Category Archives: Podcasts

Andrea’s HOA battle is over. What now?

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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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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?→

Condo and homeowner associations losing popularity with today’s buyers

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Several weeks ago, Shu Bartholomew and I discussed On the Commons the changes taking place in the market for association-governed housing. There are some good reasons why home buyers have become less than enchanted with common interest development in general. The prevalence of community conflict and unpredictable financial risks are very real. We discuss some of those disadvantages in detail. Anyone considering the purchase of a condominium, co-op, townhouse, or Continue ReadingCondo and homeowner associations losing popularity with today’s buyers→