Focus Magazine - January/February 2013

January/February 2013

L.A.’s Premier Source of Information for Community Associations

The Future of Banking A Heating Expert’s Saving Secrets News from Sacramento SAVE THE DATE:

CAI National Conference April 17-19, San Diego

New Year, New Opportunities

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 1

3/4/13 12:09 PM

Help BUILD CAI-GLAC And Reward Yourself by Recruiting New Members in 2013 GRAND PRIZE 3-day/2-night Weekend Getaway ;OL )\PSK *(0 .3(* 9LJY\P[LY *VU[LZ[ Y\UZ MVY TVU[OZ HUK PZ KLZPNULK ZV [OH[ J\YYLU[ *(0 TLTILYZ JHU LHYU ]HS\HISL WYPaLZ MVY ZOHYPUN [OL ILULÄ[Z VM *(0 TLTILYZOPW ^P[O MYPLUKZ HUK JVSSLHN\LZ 9<3,: ;OL MVSSV^PUN Y\SLZ HWWS` [V [OL JHTWHPNU! 4LTILYZ PU NVVK Z[HUKPUN JHU JVTWL[L [V YLJY\P[ UL^ TLTILYZ HUK LHYU WVPU[Z [V^HYK [OL .YHUK 7YPaL ;V YLJLP]L JYLKP[ `V\ T\Z[ IL SPZ[LK HZ [OL *(0 TLTILY YLZWVUZPISL MVY YLJY\P[TLU[ VU [OL WYPU[LK HWWSPJH[PVU MVYT Z\ITP[[LK VY IL PKLU[PÄLK [OYV\NO *(0 5H[PVUHS TLTILYZOPW YLWVY[Z (SS JVTWSL[LK HWWSPJH[PVUZ HUK TLTILYZOPW K\LZ MVY X\HSPÄLK HWWSPJHU[Z T\Z[ IL YLJLP]LK H[ *(0 IL[^LLU 1HU\HY` HUK +LJLTILY [V IL JV\U[LK [V^HYK [OL .YHUK 7YPaL

THREE CONTESTS … THREE PRIZES 9,*9<0;,9 6- ;/, 465;/ The memb ;OL TLTILY ^OV OHZ YLJY\P[LK [OL TVZ[ UL^ TLTILYZOPWZ PU [OL WYL]PV\Z TVU[O recognized ^PSS IL YLJVNUPaLK H[ [OL UL_[ S\UJOLVU HUK H^HYKLK H -9,, 3<5*/ 0U [OL JHZL VM a H [PL H YHUKVT KYH^PUN ^PSS KL[LYTPUL [OL ^PUULY random d

GRAND.9(5+ 790A, PRIZE ( ]HS\L Member wi 4LTILY ^P[O [OL OPNOLZ[ U\TILY VM WVPU[Z HZ VM +LJLTILY ^PS0 YLJLP]L the Grand P [OL .YHUK 7YPaL 0U JHZLZ ^OLYL [OLYL HYL [^V VY TVYL TLTILYZ ^P[O LX\HS WVPU[Z those name [OVZL UHTLZ ^PSS IL W\[ PU[V H IV^S HUK YHUKVTS` KYH^U [V KL[LYTPUL [OL ^PUULY 7VPU[Z ^PSS HJJY\L MYVT 1HU\HY` [OYV\NO +LJLTILY MVY [OL .YHUK 7YPaL Points will a 4LTILYZ LHYU WVPU[Z IHZLK VU [OL TLTILYZOPW JH[LNVY` Members e :30+05. :*(3, 7605; :@:;,4 *(5 .0=, @6< (5 ,+., x SLI Par 7HY[PJPWH[PUN TLTILYZ ^PSS YLJLP]L! + 6UL WVPU[ MVY LHJO I\ZPULZZ WHY[ULY TLTILY YLJY\P[LK PU H JH[LNVY` HSYLHK` L_PZ[PUN PU [OL 4LTILYZOPW +PYLJ[VY` + ;^V WVPU[Z MVY H I\ZPULZZ WHY[ULY PU H ZLJ[VY VM I\ZPULZZ UV[ `L[ YLWYLZLU[LK PU [OL *OHW[LY + ;^V WVPU[Z MVY HU PUKP]PK\HS /6( IVHYK TLTILY VY JVTT\UP[` THUHNLY HUK ;OYLL WVPU[Z MVY YLJY\P[PUN H THUHNLTLU[ JVTWHU` 9,*9<0;,9 9(--3, (SS YLJY\P[LYZ L_JLW[ [OL .YHUK 7YPaL ^PUULY ^PSS NV PU[V H YHMÅL KYH^PUN OLSK PU LHYS` 1HU\HY` ^OLU HSS [OL YLZ\S[Z HYL PU [V ^PU HU ,]LUPUN 6\[ VU [OL ;V^U ]HS\L

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 2

3/4/13 12:09 PM

2013 BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS Catherine Gemind, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, President Valencia Management Group, 661-295-9474 Matt D. Ober, Esq., President Elect Richardson Harman Ober, PC, 626-449-5577 Katy Krupp, Vice President Fenton, Grant, Mayfield, Kaneda & Litt, LLP, 949-435-3800 Joanne Pena, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, Secretary Horizon Management Company, 310-543-1995 Gregg Lotane, CCAM®, PCAM®, Treasurer The Wilshire Condominiums, 310-446-5333 DIRECTORS Jeffrey A. Beaumont, Esq. Beaumont Gitlin Tashjian, 818-884-9998 Carol Brockhouse, AMS® Rockpointe HOA, 818-341-8860 Tina Chu, Esq. Adams Kessler, PLC, 310-945-0280 Pamella De Armas SAX Insurance Agency, 310-740-4274 Michael Lewis, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® Concept Seven, LLC, 310-622-7012 Robert Ridley, Esq. Castlegate HOA, 213-626-0291 Lynn Ruger Warner Club Villas HOA, 818-703-7090 David C. Swedelson, Esq. Swedelson & Gottlieb, 310-207-2207

CHAPTER EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Joan Urbaniak, MBA, CMCA®

2013 COMMITTEE CHAIRS COMMUNITY OUTREACH Meigan Everett, CMCA®, Gold Coast Property Pros EDUCATION Gregg Lotane, CCAM®, PCAM®, The Wilshire Condominiums FINANCE Jolen Zeroski, CMCA®, Union Bank GOLF TOURNAMENT Teresa Agnew, Roseman & Associates, APC Daisy Vasquez, Securitas Security Services USA, Inc. LEGISLATIVE ACTION Lisa Tashjian, Esq., Beaumont Gitlin Tashjian MARKETPLACE Alan Denison, Stay Green Inc. MEMBERSHIP Larry Hooper, Popular Association Banking MEDIATION SERVICES Matthew Grode, Esq., Gibbs, Giden, Locher, Turner & Senet, LLP PROGRAMS/LUNCHEONS Linda Healey, PCAM®, The Californian on Willshire PUBLIC RELATIONS Darin Sherlock, Marina Landscape PUBLICATIONS Matthew Gardner, Esq., Richardson Harman Ober PC FOCUS Magazine Sherry Branson, Kevin Davis Insurance Services Membership Directory Stephen S. Grane, Alante/MCS Insurance Services Web Site Lynne Collmann, CMCA®, AMS®, Savoy Community Association SATELLITE PROGRAMS Gail Jones, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, Valencia Management Group Craig Phillips, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, International Tower Owners Assn.

SOCIAL Donald Campbell, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, Torrance-Windemere HOA Angel Fuerte, ENDURA Painting Corporation WINE NIGHT Katy Krupp, Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, LLP Jolen Zeroski, CMCA®, Union Bank

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 3

NEWSWORTHY 6 8 10 12 14 18 19 20 22 24

Selecting the Right Materials for the Project Makes a BIG Difference The Future of Banking A Heating Expert’s Saving Secrets Preparing Your Residents for the Big Move: Finding a Qualified Mover Responding to Water Damage NEWS FROM SACRAMENTO: And We’re Off and Running!

NEWS FROM CAI NATIONAL: New Qualified Mortgage Guidelines Released Shopping for Vinyl Fencing HOA Landscape Renovation To Petromat® or Not to Petromat? That is the Question

CHAPTER UPDATE 2 Note From the Editor’s Desk 3 President’s Message 4 2013 Board of Directors

NOTEWORTHY 16 Holiday Happy Hour 26 PCAM® Pride 27 Essentials Of Community Leadership Workshop 28 CAI Adds Online Ethics Course to Curriculum

FYI

On the Cover

29 Additions & Corrections to 2013 Membership Directory 32 2013 Upcoming Events 32 Advertisers Index 32 Advertising Information 37 2013 PMDP National Course Schedule This publication seeks to provide CAI-GLAC’s membership with information on community association issues. Authors are responsible for developing the logic of their expressed opinions and for the authenticity of all facts presented in articles. CAI-GLAC does not necessarily endorse or approve statements of fact or opinion made in these pages and assumes no responsibility for those statements. By submission of editorial content to CAI-GLAC, the author acknowledges and agrees to abide by the editorial and policy guidelines. Copyright © 2013.

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. CAI is a national, not-for-profit association created in 1973 to educate and represent America’s residential community association industry.

National Office Address: 6402 Arlington Blvd. #500, Falls Church, VA 22042 /i \ÊnnnÉÓÓ{ {ÎÓ£ÊUÊ7iLÊ- Ìi\Ê ÌÌ«\ÉÉÜÜÜ°V> i° À}

The Essex House HOA Marina Del Rey Photo Courtesy of Les Jillson

Save the Date: CAI National Conference April 17-19, San Diego

STAY CONNECTED:

130 N. Brand Blvd., Ste. 305 Glendale, CA 91203 Office: 818-500-8636 Fax: 818-500-8638

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

1

3/4/13 12:09 PM

A chilly winter in Southern California can lead to high heating bills. Even though it’s cold, there are ways to save on heating costs. Dean Gilford authors a very informative article about how to shave off some of those heating expenses.

A

FRESH YEAR starts and new community association projects are taking shape. This issue revolves around trends, maintenance, renovation and repair with good ideas for boards of directors and their managers.

When a property needs a complete overhaul of the exterior, the roof and much more, what are the best types of materials to use? This is the topic of our

NOTE

Moving is considered to be one of the most stressful things to do, and everyone knows that packing and unpacking boxes is not fun! Ram Katalan gives us tips on how to choose a moving company that managers can pass on to their owners.

When water damage occurs in a home, many people are not sure what to do.

Since a situation can get worse quickly, John Temoyan helps us focus on the important steps to take to prevent further damage from taking place.

In our next article, author Viken Ohanesian gives us seven questions to ask when shopping for vinyl fencing.

When your association is ready for a landscape makeover, having a long-term landscape plan in mind is critical to the overall success of your landscaping design. Stan Smith discusses how to get the process started.

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

first article. Les Jillson discusses how making the right choices in building materials is very important, especially when the property is located on the ocean and exposed to the salt air and plenty of Southern California sunshine.

What is the future of banking?

Cyndi Koester writes about what both homeowners and community associations should expect to happen in the near future.

The pros and cons of using Petromat® in your association’s parking lots are debated in an article by Gordon Miller as one way to extend the life of asphalt.

Here is to a safe and happy 2013!

— Sherry Branson Editor

ASK THE EXPERTS– EXPERTS – A New Column In Upcoming Issues iiiGOT GOT A QUESTION? Visit our Web site at www.cai-glac.org and click on Ask the Experts on the Navigation Bar to submit your question.

Due to the volume of questions we receive, we regret that we cannot print answers to all the questions that come into our office. This FOCUS column will contain answers to general questions that are of interest to a majority of our readers. If not printed, we will endeavor to get an answer to your question or suggest resources to explore for an the answer.

CAI-GLAC does not necessarily endorse or approve statements of fact or opinion made in these pages and assumes no responsibility for those statements. Authors are responsible for developing the logic of their expressed opinions and for the authenticity of all facts presented in articles.

2

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 4

2013 CAI-GLAC Super Sponsors PLATINUM

Farmers Insurance Group—Steven G. Segal Insurance Agency, Inc. General Pavement Management, Inc. Pacific Western Bank Payne Pest Management Preferred Commercial Painting, Inc. R.W. Stein Painting, Inc. Seacoast Commerce Bank Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP GOLD Beaumont Gitlin Tashjian Behr Paint Corp/THE HOME DEPOT USA Best Alliance Foreclosure and Lien Services Fenceworks, Inc. Fenton, Grant, Mayfield, Kaneda & Litt, LLP Ferris Painting, Inc. First Bank Nautilus General Contractors, Inc. Popular Association Banking Securitas Security Services USA, Inc. Select Painting Union Bank SILVER Adco Roofing, Inc. Association Reserves, Inc. Berg Insurance Agency, Inc. CommerceWest Bank ENDURA PaintingCorporation Milstein Adelman, LLP Mutual of Omaha Bank/CondoCerts Orange Coast Building Services, Inc. Reserve Studies Incorporated S.B.S. Lien Services SAX Insurance Agency ServiceMaster by Eddie South Shore Building Services, Inc. Stay Green Inc. SwedelsonGottlieb Timothy Cline Insurance Agency, Inc.

BRONZE Accurate Termite & Pest Control Bethco Builders Boyd & Associates DM Construction Services Dunn-Edwards Paints Horizon Management Company Mission Landscape Services Pacific Premier Bank PCW Contracting Services, Inc. Poindexter and Company, CPAs Professional Services Construction, Inc. QwikResponse Restoration & Construction Reconstruction Experts, Inc. Richardson Harman Ober PC Silldorf & Levine, LLP Stonemark Construction Management The Termite Guy Three Phase Electric U.S. Bank ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance We thank our 2013 sponsors who have made a substantial contribution to ensure our continued success this year.

Contact the Chapter Office at 818-500-8636 to sponsor a program or an event.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:10 PM

MESSAGE

FROM THE PRESIDENT

Leadership Through Service

W

ELCOME TO A NEW YEAR with the Greater Los Angeles Chapter! This year promises once again to exceed our expectations for growth and prosperity.

While I have the pleasure of serving as the Chapter President for 2013, what we have achieved over the years would be impossible without the active support and participation of our board of directors and committee members.

Their selfless time and countless efforts have built a tradition of success for this

chapter. Our strength is premised on the level of involvement of our members. My goal this year is to build on that tradition and provide the support necessary for our continue success.

To our new and returning members: I welcome and encourage you to maximize the value of your membership by taking advantage of the Chapter’s offerings and by networking with your fellow members. We are expanding our ability to meet your needs through social networking sites, educational scholarships, social events, volunteer opportunities and more. Consider too how you can contribute to the Chapter through participation in a committee because it will provide you with a path toward greater connection and satisfaction with the organization.

Every CAI-GLAC member is different.

Each was drawn into the organization for different reasons, and many clearly remember the first moment when they went from being a member to being committed Chapter participants. I was

reminded last November about how vital committed participation is to our chapter when I observed the interaction between attendees at the annual Strategic Planning Workshop. I learned that day of the amount of experience and talent we have among our members and how we all benefit from each other’s contributions to CAI-GLAC. Later it hit me why this kind of participation is so important— it’s how we serve one another. When we’re engaged in the act of serving, the impact is not limited to our members or to the organization. It spreads to make a positive difference in our communities and sets an example worthy enough to follow. Service is the purest form of leadership.

I hope you’re all as excited as I am about 2013.

Very truly yours, Catherine Gemind, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® 2013 Chapter President

Have You Just Been Elected to Your Board...

Or Are Contemplating Running for a Board Seat?

CAI offers a one-day workshop that you won’t want to miss! It gives you the basics that you need to govern more effectively and efficiently. You’ll leave the workshop with new ideas, solutions to problems, handouts for future reference and the knowledge that there are more resources and people to help you with your leadership responsibilities. Course topics include: responsibilities, rule enforcement, maintenance, finance, reserves, insurance and board meetings.

Cost: $80/Member; $100/Non-member Next Class: Saturday, April 13, 2013

Location: Bunker Hill Tower Owners Assn., Downtown Los Angeles Go to www.cai-glac.org for more details and registration.

Approved by the Department of Real Estate as a proper use of association funds.

Course fee includes course materials, continental breakfast and lunch. Workshops are held on Saturdays. Call the Chapter Office at 818.500.8636 for a Workshop schedule.

The location varies — if you can guarantee 10 attendees, we’ll come to your association!

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 5

To learn more about CAl’s newest service and how mediation can benefit you, call the Chapter Office at 818-500-8636.

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

3

3/4/13 12:10 PM

PRESIDENT CATHERINE GEMIND, CMCA®, AMS,® PCAM® Catherine Gemind is Vice President of Corporate Development for Valencia Management Group, with primary responsibility for human resource management and training. As a member of this Chapter since 1999, she has been excited to see its growth and maturity, especially in recent years. As a board member, she plans to further the Chapter’s efforts to elevate the professionalism of the community association industry.

As a member of CAI’s National Faculty, Catherine has a commitment to and unwavering support for the continuing excellence and expansion of educational opportunities for the members. She actively works to advance recognition of CAI’s certification and credentialing programs.

PRESIDENT ELECT MATT D. OBER, ESQ. Matt Ober has been a member of this chapter since 1993, participating in the Education, Programs, and California Legislative Action Committees.

Matt has presented educational programs to the Chapter, ranging from the “Essentials of Community Leadership” to the Annual Legislative Update and Free Legal Advice Programs. He is a member of CAI’s National Faculty, a member of the CAI College of Community Association Lawyers and a co-author of CAI’s California Law Course for Community Association Managers. Matt is a senior partner of the law firm of Richardson Harman Ober PC, a firm that specializes in community association law and services clients throughout Southern California.

Among his reasons for staying involved in the Chapter as a board member is to continue to create greater opportunity for business partners to obtain value from their membership. He intends to encourage the Chapter to focus on educational programs and industry events, such as the HOA Marketplace, that provide homeowners and association managers meaningful exposure to what our business partners have to offer their communities.

VICE PRESIDENT KATY KRUPP Katy Krupp has been an active member of eight CAI chapters throughout California for several years.

She served as co-chair of this chapter’s Wine Night Committee in 2009, 2012 and 2013 and she has been the recipient of the “Rookie of the Year,” “Committee Member of the Year,” and “Speaker of the Year” awards. Chairperson for the Orange County Chapter’s Outreach Committee for six years, she was recognized by CAI National with the Achievement Award for Public Affairs.

Since Katy is a member of several CAI chapters, she sees firsthand how an effective chapter runs and what mistakes to avoid. As a director, she helps ensure this chapter’s financial health and develops ways for business partners, community managers and HOA boards to work together through education. Katy is responsible for business development at Fenton, Grant, Mayfield, Kaneda & Litt, LLP.

2013

BOARD OF DIRECTORS SECRETARY JOANNE PEÑA, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®

Joanne Peña has been a portfolio manager with Horizon Management Company since June 1995.

She has earned and maintains the PCAM®, AMS® and CMCA®. Prior to joining Horizon Management Company, Joanne served on the Summerwind Condominium Association Board of Directors and was Board President for two years. She has previously served on the CAI-GLAC Board of Directors (2002-2008) and was Chapter President in 2005. Joanne has also volunteered on the Publications, Wine Night and Community Outreach Committees.

Joanne actively supports the Chapter’s efforts to promote professionalism within the industry, provide educational opportunities for managers and community volunteers, and offer valuable networking opportunities for our business partner members.

TREASURER GREGG LOTANE, CCAM®, PCAM® Gregg Lotane is currently the general manager at The Wilshire Condominium HOA. Previously working in the community association management field in Washington, D.C., Gregg has been involved with CAI since 1986 and holds the PCAM® and CCAM® designations. Active in the Greater Los Angeles Chapter since 1996, Gregg is chairing the Education Committee again this year. He has served on the Programs Committee, as Membership Committee Chair for three years and as a speaker at various CAI educational luncheons.

As a board member, he continues to foster new ideas for specialized manager and homeowner programs in order to increase the educational value for the members and build the membership base in the Chapter.

PAST PRESIDENT JEFFREY A. BEAUMONT, ESQ. Jeff Beaumont is extremely dedicated to CAI, and has been for more than eleven years, serving as president of the Channel Islands Chapter and current Delegate for the California Legislative Action Committee of CAI. Jeff also dedicates his time to speaking and teaching within the community association industry. He is a member of the faculty for CAI National and other industry organizations. His vision for the Chapter is twofold, and is consistent with his passions for teaching and business development. First, there is no reason why the Chapter shouldn’t have twice the number of members it has. From homeowners and board members to managers and business partners, the Greater Los Angeles area has thousands of prospective members that the Chapter must reach out to.

Second, the CID industry is great, but can be better through increased and improved education and team work. Education and increased membership are key to improving this unique industry and wonderful Chapter.

As the senior partner of Beaumont Gitlin Tashjian, Jeff has devoted his law practice to the representation of community associations on all issues impacting his firm’s clients.

4

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 6

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:10 PM

CAROL BROCKHOUSE, AMS® Carol Brockhouse has been managing common interest developments for 28 years and her passion for this industry never wanes! Most of Carol’s experience has been on-site in Ventura, Los Angeles and San Diego Counties. She was a portfolio manager for three years in the late 1990s and is currently the on-site general manager at Rockpointe HOA in Chatsworth, which comprises 739 units nestled in the foothills of the Santa Susana Mountains.

A member of CAI for several years, Carol holds the Association Management Specialist designation and served as Membership Committee Chair in 2012.

New to the Board of Directors this year, Carol plans to use her excellent communication skills to promote CAI and serve the members of this chapter.

TINA CHU, ESQ. Tina Chu, Esq. has been an active member of CAIGLAC since 2008. She served as a volunteer on numerous Chapter committees and in 2011 was the Chair of the Membership Committee before serving on the CAI-GLAC Board of Directors.

Tina has been practicing law for more than seven years and has an extensive background in the representation of common interest developments. Her clients include large condominium projects, planned unit developments, commercial associations, and high-rise developments. With her thorough knowledge of our industry, Tina seeks to promote standards of professionalism, not only in our daily interactions with one another, but also in how we represent the Chapter.

PAMELLA DE ARMAS Pamella De Armas has been an active CAI member since 2007, serving on the Ambassadors, Social Events and Wine Night Committees. She received the chapter’s Rising Star award for 2008 and Event of the Year award for 2007 for the Casino Night “Hot Havana Nights.” Pamella was Social Committee Co-chair in 2011 and 2012. She believes that respect, trust and integrity are the keys to success in performing activities and events and in everyday professionalism with fellow members. As a director, Pamella keeps the bar high when developing educational and networking events for the members.

As a licensed insurance agent with SAX Insurance Agency, Pamella helps and educates boards and property managers in insuring their HOAs. Prior to the insurance industry, she was the vice president for a prestigious luggage manufacturer for 18 years, responsible for strategic marketing, advertising, human resources, accounting and customer service.

MICHAEL LEWIS, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® Active in the community management industry for more than ten years, Mike Lewis currently holds the PCAM®, AMS®, CMCA® and CCAM® designations and is the CEO of Concept Seven, LLC in Torrance.

A prior member of the CAI Educational Committee, he chaired the South Bay Programs Committee for two years.

ROBERT RIDLEY, ESQ. Robert Ridley, Esq. is the president of Castlegate Homeowners Association, a condo community of 48 units in Pasadena. Professionally, Bob is a partner in the Los Angeles law firm of Farmer & Ridley, LLP, where he specializes in employee benefits and was involved in the formation of employee benefit law and policy, including ERISA in 1974 and the Multi-Employer Pension Plan Amendment Act of 1980. A member of the California and Los Angeles Bar Associations, Bob has lectured at numerous tax institutes and California Continuing Education of the Bar programs. He is a fellow of the American College of Tax Counsel, a charter fellow of the American College of Employee Benefits Counsel and a member of the Small Business Council of America.

An advocate for HOA board education, Bob is committed to helping the Chapter further develop its educational offerings to HOA boards and to increase awareness about our organization to the greater community.

LYNN RUGER Lynn Ruger has been either a volunteer board member or member of committee at Warner Club Villas HOA in Woodland Hills for most of the 32 years she has lived there. Presently a director-atlarge on her board, Lynn has served in every office of the HOA’s board of directors. Professionally, Lynn owned and operated a pet shop in Northridge for 16 years and then worked as a health care professional in the Long Term Care Unit at Motion Picture Hospital until her retirement.

A CAI member since 2009, Lynn has enjoyed many of CAI’s activities, including the Valencia Educational Breakfasts for HOA Boards & Managers, the Essentials of Community Association Leadership Workshop, the HOA Marketplace and other activities. She is new to the board and is looking forward to giving back to the organization and spreading the word even farther about CAI.

DAVID SWEDELSON, ESQ. David Swedelson is a founding and senior partner of the law firm of SwedelsonGottlieb that limits its practice and specializes in the representation of California community associations, and he is also a principal of Association Lien Services, an affiliate of SwedelsonGottlieb that specializes in the collection of delinquent assessments throughout California utilizing the non-judicial foreclosure process.

A long time member of CAI, he has served on the National Attorneys Committee, as a member of the Board and President of the Greater Los Angeles Chapter of CAI and a Board Member of the Channel Islands Chapter of CAI, as well as a Delegate and Officer of CAI’s California Legislative Action Committee. David’s CAI-GLAC activities include speaking at educational luncheons, writing for both FOCUS Magazine and the L.A. HOA Insider Newsletter and facilitating Essentials of Community Leadership Workshops.

David believes in “giving back” and will be sharing his many years of experience with this chapter and CAI in general for the benefit of the CAI-GLAC.

As a member of CAI for more than nine years and an active participant in many CAI functions, Mike is dedicated to CAI because it is an organization which dedicates so much time toward improving our industry. He hopes that as a management company CEO, he can provide a fresh perspective when appropriate.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 7

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

5

3/4/13 12:10 PM

ARCHITECT'S RENDERING

Selecting the Right Materials for the Project Makes a BIG Difference

>>> By Les Jillson

T

he Essex House, a three-story (14-unit) luxury condominium complex located on the sand in Marina del Rey was a property that was in need of some serious help. The original selection of building materials, coupled with years of deferred maintenance, had caused serious problems for this property. The heavy marine environment, the constant “sand blasting” and the harsh sun had taken its toll on the complex. When we were hired by the Association the building envelope had deteriorated to the point that portions of it were wrapped in plastic and had been for some time. The roofs leaked, the siding leaked, the doors and windows leaked, and the property values were depressed for such a premier location. These problems existed because of the type of materials that had originally been selected for the buildings, compounded by the lack of maintenance required for those materials in that environment.

BUILDINGS WRAPPED TO KEEP THE WATER OUT

From the onset of the project the Board realized that there would need to be a major renovation to the exterior envelope of the buildings. It became apparent to us very quickly that replacing the existing building materials with the same materials was not a good solution for the long-term life cycle of the building, nor was it a good solution for the ongoing maintenance costs. With the approval of the Board we solicited suggestions from an architect and made the recommendations to change the wood siding to stucco, to use a commercial grade window system on the expansive window front of the buildings, and to replace the worn out built up roofing with a new single-ply system. The rooftop decks were also replaced with new materials; all exterior metals were specified to be high grade stainless steel; and where possible items such as the weep screed, which are typically metal, were specified as vinyl. All materials were selected because of their ability to withstand the constant sand, sun and salt air environment.

Today the buildings are some of the most attractive on the sand in Marina del Rey. Not only have the severe water intrusion problems been eliminated completely, but the property values have been greatly enhanced.

Les Jillson is the vice president of Design Build Associates, Inc. in Westlake Village and in Irvine. Les can be reached at LesJillson@dBuild.com.

6

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 8

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:10 PM

REPRESENTING COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS IN

ALL AREAS OF REAL ESTATE LAW

s $RAFTING AND ENFORCEMENT OF "YLAWS AND ## 2S s 'ENERAL LITIGATION INCLUDING MEDIATION AND ARBITRATION OF DISPUTES WITH OWNERS s #ONSTRUCTION DEFECT LITIGATION s )NSURANCE BAD FAITH LITIGATION s #OLLECTION OF DELINQUENT ASSESSMENTS s 0ROVIDING GENERAL BUSINESS ADVICE TO HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIONS

11400 West Olympic Boulevard .INTH &LOOR s ,OS !NGELES #!

0( s &!8 WWW WRSLAWYERS COM

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 9

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

7

3/4/13 12:10 PM

WHAT SHOULD HOMEOWNERS EXPECT? With all of the mergers and conversions of financial institutions, be aware of banks charging more for services.

This could easily translate into higher costs to associations.

And, as the prime rate is the lowest it has been in years, expect to see lower interest rates for longer investment CD’s. Until the mortgage rates start to go up the interest rates on your investments will remain very low.

With an increase in foreclosures, associations will have to write off non-collectable maintenance fees from the foreclosed homes. At the same time, you may expect to see association attorney fees continue to rise to cover the cost of pursuing the delinquent homeowners. The more foreclosed homes there are in a community, the fewer people there will be to fund the budget. Budgets not fully funded may lead to fewer services or a possible reduction in community services, such as landscaping, trash removal and snow removal. Budget accordingly and keep in mind that a prudent HOA board will have reserves for these possible gaps in funding.

WHAT SHOULD ASSOCIATIONS EXPECT? Those who serve as board members for associations may need to take a more creative approach to budgeting and payment plans while working out the economically-distressed homeowner’s delinquent dues payments.

The Future of Banking >>> By Cyndi Koester, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® IT IS NEARLY IMPOSSIBLE TO PICK UP A NEWSPAPER OR TURN ON A TV WITHOUT HEARING UNSETTLING NEWS ABOUT OUR NATION’S ECONOMY. THE HEADLINES TEND TO LEAVE US WONDERING ABOUT THE SECURITY OF OUR SAVINGS AND OUR FINANCIAL FUTURE. IN ALL CYCLES OF THE ECONOMY IT IS IMPORTANT TO EVALUATE THE SITUATION, UNDERSTAND HOW IT AFFECTS PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES, IN THIS CASE HOMEOWNERS, AND LOOK FOR AVAILABLE OPPORTUNITIES. WHAT IS GOING ON IN THE MARKETS? In my view, it all began with the decline in home prices. I think it is fair to say there was a real estate bubble that was based on a belief that real estate prices could only go up. This caused some individuals to buy more than they could afford and some banks to lower their standards for mortgages. Those mortgages were bundled and sold to investors as securities.

When the bubble burst, the impacts rippled throughout the economy as defaults and foreclosures rose and the value of mortgage-backed securities dropped. This has spread through the global economy.

8

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 10

It is also important for a board to make certain the funds that support the association are safe. Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000. In addition to CD or reserve investments, many associations face the daily challenge of keeping their accounts under $250,000, especially when monthly operating expenses exceed this amount. For those associations required to maintain a higher balance in their operating account, a sweep account is another vehicle to consider. A sweep account is linked to the association’s checking account and will automatically transfer funds between accounts on a daily basis. When setting up sweep accounts, the association needs to work with their financial institution to make sure that the sweep account is a U.S. Treasury-backed account. It is important to work with a financial institution that is familiar with the HOA industry because the needs and requirements are often unique.

There are other avenues of placing reserve funds through two different programs: CDARS® and ICSSM Network.

When you place a large amount with your bank, they can place your funds into CDs and/or Money Market accounts issued by other banks in the Network (in increments of less than the standard FDIC insurance maximum) so that both principal and interest are eligible for FDIC protection. With

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:10 PM

help from a sophisticated matching system, we exchange deposits with other banks that are members of the Network.

These exchanges, which occur on a dollar-for-dollar basis, bring the full amount of your original deposit back to our bank. As a result, your bank can make the full amount of your deposit available for lending in the local community (see www. promnetwork.com), and your organization can access FDIC insurance coverage from many banks while working directly with just your bank.

Board members may want to make an even more concerted effort to monitor the placement of their funds. If you are not sure if your financial institution is stable, below are a few websites where you may obtain free reporting: BANKRATE

WWW.BANKRATE.COM/BRM/SAFESOUND/SSHOME.ASP

BAUER FINANCIAL

WWW.BAUERFINANCIAL.COM

A.M. BEST

WWW.AMBEST.COM/BANKS/DEFAULT.ASP

ARE THERE ANY SILVER LININGS TO THE CURRENT SITUATION? From an investment standpoint, it is a buyer’s market. There are some attractive prices for those with available funds to pursue high-quality investments.

There will be more loans available to associations wishing to make common element repairs and to fund replacement reserve projects. Association boards may make the decision to keep the reserve investments on hand and borrow for major

common element replacements.

Additionally, interest rates on loans for borrowers will be more reasonable.

In 2013, management companies will become more and more automated. Through the convenience of “desktop banking,” it will be easier for the board to monitor financial transactions. Banks themselves will become more automated to take advantage of the associated cost savings. Expect to see banks moving away from paper checks due to processing costs and fraud.

This simplifies processes and saves on expenses for everyone.

Cyndi Koester, CMCA, AMS, PCAM, is a senior vice president at CommerceWest Bank and its HOA Division Manager.

She can be reached at ckoester@cwbk.com.

WE REPRESENT COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS

Since 1987 we have limited our practice to providing a full range of legal services for • Condominiums • Planned Developments • Cooperatives • Homeowner Associations There is no substitute for experience!

Ventura County 805.650.7899

www.lawforhoas.com www.hoalawblog.com

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 11

Orange County 949.476.3789

Los Angeles 310.207.2207 California 800.372.2207

San Francisco 415.762.1889 January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

9

3/4/13 12:10 PM

>>> By Dean Gilford

W

hen outdoor temperatures get too hot or too cold many property owners resign themselves to higher energy bills, but good community managers understand that a penny saved goes straight to the bottomline—and, therefore, is truly a penny earned.

We all know that when we talk about energy costs we are talking about more than pennies. Hundreds, even thousands of dollars, can be saved with a few simple fixes. It is unnecessary to let heating and air conditioning costs get out of hand when savings are so simple. Here are some saving secrets:

TOP TIP: CHANGE THE FILTER A dirty filter in an HVAC (heating/ventilating/and airconditioning) system makes a furnace work harder and leads to big scary numbers on a heating bill. Aim to swap the filter out once a month.

YEARLY TUNE-UPS Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a yearly tune-up of a heating and cooling system can improve efficiency and comfort. Properly calibrated and lubricated equipment will save money consistently on energy bills and extend the life of the system.

INSTALL A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT This is one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your HVAC system. Programmable thermostats turn off the HVAC systems at predetermined times when they are not needed. This way, the area is only conditioned when it needs to be and the energy consumption is reduced. Programmable thermostats can reduce the amount spent on heating and cooling by 5-12 percent.

INSULATE You can save up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs with proper insulation. There are different types of loose-fill insulation, which are blown or poured into place using special equipment. Cellulose, fiberglass, foam or even recycled denim can be used for insulating enclosed walls, new wall cavities and other hard-to-reach areas.

BLOCK THAT LEAK! The small gaps surrounding windows, doors and other areas in the average home or unit, taken together, are like a ninesquare-foot hole in the wall. Plugging them can save you up to 10% on your heating bill.

10

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 12

r First, find the leaks. On a windy day, hold a lit incense stick to the most common drafty areas: chimney flashing, recessed lighting, sill plates, window and door frames, all ducts and flues and electrical outlets. r Buy door sweeps to close spaces under exterior doors, and caulk or tacky-rope-caulk to block those drafty spots around window frames. Apply weather-stripping to movable joints.

Recessed lighting caps and outlet gaskets can be installed where cold air often enters.

PROPERLY SEAL DUCTS Nothing depresses me like improperly-installed ducts. I’ve seen areas lose up to 60% of their warmed air before it reaches the vents because of poorly connected ducts, or ducting that is not well-insulated.

Seal and insulate ducts to improve the efficiency of your heating and cooling system.

Focus first on sealing ducts that run through the attic, crawl space, unheated basement or garage. Use duct sealant (mastic) or metal-backed (foil) tape to seal the seams and connections of ducts. After sealing the ducts in those spaces, wrap them in insulation to keep them from getting hot in the summer or cold in the winter. Next, look to seal any other ducts that you can access in the heated or cooled part of the area.

KNOW WHEN TO REPLACE Furnaces need the most costly and frequent repairs in the last two years of their life. If you can circumvent those repairs and move seamlessly into a new energy-efficient furnace, your new furnace can pay for itself. Maria Vargas is a spokeswoman for Energy Star, a federal-government-backed program that promotes energy efficiency and lends its name to energy-saving products. “If your furnace is over 20 years old, you’re probably paying more to use it than it would cost to replace,” says Maria Vargas, “Furnaces bearing the Energy Star label are about 15% more efficient than a standard conventional model.”

ENERGY STAR REBATES, TAX CREDITS AND UTILITY INCENTIVES There are great tax incentives, rebates and utility discounts available for the different types of Energy Star HVAC equipment. Your contractor should be able to explain what is available for the equipment you decide to purchase and help you with the paperwork.

Dean Gilford is president of Kilowatt Electric, Air Conditioning & Heating, servicing Los Angeles and the San Fernando Valley. He can be reached at dean@kilowattac.com.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:11 PM

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 13

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

11

3/4/13 12:11 PM

I

s Googling “moving company” really the best way of seeing your residents safely into their new home in your complex?

Sure you will find a mover, but will you find a mover you would use again? Instead, educate your residents about what to look for when hiring a mover. Not only will their belongings arrive in their new place safely, but your community will stay safe and protected too. You will also be setting your building apart by providing your residents with service from the very beginning of your relationship. Residents will feel well taken care of from their first interaction to their first night in their new home.

Preparing Your Residents for the Big Move: Finding a Qualified Mover QUESTIONS EVERY COMMUNITY MANAGER SHOULD ASK A MOVING COMPANY BEFORE ADDING THEM TO THEIR PREFERRED LIST. Q BY RAM KATALAN

First, when choosing a moving company, reputation is crucial, and a great reputation saves you and your residents time and money.

But how do you know who to trust and to recommend? Asking key questions not only uncovers a wealth of knowledge about the company and helps prepare everyone for moving day, but a little extra research can save everyone a huge hassle in the long run.

Here are some surefire questions to ask before hiring a mover: Q How long has the moving company been in business?

Experience counts and a track record shows the ability to deliver each and every time.

Q Are they licensed? Ask for a copy of their license and keep it on file.

Q Have they won any awards or accolades for service? Can they share any letters of recommendation? If they haven’t won any awards for service, chances are they aren’t going to win any awards from you. Remember that a great reputation absolutely

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & HOA BANKING Seacoast Commerce Bank offers a full range of comprehensive banking and financial services for Homeowner Associations and property management companies.

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT & HOA HOA BANKING SOLUTIONS đ Depository Services đ Cash Management đ Remote Deposit Capture

Seacoast Commerce Bank provides our Property Management and Homeowner Association clients the ability to maximize their use of bank services. We understand the unique Banking needs of our Property Management and Association clients, providing industry specific products and customer service that you have grown to expect and deserve.

ALLISON DISARRO Vice President HOA Banking Division

12

619-988-6708 Mobile 858-312-7030 Fax adisarro@sccombank.com

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 14

đ Lockbox Services đ ACH Origination đ HOA Financing đ Online Dues Program

11939 Rancho Bernardo Rd, Suite 200 San Diego CA 92127 www.sccombank.com

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:11 PM

saves everyone money. No one gives a glowing review to a company that overpromised, underdelivered and overcharged.

Q Be sure to check out the company’s rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Social media sites such as Yelp, Citysearch and TrustLink will also give you a look into other people’s experiences with the company.

Q Don’t forget about coverage. What insurance do they offer?

Is the moving company able to produce a certificate of insurance to protect your complex? Also, your residents should be advised to check to see if their personal items are covered under their homeowners or renters policy. If not, they may need to consider supplemental moving insurance.

Q Low rates do not necessarily mean a low final bill. Study rates! What do their rates really include? Are fuel charges incorporated? Also, just like the airlines, rates can vary based on season and days of the week. Will they give your resident a better rate if they move on a Sunday as opposed to a Monday? The best indicator of getting good value is a good reputation. Again, no one wins awards for service when they overcharge.

Q If your resident is moving out of state, ask the company to explain in detail its consolidation policy and delivery windows. Consolidation is when your belongings are combined with other people’s and shipped together. It’s a great way to save money, but be aware that it may add time to the delivery schedule because multiple shipments are needed.

Q Will the moving crew wrap and protect their furniture to prevent damages? How many movers will be on the job?

How long will the job take? Are there enough hours in the day? Will they be charged if there is overtime? By law a moving company can only give you rates on the phone not estimates on the phone.

Q What sort of specialty experience do they have? Are they familiar with high rises and elevators? Do they understand the rules and regulations of your community? Additional men and equipment can mean surprising extra costs.

Q Ask the movers to measure your doorways, stairways, elevators, etc… and take pictures of them before the move so they can’t be blamed for any damage.

Q Advise your tenants to measure all their furniture. Have them make a scale drawing of every room and scale cut out furniture. Think paperdolls for grown-ups. Then have them figure out how they would like their furniture arranged in advance. Will it all fit? This saves a lot of time while the movers are on the clock.

Q Lastly, let the moving estimator ask YOU questions. If he/ she hasn’t asked a single question, yet is ready to give an estimate, turn and run.

Ram Katalan is the president and co-founder of NorthStar Moving Company, which specializes in providing ecoluxury moving and storage services. Ram can be reached at ram@northstarmoving.com.

Solve Your Damaging Pest Problems with Guaranteed Results.

Animal & Insect Pest Management Inc., has a team of experts to help you manage all your pest problems large or small. All of our Urban Wildlife Professionals DUH 6WDWH &HUWL¿HG 3HVWLFLGH Applicators, extensively trained LQ SHVW LGHQWL¿FDWLRQ GDPDJH UHFRJQLWLRQ PDQDJHPHQW methods and safety. ,Q DGGLWLRQ RXU %LRORJLVW develops precision pest PDQDJHPHQW SURJUDPV that ensure the most KXPDQH HFRORJLFDOO\ VRXQG DQG OHJDO methods are used to guarantee results.

Call Today T For a FREE Consultation 888 344 6567 Insects In Bees, Bees Wasps, Ants, Spiders

Rodents Gophers, Mice, Rats, Ground Squirrels

Visit us online www.animalinsectpm.com

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 15

Trapping Raccoons, Coyotes, Skunks, Opossums

Specialty Rabbits, Birds, Bats

Questions? info@animalinsectpm.com

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

13

3/4/13 12:11 PM

RESPONDING TO

WATER

“Not again!”

DAMAGE

WATER DAMAGE INCIDENTS SEEM TO OCCUR FREQUENTLY AT SOME PROPERTIES. OFTEN ENOUGH

THAT THOSE INVOLVED DEVELOP CONFIDENCE IN HANDLING THEM. THIS CAN BE PROBLEMATIC BECAUSE, IF INCIDENTS ARE HANDLED IMPROPERLY BY CUTTING CORNERS WHEN THE LOSSES ARE SMALL, THOSE INVOLVED ARE DUE FOR A REAL CHALLENGE WHEN A LARGER LOSS COMES ALONG. THE KEY IS TO LEARN THE DETAILS OF HOW TO RESPOND STEP-BY-STEP AND PRACTICE ON THE SMALLER LOSSES. r By John Temoyan

WATER EVENT OCCURS

IMMEDIATE SAFETY ASSESSMENT! a. Check on potential for collapse, electrical shock hazards, immediate environmental concerns such as toxic or poisonous chemicals, sewage, etc. i. If safe, then OK to go to Step 3; ii. If not, then call for assistance, keep the public away (if able to do so safely) and make area safe.

IS SOURCE OF WATER STOPPED? a. If from plumbing or appliance source, can it be shut off with a valve, etc.? b. If from the outside, such as flooding or storm water runoff or roof collapse, then can some of the water coming in be diverted, slowed down or somewhat controlled while still maintaining safety?

IDENTIFY EXTENT OF WATER DAMAGE? a. What type of water is it: Category 1 (clean), Category 2 (gray, seepage, overflow) or Category 3 (sewage, river overflow, feces, biological, etc)? b. How long has the building been wet? i. What is the potential for mold or secondary damages? c. How much water is involved? i. Small leak for short time? Large leak for long time? Water in wall or ceiling cavities?

EXTRACT! a. If safe to do so. i. Be cautious of sewage or any environmental issues.

14

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 16

ACCESS THE DAMAGE. a. Based upon the amount of water and building materials, it may be likely that some parts of the building, such as drywall, be accessed either through drilling holes or cutting and removing to be able to encourage air movement and removal of wet building materials. b. DO NOT CUT OR ACCESS SUSPECT MATERIALS WITH POTENTIAL FOR MOLD, ASBESTOS OR LEAD.

USE DRYING EQUIPMENT TO FACILITATE DRYING OF REMAINING MOISTURE THROUGH EVAPORATION.

a. Fans and Air Movers—DO NOT USE FANS IF THERE IS MOLD, SEWAGE OR ASBESTOS PRESENT. i. Install fans every 10-16 feet. If you do not have enough equipment, call for help. b. Dehumidifiers i. Place according to capacity and situation if needed and available. c. Monitor and Confirm i. Use moister meter to monitor status of drying and adjustment of equipment and to confirm area is dry.

FINAL COMMENTS The community manager needs a clear understanding from the community’s board of directors as to when the HOA is to take the lead when dealing with property damage and when to defer to unit owners. The manager must also obtain a good understanding of how insurance losses work so that when an upper-unit flood causes damage in lower units, the manager

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:11 PM

can accurately instruct those unit owners that they need to make their own individual claims and authorize contractors to work in their units while allowing the insurance company to determine who is financially responsible.

Statistically, losses happen frequently. The steps previously noted in this article are simply a rough guideline. Be proactive and have a qualified emergency vendor in place ahead of time. Complete your due diligence. Agree on the fee schedule and administrative workflow in the event of loss. Obtain their certificate of insurance and request that they train you on water damage protocols. If you have any questions on how to handle any type of building damage, don’t hesitate to contact an emergency vendor for help.

Completing these tasks prior to an emergency will reward you with a quality vendor that will also be your advocate and not your enemy!

John Temoyan is the marketing director for Har-Bro Emergency Service & Restoration, a full service mitigation, restoration and reconstruction provider with offices in Long Beach, Riverside, San Diego, San Francisco Bay area, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Portland and Seattle. John can be reached at jtemoyan@harbro.com.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 17

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

15

3/4/13 12:11 PM

Holiday Happy Hour M

ore than 110 chapter members and guests attended the Holiday Happy Hour in December at Bel Air Crest Master Association. This event continues to be a great way to see current industry friends and make new connections in a casual cocktail party atmosphere. The group also used this occasion to collect toys to donate to the Spirit of Love Toy Drive.

E V O L F O SPARK E V I R D Y O T

uthern C7 and So ether for the B A , s r a e y st 19 joined tog For the pa hters have g fi n collects e ir F ia e campaig Th .

Californ e iv r D ment ove Toy or ts equip p s d Spa r k of L n a s. s y mmunitie apped to new, unw r ed children in our co it y Outreach er v Commun for unders event Chapter’s e th y b or ted this d p e p iz u s n a s g a r h O C nual CA I-GL A ys at its an , e to e g itt n ti m c e m Co s, coll t four year for the pas appy Holiday H t and Hour even them delivering e to one of th nt e fi re depar tm collection locations.

16

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 18

Our thanks to the members of the Social Committee who put on such a fun evening: Pamella De Armas (Co-chair), Don Campbell (Torrance-Windemere HOA), Casey Forster (General Pavement Management, Inc.), Angel Fuerte (ENDURA Painting Corporation), Kelly Harris (Minuteman Parking Company) and Stephanie Sanders (Dunn-Edwards Paints).

Thanks to Our Sponsors VIP SPONSOR

Centurion Group (A Private Security Company)

HORS D’OEUVRES

AMARR Studios, Inc. City National Bank Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, LLP Hi Tech Painting & Decorating, Inc. Rodent Pest Technologies, Inc. CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:12 PM

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 19

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

17

3/4/13 12:12 PM

NEWS

FROM SACRAMENTO

And We’re Off and Running…

By Skip Daum

G

overnor Brown signed 873 bills into law in 2012, and almost all of them became effective on January 1.

Another 2,000 new bills will be introduced by the end of February, so CLAC will be busy in the next two months sorting them all out to see if they affect homeowners associations. If they do, we will weigh in to lobby for or against them, or seek amendments to them.

I am is very busy now “meeting and greeting” three dozen brand new legislators and more than one hundred new staff people. Some will be assigned to the Housing and Judiciary Committees in both the Senate and Assembly, so these individuals will become our “lobbying targets” for the next two years as all HOA bills go through these committees. It is

Community Association Loans All the right tools for your next project.

How will you fund your next community project? Get the job done right with the Community Association Loan toolkit. You’ll get custom financing that’s perfect for your budget and your community.

Your Community Association Loan toolkit includes: 8 ,*-"1&1&3" &+1"/"01 / 1"0 8 )"5& )" - 6*"+1 -) +0 8 ++,3 1&3" ), + 01/2 12/"0 8 &5"! / 1" ), +0 8 ,+ /"3,)3&+$ )&+"0 ,# /"!&1

Get the cash you need today.

Lisa Ann Rea VP/Regional Account Executive

805.907.8452 ,)) /""

"51 lisa.rea@mutualofomahabank.com

"* "/ 8 .2 ) ,20&+$ "+!"/

18

National Corporate Member of Community Associations Institute CACM Affiliate Member

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 20

very important for us to establish professional and friendly relationships with them right away.

As previously reported, Assembly Bills 805 and 806 do not take effect until January 1, 2014, and this year their provisions must be amended by a new bill in order to accommodate changes which were made by other measures that passed after those two bills were signed. Indeed, as new bills emerge this year and are passed, they too will need to be amended into the new and revised Davis-Stirling Act. It’s a constant “catch-upword-churn” in the Capitol!

CLAC’s Chapter Delegates will have the new bills in their email boxes within 48 hours of their becoming available to the public. Our two Delegates Michael W. Rabkin, Esq. and Judy Campion, CCAM®, AMS®, PCAM®, and other Chapter Delegates statewide, will analyze the bills and recommend a position for CLAC to take. Once the position is formally adopted by all the Delegates, I will commence lobbying and reporting back to the Delegates and Legislative Action Committee Chairs so they can share the “intel” with you at your monthly events.

Please stand up and be counted when we need your help at the grassroots level. Lobbyists count on their members to help them as they attempt to secure their legislative goals.

That’s where you come in. If we need your help, we will issue an email alert explaining what to do. By signing up to receive our “CLAC-TRAC” email alerts and responding as soon as possible, you will help us secure language changes in bills, defeat bills and even pass bills.

One final note, with so many new legislators wishing to help individual constituents, we expect to see a number of bills that cater to one, anomalous circumstance in that legislator’s district. Many times before, such bills have caused huge problems for the remaining 47,000 HOAs in California, and it takes a lot of effort and resources to alter them or even kill them. Our job is to educate legislators about HOAs, and not be afraid to stop their bills if they aren’t beneficial to us.

We encourage you to stay in touch with CAI-CLAC by following our blog, checking out Chapter events on Facebook and signing up for CLAC-TRAC email blasts on our Web site www.caicalif.org.

Skip Daum is our advocate in Sacramento. He can be reached directly at caiclac@aol.com.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:12 PM

NEWS

FROM CAI NATIONAL

New Qualified Mortgage Guidelines Released Community Associations Institute (CAI) is studying the long-awaited federal Qualified Mortgage (QM) standards published Jan. 10 by the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). The new guidelines, required by the Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (commonly known as the Dodd Frank Act), establish minimum requirements for all mortgage loans.

As anticipated, the QM standards consider association assessments a key factor when determining if a borrower is qualified for a mortgage. Ensuring borrowers can afford to pay association assessments will strengthen common-interest communities and help prevent foreclosures.

payments and pay other mortgage-related obligations such as community association assessments.

Borrower debt-to-income ratio. Borrowers may not spend more than 43 percent of their monthly income for payment of mortgages and mortgage-related obligations such as association assessments.

Legal safe harbor for lenders. Except in the case of high-cost mortgages, lenders that comply with the ability-to-repay standard will be offered protection from borrower litigation.

High-risk loan terms. Lenders are no longer permitted to offer mortgages that allow loan balances to increase (negative amortization) or interest-only payments. Mortgages may not have terms of more than 30 years.

Transitional standard. All loans eligible for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guarantees or for Federal Housing Administration insurance will be granted QM status during a transitional period.

Delayed effective date. Lenders will have one year to comply with the QM standard, which becomes effective January 2014.

CAI is reviewing the final QM standards and will provide additional perspective once a full analysis has been completed.

Article courtesy of Community Associations Institute.

“The ability-to-repay standard will ensure home buyers are able to fulfill all financial obligations related to owning their home—including their association assessments,” said CAI Chief Executive Officer Thomas M. Skiba, CAE. “This will create a greater degree of financial stability for community associations, while helping to ensure fairness and equity for all owners in a community.”

Under the QM standard, lenders are required to prove borrowers have the financial resources to pay mortgage principal and interest, insurance premiums, property taxes and association assessments. Lenders that extend mortgage credit without fully documenting a borrower’s income and assets and ensuring the borrower has the ability to make all monthly mortgage payments will face stiff penalties and fines.

Lender documentation of association assessments and special assessments required to meet the new ability-torepay standard will be a key issue for CAI members. CAI will continue to work with CFPB and the banking industry to ensure that all parties understand the role played by community associations to provide lenders with assessment information in a reasonable and cost-effective manner.

KEY FEATURES OF THE QM STANDARD INCLUDE: Ability to repay. Lenders must document that borrowers have sufficient assets and income to make monthly mortgage

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 21

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

19

3/4/13 12:12 PM

r A “permanent” solution –A high-quality vinyl fence is durable and can last for many decades. r A lmost no maintenance – Because vinyl won’t rot, stain, rust, chip, peel, corrode or get infested by termites, it never needs to be repainted, re-stained or re-sealed. r Attractive year-round – Available in a range of styles and colors including rich wood grains, a high-quality vinyl fence will look as good 30 years from now as it does today.

Shopping for Vinyl Fencing >>> By Viken Ohanesian Perimeter fencing is a major expense for a community association when replacement is necessary. When considering what material to use, a board of directors needs to consider not only the cost of materials and installation, but also the cost of ongoing maintenance. When it comes time to replace rotting wood fences or rusted iron perimeter fences, many HOAs are taking a fresh look at vinyl fencing because of its advantages:

r Lowest long-term cost – Although vinyl fencing has a higher up-front price tag than other materials, the long-term savings are significant due to its low maintenance.

SEVEN QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN SHOPPING FOR VINYL FENCING As with any bidding process, the more informed you are about your options, the better end result you’ll obtain. When shopping for vinyl fencing, here are some of the questions you should ask: 1. Is it really made for the weather conditions in your area? For example, some vinyl fencing products are specifically made to withstand the heat of the Southwest sun without fading or cracking, while others are meant for climates where snow and ice are the norm. If the product was not designed with the weather conditions of your

Specializing in: Exterior Painting & Waterproofing of Condominium Complexes, Apartment Buildings, Office Buildings & Large Commercial Buildings

20

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 22

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:12 PM

area in mind, your association may be in for an expensive surprise. And don’t count on the sales person to mention this fact to you!

2. What type of construction does it use? If you want your fencing to last, be sure it uses route-and-lock construction. This ensures that all rails, posts and pickets interlock into each other and will never pull apart. In contrast, outside brackets, nails or screws will inevitably fail over time – and can become an eyesore if they rust or crack.

3. Does it meet industry quality standards? ASTM F964 is the industry standard for vinyl fencing. This standard sets minimum quality levels for impact resistance, heat warpage, cold temperature cracking, and other quality characteristics. Your fence should exceed these minimum standards.

4. Is it manufactured with “virgin” vinyl materials? Many manufacturers mix in what’s called “regrind” from other vinyl products. This creates inconsistencies that can cause the fencing to crack, warp, twist, yellow or peel over time.

5. How will the posts be installed? For maximum durability, be sure that the posts will be sunk to a depth of two (2) feet, installed on a gravel drain, poured in concrete, and placed at maximum intervals of eight

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 23

(8) feet. Make sure all end posts and corner posts have concrete half-way up and gate posts have both concrete and rebar support.

6. What type of warranty does it come with and will the manufacturer be around to stand behind their product? Take a close look at the warranty and the company who is providing it. If the manufacturer is new to the business and has no track record, their warranties won’t mean much. Go with manufacturers who have been around for at least 10 to 15 years, so you know that their products are tried and proven. Check out the manufacturers’ Web sites.

7. Has the dealer been authorized by the manufacturer?

You always want to work with a licensed and insured contractor who is one of the manufacturer’s Authorized Dealers. This helps ensure that your dealer has been properly trained in how to design and install that particular product. Plus, when you work with an Authorized Dealer you can count on getting product that is not mixed and matched from multiple manufacturers.

Viken Ohanesian is the president of DURAMAX Building Products. He can be reached at vikeno@uspolymersinc.com.

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

21

3/4/13 12:12 PM

repair common area landscape is to the overall benefit of that homeowners association.

HOA Landscape Renovation >>> By Stan Smith, ASLA Over the past 30 years that I have been involved in homeowners associations and their landscape issues, the concern of a “final product” for landscape renovation usually was a BAND-AID® effect for fix and repair. The areas to be updated and renovated were usually “piecemeal” patches of new landscape with whatever plant material was available.

The landscape usually did not match the remainder of the site nor take into consideration long-term planting design that would help avoid repeating this costly landscape repair in the future. Any reserve funds that do not have to be used to

Landscape design has gone through many changes over the years. Plant palettes have progressed to a more “friendly” and non-water-thirsty plant material. We all learn from our mistakes, by observing how the plant material matures and long-term effects on the location of the material to structures and existing conditions. So what happens when old practices of plant installation is used for renovation purposes? The end result of such practices creates the need for more future repairs and renovation. To help control this problem, a more involved team approach is needed for the homeowners association to achieve not only a good install, but also a good long term design. This team effort between the homeowners association, the landscape maintenance/installation contractor and design professional gives a balance of control.

The designer should be a reputable licensed landscape architect with a background in your type of situation and project constraints. This allows the HOA to give the team: 1. Account of history of the project 2. What they want to achieve and budget constraints 3. Ideas of what they prefer and style of landscaping they desire 4. Phasing for the renovation they want to attempt.

HI-TECH Painting and WDWHU 3URR¿QJ

1-800-750-8423

High - Rise

Commercial

H.O.A.

Condominium Exterior

Commercial Exterior

H.O.A. Exterior

Apartment Exterior

Commercial Exterior

H.O.A. Exterior

Commercial Exterior

Commercial Exterior

H.O.A. Exterior

1-800-750-8423 Lic. # B, C-33 866801

www.hitechpainting.com

Tennis Court

Experience the D Condominium Exterior

22

Commercial Exterior

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 24

Shopping Mall

EE TE FRTIMA

ES

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:12 PM

So many times we have seen homeowners associations with no updated landscape plans or no plans at all that can be used to update or use as reference when landscape or irrigation needs to be addressed. A scaled plan allows you to see exactly what the intent/extent the renovation involves. HOAs need to see accountability for the costs proposed by the maintenance contractor. An HOA manager can feel more comfortable with an itemized bid for landscape renovation if costs are referenced to a scaled plan.

With all these factors in place, a methodical approach to the renovation process can be attempted. A landscape architect’s concept presentation starts the process to take control of a design that should create a long-term planting plan for that project. The HOA landscape committee (especially geared toward renovation process) should be ready with a lot of questions and concerns so that the recommendations can be reviewed to a comfortable level. There’s no such thing as a dumb question—so those on the HOA landscape committee should ask anything that comes to-mind. After all, the committee members have probably lived in their community for some time and have seen the good, bad and ugly as to the existing landscape and also any budget constraints.

This process can now continue on to get bids for installation. To this point the HOA bidding contractors and design professional can be at least a little more comfortable as to proceeding to final

Do You Need Reserve Budget and Disclosure Solutions?

Hire the experts at...

installation with a firm long-term plan in-place and available money in budget ready-to-go.

Stan Smith is the president of Stan Smith Associates, LLC, a firm headquartered in Laguna Hills, which specializes in landscape design, development and renovation. He can be reached at ssmith@ssa-la.net.

Specialized banking for community associations & management professionals

AssociAtion BAnk seRVices • Operating and Reserve Checking • Association Loans • CD Placement Services • Business Online Banking • Remote Deposit • Automated Lockbox Services • Automatic Assessment Payments • Simplified Association Signature Cards • Save Money with our 3-year plan • Access your Reserve Study Online • See a Video of your results • Free preparation of Disclosure Form 1365.2.5

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

78492-CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb-r1.indd 23

Call or go to our website for more information, samples or Free bid

800.733.1365

www.reservestudy.com

Judy Remley, Vice President 5808 E. Telephone Rd., Ventura, CA 93003 (888) 539-9616 Judy.Remley@fbol.com www.FirstBankHOA.com

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

23

2/14/13 6:35 AM

for asphalt, but not as extensive as complete removal and replacement of a paved surface. It is not a cure-all for cracks in asphalt pavement. The owner should expect to see some hairline reflective cracks (cracks above where cracks existed in the prior surface) within the first year of installation.

The cracks will increase over time, but the water-retardant properties of the PRF will keep surface run-off out of the structural asphalt base (sub-grade).

WHEN IS IT EFFECTIVE? When used in common interest developments, PRF can extend a pavement’s life for 10 to 15 years. It should be considered for developments with wide streets, at least 27 feet from gutter to gutter, with good drainage that will not be detrimentally affected by the addition of asphalt material. It is also important that the existing asphalt pavement be stable and of an adequate thickness. The edges of the existing pavement must be milled down to accommodate the installation of an overlay.

If the existing pavement is too thin or weak to accommodate the milling process and construction process, then a PRF overlay is out of the question. Further, if the existing pavement is too old, excessively cracked, already had a PRF installed, or shows signs of serious sub-grade failure, it is not a good candidate for a PRF overlay. A civil engineer or expert should be consulted to assist in evaluating an existing pavement’s eligibility for the installation.

To Petromat® or Not to Petromat?

That is the Question. >>> By Gordon Miller

Some time ago, Petromat, a brand name for what is properly termed Pavement Reinforcement Fabric (PRF), entered the pavement refurbishment scene with loads of promise.

Unfortunately, it has become “out of fashion” this decade, and discounted as an ineffective and potentially hazardous installation. PRF is a sound product that has beneficial applications, but only if it is chosen for the right reasons and installed to the correct specifications.

WHAT IS PRF? Technically, it is a non-woven petroleum fabric. Its purpose is to retard crack reflection in asphalt pavement overlays and to retard water penetration into the pavement’s sub-grade when cracks reappear. It is an installation that is more than a simple surface treatment

24

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 26

HOW IS PRF PROPERLY INSTALLED? PRF is to be installed using a mechanical fabric spreader and applied on top of hot, PG grade oil. Some contractors save installation costs by rolling fabric out by hand over SS-1h asphalt emulsion (the base material used in sealcoat). The machine spread fabric is stretched tightly over the surface, while the hand-rolled method often leaves the fabric loose and wrinkled. In addition, the PG grade oil used with a mechanical spreader glues the fabric to the existing pavement, while SS-1h emulsion allows the fabric to be pulled from the existing asphalt with ease (thereby creating an unstable surface for the pending overlay).

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:13 PM

Further, PRF requires a minimum of 1 ½ inches of asphalt (after compaction) installed on top of it. If you’ve ever encountered a failed PRF overlay, you’ll typically find what looks like fuzzy carpet sticking through cracked asphalt. In some instances, as little as ½ of an inch of compacted asphalt was placed over paving fabric. Thin installations of asphalt over fabric are a disaster in that it is difficult for an owner to determine the thickness of the pavement after it is laid, and defects will likely remain unseen for several years; long after the warranty faded away and the board members familiar with the project have moved on. This is another good reason to have an engineer or expert on hand to verify quantities of material used are in line with theoretical estimations.

IS IT HAZARDOUS? It is not hazardous to anyone’s health.

What has become controversial about the material is the difficulties that can be encountered when it is removed. At some point, a PRF will be removed when the entire asphalt section is ground out. Asphalt and concrete are 100% recyclable, and as a result, new hot mix asphalt typically contains up to 15% Recycled Asphalt Product (RAP).

Asphalt grindings have become a commodity because hot mix manufacturers need to meet recycling requirements, and as an added benefit, RAP is less costly than virgin aggregate and new asphalt oil. Unfortunately, PRF is considered a contaminant. If found in asphalt millings, there will be additional charges for disposal of the material when it is

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 27

received at the asphalt recycling plant from the work site. In some cases, it is rejected flat out, causing disposal costs to skyrocket.

This is because the PRF melts when heated in an asphalt plant, and it adheres to the internal workings of the machinery which causes damage and inefficiency. Fortunately, alternate uses for grindings with fabric in them other than being recycled into new asphalt are beginning to appear. Even so, heightened disposal costs due to PRF are an important consideration when evaluating life-cycle costs.

In conclusion, if a development is evaluated by a professional and PRF is an option, the customer will find it is considerably less expensive than complete removal and replacement of the pavement. But since it only extends the life of an existing installation 10 to 15 years, it has a shorter Useful Life cycle than complete removal and replacement. If professional evaluation reveals that installation of PRF meets the physical needs of the association, and if projected life-cycle-costs are similar to complete removal and replacement, PRF can remain a viable pavement maintenance option.

Gordon Miller is the president of General Pavement Management, Inc., a Santa Paula company providing services to community associations and commercial properties for more than 20 years. He can be reached at gmiller@gpmincorporated.com.

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

25

3/4/13 12:13 PM

PCAM® Pride TRACIE BLANKENSHIP, PCAM®, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS® Tracie Blankenship brings more than 14 years of HOA community association industry experience to Merit’s Santa Clarita team. As the Business Unit Leader for the region, Blankenship oversees Merit’s current association community management clients throughout Santa Clarita.

She is responsible for coordinating and supervising new contracts, maintaining client relations and spearheading Merit’s continued growth throughout Santa Clarita’s masterplanned, active adult, multi and single-family communities.

She also supervises account executive staff and association onsite teams.

In addition to recently achieving the PCAM® designation from the Community Associations Institute (CAI), Tracie holds the professional designations of Certified Community Association Manager (CCAM®) from the California Association of Community Managers as well as the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA®), and the Association Management Specialist (AMS®).

WE ARE VERY PROUD OF TWO MANAGERS WHO HAVE RECENTLY EARNED THE PCAM® DESIGNATION AFTER SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETING CAI’S PROFESSIONAL MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM.

ERIK MENDEZ, PCAM®, CMCA®, AMS® Erik Mendez has worked for Ross Morgan & Company, AAMC, for more than eight years as a Community Manager/Accounting Manager. He has an Associate of Arts degree in Finance and holds the CMCA® certification through the National Board of Certifications for Community Association Managers. In 2011 he continued his dedication to the industry by achieving the AMS designation, and most recently the PCAM® designation.

Erik is currently pursuing his real estate license and is looking forward to expanding his knowledge in all aspects of property management. In his free time, Erik enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time with his wife and three children.

The Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM®) designation is the pinnacle of professional achievement for managers with advanced-level skills and experience. To earn the PCAM® designation, managers must have five years of community association management experience and complete more than 100 hours of coursework, including a challenging case study analysis of a community association. In addition, PCAM® designees must fulfill continuing education requirements and adhere to a code of ethics.

Imagine a bank that enhances

and protects the financial health of your community association.

Our dedicated experts

We offer state-of-the-art

understand the needs of

Lock Box services

associations. We can

as well as a full array

Finance your essential

of other depository

projects, including:

services.

Contact

Larry Hooper 714-864-5171 lhooper@bpop.com

associationbankers.com

©2010 A Division of Banco Popular North America.

26

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 28

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:13 PM

C

ommunity association volunteer leaders attended an 8-hour workshop in Marina del Rey on January 19 to learn more about their roles and responsibilities as HOA board members.

ESSENTIALS OF COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP WORKSHOP

TOLL FREE 800t699t1644 TEL 714t t FAX t t EMAIL info@collinsbuilders.com WEB collinsbuilders.com

Quality Construction Since 1959

CONSTRUCTION SERVICES DESIGN BUILD EXPERTS

DECK COATING & WATERPROOFING RECONSTRUCTION & RENOVATION STRUCTURAL REPAIR SOLUTIONS

REMODELING SPECIALISTS HARDI SIDING RATED

CBI – Collins Builders, Inc 18342 Gothard St. Huntington Beach, CA 92648 www.collinsbuilders.com ca license 525783

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 29

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

27

3/4/13 12:13 PM

Q Q Q COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS INSTITUTE (CAI) IS NOW OFFERING A PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT COURSE TO HELP COMMUNITY MANAGERS BETTER UNDERSTAND—AND AVOID—ETHICAL ISSUES IN THE PERFORMANCE OF THEIR DUTIES.

CAI Adds Online Ethics Course to Curriculum

28

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 30

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:14 PM

E

THICS AND THE COMMUNITY MANAGER (M-300) is the 17th course developed as part of CAI’s Professional Management Development Program and the first 300-level course available online. Its content is based on a course attended by almost 50 members at the 2010 CAI Annual Conference and Exposition in Las Vegas.

The interactive course addresses the nature of business ethics, how these principles apply to community management and how to resolve potential conflicts of interest and issues involving gifts and other remuneration. Specific topics include: Q Applying CAI’s Professional Manager Code of Ethics Q Duties of care and loyalty Q Common ethics challenges faced by community managers Q Consequences of unethical behavior Q Ethical relations with fellow managers, including competitors

The tuition fee for the course is the same and provides the same credits as other 300-level courses. It meets requirements for redesignation of the Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM) designation and provides six hours of continuing education for the Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA) credential. The CMCA is awarded by CAI’s sister organization, the National Board of Certification for Community Association Managers.

“Beyond the obvious importance of ethics in any profession, this course is especially important because community managers can encounter a number of gray-area ethical situations,” says David Jennings, CAE, SPHR, CAI’s vice president of education. “Ethical questions are not always black and white. This course will help managers avoid not just actual violations, but also the appearance of impropriety.”

CAI’s professional development program features 17 courses, beginning with The Essentials of Community Association Management (M-100). In addition to eight 300-level courses, the curriculum includes six 200-level courses, the PCAM Case Study and Contemporary Issues in Community Association Management (M-400).

More than 4,500 students took advantage of CAI classroom and online professional development courses in 2012.

Article courtesy of Community Associations Institute.

Experience professional delinquent assessment recovery.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 31

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

29

3/4/13 12:14 PM

WELCOME

NEW CAI-GLAC MEMBERS! AS OF JANUARY 31, 2013

BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS 5 Star Elevator Service A. Allbright Painting, Inc. CDW Waterproofing & Restoration Home Design Content Restoration Reliance Services, Inc.

RECRUITER Diana Stiller, PCAM® Sue Bartley CAI National April Tronson CAI National

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS Hawaiian Gardens HOA

CAI National

GRAND PRIZE WINNER

Henry Basile

Ariel Hess, CCAM®,CMCA®, AMS® Scott Management Company

COMMUNITY MANAGERS Sabrina Fuentes Blair House HOA James Lee Gramercy Place HOA Wendy Heffernan, CMCA® Property Management Professionals, LLC COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LEADERS Joseph Fabricatore Shelly Hill

CAI National Brad Watson, CMCA®, AMS®

Congratulations to the 2012 Recruiter Contest Winners

RAFFLE PRIZE WINNER Jim Bucks, CMCA® Premier Property Services, Inc.

CAI National CAI National

Additions & Corrections to 2013 Membership Directory Although considerable care and effort have been taken to ensure that all information is complete and accurate in our 2013 edition, we sincerely apologize for some omissions and errors that occurred. Please take a moment to correct your Directory copy.

ADDITIONS

CORRECTIONS

Page 162 The Termite Guy and IRC Services Kristen Johnson 1440 S. Grand Avenue Santa Ana CA 92705 Phone: 714-835-0135 Fax: 949-940-1029 Email: kristen@877termite.com www.877termite.com

Page 9 Carol Brockhouse Zip Code 91311

Page 193 M.P.M. Waterproofing & Building Services, Inc. Paul Davis 19625 Ventura Blvd., Suite 100 Tarzana, CA 91356 Phone: 818-708-9676 Fax: 818-708-9673 Email: pdavis@mpmco.com

30

Pages 84 & 162 Stonemark Construction Management Cell: 818-338-9650 Page 162 MTECH Exterminator Company Phone: 818-974-0182 Email: rafael@mtech-ext.com Website: www.mtech-ext.com

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 32

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:14 PM

OUR THANKS

TO RENEWING MEMBERS! AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2012

BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS AMARR Studios, Inc. Andre Landscape Service Associations Insurance Agency, Inc. AT & T Connected Communities Behr Paint Corp./THE HOME DEPOT USA Berg Insurance Agency, Inc. California Safety Agency Collins Builders, Inc. Community Archives Concrete Hazard Solutions Condo Approvals USA Condo Defects Group, LLP Cornerstone Construction Group Design Build Associates Duramax Building Products Fenton Grant Mayfield Kaneda & Litt, LLP Gayle G. Gould, CPA Haney Accountants, Inc. Ian H. Graham Insurance Kilowatt Air Conditioning, Heating & Electric Law Offices of Laura J. Snoke McDonnell Roofing, Inc. MeterNet Submetering & Billing Solutions Metropolitan-Fiber Optics-WirelessDIRECTV Mister Parliamentarian Pilot Painting & Construction, Inc. Popular Association Banking Ronald S. Stone, PhD, CPA Roy Palacios Insurance Agency, Inc. Schonwit & Company, CPAs ServiceMaster By Eddie Smokefree Apartment House Registry The EvStructure Co. Vista Paint Corporation W.C. Service Company, Inc. Wolf Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS Castlegate HOA Century Hill Association, Inc. Encino Oaks HOA Hancock Plaza HOA HarborPlace Tower HOA Heritage Townhomes Owners Assn.

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 33

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS (CONTINUED) International Tower Owners Association Pasadena Live Oaks Association Villa Barcelona HOA

Georgia MacIntyre, CMCA®, AMS® Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

Melanie Reesing Palos Verdes Bay Club

Angelique Madrigal Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

William Reimbold, MBA, CMCA®, AMS® Bowker & Roth Property Services

Debra McClean Heather Village Association

Michelle Sesto, CCAM® Horizon Management Company

Nancy Mohni, CCAM®, PCAM® Remington Plaza HOA

Maria Tiscareno Franklin Towers HOA

Jesse Moreno, CMCA®, AMS® Marina Pacifica HOA

Stephanie Tomerlin Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

Donald Campbell, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS® Torrance-Windemere HOA

Sue Nelson, CCAM® Horizon Management Company

Cookie Valente, CMCA®, AMS® Manhattan Management Corp.

Paul Cannings, CCAM®, CMCA® Beven & Brock

Peggy O’Donoghue, CMCA®, AMS® Valencia Management Group

Robert Yeakel, CMCA® Pabst Kinney & Associates

Lynne Collmann, CMCA®, AMS® Savoy COA

Barbara Q. Offer, PhD, CCAM Le Faubourg St. Louis

Miguel Zamora Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

Manual Diaz, CMCA®, AMS® 10560 Wilshire Condo Assn.

Edward Parada, CMCA® The Heights at Porter Ranch HOA

COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION LEADERS Carol Goldman Dick Pruess Eleanor Yavarone

COMMUNITY MANAGEMENT COMPANIES Bowker & Roth Property Services Property Management Professionals, LLC Valencia Management Group, AAMC COMMUNITY MANAGERS Hasmik Akopyan Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

Chuantesee Evans, CMCA®, AMS® Hollywood Regis HOA Linda Franzese, CMCA® Pacific Coast Management Michelle Gibson Lakeside Village Brandon Grosh, CMCA®, AMS® Property Management Professionals, LLC Victoria Hale, CMCA®, AMS® Valencia Management Group Linda Healey, PCAM® The Californian on Wilshire Ariel Hess, CCAM®, CMCA®, AMS® Scott Management Company Kristen Hicks Premier Property Services, Inc. Tiarra LeMacks Ross Morgan & Company, Inc. Gregg Lotane, CCAM®, PCAM® Marina Pacifica HOA

January/February 2013 | www.cai-glac.org

31

3/4/13 12:14 PM

ADVERTISERS INDEX 13 Animal & Insect Pest Management, Inc. 23 Association Reserves, Inc.

26 Preferred Commercial Painting

28 Cacho Landscape Maintenance Co., Inc.

30 Reserve Studies Inc.

27 Collins Builders, Inc.

11 Ross Morgan & Company, Inc.

15 Farmers Insurance Group – Steven G. Segal Insurance Agency, Inc.

12 Seacoast Commerce Bank

PCAM Reception – 12:00 p.m. City Club on Bunker Hill

29 Ferris Painting, Inc.

20 Select Painting

Chapter Board of Directors Meeting – 8:30 a.m.

23 First Bank

MARCH 2013 15 19 20 22

31 First Bank

Long Beach Educational Program for HOA Boards and Managers – 6:00 p.m. Location TBD

32 Gayle G. Gould, CPA

Educational Luncheon – 11:30 a.m.

28 Milstein Adelman, LLP

Common Interest Development 8-Hour Law Seminar – 8:00 a.m.

18 Mutual of Omaha Bank/ CondoCerts

South Bay Evening Program for HOA Boards and Managers – 7:00 p.m. Location TBD San Gabriel Valley Evening Program for HOA Boards and Managers – 6:00 p.m. Location TBD

12

Chapter Board of Directors Meeting – 8:30 a.m.

Chapter Office, Glendale

Essentials of Community Leadership Workshop – 8:15 a.m.

Location TBD

17-19

CAI National Conference, San Diego, CA

24

Educational Luncheon – 11:30 a.m.

28-29 CA Day in the Capitol & Community Plus Sacramento

MAY 2013 Homeowners Association Marketplace (Westside) – 5:00 p.m.

Location TBD

17

27 Timothy Cline Insurance Agency, Inc. 29 Witkin & Neal, Inc. 7 Wolf, Rifkin, Shapiro, Schulman & Rabkin, LLP

ADVERTISING INFORMATION Dimensions & Rates:

Artwork must not exceed the exact dimensions of that size ad.

For more information, call the Chapter office: 818-500-8636.

Ad Size

Ad Dimensions

Members

Non-Members

⅛ page

3½" wide x 2" high (Horizontal)

$200

$400

¼ page

3½" wide x 4¾" high (Vertical)

$300

$600

½ page

7½" wide x 4¾" high (Horizontal)

$425

$850

Full Page

7½" wide x 10" high (Vertical)

$800

$1,400

Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles

1 or 2

21 Sandra Macdonald Insurance

Valencia Educational Breakfast for HOA Boards and Managers – 8:30 a.m. Bridgeport HOA Clubhouse, Valencia

11

13

22 Hi Tech Painting & Decorating

Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles

APRIL 2013 2

25 R.W. Stein Painting, Inc.

9 SwedelsonGottlieb

Chapter Office, Glendale

Sherman Oaks

27

26 Popular Association Banking

19 Berg Insurance Agency

2013 UPCOMING EVENTS 1

31 Poindexter & Company, CPAs

Chapter Board of Directors Meeting - 8:30 a.m.

Payment: Rates are subject to change without notice. By credit card, check or cash.

Minimum three-insertion contract. Rates subject to change without notice.

Advertising Sales: Please contact the Chapter office for advertising specifications and deadline information at: 818-500-8636.

Chapter Office, Glendale

22

Educational Luncheon - 11:30 a.m.

Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles

JUNE 2013 04

South Bay Evening Program for HOA Boards and Managers – 7:00 p.m. Regatta Seaside HOA

10

Annual Golf Tournament – 8:00 a.m.

14

Chapter Board of Directors Meeting – 8:30 a.m.

19

Educational Luncheon – 11:30 a.m.

27

Valencia Educational Breakfast for HOA Boards and Managers – 8:30 a.m. Bridgeport HOA Clubhouse, Valencia

Woodland Hills CC, Woodland Hills Chapter Office, Glendale Skirball Cultural Center, Los Angeles

32

www.cai-glac.org | January/February 2013

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 34

CAI-Greater Los Angeles Chapter

3/4/13 12:14 PM

2013 PMDP National Course Schedule Date

Location

Class

Date

San Diego, CA Atlanta, GA Richmond, VA Baltimore/Pikesville, MD Dallas, TX Seattle/Bellevue, WA Bloomington, MN Louisville, KY

M-100 M-100 M-100 CASE M-203 M-206 M-202 M-204

FEBRUARY 2013 7-8 7-8 7-8 7-8 7-9 6-8 7-8 21-22 21-22 21-22 21-22 21-22 21-23 28-3/2 28-3/1 28-3/2 28-3/1

Myrtle Beach, SC Edison, NJ Sacramento, CA Richmond, VA Jacksonville, FL Northern Virginia, VA Greensboro, NC Denver, CO Baltimore/Pikesville, MD Houston, TX Honolulu, HI Panama City Beach, FL Phoenix/Tempe, AZ Lisle, IL Raleigh, NC Las Vegas, NV Northern Virginia, VA

M-201 M-203 M-202 M-204 M-100 M-100 M-202 M-201 M-205 M-360 M-202 M-350 M-100 M-100 M-203 M-100 M-206

MARCH 2013 7-8 7-9 7-8 7-8 7-8 7-8 7-8 14-15 14-15 14-15 14-15 14-15 14-16 14-16 21-22 21-22 21-23 21-23 21-22

Los Angeles, CA Natick, MA Colorado Springs, CO Philadelphia, PA Atlanta, GA Houston, TX Dallas, TX Portland, OR Northern Virginia, VA Denver, CO Chicago, IL Cincinnati, OH Racine, WI Greensboro, NC Phoenix/Tempe, AZ Kansas City, MO Virginia Beach, VA Santa Ana, CA Austin, TX

M-204 M-100 M-206 M-330 M-203 CASE M-201 M-205 M-201 M-320 M-201 M-205 M-100 M-100 M-203 M-204 M-100 M-100 M-202

APRIL 2013 4-6 4-5 4-5 4-6 15-17 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16

Stamford, CT Seattle/Bellevue, WA Raleigh, NC Salt Lake City, UT San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA San Diego, CA

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 35

Class

Date

MAY 2013

JANUARY 2013 10-12 10-12 10-12 10-11 10-11 10-11 10-11 10-11

Location

M-100 M-204 M-206 M-100 M-100 M-201 M-202 M-203 M-204 M-205 M-206 M-400 CASE

2-4 2-3 2-3 2-3 2-3 16-17 16-17 16-17 16-18 16-17 30-31 30-31 30-31

Myrtle Beach, SC Arlington Heights, IL Sacramento, CA Nashville, TN Santa Ana, CA Northern Virginia, VA Portland, ME Denver, CO Austin, TX Hawaii, HI Phoenix/Tempe, AZ Sarasota, FL Palm Springs, CA

Birmingham, AL Lisle, IL Valley Forge, PA Baltimore/Pikesville, MD Dallas, TX Santa Ana, CA Northern Virginia, VA Manchester, NH Naples/Ft. Myers, FL Las Vegas, NV Sarasota, FL Arlington Heights, IL Houston, TX Los Angeles, CA

M-100 M-205 M-203 M-206 M-203 M-202 M-204 M-204 M-100 M-206 M-340 CASE M-204

M-202 M-202 M-204 M-100 M-202 M-201 M-203 M-100 M-202 M-201 M-203 M-100 M-203 M-350

JULY 2013 18-19 18-20 18-20 18-19 25-26 25-26 24-26 25-26 25-27 25-26

Phoenix/Tempe, AZ M-205 Sarasota, FL M-100 Denver, CO M-100 Natick, MA M-201 Chicago, IL CASE Portland, OR M-206 Northern Virginia, VA M-100 Indianapolis, IN M-204 Mystic, CT M-100 Clearwater/St. Petersburg, FL M-204

AUGUST 2013 1-2 1-2 1-2 1-3 8-9 8-9 8-10 8-9 15-16 15-16 15-16 15-16 22-24 22-23 22-23 22-23 22-23 22-23 22-23

Class

SEPTEMBER 2013

JUNE 2013 6-7 6-7 6-7 6-8 6-7 6-7 20-21 20-22 20-21 27-28 27-28 27-29 27-28 27-28

Location

Pleasanton, CA M-205 Columbia, SC M-350 Las Vegas, NV M-202 Houston, TX M-100 Los Angeles, CA M-201 Naples/Ft. Myers, FL M-205 Valley Forge, PA M-100 Atlanta, GA M-205 Livonia, MI M-201 Virginia Beach, VA M-320 Baltimore/Pikesville, MD M-201 Santa Ana, CA M-206 Ontario, CA M-100 Northern Virginia, VA M-204 Clearwater/St. Petersburg, FL M-206 Seattle/Bellevue, WA M-330 Lisle, IL M-203 Greensboro, NC M-206 Natick, MA M-205

19-20 18-20 19-20 19-20 19-20 19-20 26-27 26-27 26-27 26-27 26-27

Oxnard, CA Northern Virginia, VA Lebanon, NH Denver, CO Panama City Beach, FL Raleigh, NC Ft. Lauderdale, FL Lisle, IL Atlanta, GA Buffalo/Amherst, NY Las Vegas, NV

M-203 M-100 M-206 M-202 M-204 CASE M-202 M-206 M-310 M-203 M-310

OCTOBER 2013 1-3 17-18 17-17 17-18 17-18 17-18 17-19 17-18 17-19 21-22 21-23 24-26 24-25 24-25

Vail, CO St. Louis, MO Northern Virginia, VA Salt Lake City, UT Boca Raton, FL Cromwell, CT Dallas, TX Raleigh, NC Baltimore/Pikesville, MD Atlantic City, NJ Atlantic City, NJ Chicago, IL Bloomington, MN Santa Ana, CA

M-100 M-202 M-360 M-202 M-340 M-202 M-100 M-204 M-100 M-201 M-100 M-100 M-203 M-205

NOVEMBER 2013 7-8 7-8 7-8 7-9 14-15 14-15 14-16 14-15 14-16 14-16

Tempe/Phoenix, AZ Virginia Beach, VA Houston, TX Long Island, NY Northern Virginia, VA Providence, RI Seattle/Bellevue, WA Arlington Heights, IL Hawaii, HI Pittsburgh, PA

CASE M-203 M-206 M-100 M-205 M-370 M-100 M-204 M-100 M-100

DECEMBER 2013 5-7 5-6 5-6 5-6 4-6

Charleston, SC Orlando, FL Secaucus, NJ Santa Ana, CA Northern Virginia, VA

M-100 M-201 M-350 M-202 M-100

For current course information visit www.caionline.org/pmdp or call a member of our customer service team at 888-224-4321

3/4/13 12:14 PM

CAI-GLAC

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE

130 N. Brand Blvd., Ste. 305 Glendale, CA 91203

PAID SAN BERNARDINO, CA PERMIT #1

Change Service Requested

Order Your 2013 Condominium Bluebook Today!

O P Price: $26.00 per copy, tax and shipping included.

Order copies online at: www.cai-glac.org.

CAI ANNUAL CONFERENCE AND EXPOSITION APRIL 17–20 | SAN DIEGO, CA IT TAKES T KES A COMMUN OMMUNIITY TO BU BUIILD A COMMUN OMMUNIITY. For 40 years, CAI members have touched the lives of millions by making community associations preferred places to call home.

Join us for the 2013 CAI Annual Conference and Exposition, as we celebrate CAI’s 40th anniversary and your lasting contributions as homeowner leaders, management professionals and business partners. Exploring the theme of “Creating Community Legacies,” we’ll look at how far we’ve come and what we hope to achieve in the future.

CAI-GLAC_Focus_Jan-Feb.pdf 36

3/4/13 12:14 PM