Category Archives: Podcasts

Deborah Goonan, Shu Bartholomew discuss children, lemonade stands, and property rights On the Commons

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Lemonade stand children

by Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities UPDATED June 12, 2012 This week, Shu Bartholomew and I discussed a sign of positive change for children and families in HOA-governed communities in the U.S. A few weeks ago, I wrote about Texas House Bill 234. It’s common sense legislation that gives kids the freedom to set up a lemonade stand on private property, without paying for a city permit. But here’s what make HB 234 noteworthy. It Continue ReadingDeborah Goonan, Shu Bartholomew discuss children, lemonade stands, and property rights On the Commons→

Andrea’s HOA battle is over. What now?

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Red Rose closeup

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities Some of my readers know that, on January 31, advocates for rights of HOA residents lost another voice. Andrea Barnes died at the age of 46, leaving behind her husband, her parents, three children, other family members and friends. Andrea’s HOA dispute began in connection with her diagnosis of Meniere’s Disease, a disorder of the inner ear that causes problems with balance, constant ringing in the ears, and unpredictable Continue ReadingAndrea’s HOA battle is over. What now?→

Do HOA industry surveys prove HOA residents are satisfied?

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Woman question wonder HOA regulation

Should Americans put faith in CAI’s claim that the “overwhelming majority” of HOA residents are satisfied? By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities From time to time, Community Associations Institute (CAI), issues news releases and email blasts, claiming that “objective” surveys prove the majority of Americans who reside in homeowners,’ condominium, and cooperative associations are “overwhelmingly satisfied” with their community association experience. Naturally, the community management sector of the real estate industry desperately wants policymakers and housing Continue ReadingDo HOA industry surveys prove HOA residents are satisfied?→

Homeownership in HOA-ville: is there any real benefit?

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities This week, Shu Bartholomew and I sort out half-truths and illusions surrounding homeownership in the U.S. Do restrictive covenants and homeowners’ associations really protect property values? Are consumers of new homes getting a safe, high quality product? Who truly benefits from the current housing policy? Listen in on the podcast here.  Referenced blogs: Firefighters say newer homes burn faster than old homes Colorado developer plans new 900-home community with Continue ReadingHomeownership in HOA-ville: is there any real benefit?→