Good information and clear communication are crucial for anyone involved with the administration of a condominium or homeowners association—crucial not just to thriving, but surviving in today’s challenging economic times. Finding that i…
Virtually unheard of for decades, bedbugs are now making a fierce comeback around the country, including New England. “The problem is astronomical. Every phone call is about bedbugs,” says Galvin Murphy, president of Yankee Pest Control …
When the days finally lengthen and the mornings lose that bitter chill, it’s time to assess the damage wrought by another New England winter. For the board members and the property manager of a community association, that wintertime dam…
When a condo’s fencing, decking or siding wear out and need replacement, smart condos are looking well beyond “apple-for-apple” replacement materials. Wood siding, a favorite for decades, is frequently being replaced by vinyl …
Everyone knows the old phrase about April showers bringing May flowers, but what the saying doesn’t tell you is that the rain in April can also bring a lot of damage to your gutter system. Hard rain and blustery wind are always around o…
It’s a simple equation: Warmer temperatures and melting snow means that spring is rearing its head around winter’s chilly corner. And aside from the change of wardrobe, there’s one other thing that condominium residents have to look forwa…
A proposal to ban federal lenders from purchasing mortgages in condos with deed-based transfer fees has been drastically scaled back following intense lobbying against the rule by community associations around the country. The p…
One of New England’s more unique resort communities, Waterville Valley, New Hampshire, beckons like an oasis from the heart of the White Mountain National Forest. Two hours from Boston and served by one main road – Route 49 –the village…
Q My condo board has given notice to a maintenance increasefor this year after a five-year assessment, which is to expire next year. If an owner has several combined units and has incorporated the common hallway usage for their pers…
Q What can be done when an association board allows members to install satellite dishes on common property (roofs) when our rules clearly state such installations are prohibited? The FCC allows for satellite dishes to be installed o…