A Case for Assessment Predictability:  One of the most contentious issues for many associations is the annual budget process.  While most owners agree that operating costs increase from year to year, many of the same owners feel that the monthly assessments (referred to hereinafter as 'assessments') should not increase annually to match those expenses.  As a result, many Boards feel trapped between having to choose . . . to read more of this article from Marshall A. Johnson, PCAM, The CWD Group, Inc., AAMC click here.

Alternatives to Robert's Rules of Order - Making Decisions for the Whole Community:  Have you attended a community association meeting where there was a vote on an emotional issue?  As you watched the losing side, did you worry that deep divisions might sour neighborhood spirit? Have you ever watched a meeting where . . . to read more of this article from Andrew Kidde, Program Manager, Bellevue Neighborhood Mediation Program click here.

Budget Components - Looking Beyond the Basics:  First let's start with the budget basics.  CAI defines a budget as: "A financial plan for an organization, in this case, a community association. A budget provides an Estimate of a community's Income and Expenses for a specified Period of Time.  It is the first step . . . to read more of this article from Kevin Ducotey, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, Condominium Management click here.

Dealing with Insurance Deductibles in Condominium Associations: The Horizontal Property Regimes Act (the "Old Act") RCW 64.32.330 requires that a condominium association obtain insurance for the condominium property against loss or damage by fire and any other hazards required or requested by the Declaration, by a majority of owners, or by any mortgages of record covering an apartment. The association's master insurance policy must cover the building and . . . to read more of this article from James L. Strichartz, Esq., Law Offices of James L. Strichartz click here.

Slouching Toward the Annual Budget - What to Do, What Not to Do:  The Best of Times. It's that time of year again when budgets pass. Property managers are hoisted on the shoulders of associations and doused with Gatorade.  Community associations soar. Accountants balance the books. The Worst of Times. It's also that Property managers are left turning, turning in the wind. Community Associations, like wingless rocks,descend into . . . to read more of this article from Brian P. McLean, Esq., Leahy.ps click here.

Transitioning to a New Management Company: In a perfect world, a condominium association and its management company would have a life-long harmonious relationship - for better or for worse. However, for any number of reasons, one partner or the other may choose to terminate their mutual agreement, resulting in . . . to read more of this article from Sacha Copeland, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, The Copeland Group, LLC click here.