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  • Six Essential Tips For New HOA Board Members

     Jun 19, 2017

    Congratulations are in order – you’ve just been elected to the board. So now the big question: What’s next? “The great thing about associations that are helmed by owners is that they have a vested interest in doing right by their community,” said Kirk Kowieski, CMCA, AMS, vice president of FirstService Residential. “But that also comes with challenges...many board members find themselves in this kind of position for the first time, so there’s a little bit of a learning curve.” Fortunately, FirstService Residential is here to help. Follow these new board member basics and you’ll soon be governing like a pro.

  • Planning Your High-Rise Maintenance and Capital Improvements

     Jun 08, 2017

    Maybe this has happened to your high-rise association: An unexpected capital expense finds your condominium’s board of directors needing to impose a special assessment. Establishing a plan for your building’s maintenance and capital improvements is not only important for your budget. It can also prevent life-threatening catastrophes. So what does it take to put together a program that protects both the health of your association’s finances and the safety and lifestyle of your residents? Find out in our interview with Phil Pool, vice president at FirstService Residential.

  • The Importance of Preventative Maintenance in Your High-Rise

     Jun 06, 2017
    Protecting your high-rise with a solid preventative maintenance program will also protect the lifestyle you love and your community association’s budget. Preventative maintenance programs have countless benefits, including extending the life of almost every component and system in your building. A well-executed plan can also help your community optimize its operating budget by predicting when repairs or replacements are most likely to be needed and allowing your community to set aside money for them. How can you get started on a preventative maintenance plan? Check out our advice to get your high-rise on the right track when it comes to preventative maintenance.

  • Buying a Home in Tennessee? Know What Information You Are Entitled To

     Apr 26, 2017
    For most people, buying a home is the largest investment they make. We all know there’s a lot of paperwork that comes with buying a home, and although it can seem overwhelming, that paperwork is vital for the protection of the buyer, the seller and the community in which the home is located. If you are buying or selling a home in managed community, a resale package is a critical part of that. What is a resale package and why is it important? How do you get one and when do you need it? We sat down with our Director of Resale to get the answers to these and other important questions.

  • Four Secrets to Great Communication in Your Association

     Feb 06, 2017
    There’s one challenge that plagues all board members, regardless of experience: communication. Part art and part science, communication is the key to building strong relationships and effectively meeting your obligations as a board member for your community association. Here are a few quick tips to ensure communication is flowing in your association.

  • How to Create a New Revenue Stream from Your Amenities

     Feb 01, 2017
    Savvy boards are always keeping an eye out for ways to maximize revenue. If you’re interested in ramping up your revenue streams, take a look around and imagine the possibilities. Read tips on how you can generate cash flow from your existing amenities. 

  • The Importance of Having a Partner to Manage and Activate Community Amenities

     Jan 23, 2017
    Having a swimming pool, a fitness area, or a clubhouse for residents are perks that can make any community stand out. A good management company has people with many years of experience operating and maintaining these types of features, and they can offer many helpful ways for you to get the most for your community. Here are some ways your community can benefit from the experience of a community association management company, and make your job as a board member a little easier.

  • FirstService Residential is Growing and Hiring; Positions Include Property Managers, #2 Happiest Job

     Apr 19, 2013

    Are you happy at your current job?

  • Four Communication Essentials of Good Community Management Companies

     Jan 01, 0001
    The foundation of any good relationship is communication. And that also holds true for HOAs and community management companies, regardless of whether we’re talking about a townhome community, high-rise or a master-planned community.

  • Choosing the Right Banking Program for your Community Association

    Jan 01, 0001
    As a community association board member, one of your chief responsibilities is to protect the financial interests of your association and your fellow residents. That includes making sure that the association’s reserve and operating funds are carefully managed, protected and invested. Smart decision-making and sound financial stewardship are critical to the association’s long-term financial stability and health. Unfortunately, even the best-intentioned board members may not have the experience or financial knowledge to choose the right banking programs and products to meet their community association’s needs. What should you look for when choosing the best banking program for your association? Read on…