tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-82070528094873459442024-03-20T01:34:37.671-07:00Premier Property NewsAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.comBlogger36125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-58964248125657307742018-03-15T10:29:00.000-07:002018-03-15T10:29:10.828-07:00Resale & Lender Docs at your Fingertips!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuR57HdKnRhY9oPIl6TupjTA9BVgfLcen-ASgHIeSZq1BOny0SnEx5rbQ2qXZweZLYt8u9_lq4DaYpx_iiNgWm-lWmf-Jg-W4gY-Z6BVxePvvSwUtx2kmDbaYyeG-7wFGtJWuEniHWeHk/s1600/AdobeStock_78812463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1050" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuR57HdKnRhY9oPIl6TupjTA9BVgfLcen-ASgHIeSZq1BOny0SnEx5rbQ2qXZweZLYt8u9_lq4DaYpx_iiNgWm-lWmf-Jg-W4gY-Z6BVxePvvSwUtx2kmDbaYyeG-7wFGtJWuEniHWeHk/s640/AdobeStock_78812463.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Premier has partnered with HomeWiseDocs.com, the industry’s leading community association escrow, closing and document service company, to offer a streamlined process for the order and delivery of community association resale and lender documents. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Professionals requiring essential real estate data and documentation for association real estate transactions can find it with HomeWiseDocs.com.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Simply click this link to get started: <a href="https://www.homewisedocs.com/">https://www.homewisedocs.com/</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Sign up is quick and easy and you can begin using the system immediately. Resale disclosures, estoppels, demands, lender questionnaires and association governing documents are all available with HomeWiseDocs.com. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Their professional staff is available for any questions you may have toll-free at 866-925-5004.</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-62810966883481830232018-02-19T07:09:00.000-08:002018-02-19T07:09:12.775-08:00Why Should You Use a Professional Property Manager?<div style="font-size: 12px; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There is lots of work that goes into running an effective HOA, and much of it is done by volunteers. It can be a lot for volunteers to deal with, so hiring a professional management company can really be a positive asset. The role of property management companies in HOAs is to provide necessary support and help ensure the community is well-managed and enjoyed by all.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Some HOAs choose to self-manage, but many have turned to property management companies upon realizing how much they can benefit from this partnership. It can be well worth the investment if you do your research and find a reputable company that can meet your needs. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA__g4ZgIA4w08wbZCc0WIyVkeqktM_BJByjUWDWnNPa255hS80VgcquRQzbK8rHDkhPDB5ykMvva6dohp2KJDp8RbhkT_ofAk1ga3Xdws8Jh4QEXnmNrQyVK0DPU7q4ev4kYOTGjPqUM/s1600/AdobeStock_120188904.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="700" data-original-width="1050" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA__g4ZgIA4w08wbZCc0WIyVkeqktM_BJByjUWDWnNPa255hS80VgcquRQzbK8rHDkhPDB5ykMvva6dohp2KJDp8RbhkT_ofAk1ga3Xdws8Jh4QEXnmNrQyVK0DPU7q4ev4kYOTGjPqUM/s640/AdobeStock_120188904.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Here are just a few benefits of working with a professional property manager:</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Knowledge. </b>Many boards lack experience when it comes to finance and record keeping. Professional managers have a wealth of knowledge regarding HOA management and all of the requirements that go along with it. They can connect the HOA with training and guidance to improve their knowledge and skills, while also handling many administrative tasks.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Added Resources.</b> Property management companies work with a variety of clients with different needs. They have built connections in the community and can recommend contractors for landscaping, pest control, construction, repairs and more. This can save the HOA time and allow the board to contact several reputable companies for bids instead of having to search through dozens of listings on its own.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Clarity and Consistency.</b> HOAs run more smoothly when rules and regulations are clear, concise, and consistently enforced. A property manager can review documents to ensure they align with the law and help to correct any inconsistencies, confusion, or potential violations. Homeowners can have peace of mind knowing that rules will be enforced fairly across the community and problems will be addressed in a timely manner.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Support. </b>Property managers can take on many of the day-to-day responsibilities of running an HOA and free up board members to focus on more important issues. This can allow decisions to made more quickly and efficiently since more time can be devoted to planning and discussion.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>Guidance.</b> Board members are volunteers, and many do not have previous experience running an HOA. Even if they have sat on the board for a few years, there are always new issues that arise that they may not be sure how to handle. A property manager can provide guidance on resolving problems, making clearly defined rules and regulations, and executing decisions and projects.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">If your HOA could use additional support and guidance to help boost its operations, communications, and relationships with homeowners, contact <b><a href="http://www.ppmgmtonline.com/premierpm/home.asp" target="_blank">Premier Property Management Services, LLC</a></b> today. Discover the benefits of a strong partnership with a high-quality, professional property management company.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-71171806179895030372016-11-22T07:24:00.001-08:002016-11-22T07:24:40.867-08:00Tips for Conserving Water<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: large;"><b>Some areas of Connecticut are experiencing drought conditions, so we are offering some ways to conserve water in your home.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">1. Rinse fruits and veggies in a bowl of water instead of under the faucet.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">2. Don’t let the water run while brushing your teeth or shaving.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">3. Reuse the water from boiling vegetables or pasta to water your indoor plants (let it cool first!).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">4. If you like to drink cold water, place a pitcher in your refrigerator instead of letting the tap run until it’s cold. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">5. Don’t run the dishwasher until it’s completely full. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6. Don’t use your toilet as a wastebasket. Flushing a tissue or small piece of trash wastes 5-7 gallons of water.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">7. Let your dirty pots and pans soak in the sink instead of letting the faucet run while you wash them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">8. Make sure to turn off all faucets completely after each use.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">9. Instead of using running water, thaw frozen foods in the refrigerator.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">10. Be sure to alert your maintenance staff if you notice a leaky toilet or faucet!</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-42440356939336030302016-10-26T12:02:00.002-07:002016-10-26T12:02:59.956-07:00HUD Releases Initial Response to HR 3700 <div class="MsoNormal" style="color: #222222; font-size: 12.800000190734863px; text-align: center;">
<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; text-align: justify;">October 25, 2016 - Earlier this year, Condominium Associations were very hopeful when HR 3700 was signed into law. Many were looking for relief on the 50% owner occupancy requirement, transfer fees, and leniency on commercial/nonresidential floor space.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">The specifics in HR 3700 stated that HUD had 90 days to respond to the changes. Yesterday, HUD released its implementation action via the Federal Register. Although the response is a bit lackluster, it appears as though we will have direct guidance regarding Owner Occupancy restrictions in the near future. All other changes from HR 3700, including transfer fees have yet to be sorted out and we don't have a timeframe on a response. <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This is HUD's official response regarding the changes: <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><em><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Section 301. Modification of FHA Requirements for Mortgage Insurance for Condominiums</span></b></em><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><em><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Section 301 mandates several changes to FHA's mortgage insurance for condominiums, including changes to requirements on project recertification, exceptions to the percentage of floor space that may be used for nonresidential or commercial purposes, private transfer fee covenants, and the minimum required percentage of units that must be owner occupied.</span></b></em><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><em><b><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Implementation action: Some of these changes must be done by regulations, while the revision to the owner occupancy percentage may be done by rulemaking or an administrative document. HUD issued a proposed rule to implement provisions on all these subjects other than transfer fees, and including general parameters on owner occupancy, on September 28, 2016, at 81 FR 66565. In the near future, HUD will be issuing a Mortgagee Letter to establish the specific owner occupancy percentage. For other provisions of section 301, HUD is considering the appropriate implementation action.</span></b></em><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;">Proposed Rule FR-5715-P-01, Project Approval for Single-Family Condominiums</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Although HR 3700 garnered more press, the proposed rule released by HUD on September 28th, has potential to make even more changes. The rule is still in comment period, however we believe it gives us a good idea of the direction HUD is going in. <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">These are the highlights:<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Owner-Occupancy Percentage<u></u><u></u></span></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: black; margin: 0px 0px 0px 15px; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Extension of the project approval period<u></u><u></u></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Single Unit Approvals</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Current FHA Guidelines</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: Single-Unit Approvals are not allowed. At this time the entire Condominium Project must be FHA Certified.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Proposed Rule</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: Single-Unit Approvals would be allowed based on a subset of criteria. The criteria have not yet been released. There would be a limit on the number of mortgages allowed within a single condominium project. This limit could potentially vary upon notice.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">FHA Review Opinion</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: This could dramatically change financing options for owners and buyers. However, until the criteria are released and the process is announced it is too early to tell how much of an impact this will have. We have been told it is not the "spot-approval process of the past". Also, the last time there was a spot approval process we were still operating under the old guidelines and there were over 50,000 FHA Approved condo projects. Most real estate professionals have forgotten this and believe this new process will ease the FHA Certification process greatly. We anticipate a much more stringent review process and increased oversight in comparison to the previous spot-approvals. <u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Owner-Occupancy Percentage</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Current FHA Requirement</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: 50% of units must be owner occupied.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Proposed Rule</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: HUD is proposing a range between 25 and 75%, and HUD would be able to vary the acceptable amount by releasing a "notice". This is seen as favorable because it allows HUD to be flexible and adjust the percentages based on current market statistics.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">FHA Review Opinion</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: Lowering the owner occupancy percentage would allow more communities to meet this requirement however any increase over 50% would have a detrimental effect. Also, this large of a range will make it very difficult for Condo Projects to plan effectively for the future and maintain eligibility. We are adamant that any requirement over 50% would have a terrible impact.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Extension of the project approval period</span></strong><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Current FHA Requirement</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: FHA Certification is good for a period of 2 years.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">Proposed Rule</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: HUD is seeking comment on extending the Certification time frame from 2 to 3 years.<u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">FHA Review Opinion</span></u><span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;">: This has the potential to help tremendously. Extending the certification period will give more value in applying and the recertification process would become less burdensome. This would result in more Condominium Projects being approved at any given time. <u> </u><u></u><u></u></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">There are estimated to be over 100,000 condo projects in the United States, and typically between 9 and 12% are ever FHA Approved. This is negatively impacting condo owners, potential buyers, and the real estate market as a whole. The importance of this is reflected in the efforts put forth by CAI, NAR, and other trade organizations. HUD is making efforts at relaxing the guidelines to allow more condo projects to become certified, however the industry as a whole needs to make a joint effort for any major improvements to be achieved.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><span style="color: black;">SOURCE: </span>http://fhareview.com</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-22349990684912337212016-10-19T10:09:00.000-07:002016-10-19T10:10:22.637-07:00New System Puts Association Info at Your Fingertips!<div style="line-height: normal;">
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Our new system was designed BY association managers and bookkeepers FOR association managers and bookkeepers. That translates into an intuitive interface, user-friendly screens, and clear workflows. NO tech jargon, just really approachable property management software that helps us work for our customers! We're in the process of moving all of our clients over to the new system right now ... in the meantime, check out these screen shots of the new Board Portal:</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-35672701888946127842016-09-30T12:13:00.004-07:002016-09-30T12:13:59.301-07:00What Can A Website Do for Your Association?<div style="line-height: normal;">
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Simple answer: A lot!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A website helps residents feel like they’re a part of the Association by keeping them informed of meetings, projects, etc.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1O-hmAx6JW5FauM5Y-QpiOrLd9GjEL_oVprEfu7gXODg7Bis1sCAXyUWxbSgVdo95anrYHJ-mnrf2FiK3KQWioiUR05o4HmUBieEhZBnIa6ZiQDbCrdBdYqtBbbpjCmTKWA_l18gdnQ/s1600/AdobeStock_119520738.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjf1O-hmAx6JW5FauM5Y-QpiOrLd9GjEL_oVprEfu7gXODg7Bis1sCAXyUWxbSgVdo95anrYHJ-mnrf2FiK3KQWioiUR05o4HmUBieEhZBnIa6ZiQDbCrdBdYqtBbbpjCmTKWA_l18gdnQ/s640/AdobeStock_119520738.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">When residents don’t hear about their Board’s progress, it makes it easier for them to complain! A regularly updated website gives residents no excuse not to know what’s happening and how the Board is working to make things better. It can also help residents understand the purpose and benefits of enforcing the rules, keeping their homes in good condition and voting on issues. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">A website is also a great place to store things like meeting minutes and condo docs. Being able to pull up these documents quickly is a great tool to have at meetings and to save research time … if someone has a question, refer them to the website, where they can find the information right away.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Some other things that you might consider adding are an events calendar, a link to online work order submission and a list of units for sale. The great thing about a website is that it can start small and grow along with your Association!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>If your Association is ready to create their website, Premier can help! Give us a call at <span style="background-color: #eeeeee; color: #333333; text-align: -webkit-center; text-indent: 24px;">(860) 523-0157 </span>today. </b></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-22055082835596365482016-08-15T08:10:00.000-07:002016-08-15T08:10:36.080-07:00Expect the Best, Prepare for the Worst!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aBxr0ogzVimWSVz52tbTX7Dw4PrqCVwE-wE9pisnA-jyPo15hK203ZrUbdLhSoyLrQ4pCyqyD7vX0kPPoVnEDJfq7c1KN0s1keiqKRZFfFUZFxKtn_Q-6O11J8Uw2n5yBdtIhzjGqWs/s1600/AdobeStock_108222634_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aBxr0ogzVimWSVz52tbTX7Dw4PrqCVwE-wE9pisnA-jyPo15hK203ZrUbdLhSoyLrQ4pCyqyD7vX0kPPoVnEDJfq7c1KN0s1keiqKRZFfFUZFxKtn_Q-6O11J8Uw2n5yBdtIhzjGqWs/s640/AdobeStock_108222634_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Trebuchet MS', sans-serif;">Sometimes bad things happen to good Associations… a fire or flood destroys several units, and the repair costs are huge. Even if the problem can be narrowed down to negligence by a single owner, you’d be surprised to learn that the Association’s master policy might be required to cover the entire expense. What can an Association do to protect itself? Here are 5 practical steps an association can take to protect the property and the residents:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>1. Review and update maintenance standards regularly. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Unit owners should be performing routine, preventative maintenance to their units, just as any homeower does. Checking the water heater for leaks is simple, no cost, and can prevent huge amounts of damage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>2. Perform a yearly review of the Association’s master insurance policy.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Connecticut law currently requires that the master policy cover the costs of clean-up and restoration, while the owner is responsible for their personal items in the unit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>3. Make certain everyone is insured.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Owners need to carry HO-6 Homeowners Insurance equal to the Association’s master policy deductible. Their tenants should carry insurance as well. This will help the Association at least recover the deductible amount if a situation occurs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>4. Take on responsibility of performing tasks in high-risk areas.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Yearly inspections and cleaning of dryers vents and chimneys should be required, and built into common charges or billed back to each owner to ensure compliance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;"><b>5. Reinforce the importance of preventative maintenance with owners on a regular basis.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">This can be done with newsletters, emails, website updates and covered at annual meetings. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS, sans-serif;">Floods, fires and other disasters can occur anywhere, without warning. It is the responsibility of the Board and manager to eliminate as many dangers as possible.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-15822462216598913592016-06-27T09:44:00.000-07:002016-06-27T09:48:37.610-07:00How boards can avoid costly (and embarrassing!) mistakes<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTKUsXNhSo_7JNk-GT8SVK7BlfpJ0OUQiavgUxrq8RlDBH63PlHPzzSuGdzcpA_l98o1ZZD8ceoqSDaWqBvvybccNdh6J_9F_OGjsm7g-yu3vTLd4DyNYfDaePBwz5RZ9icT91axOiIE/s1600/AdobeStock_102439501.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="448" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggTKUsXNhSo_7JNk-GT8SVK7BlfpJ0OUQiavgUxrq8RlDBH63PlHPzzSuGdzcpA_l98o1ZZD8ceoqSDaWqBvvybccNdh6J_9F_OGjsm7g-yu3vTLd4DyNYfDaePBwz5RZ9icT91axOiIE/s640/AdobeStock_102439501.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Obviously, we are all human and we all make mistakes. These mistakes come in all forms, from legal to management to human relations and can be minor or can cost Associations thousands of dollars. Since it’s best to avoid errors all together, we’ve compiled a list of the <b>Top 10 Mistakes Boards Make.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>1. Abuse of Power.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">In some cases, owners join the Board for the wrong reasons, including pursuing their own agendas. They end up bullying some neighbors and doing favors for others. It’s important for Board members to be able to stand up to a rogue member, and better still, learn a little more about why members wish to join the Board before electing them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>2. Unclear Roles.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Often times Board members try to take on the role of property managers. Eventually they try to cut out management all together, and this can lead to problems in communication between management and contractors/maintenance staff. Other roles Board members often try to assume are the “Nice Guy” that gives out special permission for things he has no authority over and the “Policeman” that takes it upon himself to personally enforce the Rules & Regulations. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>3. Ignoring the community rules and procedures.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boards are governed by their declarations, rules and regulations, in-place procedures and even cities and states. Boards should pay close attention to these rules when making decisions, and should also keep them updated. Problems can arise when rules and procedures are decided verbally in Board meetings, but not translated into written documents. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>4. Not listening to owners.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">It is the Board’s responsibility to make sure that they make decisions that work for the majority of the community, and not just the person with the loudest voice. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>5. Not looking toward the future.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boards need to consider many factors when embarking on projects or doing general maintenance. While the cheapest solution could work in the short term, it may end up costing more in the long run. In these situations, advice from property managers in invaluable.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>6. Violation of meeting laws.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boards must typically conduct business and vote “in the open.” Voting by email and having no minutes to back up decisions can open Boards up to legal problems.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>7. Ignoring your experts.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Boards work with many experts including managers, attorneys, lawyers and accountants. Consequences of ignoring their advice can be disastrous and expensive.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>8. Misuse of electronic communication.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">While email may be a good way to communicate basic information, it’s not a substitution for real discussion/debate, and information posted on social media sites can also get Boards into trouble.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>9. Not doing your research.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Reading the Board packets, checking the minutes and inspecting financial reports are all important duties of Board members, and should not be ignored.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>10. Overdoing things.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Board meetings don’t need to last for hours, with each member and owners going off into their own personal issues that are more suited to submitting work orders with management. In some cases, a timer has been shown to be an effective tool to keep speakers with business for the Board sort and to the point!</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-9953387095070436832016-03-28T10:07:00.000-07:002016-03-28T10:07:30.721-07:00Spring Maintenance Tips<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Spring is here, and it’s time to start doing some maintenance work on your property to undo the damage from winter! </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaWIVNIXm4sX5ptK3i6AZ369JfwdzxEee_0jeWkS3Lm4CEhbhPhVuNnO58SgUSRNRNbkNaWSF3pA9wnEHmi3wyx4Slvj8w5Kt0kNLBE6rshCVhrjOMRbqlwgur7ItVpoBBoXSLripibI/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_33179334_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaaWIVNIXm4sX5ptK3i6AZ369JfwdzxEee_0jeWkS3Lm4CEhbhPhVuNnO58SgUSRNRNbkNaWSF3pA9wnEHmi3wyx4Slvj8w5Kt0kNLBE6rshCVhrjOMRbqlwgur7ItVpoBBoXSLripibI/s640/Dollarphotoclub_33179334_CROP.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /><br /><b>Here is a list of the basics:</b><br /><br />Check the roof. Snow, ice and rain may have created leaks, now’s the time to check.<br /><br />Clean and inspect gutters to ensure they can handle spring rains.<br /><br />Repair building facades. If the cold weather has caused any part of your building exterior to deteriorate, fix it now before spring wind and rains cause additional damage.<br /><br />Reinsulate. The fluctuating temperatures of winter can cause the caulking around doors and windows to crack and fall away. Check these seals, recaulk if necessary.<br /><br />Clean the common areas. Now that snow, sand and salt is gone, give the carpets a thorough cleaning.<br /><br />Repair the sidewalks and parking lot. Inspect for broken curbs, pot holes, cracks and other damage and tripping hazards. <br /><br />Landscaping. Start getting garden areas and grass up to shape by removing debris and raking out excess sand.<br /><br />Follow these tips, to get an early start on the spring season and keep your property in optimal condition!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-79229181772110735572016-03-21T06:33:00.003-07:002016-03-21T06:33:54.016-07:00Cracked Walkways ... How Much is Too Much?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHe6fiViV2Do3BblcXvw9hCQ1cC6yC8aDq-LWS6w6T1GoeEGLP0aKqyqfWuaZ6vryk_UW79IHliMTm7pu-6C_tLSbBT-BGgHXsYl0CwOsQGSyOW2gwtdvO-1b9cMga5ULwapeVGiDsVWw/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_87825633_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHe6fiViV2Do3BblcXvw9hCQ1cC6yC8aDq-LWS6w6T1GoeEGLP0aKqyqfWuaZ6vryk_UW79IHliMTm7pu-6C_tLSbBT-BGgHXsYl0CwOsQGSyOW2gwtdvO-1b9cMga5ULwapeVGiDsVWw/s640/Dollarphotoclub_87825633_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Spring is here and it's time to address some of the problems that may have turned up over the winter months. With shoveling and salt, the paths and walkways on your property may have taken a beating. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If your walking surface has settled or is cracked or damaged and has a raised area of over 1/4" it can be considered a tripping hazard and should be repaired immediately. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Our clients should contact us right away if they notice any damaged walkways. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-6657782440149066272016-02-08T06:22:00.001-08:002016-02-08T06:26:58.001-08:00Frozen Pipes – Prevention & Solutions<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc__3AV4qQHTwZOq_Tc1emGE3b13AtRo98ZUzjJgM5AT1xYYuMPpZIsOWrbHAVSbuxtOZcWEU4tzJvQZX36id1tF1uLA0F6wNJraXcNJPog90BWbSeNQUrecjAP9_aQuCtF41ZEBIsoJs/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_97196345_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc__3AV4qQHTwZOq_Tc1emGE3b13AtRo98ZUzjJgM5AT1xYYuMPpZIsOWrbHAVSbuxtOZcWEU4tzJvQZX36id1tF1uLA0F6wNJraXcNJPog90BWbSeNQUrecjAP9_aQuCtF41ZEBIsoJs/s640/Dollarphotoclub_97196345_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">From the looks of the snow piling up outside, it appears that winter has finally arrived in New England! If you’re considering taking a trip to a warmer climate or turning your heating off to save money, here are some things you should know:<br /><br /><b>It Starts with Prevention</b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Insulate your <span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">P</span>ipes</b> – especially if they’re on outside walls, attics or crawlspaces. The more insulation, the better!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Wrap Pipes</b> – Use heat tape or thermostatically-controlled heat cables. Make sure to have them professionally installed by a licensed contractor.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Seal Air Leaks</b> – Cold air can enter around electrical wiring, dryer vents and plumbing and through door and window seals. Check caulking and weather-stripping regularly and replace anything that’s old and cracked.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Keep Exterior Doors & Windows Tightly Closed</b> – Seems obvious, but we had to mention it!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Turn Off Outdoor Hoses</b> – Put away hoses and turn off the water supply to hoses and sprinkler systems.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Allow Warm Airflow into Unheated Utility Rooms</b> – Make sure that warm air can get into your utility room if it’s in an unheated area.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Let the Water Run</b> – If you must leave the heat off, leave your faucets running at a trickle if they’re on outside walls.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>Know Where Your Shutoff Is</b> – In case of an emergency, you should always know how to turn off the water supply to your unit. </span></li>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b>If the Worst Happens</b></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><b> </b><br />If you turn your faucet on and nothing comes out, turn off your main water supply, leave the faucets on and call a plumber right away. Never try to thaw frozen pipes with a blowtorch or other open flame. You can try a hairdryer on a warm setting, working from the faucet toward the colder section of the pipe. If a pipe has burst, be aware of the risk of electrical shock – stay away from any standing water. <br /><br />We also suggest having a neighbor, friend o<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">r</span> family member check on your condo or apartment if you’re going to be away for an extended period. Be sure to leave them with emergency contact information for you, as well as your property manager, plumber and electrician.</span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-21450459911884409242016-01-28T10:59:00.000-08:002016-01-28T11:01:02.715-08:00Help Us Welcome Our Newest Team Member!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DxET6j7UTkD8KRn5T1QiygoI7SXZIFYlA6HdHTI3gH_Cq2Y77yKJZPT_Q860IvnIzkcF4rnU7qIRZlmqG9q7mURHJb1v1WQfrAqrf-RgVAXO6jvLroTsxy9inERYntp39q06NMezvDg/s1600/image1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4DxET6j7UTkD8KRn5T1QiygoI7SXZIFYlA6HdHTI3gH_Cq2Y77yKJZPT_Q860IvnIzkcF4rnU7qIRZlmqG9q7mURHJb1v1WQfrAqrf-RgVAXO6jvLroTsxy9inERYntp39q06NMezvDg/s320/image1.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Premier
is pleased to welcome Kristie Bonilla to our team! Kristie has been
working in Property Management for the past 17 years, specializing in
Sate and Federal Housing Programs.She is a graduate of Asnuntuck
Community College and is currently pursuing a bachelors degree in
Business from UCONN. She is fluent in Spanish. Kristie is ready to help
you find a great apartment, give her a call today </span>at (877) 208-4570.</span></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-48050869992040508432015-11-30T09:01:00.000-08:002015-11-30T09:01:26.499-08:00New Property Manager<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDC_thzNHmXoU22UGtS1Zp40JelW_6pL8bxvU5D7gZGsU1lctgeaIB58ERkzuHB9327X5o8GCQrkX1N1Q4tIM4jPgC-hgEw2Mga34Eu9SZTpFKutJMOjk2-iF5aNHUGps21-qKW1AmqQ/s1600/Cheryl_HeadShot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtDC_thzNHmXoU22UGtS1Zp40JelW_6pL8bxvU5D7gZGsU1lctgeaIB58ERkzuHB9327X5o8GCQrkX1N1Q4tIM4jPgC-hgEw2Mga34Eu9SZTpFKutJMOjk2-iF5aNHUGps21-qKW1AmqQ/s320/Cheryl_HeadShot.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Premier is happy to welcome a new Property Manager, Cheryl Lallier, to our team. Cheryl started her Real Estate career in 1996 in New Hampshire. She worked with developers and banks, selling and managing Condominium properties. She holds a Connecticut Real Estate License and is currently pursuing a Certified Property Managers Designation. Cheryl lives in Somers on a horse farm with her husband and children. In her spare time, she does volunteer work for Saint Edwards Whole Child Academy in Stafford. </span><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-61299940647969349232015-11-17T13:31:00.001-08:002015-11-17T13:31:47.763-08:00Preparing Your Building for Cold Weather<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLvJKK_FvIEt4tcdrULg9JY9UZ1C5_iAo-r09cQaeH4nT2Fspq0zJsRcNfqe72qiltGvQUH7-cwOW1ZKgWN4qA-HvNlFqVRlKvvqTxiqoLQv2kRwyHuFNtgjBQm8YZWkcfDx9ABbjAN0/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_14334476_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijLvJKK_FvIEt4tcdrULg9JY9UZ1C5_iAo-r09cQaeH4nT2Fspq0zJsRcNfqe72qiltGvQUH7-cwOW1ZKgWN4qA-HvNlFqVRlKvvqTxiqoLQv2kRwyHuFNtgjBQm8YZWkcfDx9ABbjAN0/s400/Dollarphotoclub_14334476_CROP.jpg" width="285" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">As the last few years have shown, winter can be an unpredictable time here in New England. Some years, temperatures have remained fairly mild with barely any snowfall, while other years are freezing cold, with harsh winds and major blizzards. Regardless of what the weather decides to do, condo boards, managers and maintenance staff should make sure their buildings are ready — and that means taking care of seasonal winterizing tasks before the harsh weather hits.<br /><br /><b>Start Early </b><br />No doubt that winter is the hardest season of the year in terms of wear-and-tear on buildings. Ice collects in cracks and spaces between bricks and masonry and contributes to façade deterioration; salt stains and eats away at metal and concrete; colder temperatures mean higher heating and electrical bills. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Windows</b><br />When it comes to water and cold penetration, windows are a definite weak point. Window frames and sashes should be inspected and repaired before winter arrives — preferably in the early fall. Caulking and sealant should also be checked, as it can become brittle with time. Cold and wet weather is less than ideal for working with these materials. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also, the steel lintel—the piece of metal over every window head that supports the brick above the window—must be inspected. If allowed to rust, the lintels will eventually buckle and fail, causing the bricks above them to become loose and allowing water penetration and even more damage. Lintel inspections should be done with plenty of time before winter, because repairing them is a major task. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Walkways </b><br />Cement can't be poured in the winter because of the cold temperatures, so paving pros recommend getting repairs done by October’s end to beat the freezing temperatures. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Check for broken areas and cracks that could become tripping hazards when hidden by a dusting of snow.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Keep the Heat In </b><br />With energy prices high and many buildings watching their funds more closely than ever, conservation has become a serious concern for boards and residents as well. There are a number of measures that a building staff and individual owners can take to ensure that heat is staying inside the building. First, search for areas where heat can escape – windows and outside doors are big culprits. Check the gap between the bottom of the door and the saddle, as well as the gap around the door frame. For a reasonable amount of money, you can weather-strip the door, not only to save money, but to improve the comfort level inside the units. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Also, check the basement to make sure no air or heat is escaping. If your building has a boiler system, that should be cleaned and checked yearly as well.<br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">During the heating season, building personnel should closely monitor fuel consumption relative to past consumption on similar-temperature days and address any large increases right away. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /><b>Keep the Rain Out </b><br />A building's roof is another crucial component in its ability to resist the cold. Flat roofs should be prepared with an ultraviolet roof coating, preferably before October. The coating is a relatively inexpensive petroleum-based product that is painted onto the roof. It contains reflective silver additives and creates a barrier that will insulate your building and protect it against ice and snow. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Additionally, roof drains should be cleared to prevent blockages that could cause icy build-up ... and possibly leaks. <br /> </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Pitching In </b><br />Residents can help prepare for winter by lowering thermostats just a few degrees (and perhaps installing thermostats with a timer feature), and alerting the super or manager of anything that needs to be repaired. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />Don’t wait until the cold weather actually arrives to start thinking about winterizing your building!</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-6262310627427630872015-11-02T09:13:00.000-08:002015-11-02T09:13:43.158-08:00Project Spotlight - Wall Repair<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We recently completed repair of a large retaining wall at Hamlin Court in Middletown. We'd gotten reports from residents about bricks and mortar popping out of the wall. When we inspected it, we discovered some pretty serious damage, and more importantly, a big safety concern. Water had gotten in behind the brick, and after many years of freezing and thawing, the wall was in very bad shape. Here are some photos:</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIxvpS4m-6SfBJPl1oDEznDbAAl2N4AF8OzvYy3nHJNAuqSmRWRAqALgFOemzhZ6Z24ZlPDaTRNjXSzRfSk9tjxj7pMwutNcBrTWmqcKFyKPXIya7LEPRBzo6YhhTDTDfgSNzQxgJgmE/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAIxvpS4m-6SfBJPl1oDEznDbAAl2N4AF8OzvYy3nHJNAuqSmRWRAqALgFOemzhZ6Z24ZlPDaTRNjXSzRfSk9tjxj7pMwutNcBrTWmqcKFyKPXIya7LEPRBzo6YhhTDTDfgSNzQxgJgmE/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We worked with several contractors to get bids on the project, and after a meeting with the Board, we hired a local company to work on the project. Their first step was to take down the brick facade. A dumpster was rented, and the demolition began. It became obvious pretty quickly that there were problems. Previously, a section of the wall had been repaired. When the brick face was removed, a pretty nice concrete wall was revealed, and it was cleaned up and painted. Not the case here! What we found was a mess ... broken bricks, concrete pieces and various debris in front of a decrepit concrete wall.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The contractor came up with a plan to remove the debris and repair the concrete wall in a way that would be stable and safe, yet remain affordable to the Association. First steps were to secure the wall to avoid a collapse, then put in wooden forms for the concrete.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">Re-bar was added to support the new concrete ... LOTS of re-bar! Drain holes were added as well, to allow water to move away from the wall instead of building up behind it and freezing. The new concrete was poured. After a few days' drying time, the new wall was revealed.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMpyL-JapA7d8uTSh_cwYO8Z3FEaAOPx6gYVot6-lfBnp8wdNvh37rTnSwQKGdPEMARm3hosQ8kPeCs-Bp8wdWBmgJJZi_Ag7Thb5WxOrlNIQCn5j9thxWDVTV7U1Ydumt3e9tTMQfr0/s1600/IMG_2933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnMpyL-JapA7d8uTSh_cwYO8Z3FEaAOPx6gYVot6-lfBnp8wdNvh37rTnSwQKGdPEMARm3hosQ8kPeCs-Bp8wdWBmgJJZi_Ag7Thb5WxOrlNIQCn5j9thxWDVTV7U1Ydumt3e9tTMQfr0/s640/IMG_2933.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">The contractors moved on to the next section. Luckily, there was less debris behind the brick, and the concrete wall was in much better shape than the one next to it. Minor repairs were done, and the wall began to look really nice!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">After a consultation with the Board about color and type of finish, a concrete stain that matched the brick building was chosen. Paint was also offered as an option, but the contractor felt that water might seep through the porous concrete and cause the paint to peel. Here's a photo of the wall after a couple of coats of the stain were applied.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK77dwf_cmgxOmeTMAABjYJczClvfLlD1MTmxwrrkhZayJsVWmXbPnXZPdI8vhdsPELtTUvEbBBmSmLSRMYchIR9wlo8irnmiz5QIQ1t_A-mNPPjr6hWkPU8x0HLe7HZA51DD4TP1ZqCs/s1600/IMG_3275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK77dwf_cmgxOmeTMAABjYJczClvfLlD1MTmxwrrkhZayJsVWmXbPnXZPdI8vhdsPELtTUvEbBBmSmLSRMYchIR9wlo8irnmiz5QIQ1t_A-mNPPjr6hWkPU8x0HLe7HZA51DD4TP1ZqCs/s640/IMG_3275.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "trebuchet ms" , sans-serif;">We are so happy with how this project turned out, as are our clients. They were very pleased with the contractor's professionalism and attention to detail ... and how quickly the job was completed. What a great way to wrap up the warm weather season!</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-38399837149444508762015-10-28T10:00:00.001-07:002015-10-28T10:00:27.562-07:00APARTMENT FOR RENT<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFPXSrBj1IntM6KTLNRqvuLeVXqLhdc9aN2wnizX4NYromx4OZCAG_9Lv9MvQvpJ6SvGUB4vqcXeGj95FNrxoqqex_-aV8y9o5AxJHV4rfbbKCpCAk30mlKU2qoKAHO4tNFroluLcmDc/s1600/forRentPaperMarkerBlue.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCFPXSrBj1IntM6KTLNRqvuLeVXqLhdc9aN2wnizX4NYromx4OZCAG_9Lv9MvQvpJ6SvGUB4vqcXeGj95FNrxoqqex_-aV8y9o5AxJHV4rfbbKCpCAk30mlKU2qoKAHO4tNFroluLcmDc/s640/forRentPaperMarkerBlue.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="_5pbx userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="js_3">
<div class="_5pbx userContent" data-ft="{"tn":"K"}" id="js_3">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Middletown: 2 bedroom/2 bath, vaulted ceiling in living
room, fireplace, separate dining area, tennis courts on property,
$1,200/month ... please call us ASAP for details ... this one will go
quick!</span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-48436521178532314602015-10-07T06:33:00.005-07:002015-10-07T06:33:39.377-07:00Premier Property Management Receives 2015 Best of Enfield Award<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></b></span></span></div>
<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">We are pleased to announce that <span style="color: black;">Premier Property Management has been selected for
the 2015 Best of Enfield Award in the Real Estate Management category
by the Enfield Award Program.</span></span></span></b><div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Each
year, the Enfield Award Program identifies companies that we believe
have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and
business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive
image of small business through service to their customers and our
community. These exceptional companies help make the Enfield area a
great place to live, work and play.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Various
sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners
in each category. The 2015 Enfield Award Program focuses on quality,
not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered
both internally by the Enfield Award Program and data provided by third
parties.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<b><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">About Enfield Award Program</span></span></span></b></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">The
Enfield Award Program is an annual awards program honoring the
achievements and accomplishments of local businesses throughout the
Enfield area. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown
the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to
generate competitive advantages and long-term value.</span></span></span></div>
<div style="word-spacing: 0px;">
<br /></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">The
Enfield Award Program was established to recognize the best of local
businesses in our community. Our organization works exclusively with
local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other
business advertising and marketing groups. Our mission is to recognize
the small business community's contributions to the U.S. economy.</span></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-38224790292498280532015-09-19T05:23:00.000-07:002015-09-19T05:23:49.971-07:00ICE DAMS, INSURANCE DEDUCTIBLES, AND THE ALLOCATION OF REPAIR COSTS<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i>By Scott J. Sandler, Esq.</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On September 15, 2015, the Connecticut Condominium Owners Coalition (“CCOC”) posted an article by Patricia Ayars, Esq. titled <i>Ask Attorney Pat: How to Get the Association to Pay and Repair Ice Damming</i>.
This article depicts board members as stubborn jackasses in need of a
good clubbing with a two-by-four, who are wrongly refusing to pay to
repair units damaged by ice dams. A more appropriate title for the
article would have been<i> How to Get Your Neighbors to Pay to Repair Damage to Your Unit that Should Be Covered by Your Insurance Policy.</i></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySAIZggh1Lm-Y5zqhfwC4JKXsSIQ4eakOIEHh4njUdj9p_edoiYPVJbw11yhzw-qCtf4ZrxpRhjEfkO3mwOrF78SIS0wxHQ8BtBL5NUUO8X1XROl2JphwnS3x5QJCGARN7VINSo7Fvhg/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_86569150_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiySAIZggh1Lm-Y5zqhfwC4JKXsSIQ4eakOIEHh4njUdj9p_edoiYPVJbw11yhzw-qCtf4ZrxpRhjEfkO3mwOrF78SIS0wxHQ8BtBL5NUUO8X1XROl2JphwnS3x5QJCGARN7VINSo7Fvhg/s640/Dollarphotoclub_86569150_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>Per-Unit Deductibles</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The
insurance industry is employing more and more creative methods to avoid
having to pay claims. The imposition of per-unit deductibles is one of
these methods.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Insurance
companies that sell master insurance policies to associations are now
more commonly requiring that the policy contain a per-unit deductible
for damage caused by ice dams. The policy then treats each damaged unit
as a separate occurrence. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On
a per-unit scale, damage from ice dams often costs less than the amount
of the deductible. However, because a large number of units may be
damaged, the total repair cost that is not covered by the master policy
can be substantial. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>Master Policies and Homeowner Policies: Primary and Secondary Coverage</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Section
47-255 of the Common Interest Ownership Act (“CIOA”) requires the
association of most communities to purchase a master insurance policy
that covers both the units and the common elements against claims for
property damage. CIOA does not require the association to insure the
units in communities where the units are completely detached, or where
the units are constructed as duplexes.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Section
47-255 also requires that, in the event of a loss, the master policy
provide “primary” coverage. CIOA does not state that the master policy
will provide “exclusive” coverage. The distinction between primary and
exclusive is one of major significance, and it is one that is often
overlooked.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Most
individual unit owners have purchased their own insurance policies.
These policies provide for coverage for damage to the unit, as well as
coverage for the owner’s personal property. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">When
there is damage to the property, the master policy provides primary
coverage. This means that the association must first look to the master
policy for coverage. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">However,
nothing in CIOA prohibits the association and the owners from seeking
secondary coverage from another source of insurance, such as the
insurance purchased by the unit owner. And doing so makes perfect
sense, since the coverage is already in place and is designed to protect
the owners from bearing the cost of repair. The very reason unit
owners pay insurance premiums is to protect them from this cost.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>Repair Costs as Common Expenses</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Section 47-255 of CIOA states that the cost of repair that exceeds available insurance proceeds is a common expense.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">First,
CIOA refers to “available” insurance proceeds. The provision is not
limited to just the proceeds available under the master insurance
policy. Proceeds may also be available under the owner’s policy.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Second,
while common expenses are generally shared by all owners, there are a
number of situations where CIOA permits the association to assess an
expense against just a few or even only one owner. Subsection 47-257(c)
states that the declaration of the community may require the following:</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1. That the association assess the cost of maintaining,
repairing, or replacing a limited common element solely against the unit
that it serves;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">2. That the association assess the cost of insurance against units in proportion to risk;</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"> 3. That the association assess the cost of utilities in proportion to usage; and</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">4. That the association assess a common expense, or any potion
thereof, that benefits less than all units, solely against the units
that receive the benefit.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The
cost of repairing a unit damaged by an ice dam is an expense that
benefits that unit. While that cost is a common expense, the
declaration may require the association to assess that expense solely
against the damaged unit pursuant to Subsection 47-257(c) of CIOA.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>We Have Met the Enemy and They Are Us</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Unit
owners, including board members, are all too often subject to the “We
vs. Them” mentality. They forget the most important part of living in a
common interest community, the part about it being a “community.” </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">To
save money, board members will identify expenses to push back onto
individual owners. Likewise, the individual owners will expect the
association pay for anything and everything that is related to the good
and welfare of the community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The
fact that gets lost in these competing views is that, in the end, there
is only one source of income for the community: the individual owners.
Either the owners pay for expenses directly, or they pay common charges
which the association uses to pay the expenses. But no matter what,
the owners pay.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>Protecting the Community</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">If
the association really wants to save the community money, and to
insulate owners from the burden of uncovered repair costs, it must look
for resources outside of the community. That is why it is so important
to tap into the insurance purchased by individual owners as secondary
coverage.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Attorney
Ayars focuses her article on forcing the association to pay for the
cost of repairing damaged units. That only results in costing all
owners more money. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The
real focus should be on how to tap into sources of insurance other than
just the master policy, so that more of the expenses are paid from
sources outside of the community.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Many insurance companies that sell policies to individual owners will cover these costs without question. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">However,
some companies have engaged in the same flawed interpretation of CIOA
as Attorney Ayars has. They see “primary” and think “exclusive.” They
see “common expense” and think of the general rule of assessing all
owners, not just those that benefit from the expense. However, if the
declaration specifically requires the association to assess these repair
costs solely against the damaged units, then even these companies will
cover these costs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It
is for this reason that the second edition of the Common Interest
Ownership Manual, published by the Connecticut Bar Association, includes
a model declaration that provides for assessing these costs against the
damaged units. The authors of the manual, having consulted with other
attorneys, insurance professionals, and the Connecticut Insurance
Department, concluded that the best way of protecting the community from
the burden of these costs was to require the association to assess
these costs against the damaged units, thus triggering coverage under
the polices purchased by individual owners.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><u>Responsibility to Repair</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Attorney
Ayars is correct when she states that the association cannot refuse to
make repairs when units are damaged by events covered by property
insurance. Section 47-255 of CIOA requires the association to make
these repairs. Once the adjusters hired by the association and
homeowner’s insurance companies have fully inspected and documented the
damage, the association must proceed with the repairs as promptly as
possible.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">It
is understandable that angry and frustrated owners and board members
will point fingers and attempt to avoid incurring additional expenses.
However, suggesting that the board members should be clubbed with a
piece of lumber is not the answer. The real answer is to structure the
responsibility for the loss in a way that protects the entire community
against the expense.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-size: 10.0pt;">Attorney
Sandler is a partner in the law firm of Perlstein, Sandler &
McCracken, LLC, located in Farmington, Connecticut. His firm represents
over 400 condominium and homeowner associations throughout the state.
Mr. Sandler is a fellow of the Community Associations Institute’s
College of Community Association Lawyers. Since 2010, he has served as
the chairman of the Legislative Action Committee of the Connecticut
Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. He is also a member of
the Institute’s Government & Public Affairs Committee. Mr. Sandler
served the Institute as president of its Connecticut Chapter from 2008
through 2009.</span></i></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-57538352845315390132015-09-14T12:35:00.001-07:002015-09-14T12:35:39.048-07:00Fall Property Maintenance Checklist for Condominiums<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8X0ZzhUSQVc9f6ocQRZQT9KhOYm7C3xfvw75uTZ1liUPLNzx54egYoQV2WBsv1XceyOJhyy-_yq9YVWUYGDBam0J2UvUYUu_sbBgNXYZDzpJkxk7xuOjsNNt77TYJEaqZEeoPuDznnQ/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_85893576_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEii8X0ZzhUSQVc9f6ocQRZQT9KhOYm7C3xfvw75uTZ1liUPLNzx54egYoQV2WBsv1XceyOJhyy-_yq9YVWUYGDBam0J2UvUYUu_sbBgNXYZDzpJkxk7xuOjsNNt77TYJEaqZEeoPuDznnQ/s640/Dollarphotoclub_85893576_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Sadly, summer is coming to a close and winter is right around the corner. At this time of year, it’s especially important to keep up with seasonal maintenance on your property. Here are some items to consider before the weather starts getting too cold:<br /><br /><b>Clear gutters and downspouts. </b>Before autumn dumps some more leaves into your gutters, they should be inspected for dirt, leaves and other debris. Downspouts should be cleared of clutter and all the fittings should be examined.<br /><br /><b>Clean the chimney. </b>If your property has a chimney, hire a professional chimney sweep to make sure the damper and flue are working properly, the flashing is protected against water leakage, and no animals have made their nest inside. <br /><br /><b>Repair the walkways.</b> Before the ground becomes slippery with rain or covered in snow, your building’s walkways should be inspected for cracks, uneven pavement, or any opportunities for residents to trip and get hurt.<br /><br /><b>Remind residents to change the air filters.</b> After a summer of using the central air system, filters can get dirty. Also remind them to waterproof or remove window air conditioning units before fall sets in.<br /><br /><b>Check for leaks. </b>Prevent broken and burst pipes in the winter by having the plumbing in each unit inspected for leaks. Get up into the attic space after a rainstorm and make sure there are no leaks in the roof, chimney, or skylights. Remind residents to keep their indoor temperature set high enough setting to prevent frozen pipes.<br /><br />Our clients can schedule a fall inspection with us by giving us a call at 877-208-4570. <a href="http://www.ppmgmtonline.com/premierpm/outside_home.asp" target="_blank">You can also visit us online.</a></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-81240850547335813702015-08-17T11:25:00.001-07:002015-08-17T11:28:06.185-07:00Question of the Day<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We received a photo and question from one of our clients today. She wondered whether the ivy climbing up the sides of their old, brick-faced building should be removed. For several reasons, we said, "Yes!" </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Here's why:</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Crumbling mortar, cracks, and loose
bricks can be invaded by ivy roots, which can widen existing cracks and
allow moisture to penetrate. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">The quality of mortar has improved
over the years, so the older the building, the greater the risk of weakened
mortar. Structures built before 1930 need particular caution, as older,
lime-based mortar is softer than modern, cement-based mortar.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenBLcsTY1k5B8bQVMTpllS2VYRM3uCEzl4wFJSYfyaXapXjcEb8dHRmGLpJFKneiiEFDhQMJPBCTN7Z1FHN4ChZJGAV2c9SVUlfVzG24u7mGCVkeyqb9M7n_mIe77h8wAxIh56HqkK8Q/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhyphenhyphenBLcsTY1k5B8bQVMTpllS2VYRM3uCEzl4wFJSYfyaXapXjcEb8dHRmGLpJFKneiiEFDhQMJPBCTN7Z1FHN4ChZJGAV2c9SVUlfVzG24u7mGCVkeyqb9M7n_mIe77h8wAxIh56HqkK8Q/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"></span><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">In addition to the problems ivy can create on a brick building, there are several other types of finishes that should be kept ivy-free:</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Wooden surfaces:</b> Ivy can easily work its
way between boards, opening the joints and damaging the structure. The
roots can also penetrate small weaknesses and cracks in the wood grain,
increasing the risk of rot. And, if that’s not enough, ivy can harbor
wood destroying insects and other pests.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Siding:</b> Any siding or shakes with seams are
vulnerable to penetration by ivy roots, which can cause damage both as
the ivy’s growing and when it’s pulled off.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Stucco:</b> The main problem with stucco comes when the
ivy is pulled off, because it can pull off paint or even chunks of
stucco, and the tiny roots can permanently discolor the surface.</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Painted Surfaces:</b> As with stucco, the ivy roots may damage the paint when pulled off.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b>Unsound Structures:</b> Ivy is very heavy, and it can pull down weakened or improperly-built structures.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">For these reasons, we suggest that all ivy and climbing plants remain trimmed back, away from exterior walls. Premier clients, ff your building has any plantings climbing up the walls of your buildings, please contact us right away. </span><br />
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<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Source: <a href="http://www.todayshomeowner.com/" target="_blank">TodaysHomeowner.com </a></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-22528591468077119182015-08-10T06:55:00.000-07:002015-08-10T07:12:31.527-07:00Post-fire Rebuild in Progress in Meriden<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">On May 9, 2015, a 4-alarm fire destroyed 22 units at one of our properties in Meriden. Reconstruction is in full swing, and we hope to have everyone back home very soon!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-78388832728811593652015-07-20T08:32:00.001-07:002015-07-20T08:32:27.689-07:00The NEW American Dream<div class="zsg-content-item">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">It used to be that everyone young person's dream was to get married and buy a "starter" home. They hoped to build equity in the home then, years later, sell if for a large profit. Then our country experienced the financial crisis of 2008, when the U.S.
housing market suffered widespread losses. While we still have a desire to have our own space with the freedom to remodel it as we wish, the effects of the housing crisis may have
prompted a more cautious approach by buyers who are more realistic about
the level of equity they can build in their homes. <span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Homeowners and prospective
homeowners are now looking more closely at the costs and benefits of such a
large transaction.</span> While a home is still a good investment, many financial experts still caution against purchasing a
home for the sole purpose of making lots of money.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqorMdMsAYlcKhca-kppkK72D2_QZkJtgX3oNugx3aofobeS5LjwnlB1M-V2K4jdgYe9VL08aFzKopsoejKla9FcsgQO4LVeGJ7F7Bpea40m8HUOtherQzDEGzH0EjW8eAaR29mbl2iWw/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_86734685_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqorMdMsAYlcKhca-kppkK72D2_QZkJtgX3oNugx3aofobeS5LjwnlB1M-V2K4jdgYe9VL08aFzKopsoejKla9FcsgQO4LVeGJ7F7Bpea40m8HUOtherQzDEGzH0EjW8eAaR29mbl2iWw/s640/Dollarphotoclub_86734685_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">For many Americans with active lifestyles, renting is a great way to free up time that would normally be spent maintaining a house and yard. Renting also provides the freedom of being able to pick up and move without the burden of having to sell a house.</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><b>Here are a few more benefits of renting:</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>Flexibility.</strong> Renting allows you to explore an area
before making the longer-term commitment to homeownership. From schools to shopping to neighbors, each neighborhood had benefits and drawbacks that may not be obvious during the relatively quick home buying process.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"></span> </li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>Career uncertainty.</strong> If you think you might need
to move in the near future, or are considering job changes that may require relocation, you might want
to rent.</span><br /></li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>Income uncertainty.</strong> If you expect a pay increase or decrease in the near future, that can change your borrowing ability as well
as impact your ability to make mortgage payments.<br /></span>
</li>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>Poor credit.</strong> Creating a history of on-time rental payments can help you build the type of credit you'll need to qualify for a home loan.<br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>No maintenance expenses.</strong> When problems arise, you simple call the landlord.<br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><strong>Utilities.</strong> In some
instances, the landlord may pay for many utilities such as water, sewer, trash removal, maybe even heat and hot water.</span>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Whether renting or buying is
more cost effective depends on your market, where you choose to live
and whether you like to do home improvement and maintenance projects
yourself. Should you decide that renting is for you, give Premier Property Management Services a call at (877) 208-4570 and let us help you find the perfect apartment! </span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-70138202865148274642015-07-01T12:03:00.000-07:002015-07-01T12:03:37.526-07:00Apartment for Rent<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">We have a new apartment available on West Street in Hartford! It's in
the process of being renovated, but it's available to be shown. 2
bedrooms, 1 bath, larger sized rooms, both bedrooms have double sliding
door closets, screened-in private porch off of the living room. The
building is secured with off street parking. Each floor is secured and
the elevator is also secured, requiring a key in order to select a
floor. Every floor has it’s own laundry room. The rent is $900 a month,
which includes heat and hot water, and we require 2 months security
deposit. In order to apply, applicants must provide a $25 fee per adult
applicant along with proof of income (copies of 2 recent pay stubs) and a
recently printed credit report (<a href="http://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.creditkarma.com%2F&h=oAQFAaivI&enc=AZPmztfOtaLlgpRLoWU-P47Fulazz8Rc5RZWclKy5LTEv1h1Xirk5tCOKVqT6tqK6Pi1oOJN_q4HtOZXM8gUz6LXeei-QY7bnIjq82gvNI9A-dlu-qsu0l0BMIqmmhDOMisJ7Ie18aCq596nq6pQb8CcIH1utJzRbb9gj_LpNEZDOuw8jXNGkjEN-s5EY-iMvdZuZ2gDD10zVsYg8fLASp7s&s=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.creditkarma.com</a> is a free credit report service)</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-48985315140546239362015-06-26T06:12:00.000-07:002015-06-26T06:13:44.875-07:0010 Tips for Container Gardening<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><b><br /></b></span>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FHEky1S8P8iTAJk-1XY3exCTKvNfzy75cbQeOykhTkPTd5M3KiYZ1t5A89EJOYgfH6rV5KAbw1nY188F3pn6aWy0FKnYW2CDxZcmpE5AYifjosXIL2rF25jcelLx6YUbeOo714o05Us/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_72670057_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_FHEky1S8P8iTAJk-1XY3exCTKvNfzy75cbQeOykhTkPTd5M3KiYZ1t5A89EJOYgfH6rV5KAbw1nY188F3pn6aWy0FKnYW2CDxZcmpE5AYifjosXIL2rF25jcelLx6YUbeOo714o05Us/s640/Dollarphotoclub_72670057_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Looking to brighten up your outdoor space? Want to have some fresh vegetables and herbs? Space can be short in apartment and condominium complexes, so container gardening might be for you! Check out these tips from <a href="http://www.seedlibrary.org/" target="_blank">Hudson Valley Seed Library</a> and start growing you own container garden this weekend:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">1. The bigger the plant, the bigger the pot should be.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
2. The longer the plant takes to mature, the bigger the pot.</span><br />
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3. Fruiting plants (tomatoes, peppers etc.) need more soil and more nutrients than greens (lettuce, Tatsoi etc)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;"><br />
4. Don’t over crowd. You can plant varieties a bit closer than normal
in a pot, but crowding leads to weak spindly plants. One tomato plant
in a big pot will actually produce more tomatoes than 4 tomato plants in
the same size pot.</span><br />
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5. Pots are thirsty. They dry out quickly. Keep pots evenly moist,
trying not to let them dry out between watering or get too saturated.</span><br />
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6. Make sure there are drainage holes. (Some folks say gravel or sand
at the bottom helps as well.)</span><br />
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7. Container plants still need lots of sun. If you have part shade stick to herbs and greens.</span><br />
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8. Rooftops can be windy. If you’re growing containers on the roof,
consider setting up some kind of windbreak, like lattice, that won’t
cast shade.</span><br />
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9. Use a light potting mix but make sure you have nutrient rich compost mixed in.</span><br />
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10. Succession sow. Since you are growing in a small space, plant some
seeds, let them grow, eat your harvest, and plant some more. Just make
sure to add compost and nutrients between sowings</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8207052809487345944.post-47174556464746960072015-06-17T07:01:00.000-07:002015-06-17T07:01:14.056-07:00Summer Maintenance Checklist<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYka05YLqqACX1ZgvHf9vxoL4jtx0kO1skAEgq0Rnu6ATFhp2DhcjNfg07F7QzGfF7b3no93ims4cymybz1C4CnajolvirTufGBqm7n3wWhyphenhyphenxzfmIbOQ7l0xVbhJ9HF5GOGYoZFbifJE/s1600/Dollarphotoclub_52463786_CROP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfYka05YLqqACX1ZgvHf9vxoL4jtx0kO1skAEgq0Rnu6ATFhp2DhcjNfg07F7QzGfF7b3no93ims4cymybz1C4CnajolvirTufGBqm7n3wWhyphenhyphenxzfmIbOQ7l0xVbhJ9HF5GOGYoZFbifJE/s640/Dollarphotoclub_52463786_CROP.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Now that summer’s here, you’ll want to prepare your condominium or apartment for the onslaught of summer heat. These simple chores will help keep your home happy and healthy.<br /><br /><b>Check detectors.</b> Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re functioning properly. Change all batteries.<br /><br /><b>Inspect air-conditioners.</b> Remove and clean the filters before turning on the AC. If you have central air-conditioning, consider a professional servicing.<br /><br /><b>Clean ceiling fans. </b>Wipe ceiling fans with a damp rag. If you have high ceilings, a ceiling-fan duster can help you de-grime hard-to-reach blades.<br /><br /><b>Clean your outdoor cooker.*</b> For gas grills, turn the heat up to high and let the grill cook with the lid closed for about half an hour. Allow the grill to cool, then brush it off with a grill brush. Wipe down the exterior with a damp sponge and a gentle cleanser. Clean the grill’s drip pans.<br /><br /><b>Analyze your deck.</b> Look over your deck for signs of rotting and nails that are poking up. Report any unsafe conditions to your management company. Consider brightening up your deck with some large pots filled with flowers or herbs. Wipe down patio furniture.<br /><br /><b>Wash your windows.</b> If you didn’t tackle window washing in the spring, now’s the time to get your glass clean.<br /><br />Stop dirt at the door. Keep summer’s mud and muck outside with not one, but two doormats at your main entry door. Place a coarse mat at the outside and a softer, cloth one on the inside to catch the most dirt. Better still, instruct family members to remove their shoes upon entering. <br /><br />Now that your home is ready for summer, go out and enjoy the beautiful weather!<br /><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>* Check your condominium maintenance standards for rules about grills and outdoor cookers. You can also check with your local Fire Marshall.</i></span></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09935330889708796272noreply@blogger.com0