Winter 2018 CONTACTCommunity www.dfwcai.org A Resource For Homeowners Associations, Condominiums, Townhomes, and Cooperatives Featuring: New Board Member Primer: Conducting Board Meetings Under Texas Law Best Practices for Providing Excellent Support
1• CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
2 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 COMMUNITIES. SBB Management Company is dedicated to providing professional homeowners association management and consultation to Texas communities. • Enduring Client Relationships • Unparalleled Staff Longevity • Industry Leading Technology • Continuing Education Programs • Senior Direct Support Personnel • Robust Accounting Analysis Tools • Mobile Management Platform • Digital Document Management • Family Corporate Culture 43 Years Leadership!Associationof Accredited ManagementAssociationCompany(AAMC) 8360 LBJ Freeway, Suite 300 • Dallas, TX 75243 • Phone (972) 960-2800 • Fax (972) 991-6642 www.sbbmanagement.com • emailus@sbbmanagement.com Access Your HOA-Anytime,Anywhere AAMC® Find us on -
Community Associations Institute is a national, non-profit, membership organization dedicated to the successful creation and operation of community associations. The Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter was established in 1980 to provide support for the North Texas area. Community Contact is published by the Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter of Community Associations Institute and is issued with the understanding that the publisher is not engaged in rendering financial, legal, accounting or other professional services, or be construed as a recommendation for any course of action regarding financial, legal, accounting or other professional services by Community Contact or its authors or advertisers. The services of a competent professional should be sought where professional services are required. The articles appearing in Community Contact do not necessarily reflect the opinion of CAI or the DFW Chapter, and acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services. All contents of Community Contact are protected by copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is expressly prohibited. AAMC, AMS, and PCAM are registered trademarks of Community Associations Institute. CMCA is a registered trademark of the Community Association Certification Board. Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Use of a term in this publication should not be regarded as affecting the validity of any trademark or service mark.3
Managers International
• CONTACT, Spring 2015 CONTACTCommunity “Looking Ahead” New Board Member Primer: Conducting Board Meetings Under Texas Law 8 Best Practices for Providing Excellent Support 10 Paint for Protection: Prepping for winter weather 14 Home Equity Loans 19 When 16,000 Trees Meet an HOA Budget 20 Looking Ahead by Checking the Rearview Mirror First 23 Membership Report 33 Member News 34 2018 Calendar of Events 36
The year has just started, but the CAI Board of Directors has been working diligently on the planning and success of all our committees. The Education, Communication and Member Services Committees have continued to raise the bar each year, and with your help, we hope to do the same in 2018.
Chris Broach,
VICE
Bruce Crawford,
PRESIDENT robina@reconexp.com
Just find something the Chapter is doing that interests you, and Jump In! You won’t be disappointed.
PRESIDENT-ELECT AMS, PCAM AAMC bcrawford@insightam.com
Robin ReconstructionAndersonExperts, Inc.
AMS, PCAM
Thanks again for allowing me to be your 2018 Board President, and I hope to see you at an upcoming Chapter event.
Happy New Year! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and you were able to recharge the battery and get ready for 2018. I am truly honored to serve as your CAI Board President this year. Since 2011, I have served as both Chair for the Expo and Ambassadors of Fun Committees. As well, as serving the past 3 years on the CAI Board. I would like to take a moment to thank all the members of CAI, past and present, who have taken the time out of their busy schedules to volunteer for any CAI Committee. Maybe it was writing articles for the magazine, planning social events, or providing education. This chapter could never be successful without people like you, and for that, I thank you. For those who have not had a chance to participate in the Chapter, I strongly encourage you to do so. There are so many opportunities to volunteer and at the same time, meet some great people.
PRESIDENT Anne Bernhardt Park Towers Condominium Association anneb972@gmail.com
Insight Association Management,
SECRETARY CMCA, SBB PC
WorthWorthchearn@rmwbhlaw.comW.Ross,CMCA,AMSRossManagementCompany, AAMC worth@worthross.com James Nicholson, Chapter Executive Director DFW Community Associations Institute 14070 Proton Road, Suite 100 Dallas, TX 75244-3601 (972) 246-3540 www.dfwcai.org 2018office@dfwcai.orgBOARD OF DIRECTORS MANAGEMENT
Management, Company, c.broach@sbbmanagement.comAAMC TREASURER Kevin CavanaughCavanaughandCompany, kcavanaugh@cavanaughcpas.comPLLC DIRECTORS Elle AllianceLarkinAssociation RobertsClaytonelarkin@allianceassociationbank.comBankHearnMarkelWeinbergButlerHailey,
5• CONTACT, WINTER 2018 Water RoofsFirewallsRetainingGradingStructuralIntrusionDamage&DrainageExpansiveSoilsWalls281.929.9528 | www.ConstructionDefects.law *By Appointment Only REPAIRING HOMES | RESTORING VALUE | REVITALIZING COMMUNITIES Southlake, TX* | Houston, TX* | Golden, CO | Bloomington, MN Free Initial Attorney-AdvancedContingentEvaluationFeeArrangementsCaseCostsAvailable Is your community faced with construction defects or insurance disputes? LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
6 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 2017 ANNUAL SPONSORS SUPER SPONSORS Benson, Kerrane, Storz, & Nelson, PC Kings III Emergency Communications Lake Management Services SBB Management Company, AAMC DIAMOND SPONSORSCCMC,AAMCCertaPro RTI/Community Management Associates, Inc. “CMA”, AAMC Neighborhood Management, Inc., AAMC OrlandoPavecon,GroupLtd. Worth Ross Management Company PLATINUM SPONSORS Acme Roof Systems Alliance Association Bank Blackmon Mooring/BMS CAT Brightview Landscape Services Classic Construction & Restoration Excel Association Management, Inc., AAMC Globus Management Group Homeowners Association Insurance Managers (A Scarbrough Medlin Company) Magnolia Fisheries & Lone Star Fountains McKenzie Rhody, LLP Mutual of Omaha Bank & Condocerts Pavement Services Timothy, Devolt and Company, PC GOLD SPONSORS BB&T Financial FanninDavis-Dyer-MaxServicesTreeFarm Henry Oddo Austin Fletcher, PC Insight Association Management, AAMC Interstate RealManageRestoration Roberts Markel Weinberg Butler Hailey, PC SOLitude Lake ManagementUnionBank SILVER SPONSORS Bob Owens Electric, Inc. Classic Property Management Cornerstone Association Management Services Singer Association Management Texas Disaster Restoration BRONZE SPONSORS Advanced Association Management - Allegra Marketing Print Mail - Paul Baker Insurance Agency, Inc. - The Blend Law Firm; Canady & Canady, PC - Cavanaugh & Company, PLLC - Community Association Experts, AAMC - Kraftsman Playground and Park Equipment - Riddle and Williams, PC EDUCATION SPONSORS Excel Association Management, Inc., AAMC - Greater Texas Landscapes - Pool Referees - Sheri Wilson Insurance Agency - Southern Botanical “Deep in the Heart of Texas” logo recognizes our Business Partners who are a part of all four CAI Texas chapters.
7 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 2017 DFW/CAI WorthRobertsbarbaramcthomas@gmail.comCommunitymutualofomahabank.comAmbassadorsChairpersonsCommitteeofFunOliviaHurtadoMutualofOmahaOlivia.Hurtado@AffairsCommitteeBarbaraThomas,CMCAMembershipCommitteeClaytonHearnMarkelWeinbergButlerHailey,PCchearn@rmwbhlaw.comHighRiseManagersForum(Co-Chairs)WorthW.Ross,CMCA,AMSRossManagementCo.,AAMCworth@worthross.comExpoCommitteeBettyClaradyBenson,Kerrane,Storz,&Nelson,PCbetty@bensonopc.comProgrammingCommitteeBeverlyCoghlan,CMCA,AMS,PCAMNeighborhoodManagement,Inc.,AAMCbeverly@nmitx.comMagazineCommitteeBettyCrudden,CMCA,AMS,PCAMSBBManagement,Company,AAMCb.crudden@sbbmanagement.comGolfCommitteeJeffHigginsMcKenzieRhody,LLPjhiggins@mrcdlaw.com LOOKING AHEAD EDITION 2018 ANNUAL SPONSORS SUPER SPONSORS Cagle Carpenter Hazlewood Classic Construction & Restoration Classic Property Management, AAMC Clean Scapes Landscaping Five Star Pools Lake Management Services, LP McKenzie Rhody, LLP Orlando Group Roofing and General Construction SBB Management Company, AAMC DIAMOND SPONSORS Paul Baker Insurance Agency, Inc. CCMC, AAMC CertaPro Painters RTI/Community Management Associates, Inc., “CMA”, AAMC Insight Association Management, AAMC Kilowatt Partners Neighborhood Managment, Inc., AAMC - Texas Disaster Restoration Worth Ross Management Co., Inc. AAMC PLATINUM SPONSORS Acme Roof Systems, Inc. Blackmon Mooring / BMS CAT Brightview Landscape Services Globus Management Group Magnolia Fisheries & Lone Star Fountains Mutual of Omaha Bank & Condocerts Pavement Services, Corp. The PlayWell Group, Inc. Scarbrough Medlin & Associates SOLitude Lake Management Timothy, Devolt and Company, PC GOLD SPONSORS BB&T Association Services Benson Kerrane Storz & Nelson, PC RobertsHenryGreenerFanninDavis-Dyer-MaxTreeFarmPasturesLandscapesOddoAustin&Fletcher,PCPavecon,Ltd.RealManageMarkelWeinbergButlerHailey, PC Union Bank HOA Services SILVER SPONSORS Alliance Association Bank Bob Owens Electric, Inc. Cornerstone Association Management Excel Association Management, Inc., AAMC Riddle & Williams, PC Singer Association Management BRONZE SPONSORS Advanced Association Management Allegra Marketing Print Mail The Blend Law Firm, PC Canady & Canady, PC Cavanaugh & Company, PLLC Kraftsman Playground and Park Equipment EDUCATION SPONSORS Greater Texas Landscapes Pool Referees Randolph Brooks Federal Credit Union Southern Botanical
Cheers to the start of a new year!
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One of the primary goals of the 82nd Legislature was to foster transparency in association actions. As part of this goal, the Texas Legislature enacted legislation which requires that board meetings generally must be open to the owners. The first component of this requirement is that the association must give owners notice of regular and special board meetings. The notice must give the date, time, place and general subject matter of the meeting, including a description of any matters to be considered in executive session. This notice may be provided to owners either via mail or via posting. If sent via mail, it must be sent not less than 10 nor more than 60 days prior to the date of the meeting. If given by posting, the association must: (1) send the notice by email to each owner who has registered an email address with the association; and (2) post the notice in a conspicuous manner either on the association’s website or on the association’s common property (or other conspicuously located property with the property owner’s consent). It is each owner’s obligation to keep an updated email address on file with the Association. Board meetings must be held in a county in which all or part of the association is located, or in a county adjacent to that county. However, board meetings may also be held by electronic or telephonic means, which would include web conferences and teleconferences. In order to hold a board meeting by electronic or telephonic means, the association must ensure that: (1) each board member may hear and be heard by all other board members; (2) owners are permitted to use the same communication method used by board members to participate, and owners in attendance may hear all board members (except for any portion of the meeting conducted in executive session); and (3) the notice of the meeting sent to the owners includes instructions for owners to utilize the same communication method. Electronic and telephonic board meetings may be difficult to conduct depending upon the size of your community and the level of owner participation in attending board meetings, as the communication method may need to accommodate dozens of participants. If a board meeting is recessed to continue on the next business day, no additional notice is required to the owners, so long as the recess is in good faith and is not intended to circumvent the open meeting requirements. If the board meeting will be continued to another day, the board must give owners notice of the reconvened meeting within two (2) hours of adjourning the meeting to be continued by posting the notice either on the association’s website or on the association’s common property.
Although owners generally may attend board meetings, the board still retains the right to adjourn and reconvene in executive session. However, the Texas Legislature established a list of the topics that may be discussed in executive session. The actions that may be considered in executive session involve personnel, pending or threatened litigation, contract negotiations, enforcement actions, confidential communications
With a new year comes annual meetings and new board members. It has also been five years since the Texas Legislature passed sweeping legislation affecting non-condominium property owners’ associations, including new requirements for board meetings. As we all struggle to remember to write “2018” on our correspondence for the next few weeks, we thought it was also a good time to recap the procedures for board meetings to ensure these new boards operate in compliance with Texas law. Please note, the procedures below do not apply to condominium associations, whose board meetings will be strictly controlled by the condominium’s governing documents.
9 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION with the association’s attorney, matters that involve the invasion of privacy of individual owners, or matters that are to remain confidential by request of the affected parties and agreement of the board. Note, the Texas Legislature did not give boards leeway to categorize other matters as “private” and to be discussed in executive session—only those matters falling within one of the above categories may be discussed in executive session. Following executive session, the board is to summarize any decisions made orally, and place the decision in the minutes of the meeting in general terms, so as not to disclose any private or confidential information. The summary must also include a general explanation of any expenditures approved during executive session. Notwithstanding the above, Texas law does allow for some actions to be taken outside of a meeting. A board may act outside of a meeting, including taking a vote by electronic of telephonic means, without notice to the owners, so long as all board members are given the opportunity to express their opinions to all other board members and to vote on the matter. In doing so, at the next board meeting, the board must summarize orally any action taken outside of the meeting and document it in the minutes of that subsequent meeting, including an explanation of any approved expenditures. Texas law no longer limits this authority to vote outside of a meeting to the vague categories of “routine and administrative matters” and “unforeseen emergencies.” Instead, a board may act outside of a meeting for any action, so long as the action does not fall within the enumerated list of topics in Section 209.0051(h) of the Texas Property Code. Those topics are: (1) fines; (2) damage assessments; (3) initiation of foreclosure actions; (4) initiation of enforcement actions, excluding temporary restraining orders or health/safety violations; (5) increases in assessments; (6) levying of special assessments; (7) appeals from a denial of architectural control approval; (8) a suspension of an owner’s right before the owner has an opportunity to Dean Riddle and Julie Dupont, Riddle & Williams, P.C. attend a board meeting to present the owner’s position; (9) lending/borrowing money; (10) the adoption or amendment of a dedicatory instrument; (11) the approval of an annual budget or amendment to the annual budget that increases the budget by more than 10 percent; (12) the sale/purchase of real property; (13) the filling of a vacancy on the board; (14) the construction of capital improvements other than repair/ replacement/enhancement of existing improvements; or (15) the election of an officer. If the board intends to consider any of the above topics, the board must do so at a meeting that is open to the owners, for which the owners have received notice of the meeting.Lastly, certain open board meeting requirements still apply during the development period if the board intends to consider certain topics. Those topics are: (1) the adoption or amendment of the governing documents; (2) increases in assessments or adoption of a special assessment; (3) election of non-developer board members, or establishment of a process by which those members are elected; or (4) a change to the voting rights of members. If the board will be discussing or voting on any of these topics, the board must hold the meeting open to the owners, and give the owners prior notice of the board meeting. In summary, before taking any action, boards should first determine if the action must be done at an open board meeting. If not, the board may consider and vote on the matter, and summarize the action taken at the next open board meeting. If a meeting is required, or if the board chooses to hold a board meeting, the board must first give owners notice of the meeting either by mail or by posting and email. Asking these basic questions before taking an action can help ensure that board actions are valid under Texas law.
6. Look at the big picture. Put yourself in the customer’s shoes. What is the impact of the problem they are currently experiencing? Maybe a forgotten password seems like a low-priority task, but if you step back and see the big picture, you may notice why the customer feels a sense of urgency. Perhaps the customer needs to get online to make a dues payment before the deadline. When you empathize with the customer and see it from their perspective, you can see why the small stuff matters.
I hope these practices will be helpful in your business. Wishing you a prosperous 2018!
7. Documentation is critical. You must have a support tracking system—especially if you need to rope in help from another team member. Keep track of who contacted you, why and when. Make notes of each subsequent conversation with this homeowner. Then, if you must escalate the issue, the person who takes over the case will have all the details they need. This prevents the owner from having to explain their issue all over again.
1. Be proactive. Identify trends and look for ways to solve these problems before they start. If you are being asked the same question repeatedly, look at the process behind these questions. For example, maybe homeowners are looking in the wrong area for their payment portal. Resolve future issues by making the payment portal more prominent.
5. Strive for first contact resolution. No one wants to be a ping pong ball bouncing from one person to the next looking for answers. You want to resolve the customer’s issue the first time they reach out for help. If they are looking to an online FAQ, be sure that they can find detailed answers so that they don’t need to contact you. If they contact you first, do everything in your power to resolve the issue before it is escalated to a higher level.
2. Be quick. No one wants to wait a week for an email or phone call to be returned. Even if you don’t have an answer right away, communicate to the customer that you have heard their problem and that you are looking for a solution.
4. Serve as a customer advocate. This is a personal favorite of mine. Position yourself as the resident’s advocate in this situation. Listen to understand the resident’s needs and serve as their voice in your organization. This helps drive you to find solutions on behalf of the customer.
s a community association manager, you wear many hats. One of these hats is customer service provider. As you look ahead to 2018, include customer service and support in your planning. Below are seven tips to consider when mapping out your customer service strategy. With the right guidance, everyone can provide great customer support!
3. Attitude is everything. Empathize with the customer and show understanding toward their issue. Act as if your sole priority is resolving their problem. If you come off as bothered or too busy to help, then you have two problems: the original issue and a customer who is angry about your attitude.
10 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 A
L Enrichment.ifestyle YEARS 1983 2013 Co mmun ity. Well Served. Your community deserves a partner that understands what it takes to grow lasting relationships between homeowners and the community they live in. With over 30 years of community well served, CMA can be that partner. 1800 Preston Park Blvd. Suite 101, Plano, TX 75093 Ph. www.cmamanagement.com972-943-2848 11 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
SOILTREECONSULTINGPRUNINGMANAGEMENT FanninTreeFarm.com (972) 747-9233 15700 Highway 121, Frisco, TX 75035 · Barbara@FanninTreeFarm.com TREE SURVEYS, DIAGNOSTICS & TREATMENTS STORM SERVICES TREE BRACING & CABLING PEST MANAGEMENT SOIL MANAGEMENT AIR SPADE & AERATION TREATMENTS 12 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018
www.timothydevolt.com 4099 McEwen Road, Suite 130 Farmers Branch, TX 75244 Office 972 980 stimothy@timothydevolt.com4315 13 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
As temperatures drop leading into fall and winter, the changing climate brings cold, dry winds mixed with snow and chances of ice. Any exterior surface area that paint or stain did not properly cure to could be vulnerable to the hazards these changing climate patterns carry. Any paint or stain that may still be on the surface can be chipped or flaked from wind or ice, and any moisture that makes it way to the surface of the wood or siding can damage the surface, which can become stained, discolored or softened from rotting or water damage.
Selecting the best products for the job needs to take several variables into account, such as the region, climate and time of year. For example, homes that receive a lot of direct sunlight throughout the year should consider a paint formula with excellent fade resistance. Knowing how important this is to the aesthetic of a home, we formulated UV-Protect Technology, the same automotive grade technology trusted by leading automotive manufacturers, in the new PPG PAINTS™ TIMELESS® exterior paint and primer. The product also has a tough exterior finish for exceptional resistance to chipping, flaking and cracking while resisting mold, mildew and algae on the dry paint film to further protect the surface.
Paint for Protection: Prepping for winter weather
To assess any areas of vulnerability at a home before starting a project, it’s extremely helpful if a homeowner is able to share the last date their exterior surfaces were refinished. A walk-around is also recommended to examine the state of the paint and stain finishes, including color, adhesion and water repellency. Some key signs of a home that needs to be refinished include:
For any areas that will be refinished, first remove any existing paint or stain with a stripping product, scraper or wire brush, depending on the surface. Then, be sure to properly clean the surface with a wood or deck cleaner. After the surfaces have been fully prepped, they are ready to be resealed and finished.
Water is not being whisked from the surface Paint and/or stain is peeling, pulling or lifting from the surface Areas of the home appear to be faded or discolored
*WARNING! If you scrape, sand, or remove old paint, you may release lead dust. LEAD IS TOXIC. EXPOSURE TO LEAD DUST CAN CAUSE SERIOUS ILLNESS, SUCH AS BRAIN DAMAGE, ESPECIALLY IN CHILDREN. PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD ALSO AVOID EXPOSURE. Wear a NIOSH-approved respirator to control lead exposure. Clean up carefully with a HEPA vacuum and a wet mop. Before you start, find out how to protect yourself and your family by contacting the National Lead Information Hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD or log on to www.epa.gov/lead.
So, while many think consumers’ key motivations are focused on their homes aesthetics, protection is also top of mind, and this can extend beyond woodcare to siding, windows, doors and more. With exterior painting’s busy summer season winding down, and more weather changes ahead, there is still an opportunity to assess homes for areas of vulnerability and prepare the exterior surfaces for the upcoming changes in climate.
By Jenny Burroughs, Senior Product Manager, PPG Architectural Coatings and Brian Osterried, Product Manager, PPG Architectural Coatings
The high temperatures that many across the country experienced, and in some areas, continue to feel beyond summer, could have had several effects on a home’s exterior paint or stain finishes. Direct sunlight, for example, can fade color overtime, and if some areas of the home are shaded by porch awnings, roofs, trees or other neighboring homes, an uneven color can be more noticeable as leaves fall and reveal more of the home. Some homeowners that attempted DIY painting or staining projects over the summer may also be noticing that their paint job is uneven, tacky or peeling and pulling off of the surfaces easily. Their coating likely did not adhere properly since not all paint and stain products are formulated to be applied in extreme temperatures.
Weather’s effects on a home’s paint and stain finishes
Of course, timing is of the essence when it comes to protecting a home’s exterior. Though there is still time to assess for vulnerability and address any potential hazards as the seasons change, it’s important to do so well in advance of winter climates.
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Preparing to protect surfaces from weather hazards
Home exteriors withstand a lot throughout the year – rain, shine, dry heat, frost – and this summer’s extreme heat has put the exterior coatings that protect the surfaces of homes to the test. Our research at PPG revealed that homeowners’ primary reasons for their last woodcare projects included wanting to prolong the life of their wooden surfaces and protect the surfaces from the weather.
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Branch Banking and Trust Company is a Member FDIC and an Equal Housing Lender. Loans are subject to credit approval. Only deposit products are FDIC insured. © 2016, Branch Banking and Trust Company. All rights reserved.
Making Financing Easy for
Condominium and Homeowners Associations
Association Services Matt Hiebert, AVP/Relationship Manager 469-440-0717 • MHiebert@BBandT.com
At Insight we are dedicated to enriching the lives of residents and partnering with them to build strong, rich, vibrant communities. commitment to customer service is matched by our passion for changing the way people think about Homeowner Associations.
®
Water: It’s 71% of your world... 100% of ours. 855.534.3545 • solitudelakemanagement.com Want to learn more? Download our free guide: “Your Guide to Sustainable Pond Algae and Aquatic Weed Control” www.solitudelakemanagement.com/balance The sunshine and warm weather that we love also contributes to nuisance vegetation and algae blooms in our communities’ lakes and stormwater ponds. As part of an annual management plan, our team will not only help restore and maintain balance in your aquatic ecosystem, but also keep your waterbody looking beautiful year-round. RestoringEnhancingBalance.Beauty. For a full list of our superior service offerings, visit www.solitudelakemanagement.com/services 17 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
Our
You can use it for debt consolidation, refinancing your existing home loan, tuition, small home improvement.
Home equity loan
HELOC They can be drawn against for 10 years, and repayment goes up to 15 years.
Interest rates
19 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION H
You can find both options – for HELOC and home equity loans – at many financial institutions, including RBFCU. In each of the past two years, RBFCU has made close to $1 billion in real-estate loans to its 700,000 members. The RBFCU.org website explains the differences and, more importantly, provides information on which option might be best via the website’s Home Loans & Realty tab. It looks like this:
HomeTermsequity loan
Home equity loan
Options include (in years to pay off) 4, 7, 10, 15, 20 and 30.
HELOC It’s a great option if you don’t know exactly how much you’ll need, opening the door to access more funds over a period of time.
ome equity. We know what it is, the amount of ownership a mortgagor has built through monthly payments combined with the appreciation of the assessed value of the property. It is a golden thing, and as great as it is to see how our monthly mortgage payments are inching us closer to the end of the amortization table, we don’t have to wait until we reach a zero balance to get excited.
Fees and payments
HELOC Minimal closing costs for loans less than $125,000, no application fee and no prepayment penalties
There are two ways to leverage the value of our homes into working capital – now – to use for a number of purposes including refinancing your home mortgage. We are familiar with home equity lines of credit (HELOC) and home equity loans. They sound the same, but they are different.
Before looking at those, a new question needs to be considered: Do I still pursue a loan based on the equity of my home even though the tax reform bill signed by President Donald Trump immediately eliminates tax benefits of many of these loans? Simply, yes, you should continue looking at home equity options as a source for new capital because home equity loans offer lower interest rates. Typically, a home equity loan offers an interest rate approaching half the rates (usually exceeding half the rate) available through most traditional home-finance loans, personal loans and credit cards. It is recommended to speak with a CPA when the new tax laws are considered for home equity loans or HELOCs.
How are the funds dispersed?
HELOC Use it for emergencies, ongoing home improvement, retire debt, pay some tuition rates, “flip” houses.
Home equity loan APRs are noticeably less than almost every loan available through a financial institution
HELOC APRs are mostly in line with traditional home-mortgage options
There are minimal closing costs for loans less than $125,000, no application fee and no prepayment penalties
Home equity loan
You’ll have immediate access to a one-time amount – a lump sum. This works, if you know the exact amount you need.
How to use my equity?
If you are interested in a partnership with our tree service team, please contact us at 972-750-8386 or email us at treeservices@fannintreefarm.com
By Ronny Nelson and Jena Abernathy from Fannin Tree Farm
On a weekly basis, we inspect the trees to determine plans for services that are value added. This occasionally includes performing services that are outside our scope of work. We have focused on our budget to understand where we can afford to give back to the community and offset costs that were unexpected. This has become a valuable partnership with Starwood, especially since they have faced many other unexpected infrastructure challenges.
Beginning in January of 2016, our tree service department led by Board Certified Master Arborist, Ronny Nelson, began caring for the trees throughout the Starwood Homeowners Association in Frisco, Texas. This community has over 16,000 trees throughout the natural and landscape areas. The predominate amount of these trees were improperly pruned over the years. The magnitude of the budget requirements to care for that many trees could quickly outpace any association budget. After a thorough review of the community, we were able to offer several options to tackle these obstacles. One option was a prioritizing of the trees in the most dire states, another was to focus on maximizing the number of trees to be maintained, and the last was geographically based. Each plan also included the ability to span the work over several years. Since the beginning of our involvement, our goal was to build a strong relationship with the members of the landscape committee through monthly detailed reports highlighting work completed and goals for the next phase. Our plan and vision for Starwood is something that we developed and review with the committee regularly.
When 16,000 Trees meet an HOA Budget
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By incorporating structural pruning practices throughout the community, the trees have greatly improved aesthetically and structurally. Over the past two years, we have seen not seen any tree failures in the trees that we have serviced. We have reworked our contract services to include tree removals, fertilizations, and other treatments to offset cost. We not only provide tree care services for the association, we also are the primary tree installation service. Through their trust in our ability, our focus on communication and following our industry standards, we have built a long-term partnership at this community.
The Tree Service Team at Fannin Tree Farm has developed a business model around new and established communities, including educational components for residents, developers, and community managers. We take great pride in creating plans that are economically and environmental sustainable. Our other tree service clients include Craig Ranch HOA in McKinney, Hometown HOA in North Richland Hills, Lakeside DFW in Flower Mound, Windsor Place HOA and Lane Park HOA in Dallas, amongst many more.
21 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION Of fice: 972.402.835 2 • www.singermanagement.com 11498 Luna Road • Suite 102 • Dallas , TX 75234 A Leader in Professional Community Association Management “Our commitment is to partner with our clients as one team to create a highly desirable community living experience through outstanding service, innovative management processes and integrity.” When you focus on inspiring community spirit, being pro-active and providing responsive service it shows. SAM cares about its customers and strives to exceed expections. We have national and local experience managing master planned community associations, single family community associations, as well as townhome associations. We offer 360 full service management from development through transition and beyond.
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• Keep cash in the bank! The ability to leverage cash can benefit the Association. Borrow now, especially while rates are still relatively low.
• What is the delinquency rate of the Association? Check with your Banking Professional to see what the delinquency rate requirements are when getting a Community Association Loan. Assessments are income for the Association, which will ultimately be used to pay back the loan. If delinquency is an issue, it may prohibit the Association from getting a loan at that time. Knowing this can help you formulate a plan to get the Association back on track as you look ahead to the financing needs of upcoming projects.
How much does the Association need to
• Curb appeal for prospective buyers. In this market, housing demands are high. Well maintained and well-funded communities will have a better opportunity to compete than those communities that are not.
• Improved homeowner morale when community is repaired and updated.
•borrow? Are you guessing at how much the needs and wants of
• Does the quote include line items for contingency, scaffolding, and tree removal and replanting if needed?
About the Author: Olivia Hurtado is the Regional Account Executive for the North Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi markets. Olivia has been with Mutual of Omaha Bank for 14 years and has held various positions in Mortgage, Commercial Lending and Construction Real Estate. She has been part of the HOA division for the last 7 years. Olivia is married to her husband Greg and they have two children; Penelope and Gregory Jr. Olivia enjoys spending time with her family and getting familiar with all that Dallas has to offer. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Mutual of Omaha Bank.
• A Community Association Loan is made to the Association as a corporation. This means no homeowner guarantors, and no individual homeowner liens!
Sometimes these items are overlooked and therefore not considered when deciding on a loan amount. Cover all bases and make sure the amount of the loan will cover all necessary costs associated with the upcoming project.
• Ensure the board is well educated on the loan process, informed on the loan requirements and has had time to do their due diligence. This will help when it comes time to educate the homeowners on a Community Association Loan.
• Engage the board early and get their thoughts on the subject. Plan a work session with the board and your Banking Professional to get questions answered before going to the homeowners.
• Many board members do not know Community Association Loans exist. If they do, most have preconceived notions on how this kind of loan works (HINT: NOT LIKE A HOME MORTAGE!). Be sure to work with an industry expert for an HOA loan. How do the financials look for the Association?
First the Association are based on the project? Get bids on the full project scope and let an expert in this area provide you with an estimate.
• How much money does the Association have? Are they breaking even right now without a loan? If so, what is the plan for repayment of that loan? A raise in regular assessments or special assessments may be necessary to cover that new expense. Being prepared for this will help when discussing loan information with the board members and homeowners as a vote may be required for any of these options.
23 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
How does a LOAN benefit an Association?
It is almost impossible to look ahead and plan a New Year without first looking back. What worked? What didn’t? What things were left unaccomplished? Where could more attention have been put? How efficient were you? These questions and reflections can help set the focus for the New Year with the associations that you manage. Is there a capital expenditure looming? Are the Association’s reserves well-funded? Do you have a plan for the unexpected? Perhaps major components are all covered. Does the Association have a “want” list for their community, but not enough cash? How do you tackle that? Not all four lettered words are bad. As you look ahead this year, welcome the word LOAN into your vocabulary.
A Community Association Loan can allow the Association to keep their money in the bank, complete a project from start to finish, and allow options for homeowners who may not have the immediate means to fund their portion of a special assessment. As you work your way into the New Year and are looking ahead to all that 2018 has to offer for your communities, keep in mind how a LOAN could help your Associations accomplish some of their common interest resolutions when it comes to maintaining their community.
Looking Ahead By Checking the Rear View Mirror
• A loan benefits those residents who may not have the ability to produce their portion of a large special assessment upfront.
Below are some checkpoints to help you navigate your way around a Community Association Loan. What does the Association need to repair or replace? What beautification and improvements have they been talking about?
• Get the work done all at once. A loan allows projects to be done in their entirety and not in phases. This helps keep labor and material costs from rising and avoids contractors needing to be onsite for extended periods of time.
24 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018
25 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 HOA RENOVATIONS COMMITTED TO COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT
26 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 StructuralRoofExpansiveBalconies/PatiosSoilsDefectsandFoundation Defects Water Intrusion All Other Construction Defect Claims
27 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION All of our studies nowForeSiteinclude™ Serving you from our new Texas office. (800) 221-9882
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29 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION Preferred Contractor of Property Managers CLSSICConstruction&Restoration,Inc. A Full Service General Contractor Fully Insured Emergency Services Available 24/7 Serving the Metroplex for over 90 years (972) sendmeinfo@classicconstruction.comwww.classicconstruction.comGarland,437-0909406S.YaleDr.TX75042 General Building Maintenance - Maintenance Crews and Maintenance Programs available for your property Fascia & Soffit Repair JanitorialFraming/DrywallFoundationPoolAirElectricalPlumbingConditioningRepairRepairBrickRepairServices g g g g g g g g g g Fire ConstructionFloodRestorationsRestorationDefectConsulting & Engineering Complete Property Rehabs Fencing - All Types Painting - Exterior and RemodelingInterior - All Aspects g g g g g g g Excel Association Management, Inc. P.O. Box 941169 Plano, TX 75094 (972) 881 www.excelam.com7488 Community association management professionals serving North Texas with easily accessible offices in Tarrant and Collin counties. Excel provides full and financial management to a wide variety of community associations such as HOAS, condominiums, townhomes, office condominiums, and developer controlled communities. Committed to Excellence 25+ Years in Business Personalized community websites Real person on every call; no phone bank Actively involved in the DFW chapter of CAI Accredited Association Management Company (AAMC) Sole focus on community association management
30 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 800.992.4384 | EmailUs@AssociationVoice.com www.AssociationVoice.com Why do most of the management companies who switch to AssociationVoice stick with us year after year? It’s easy! Our clients know simple to use web sites are the only ones that not only get embraced by their communities, but make their lives easier. From messaging and maintenance, to accounting integration, now you can try AssociationVoice risk free for 90 days. You can see rsthand the easier your website the more they’ll use it, and the easier your life will become. Community Management life can be hard That’s why AssociationVoiceWeb sites are easy.
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An Ar cle?
right to reject any adver sing contract or inser on for any reason. 5
32 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018
Ar�cles can range anywhere from 700 words to several thousand words. We prefer that they be submi�ed in Word format. If you have pictures that accompany the ar�cle, please send them as a�achments instead of inside the body of the ar�cle. Ar�cles should be informa�ve in nature. You are welcome to provide a brief bio about the speaker, your company or community, along with contact informa�on for inclusion at the end of the ar�cle. Ar�cles and adver�sements are accepted un�l the middle of the month prior to publica�on. Contact is produced every quarter, in March, June, September, and December, so we would need your ar�cle or adver�sement no later than February 15, May 15, August 15, and November 15 to ensure inclusion in the upcoming magazine. Contact is mailed to over 500+ ac�ve members each quarter. the
HowMagazineDoISubmit
The DFW Chapter welcomes ar�cles! If you have an ar�cle that you believe would be important to our membership, you can send it directly to the DFW Chapter by e-mailing office@dfwcai.org.
How Do I Adver se? Size Dimensions Rates (per issue) Members Non-Members 1/8th Page 3.625w x 2.325h $100 $125 1/4 Page 3.625w x 4.875h $175 $250 1/2 Page (vert.) 3.625w x 9.875h or $250 $325 (horiz.) 7.5w x 4.875h Full Page 7.5w x 10h $375 $475 Inside Front Cover 7.5w x 10h (4 Available) $425 N/A Inside Back Cover 7.5w x 10h (4 Available) $425 N/A Outside Back Cover 7.5w x 6h (4 Available) $500 N/A Buy Two or Three Issues & Receive a 5% Discount! Buy All Four Issues & Receive a 10% Discount!!! Posi oning of adver sing is at the sole discre on of the Editor. Preferred posi ons may be available—inquire for availability and price. Cancella ons or changes of orders are not accepted a er the closing date. If proofs are not furnished, reproduc ons and registra on quality is at the adver ser’s risk. Adver ser and adver sing agency assumes liability for all content including text representa on and illustra ons of adver sements printed and also assumes responsibility for any claims arising there from made against the publisher. The publisher reserves
Ms. Crystal Moreno Manager Membership Classic Property crystalmoreno83@yahoo.comManagement (817)640-2064 Ms. Debbie Gschwend Manager Membership 4CSONS Group, LLC DBA 4Sight Property debbie@4sightpm.comManagement (469)287-8583
The Toro bruce.funnell@toro.comCompany (951)785-3300
Mr. Cole Adams Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners Capitol City colea@ccinsurance.comInsurance (512)706-5024
Mr. Justin Bartholomew Business Partners Blooms Justin@bloomslandcare.comLandcare (817)888-8700
Ms. Jackie Conklin Manager Membership jconklin@cmamanagement.comCMA (972)943-2887
Mr. Ron S Littmann Manager Ron.littmann@fsresidential.comMembership (214)790-4419 Mr. Steve Nathan Business Partners Major League Roofing steve@mlroof.com (469)844-6933 Mrs. Mandy Turner Manager CommunityMembershipManagement, LLC mandyturner@cmgt.org (225)271-3906
Ms. Amanda Duckworth Manager Membership Classic Property amandaduckworth@classicpm.comManagement (469)912-5934
Mr. Larry John Cavaness, Jr. Business Partners Rite Call lcavaness@ritecall.comRestoration (833)748-3225 (408)
Mr. Jesse Cardoza Business Partners LH Landscape (469)503-0086jesse@lh-landscape.com
Mr. Bruce Funnell Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners
Brian bwiedenhoeft@cleanscapes.netCleanBusinessWiedenhoeftPartnersScapesLandscaping (214)205-2038 Kim kim.solcruz@myterracare.netTerracareBusinessSolcruzPartnersAssociates (972)998-9590
Ms. Kim West Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners ASR kwest@asrcompanies.comCompanies 720-320-4220
Mr. Charles Heineman Business Partners Precision Water cheineman@precisionwater.netTechnologies 972-488-6755
Ms. Melissa Peters Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners BB&T Association mdpeters@bbandt.comServices (251)340-8747
New DFW CAI Members
Mr. Mark Middleton Manager Membership Classic Property markmiddleton@classicpm.comManagement (817)640-2064
Mr. Dustin Armstrong Manager NeighborhoodMembershipManagement, Inc. tarmstrong@nmitx.com (972)359-1548
Mr. Joseph Rivas Manager Membership joseph.rivas@associa.usAssocia (214)272-4136
Mr. David Gaona Business dgaona@treenewal.comTreenewal,PartnersLLC (817)329-2450
Ms. Jamie M Patterson Manager Membership Classic Property jamiepatterson@classicpm.comManagement (817)640-2064
Mr. Kevin Bobb, RS Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners Building Reserves, kbobb@buildingreserves.comInc. (877)514-8256
33 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
Ms. Anjela Harris Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners Condominium Legal Liability (CLL℠) anjela@rllinsure.com 801-994-0237
Mr. Cameron Gschwend Manager Membership 4CSONS Group, LLC DBA 4Sight Property cameron@4sightpm.comManagement (469)287-8583
Mr. Byron Sneed, II Manager Membership Classic Property byronsneed@classicpm.comManagement (817)640-2064
Mr. Gregory John Veldman Manager greg.veldman@realmanage.comRealManageMembership Multi-ChapterMr.(512)653-3974JeffPopenoeMembership for Business Partners The Playwell Group (800)726-1816jeff@playwellgroup.com
Mr. Judy Christian, CMCA Manager Membership Classic Property christianjudy@classicpm.comManagement (817)640-2064 (1239)
MEMBERSHIP REPORT
Mr. Kristopher Grooms, CMCA Management Company Gulf Professional Property Management kris@gulfppm.com (469)600-5080
Ms. Liliana Olvera Manager Membership Classic Property liliana.olvera88@gmail.comManagement (817)640-2064
Ms. Natalie Vidrine Manager CommunityMembershipManagement, LLC natalievidrine@cmgt.org (225)271-3906 Ms. Shelly Lea Hughes Manager Membership SBB Management s.hughes@sbbmanagement.comCompany (214)212-5542
Mr. Mark Southall, AMS, PCAM Manager marksouthall2017@gmail.comMembership (214)403-0733
Mr. Robert Richards Business Partners Property Solution Network (469)998-7663info@PSNRoofing.com
Ms. Kim West Multi-Chapter Membership for Business Partners ASR kwest@asrcompanies.comCompanies 720-320-4220
Serving the Metroplex For Over 28 Years LOCALLY OWNED REFERENCES PROVIDED 214-254-4920
34 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018
Tom has been practicing as a construction defect attorney since 2004, representing clients in every phase of a construction defect claim – from pre-suit advice to mediation and through arbitration and trial. Tom’s experience representing general contractors and developers, and their insurance companies, gives Tom valuable insight in representing homeowners and associations in pursuing their construction defect claims. Tom has been recognized by his peers as a Super Lawyer Rising Star since 2008, as AVPreeminent by Martindale Hubbell since 2013 – the highest possible rating in both legal ability and ethical standards, and in 2017 was selected as one of the Best Lawyers In America in construction law. Tom also presents at seminars concerning construction and insurance related topics.
McKenzie Rhody, LLP proudly welcomes Tom DeVine to our growing firm in DFW.
Commercialwww.acmeroofsystems.com
DFW CAINewsMember
Mr. Bill Brassfield Mr. Bill Brassfield Mr. Casey Russell Mr. Casey Russell Mr. Cole Adams Mr. Ernestine Burtley Mr. Ernestine Burtley Mr. Gary L. Gooch Mr. Gregg Saunders Mr. Kevin Bobb, RS Mr. Rodney E. Cruz Mr. Rodney E. Cruz Mrs. Marbella Torres Ms. Caitlin Spring Ms. Carrie Bailey Ms. Diane Barta, CMCA, AMS Ms. Erin Muddie Ms. Erin Muddie Ms. Francisca Micaela Kee, CMCA, AMS Ms. Kim West Ms. Kim West Ms. Nancy Wright,
Robert info@poolrefs.comPoolBusinessSparksPartnersReferees (469)215-7733
Tanya CommunityManagerTreftsMembershipManagement, LLC tanyatrefts@cmgt.org (225)271-3906 Chris A. Meis Chris Harrison Mr. Andrew S. Fortin, Esq. Mr. Barry Coleman Mr. Barry Jones, CMCA Mr. Brandon L. Hall Mr. Carl K. Hergesell Mr. Christopher Dominique Ayoub Mr. Christopher Schappaugh Mr. Colin Chopin Mr. Daniel C. Thomas, CMCA, AMS Mr. Daniel J. Nye Mr. David Shackelford Mr. Douglas S. Hasty Mr. Ed Colvin, CMCA, AMS Mr. Gabe Santiago, CMCA, AMS Mr. Gary Burkham Mr. Gary Matocha Mr. Jeff Higgins Mr. Jerry Bridges Mr. John Beall, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Mr. John Mackenzie Mr. John Pritchett Mr. Jose Luis Gonzalez Mr. Joshua Timothy Barnes, CMCA, AMS Mr. Keith Davis, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Mr. Kevin C. Mcdonald, CMCA, AMS Mr. Kevin Cavanaugh Mr. Larry D. Hooper Mr. Mark Norton, AMS Mr. Michael Bosco Mr. Michael Reeves, CMCA, AMS Mr. Nate Lee Mr. Patrick Shortall Mr. Paul Zellar Mr. Rhett Hubbard Mr. Robert J. Koop, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Mr. Robert S. Bruchmann Mr. Scott Spilker, CMCA, AMS Mr. Stewart Masterson, CMCA Mr. Thomas Landon Miller Mr. Tom Martin Mr. Vidal Jones Mr. William F. Crawford, CMCA Mrs. Alanna Campbell, CMCA Mrs. Genevieve C. North, CMCA, AMS, PCAM
RejoinedCMCAMembers New DFW CAI Members Rejoined Members
35 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION Ms. Susan Fortney Manager Membership Classic Property susanfortney@classicpm.comManagement (817)640-2064
MEMBERSHIP REPORT
Renewed Members
Mrs. Joan Lawyer, CMCA, AMS Mrs. Katie Kim Mrs. Kay Rinker Mrs. Kayelyn Scofield Mrs. Lisa Marie Sewell Mrs. Marcia Lambrecht Mrs. Susan Schambacher Ross Ms. Anita Mcaloon Ms. Anne C. Fay, CMCA, AMS Ms. April Hubler Ms. Betty Fletcher Ms. Carol Lynn Mason Ms. Carol Owens, PCAM Ms. Chaun Sherman Ms. Dana Sanchez, CMCA, AMS Ms. Debra Decker Ms. Edie Macklin Ms. Gail Donovan, CMCA, AMS Ms. Jacque Martin Ms. Jennifer Dewolfe Ms. Julie Hawkins, AMS, PCAM Ms. Kelly O’Conner Ms. Krystal Mann Ms. Laurie Lorensen, CMCA Ms. Linda Razzano, CMCA, AMS Ms. Lori Nelson, CMCA, AMS Ms. Margie A. Maxwell Ms. Melissa O’Neill Ms. Melissa Peters Ms. Melissa Zacha, CMCA, AMS Ms. Michele Drain, CMCA, AMS Ms. Olivia Hurtado, CMCA Ms. Pam S Pinzone Ms. Rebekah Hill, CMCA, AMS Ms. Sylvia Tagle Ms. Teri Kerkman, CMCA, AMS Ms. Terrie Ramirez, CMCA, AMS, PCAM Ms. Terry L. Jones Ms. Tia Chambers Ms. Tia Singer, CMCA, PCAM Ms. Tisha Vandenberg Malo Ms. Virginia Bender, CMCA, AMS Darrell JosephineTraegerLeeper
January stth to February toth March thst April th th May th September th October thth th to th November th th th to th December th 2018 Calendar of Events Some dates may be subject to email updates, which will let you May, cont. th to th th June th to th July th to st August th 36 • CONTACT, WINTER 2018
37 • CONTACT, WINTER 20186 LOOKING AHEAD EDITION
takethatto the bank. Withcommunityassociationlendingexpertiselikeours, you’llgetthejobdoneright. OliviaHurtado RegionalAccountExecutive 214-717-2718 TollFree866-800-4656,ext.7567 olivia.hurtado@mutualofomahabank.com mutualofomahabank.com AFN45863_0813 MemberFDIC EqualHousingLender
