Tag Archives: US Constitution

Can HOAs be reformed or should they be abolished?

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities An interesting editorial written by David Sobotta in The News & Observer, entitled My descent into HOA hell in North Carolina, is both eye-opening and provocative. Sobotta explains how, after eight years of uneventful living in his HOA, everything quickly spiraled downward when the developer abruptly decided to hand over control to a volunteer homeowner board. Well, the way Sobotta describes it, it was more like dumping a lot Continue ReadingCan HOAs be reformed or should they be abolished?→

Adult Bully: Condo association President arrested for harassment of former resident

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NYPD arrests Neal Milano, condo President and manager of Sunnyside Condominiums,  a 47-unit building in Queens By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Multiple media reports of alleged abuse and discrimination are circulating about Sunnyside Condominium Association in Queens, New York. Photographs and TV news videos reveal a bizarre and frightening display installed by 70-year-old condo board President and property manager, Neal Milano. Uncle Sam statues greet visitors and residents at the entrance. Posters of Continue ReadingAdult Bully: Condo association President arrested for harassment of former resident→

When will Americans declare independence from HOA tyranny?

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities In honor of Independence Day, today let’s take a look at a list of Constitutional Rights not guaranteed in homeowners, condominium, and cooperative associations. Because, after all, according to HOA industry trade group lobbyists from Community Associations Institute (CAI), association governed common interest communities are private organizations, not government entities. While the U.S. Constitution was written to uphold certain inalienable rights, and to create constraints that would prevent abuse of Continue ReadingWhen will Americans declare independence from HOA tyranny?→

Homeowners’ Associations: 3 facts vs. myths

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Top 3 Fact Check list about life in common interest, Association-Governed Housing, including Condominium Associations and Homeowners Associations (HOAs) – also known as Planned Communities or Private Communities.   Myth #1. HOAs are enclaves for the wealthy Facts: A recent article in the Wall Street Journal, entitled Neighbor Disputes Turn Wealthy Areas Into War Zones, certainly perpetuates the misconception that only the uber-rich live in HOAs. But nothing could be Continue ReadingHomeowners’ Associations: 3 facts vs. myths→