websites for HOAs that want to improve communications and augment the association’s brand. Click here to see an example.

Note that we can customize even simple templates. On this one, we include amenities and information about board meetings and board members. You will also see how the events calendar looks from a resident’s perspective. Admins can update monthly calendars directly from their Condo Control account. Our goal is to showcase the very best of your community.

 

What makes a great website

It’s really important that your website is aesthetically pleasing. To put it bluntly, an ugly site isn’t going to encourage owners to use it. But – looks aren’t everything. A great website is fast, user-friendly, current and secure. Some of these qualities will overlap with must-have website features we mentioned earlier.

 

Mobile-friendly

We’ve already talked about the importance of making sure your HOA website is mobile friendly.

 

Fast

Our attention spans are shorter than ever, and people expect fast load times. Your website should be capable of solving problems for owners, not creating more frustrations for them. If you hire someone to build your website for you, they will be able to take the proper steps to ensure your site loads quickly without compromising on the quality of images or functionalities.

 

Informative

The website should have all of the resources that owners frequently ask for. This saves you and your staff time since owners will be able to do more for themselves. Announcements, governing documents, and events should be available on the password-protected section of the site.

 

User-friendly

The website should be easy to navigate and allow visitors to find what they are looking for right away. Simplicity trumps complexity when it comes to websites.

 

Secure

Security must always be prioritized. Personal and sensitive information is invaluable; HOAs must take every step possible to ensure only authorized individuals have access to this information. In addition to creating a section just for residents, be sure to Secure your site with HTTPS (Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure).

 

Costs                                                                        

The last aspect of HOA websites we will discuss is the costs. While you could probably find a free website template, we strongly recommend investing in a site that will offer you the most value for your investment. Free sites will be slow, may have tons of ads and they are not very customizable. Free websites will not provide a great experience for you or your owners.

If you are fortunate enough to have a board or committee member who is comfortable with something like WordPress and a bit of code, your association might spend anywhere from $150 – $600 per year. Costs will depend on whether you build from scratch, or pay for a website builder like Wix or Squarespace.

This cost estimate takes into account things like the domain name, hosting, premium themes and add-ons. The downside here is that you are responsible for updating and maintaining everything.

Prefer to hire a professional instead? You could be charged anywhere from $3,000 – $20,000 (or more). That’s a huge range, but there are a lot of variables to consider. The skill of the developer, whether you hire a freelancer or agency to do the work, the custom features you require, add-ons like quarterly updates and any additional services will all impact the price.

 

Conclusion  

HOA websites can act as a central resource hub for associations. Even if your owners aren’t tech-savvy, almost anyone can navigate and use a well-designed website. Plus, it doubles as an efficient advertising tool. With so many features and functions, having an HOA website just makes sense.

 

LOCATIONS

Suite 1000 – 2 Carlton St.Toronto, ON M5B 1J3

276 5th Avenue – Suite 704, New York, NY 10001

PHONE

Toll-Free: 1-888-762-6636
Sales: 416-961-7884
Support: 647-365-1746

 

 

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Legal Update 2024  2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307 at the Palm Beach Condo HOA EXPO. by kbr legal

Legal Update 2024 2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307 at the Palm Beach Condo HOA EXPO. by kbr legal

Legal Update 2024

2:30-4:30pm | 2 CEUs in LU | No. 9632307

Get updated on the most recent legislative changes and discuss the statutory changes made by Florida Legislature and how they directly affect managers and their communities.

Instructor: Allison L. Hertz, Esq. BCS of KBR Legal

 

Learn the Legal Updates for 2024, Managers and Board Members this is a must!

Register / attend the expo

 

 

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People can be confused about the difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors. | SFPMA

People can be confused about the difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors. | SFPMA

For most members of the condo community, the Property Manager is the face of the condo corporation or home owner’s association. They are responsible for day-to-day running of things– they look after the bank accounts, handle the checks, field correspondence, and interact with owners more frequently than the Board does.

by 

Because of this, I find that people can be confused about the difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors.

Are you confused about who does what?

For most members of the condo community, the Property Manager is the face of the condo corporation or home owner’s association. They are responsible for day-to-day running of things– they look after the bank accounts, handle the checks, field correspondence, and interact with owners more frequently than the Board does.

Because of this, I find that people can be confused about the difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors.

 

Why can’t the property manager look after everything?

I’ve heard board members ask “Why can’t I just let my Property Manager look after everything?” and “Isn’t it their job to do this? I don’t have time to look after all of this stuff”. Owners also have trouble knowing who is responsible for what; when should they contact the Board and when should they contact the Property Manager?

In this post, I’ll answer these questions, and hopefully, the difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors will be clear by the end.

 

Understanding the different roles

To understand the different roles, I like to think of a condo like a coffee shop. The property management company is like the staff that keeps the shop running: baristas, managers, cleaners, etc.

They are the people that interact with everyone on a day-to-day basis and do everything to make sure that the coffee shop does everything a coffee shop should. While they have some flexibility to solve problems as they arise, they are not responsible for major decisions — financial or otherwise.

 

What does the board do?

The Board of Directors acts like the corporate executives at the head office. It’s up to them to set the prices, operating procedures, and make the decisions that shape the direction of the company. The success of the enterprise is their responsibility; the staff carry out their decisions.

It’s not the barista’s job to ensure the coffee shop is selling coffee for the optimal price or that the products are the best value. Similarly, the Property Manager isn’t responsible for making the best financial decisions for the condo corporation; they do not have a fiduciary responsibility.

 

What are difference between the roles of the Property Manager and the Board of Directors?

Property Management

  • Manages
  • Under contract to work as agent of condo corporation
  • Work within constraints defined by contact with the board
  • Provide options (e.g., quotes)
  • Implement decisions
  • Is not responsible for saving condo money

Board of Directors

  • Governs
  • Is a fiduciary to the condo corporation
  • Reviews options and renders decisions
  • Oversees the implementation of decisions
  • Seeks cost savings (asks Property Manager to help)

The condo board has the responsibility to make the choices that are in the best interest of the condo corporation. This is why the property management company can’t simply be left to look after everything.

As an entity, the condo Board of Directors is responsible for making all the critical decisions regarding the maintenance of the building/grounds, condo’s finances, and must uphold the Condo Act (provincial legislation), the declaration, bylaws, and rules. It is up to the board to make sure that all the relevant documents are accessible by the owners.

A good Property Manager is a tremendous asset for any condo corporation. They can simplify the job of the board, but they cannot assume the responsibility for that job.

 

 


Pat Crosscombe, Founder & CEO  https://boardspace.co/   Thanks Pat for a great article we republished on sfpma for our readers.

 

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“Video Cameras—for Surveillance Purposes Only”  by Kevin L. Edwards of Becker Lawyers

“Video Cameras—for Surveillance Purposes Only” by Kevin L. Edwards of Becker Lawyers

“Video Cameras—for Surveillance Purposes Only”

Many associations have installed video surveillance cameras within the community common areas as a means to provide security for their residents. However, good intentions often lead to unanticipated consequences. In fact the use of video cameras may expose an association to liability.

Generally, an association is not a guarantor or insurer of any person’s safety and is not obligated to provide “security” to its residents. However, once an association assumes a duty to provide security, it must do so in a non-negligent manner. This may very well be the case with installing “security cameras.” Florida courts have routinely held that if an association undertakes, or appears to undertake, the duty to provide security for its community, it must also take certain measures to prevent criminal activity from occurring on the premises.

For example, the court in Vazquez v. Lago Grande Homeowners Ass’n, 900 So. 2d 587 (Fla. 3d DCA 2004), ruled that the association had a duty to exercise reasonable care to guard its residents against crime or criminal activity because the association had undertaken the responsibility to provide such security. In this case the association was a gated community with a guardhouse staffed 24 hours a day. The developer marketed the complex on the basis of safety, and the association collected a specific part of its assessments to provide for security. A resident of the association moved into the community because it appeared safe and was gated. The resident had many visitors, including a former neighbor and the neighbor’s children. One day the  former neighbor’s estranged husband came into the community to pick up his children and got into an argument with the resident. Thereafter, the resident instructed the association’s security guards not to let the estranged husband into the community. Despite this, the security guards allowed the estranged husband to enter the community, and he shot the resident, shot and killed his ex-wife, and killed himself. The court found that the association had breached its duty to provide security because it continued to employ the security guards despite knowing that they routinely let unauthorized individuals into the community. Therefore, the association was found liable for the death of a visitor and  injury of a resident.

Thus, associations may wish to be careful not to label the video cameras as “security cameras” and instead let the owners know that the cameras are for surveillance purposes only. As previously mentioned, associations have no duty to provide security, and having “security cameras” will lead owners to believe that the association is providing security.

Regardless of whether the association uses video cameras, it is still liable for criminal conduct that is reasonably foreseeable. In Czerwinski v. Sunrise Point Condominium, 540 So. 2d 199 (Fla. 3rd DCA 1999), the court ruled that a landlord generally has no duty to ensure the safety of its tenants or to protect them from the criminal acts of third persons unless the criminal occurrence is reasonably foreseeable. The court further noted that the landlord’s knowledge of prior crimes, against both persons and property, is relevant to the issue of foreseeability, even if the prior criminal acts are lesser crimes than the one committed against the plaintiff.

Based on these cases, community associations have been held liable in tort for failure to take precautions against criminal activities committed against the owners and residents if those criminal activities are reasonably foreseeable; and in addition they have been held liable when they voluntarily provide security services but fail to provide them in a reasonable manner.

Thus, if the association is inclined to install video cameras, it must do so in a reasonably prudent manner and should make sure the cameras are always being maintained in good condition and repaired as needed.

Another issue with providing cameras in the community is whether or not the cameras record audio. Florida law (Section 934.03, FS) makes it illegal to intentionally intercept, attempt to intercept, or procure any other person to intercept any wire, electronic, or oral communication through the use of a device if one does not have the prior consent of all parties. Therefore, the association’s cameras must be limited to visual images. The process of taking and recording video is perfectly legal, and you do not need to notify the owners or post signs upon the property that the association is taking or recording video. There is no privacy issue as long as the cameras are not directed into a resident’s home or into a bathroom, shower, changing room, or other area where there is a reasonable expectation of privacy. There is no reasonable expectation of privacy for persons who use the common areas or come onto the association’s property (with the exception of bathrooms, showers, units, etc.).

Lastly, a surveillance camera’s video recordings are not part of the association’s official records. The association’s official records are limited to written records, and a video recording is not a written record. As such, video camera recordings are not open for review by the association’s membership. Moreover, an association is not legally obligated to store the recordings for any specific period of time. However, if stored for any amount of time, the association must be sure to preserve the video in case it may be used as evidence in a court proceeding. Video footage should, therefore, be made and stored in a location where it will not be tampered with or duplicated. The footage should be stored in a secure location with access limited to authorized personal. Any footage that is to be kept should be preserved in an original and unaltered version by saving it in a secure manner that is incapable of being edited.

 

Mr. Edwards manages the community association practice in Becker’s Sarasota office and serves as corporate counsel to hundreds of condominium, cooperative, mobile home, and homeowners’ associations located in Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte, and Highlands Counties. Mr. Edwards is also one of only 190 attorneys statewide who is a board-certified specialist in condominium and planned development law.

In addition to his extensive experience as a community association lawyer, Mr. Edwards has trial and appellate experience in many areas of corporate and civil litigation, construction litigation, covenant enforcement, real estate, and foreclosure law.

For more information email kedwards@beckerlawyers.com, or visit www.beckerlawyers.com.

 

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2024 Multifamily Property Management Trends: 4 Key Insights to Know by Buildinglink

2024 Multifamily Property Management Trends: 4 Key Insights to Know by Buildinglink

  • Posted: Apr 07, 2024
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In this post, we share our trends and predictions for multifamily in the upcoming year, offering you a detailed view on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

1. An Amplified Need For Resident-Centric Solutions

 

In recent years, especially during the pandemic, the multifamily space has been increasingly prioritizing the resident experience. This upcoming year, property management companies will face an increased demand for resident-centric solutions that align with their growing needs and expectations. Today’s residents are seeking amenities that support remote working and their health and wellness goals. Moreover, there’s a heightened focus on building a positive resident culture that fosters community and social engagement. When residents feel connected to their neighbors and surroundings, they’re less likely to move, helping improve retention.

Property onsite teams are significantly enhancing the resident experience by improving their communication methods. This makes it easier for residents to report issues, request maintenance services, and receive timely updates. Consider using BuildingLink’s Communication Tools to effectively deploy important messages, ensuring your residents are always up-to-date and informed.

Amenities and services are also poised for significant improvements, reflecting residents’ expectations for greater value from their living spaces, especially with the rise in rents. From remote work spaces and podcast rooms to wider coffee options and fitness centers that host spin or yoga classes, residents are looking for conveniences that cater to their daily lives. Use BuildingLink’s Analytics & Reports to gauge the usage of your amenities, guiding you in making informed decisions to improve specific areas and optimize your investments. From there, remember to offer your residents an easy way to reserve spaces using the Amenity Reservations tool.

2. Continued Staffing Challenges

 

Like many industries, property management faced considerable staffing challenges last year, impacting overall operations. High employee turnover can be just as costly as high resident turnover, leading to a shortage of skilled staff and overburdening existing employees. This can then affect the ability to provide high levels of service quality and efficiency.

In response, some property managers are working to improve employee retention by creating development programs. The goal is to provide employees with additional training and learning opportunities that lead to career advancement and promotions. However, leveraging technology can also enable your current employees to achieve more with less. For example, equip your front desk team with BuildingLink’s Front Desk Instructions , which even allow them to view visitor photos, ensuring smoother check-ins regardless of the volume. Similarly, BuildingLink’s dedicated Staff App will help them process packages 80% faster than other package tracking solutions, reducing their workload while keeping your mailrooms organized.

3. Embracing Technology For Smarter Maintenance

 

One of the biggest predicted trends for property management in 2024 is the increased use of technology for improved maintenance, which is key for resident satisfaction and lease renewals. Properties are expected to adopt more smart home devices, such as smart thermostats and locks, as part of eco-friendly initiatives. On top of that, as part of their focus on the resident experience, property and maintenance managers will make it easier for employees and residents to submit and track maintenance requests. BuildingLink’s Preventative Maintenance is a valuable tool here, allowing you to reschedule recurring tasks, assign them to team members or vendors, and, ultimately, keep up with your maintenance needs.

4. Increased Emphasis On Automation And Proptech Consolidation

 

For property management companies, digital tools that incorporate automation are becoming increasingly essential for enhancing operational efficiency. Automation significantly saves time, reduces costs, and improves accuracy. However, using multiple, disparate platforms can lead to major losses in efficiency. Each tool, with its unique interface and features, creates a learning curve, leading to inefficiencies as users jump between platforms and struggle to remember multiple logins.

In contrast, consolidating your proptech solutions will create a more efficient and cost-effective approach to managing your various processes, responsibilities, and tasks. Property managers want a user-friendly platform that automates workflows and provides reliable analytics and reporting. Be sure to take a unified approach when adding new tools to maximize your return on investment.

That’s why many property managers today are using BuildingLink to streamline their Front Desk & Staff OperationsCommunicationsRecord-KeepingMaintenance, and more. With more than dozens of integration partners, our platform seamlessly connects with various tools in access control, accounting, payments, and package management. Even better, we offer a mobile option for property teams on the go, allowing them to seamlessly access our powerful features no matter where or when the need arises. Let’s make 2024 a year of unparalleled success and growth, with BuildingLink by your side every step of the way.

Partner With BuildingLink

Trusted by HOAs, co-ops, condominiums, and multifamily properties around the globe, BuildingLink helps property managers deliver superior resident experiences while streamlining maintenance and operations. We offer tools that will simplify your record-keeping and administration, communications, maintenance, and front desk staff operations.

When you’re ready to run your community better, smarter, and faster, book your BuildingLink demo today.