Category Archives: Personal Finance: Out-of-control Assessments

See results of IAC reader HOA satisfaction survey

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Last week IAC posted a 2-minute,10-question HOA survey, what was also e-mailed to subscribers and shared on social media. So far, the results are fascinating, and somewhat surprising. Here’s a brief summary to date.   HOA fees and value IAC asked readers how their HOA assessments have changed in the past 5 years. Not surprisingly, 80% say that their HOA fees went up, at least a little. More than Continue ReadingSee results of IAC reader HOA satisfaction survey→

Your opinion, please – HOA, condo, & co-op satisfaction survey

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Take this 2-minute HOA, condo, and co-op survey, and share this post with family and friends. Tell Independent American Communities if you’re satisfied with your homeowners association board and your professional HOA manager. Share your opinion about HOA fees, special assessments, and fines. Click here to take survey: IAC Survey on HOA satisfaction, fees, and fines

HOA living comes with many unexpected costs

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Homeowners may think their HOA fees cover all costs to maintain the common property. But, as these three recent reports illustrate, that’s not always the case. A Florida HOA won’t pay for wildlife control, a Colorado condo association takes more than a week to repair common water lines, and an Arizona HOA hits up owners to pay to rebuild the wall surrounding the private community.   Vultures descend on Continue ReadingHOA living comes with many unexpected costs→

Reserve account realities: what the HOA industry won’t tell you

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Homeowners’ association industry trade groups have been beating the drum about the importance of strong reserve accounts for many years. It seems like common sense advice for HOAs to plan for future expenses. But planning for future financial solvency is not as simple as reserving at least 10% of the Association’s monthly, quarterly, or annual fees. There are several important factors to consider, which I’ll explain in this article. Continue ReadingReserve account realities: what the HOA industry won’t tell you→