Even in the best of economic times, preparing a condominium’s annual budget is a tiresome task, fraught with uncertainty, estimations and shifting numbers. Now, factor in one of the most challenging economic downturns in a cent…
We all know that parking lots, roads and driveways take a beating day in and day out. Some hazards, like cracked sidewalks, crumbling masonry, and potholes are obvious to even an untrained eye, making it easy to conduct repairs and prev…
Long Branch, New Jersey is rapidly transforming itself as more than just a resort community for the rich and famous. Named as home to one of America’s Top 20 beaches, the oceanfront here has been a draw for many years, reaching back to …
When you think about the most important person to a building or association, the superintendent should rank pretty high up on the list, if not right at the top. Let’s face it, an association or building’s super has a tremendous amount o…
Outdoor amenities like tennis courts, golf courses, playgrounds and pools are valuable assets for any HOA, but they require a significant commitment when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. With summer on the way, the weather is warming…
We have all read the headlines of tragic deck collapses over the years. The causes of these tragedies are typically either from inferior design, construction or even more worrying, from failures due to age and wear that went unnoticed.…
The ferocity of the current recession has touched nearly every aspect of life, from fears about job loss to concerns about health care to homeowners’ worries about foreclosure. With shrinking budgets and worrisome bottom lines, condo co…
Few amenities are as valued and beloved by residents as a private homeowners association’s swimming pool. But pools probably represent the single biggest insurance liability and maintenance expense for associations that have them. …
While more space, cleaner air, and a more relaxed lifestyle may be upsides to suburban living, the ‘burbs are also often synonymous with sprawl—mile after mile of strip-malls, big-box stores, identical office parks, chain restaurants, a…
While it’s not a word listed with Merriam-Webster, hardscaping is as critical to outdoor aesthetics and function as its softer and more oft-mentioned cousin, landscaping. Whereas the latter deals with appropriate weaving and placement o…