LandArc Hosts Training for Active Adult Communities

LandArc is proud to welcome Judy Julison, renowned expert in 55+ communities and former National Director of Lifestyle for Del Webb, who will train our staff at an upcoming event in North Carolina. 

LandArc Hosts National Active Adult Training Event

Spring 2013 Newsletter

Active Adult Centers Replacing Senior Centers

Many senior centers are being renamed as active adult centers.  The simple fact of it is that many people do not like being called “senior citizens.”  These people do not want to stop doing the activities they enjoy.  Age is just a number to these people.  A number which does not reflect their energy or desire to enjoy life to the fullest.

LandArc specializes in the management of highly amenitized active adult communities.  Our portfolio includes several communities in Michigan, North Carolina, and Georgia.  Our commitment to providing a fulfilling active lifestyle surpasses our competitors.  Find us on Facebook and Twitter to ask us any questions you might have about the property management services we provide.

Click here to read more about senior centers which are now active adult centers:

http://standardspeaker.com/news/senior-centers-now-active-adult-centers-1.1489489

Spring Has Sprung

Now that spring is here and the last frost of the season likely over, here are some things to watch out for in your association;

Property Signage: appearance is everything when it comes to the home values in your association.  The association sign is the first thing people see upon entering an association.  There were a lot of instances this past winter where the snow would melt and then refreeze which can weather your association sign as well as other signs throughout your community.  A routine inspection could save a lot of grief in the future

Concrete: freezing and refreezing can be especially hard on concrete as well.  When melted snow seeps into gaps and the sidewalks and refreezes, it expands which creates cracks in the concrete.  Over time, the winter damage caused to concrete could be a potential safety hazard.  If someone were to fall on a crack in the concrete and get hurt, the association would likely be held responsible.  If you see concrete damage in your association, contact LandArc at (888) 646-9888 and we will see what can be done about it.

Pot holes: Winter can also be very hard on roads creating pot holes in streets and parking lots.  These could become hazardous if not dealt with promptly.

Parking spaces: time and weathering can cause parking spaces to fade.  Is this an issue in your association?

Outdoor lighting: check to see if any street lights or  other external lighting is burnt out within your community.

Landscaping: LandArc has a strong working relationship with our vendors.  Now may be the time to address landscaping needs within your association.

Security: ensure that all residents are aware of security systems and procedures that are in place.

For any questions you might have, call LandArc at (888) 646-9888.

To view the source used for this post, click here: http://www.propertymanager.com/2013/04/spring-is-finally-here/

Welcome Dee Dee Blizard

LandArc is glad to welcome Dee Dee Blizard to our team as VP of Community Management.  Dee Dee brings 15 years of experience working in our industry.  *Not only does Dee Dee have extensive experience as a community manager, but her passionate commitment to customer service can be described as follows:

"...I have always worked by and through relationships. It is remarkably easy to provide first class service consistently in meeting the needs and exceeding the expectations of your clients when you value the relationship. When it's more than a transaction, it's transforming - both personally and professionally." - Dee Dee Blizard

Community Associations Institute:

APCM National Board (2012-2014)

Certified Manager of Community Associations

Association Management Specialist

Professional Community Association Manager

Washington, DC Association of Realtors, Inc.

Graduate Realtor Institute

Construction Arbitration Services:

New Construction & Warranty Arbitrator

Center for Alternative Dispute Resolution:

Mediator

National Center for Housing Management:

Certified Manager of Housing

Certified Occupancy Specialist

Site-Based Budget Specialist

Certified Manager of Maintenance

National Association of Power Engineers:

Low Pressure Boiler Certification

*Edited 5/9/13

LandArc Spring Board Review

Active Adult Market Improving

There are more signs that the housing market is improving. A small active adult community is being planned for construction in northwest Virginia. This new community, called River Crossing at Spring Arbor, will be located in Spotsylvania County. There will be an age restriction of 55 or older. The community will contain 33 single family houses and 30 villas.

Construction has also begun for Carolina Arbors in Durham North Carolina, which will be managed by LandArc. This is another sign that the housing market is improving and builders are more willing to invest their earnings in constructing active adult communities to support the lifestyle of retirees.

For more information about River Crossing at Spring Arbor, click here:

http://news.fredericksburg.com/businessbrowser/2013/04/12/active-adult-community-planned-in-spotsylvania/#

Active Adult Resource

The city of Farmington Hills is a great location for active adult activities.  Many of these activities are located in the Center for Active Adults, which is located in the Costick Center at on 11 mile road between Middlebelt and Inkster.  Later today, the Center will host a Tiger’s Opening Day party from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm.  Coming up this Monday April 8th is lunch at the Detroit Institute of Art from noon to 2 pm.  For more information about activities offered through the Center for Active Adults, click here: http://www.hometownlife.com/article/20130331/NEWS06/303310438/Senior-adult-activities.

HOA "Injustice"

There are many articles floating around on the internet that speak of the “injustices” that occur within homeowner associations.  Many homeowners feel that they do not have to answer to the association’s governing board, viewing the board as a group of bullies that trample on the rights of homeowners.  However, these homeowners forget that by living in a HOA community, they are agreeing to abide by the governing documents that apply to everyone living within the community.  These bylaws and governing documents try to serve the greater good that would benefit everyone in the most optimal way.  That does not mean that the board of directors will always make the right decision; they are also human beings and make mistakes.  It is not easy for anyone to exercise judgment over their neighbors. 

Homeowners may not always have their way in inevitable issues that turn up in HOA communities, but when the decisions they make about their property affect the home values or other costs of those who follow all the rules, who is really the victim?  A lawsuit between a homeowner and an association where the homeowner wins will likely result in an increased cost for everyone in the community as the association tries to pay for attorney fees.  When one person wins and everyone else in the community loses, is that really justice?

To read more about this topic, click on the following link:

http://constructionlawva.com/big-bad-hoa-not-actually-so-big-definitely-not-so-bad/

Columbia County Georgian Hot Spot for Retirees

As more retirees move into homes in Columbia County, Georgia, residents are pushing for the creation of a large scale active adult community.  Studies also indicated a steady 20 year growth in residents between the ages of 55-64 with continued growth in the future.  The area is also ranked in the top ten most affordable places to live.  Locals predict that the number of potential buyers will eventually attract the attention of Del Webb or other big builders. 

For more information, click here: http://newstimes.augusta.com/news/2013-03-20/study-indicates-county-poised-for-growth-in-retirees

Carolina Arbors

We are proud to announce that construction is under way in Carolina Arbors, a Del Webb community that will be managed by LandArc.  Residents will begin moving into the first completed homes early this summer.  When completed, there will be 1280 units.  LandArc offers a unique approach specialized towards managing active adult communities.   Our portfolio includes sites in Michigan, Georgia, and North Carolina. 

We are striving to raise brand awareness. If you know someone who is the board member of an active adult community, please let them know about the services offered by LandArc.  Or, if you are a board member from an active adult community click on the following link to see how we can improve your active lifestyle: http://landarc.com/Portals/0/lapromo/01.html

Del Webb Home Supremacy

Del Webb is committed to constructing premier homes.  Through experience gathered through the construction of more than 50 active adult communities, Del Webb is prepared to offer a new standard in home environmental efficiency.  Whether it involves electrical wiring or the external architecture of a home in an active adult community, Del Webb is prepared to offer among the best quality available.

To find out more, click on the following link: http://www.delwebb.com/why-delwebb/home-quality.aspx.

Routine Preventive Maintenance Checklist

Simple tasks performed at regular intervals throughout the year can make or break a homeowner association.  We have included a checklist containing routine preventive maintenance focal points, which has been taken from this website. (http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111478)

Here are some things to keep in mind for routine preventive maintenance:

·         Roof:

o   Look for wear in asphalt shingles

o   Look for damage in clay tiles

o   Slate, while more durable, needs occasional inspection to look for damage.

o   Look for Corrosion in metal

o   Look for air circulation in wood shingles.

o   Look for leaks in built-up roofs/membrane roofs.

·         Roofing Elements:

o   Look for projections that may cause leaks.  Example of branches, loose joints, etc.

o   Look for corrosion caused by Galvanic Action, such as ferrous metals touching dissimilar metals.

o   Look for damaged cornice.

o   Inspect the underside of the roof for projection, including the eaves.

o   Inspect flashing for damage.  Flashing is installed on every protrusion through the roof and every joint where the vertical edge intersects with the roof.

o   Inspect gutters and leaders for clogged ice or other materials.

·         Exterior Wall Material:

o   Inspect mason and mortar for loose joints, stains, wet spots in the walls.

o   Look for loose stucco or plaster.

o   Inspect siding, shingles, and sheathing for damage (broken/missing boards, rotted or missing members, or signs of veins of dirt that indicate termite tunnels.

·         Exterior Finishes:

o   Inspect paint for cracks, damage.

o   Inspect any ornamental elements including cast iron and stone/terra cotta.

·         Fenestration (doors and windows):

o   Inspect doors for proper alignment and for any signs of deterioration.

o   Inspect windows for strength in joints and structural support.

·         Exterior Ceilings/Decks

o   Inspect porches for damage as a result of poor drainage.

o   Check wooden supports for damage.

o   Check for any insect infestations.

·         Grounds

o   Check for cracks/damage in driveways and sidewalks.

o   Check for leaks in window wells.

o   Inspect any storm drains.

o   Inspect retaining walls for damage.

o   Check for proper draining around foundations

o   Inspect landscaping for dead bushes, diseased plants

·         Interior Inspection

o   Load bearing masonry wall.

§  Check for cracks, damage.

o   Check caste in place concrete walls for

§  Settlement.

§  Cracks.

§  Other damage.

o   Inspect wood joists and beams.

o   Inspect steel beams, concrete decks for sloping or other degradation.

o   Inspect

§  Concrete floors

§  Wood floors

§  Carpet

§  Ceramic tiles

§  Interior walls/Finishes

§  Ceiling finishes

§  Fireplaces

§  Interior decorative masonry

§  Metal surfaces

§  Stairs

§  Interior doors/windows wood trim

§  Kitchen cabinets/counters

·         Mechanical/Electrical:

o   Make sure there is sufficient power to run all appliances.

o   Look for any deterioration in plumbing/mechanical systems.

·         Attic:

o   Look for condensation that might cause damage.

For more information about routine preventive maintenance, click on the following link: http://www.gsa.gov/portal/content/111478

Del Webb Museum

The national active adult community developer, Del Webb, has created a museum to display the history of their very first community.  This Sun City Community museum describes how a community designed only for retirees succeeded at a time when very few thought it would.   Fifty three years later, Del Webb communities have spread all throughout the country, providing the active adult lifestyle to many retirees who are not all that tired yet.  To find out more about the Del Webb Sun City museum, click on the following link: 

http://arizona.newszap.com/westvalley/120592-114/del-webb-sun-cities-museum-where-history-comes-alive.

Del Webb Communities Recognized

Del Webb has had eight of their communities named among the top fifty places to retire in the United States.  As a strong leader in active adult communities, Del Webb has developed more than 50 active adult communities.  These communities include: Sun City Anthem, Sun City Festival, Sun City Shadow Hills, Del Webb Anthem Ranch, Del Webb Stone Creek and Sun City Peachtree.  To read more about Del Webb, click on the following link: http://www.delwebb.com/newsfeed/story.aspx?newsid=800531261.

Governing Board Duties Increasing

As many cities, including Detroit, experience financial difficulties, some homeowner associations have assumed control of various duties for the associations they serve.  The nature of HOA communities has shifted to include property maintenance, trash collection, and other duties that were once performed by local governments.  As a result, it is becoming increasingly difficult for board members of HOA communities to take care of the day-to-day operational tasks of managing the communities they represent.  According to USA Today, 75%-85% of HOA communities perform their day-to-day activities with the assistance of an experienced property management company, while the other 15%-25% are still self managed.  

As the residual effects of the housing crises continue, governing board members of HOAs are required to take on more and more responsibilities.  This ranges from daily operations like dealing with contractors, bookkeeping duties like paying invoices, and collecting delinquent association fees from fellow members  These tasks can prove to be daunting without the assistance of a professional management company, such as LandArc.

Click on the following link to read more:

http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/03/03/hoas-pick-up-duties-left-by-struggling-cities/1960671/

Coyote Information

Southeast Michigan is having a growing problem with coyotes in neighborhoods.  This can be a problem when homeowners have small pets or young children. While coyotes rarely attack humans, all animals can behave in unexpected ways if they feel threatened. We have prepared some tips from the DNR for dealing with any coyotes that might be present in your neighborhood:

• Never approach or touch a coyote
• Never intentionally feed a coyote
• Eliminate all outside food sources, especially pet foods and bird feeders
• Put garbage out the morning of pickup day
• Clear out wood and brush piles; they are good habitat for rats and mice and may attract coyotes
• Do not allow pets to roam free when coyotes are present - consider keeping pets indoors or accompany them outside, especially at night
• If you see a coyote, yell, clap your hands, bang pots and pans, in general make a lot of noise to scare away the coyote and let it know that this is your space and you don’t want it there. By making yourself seem scary and threatening the coyote should retain its fear of people and easily scare away, this may not work if the coyote is being fed or if there are food sources like pet food or bird feeders in the area.

For more information about coyotes, please visit the following link:

http://www.michigan.gov/dnr/0,4570,7-153-10370_12145_12205-60378--,00.html.

Homeowners Identities Stolen

Thousands of homeowners served by a Florida Management Company have had their identities stolen.  This was because a computer server was stolen during a break-in.  The management company runs six associations in the Osceola Florida area.  There were no signs of forced entry, which indicated the thief may have had a key. 

LandArc has strict security measures and system redundancies to ensure that our information is always safe and secure.

For more information about the Florida Management company break-in, click here.

HOA "Shakedown"

In a homeowner association, decisions are made with the entire community in mind rather than individuals.  As a result, there are some instances where homeowners feel that since they pay their dues, they have a right to get their way.  So in some cases, homeowners start withholding dues in order to “shakeup” the board and get their desired outcome.  When this happens, the source listed below states that it is important to gain an understanding of the situation in a personal manner (a phone call from a board member as opposed to an email or letter).  

If the homeowner’s request is reasonable, then the situation could be resolved along with possibly waiving any late fees that have been incurred.  If the request is not reasonable, then explain the reasons why.  In many cases, withholding fees could simply be the result of financial difficulties.  If that is the case, the homeowner might be able to receive accommodations such as a payment plan based on their situation.  To read more about this topic, click here.

Snow Removal FYI

In light of the snow storm which will hit Southeast Michigan today, LandArc would like to inform our customers that we will do everything possible to ensure efficient snow removal.  Our strong working relationship with our vendors ensures that the job is done.  As you are most likely aware, we are expecting to get 5-7 inches this afternoon and evening, although it seems like we may receive less. 

As stated in our contract, “in the event the continuing snowfall exceeds 4”, the contractor shall immediately plow out driveways and roads to facilitate ingress and egress from the site, and then complete the remaining areas as designated in this contract.”  We would also like board members to be aware that snow removal will commence no later than four hours after snow fall has reached the level stated in the contract between your association and your snow vendor.  If snow accumulation continues, the vendor has within four additional hours to clear and within 24 hours to clear areas that were inaccessible initially or where snow has drifted.  We ask for patience while our vendors strive to keep up with the needs of our communities. 

LandArc Winter 2013 Newsletter

NOW HIRING: Carolina Arbors Lifestyle Director

LandArc is looking for an experienced individual to serve as the Lifestyle Director for a new Active Adult community by Del Webb.  Carolina Arbors is located in beautiful Raleigh, North Carolina and will host 1,350 homes with elaborate amenities. 

Some of the benefits offered for this position include: competitive salary, benefits, company sponsored training and continuing education.  A suitable candidate for this position would be someone who will actively engage Del Webb residents in activities that will be offered at Carolina Arbors.   

Since home construction in Carolina Arbors is just beginning, residents who move into Carolina Arbors are looking to continue their active adult lifestyle as they approach retirement.  That being said, the attitude and energy level of the Carolina Arbors Lifestyle Director will set the community standard for years to come. 

If you feel like you possess the skills necessary for this position, please visit the following link to apply: Carolina Arbors Job Description.

Carolina Arbors Groundbreaking

Del Webb recently held a VIP groundbreaking ceremony to initiate the construction of Carolina Arbors.  Attending the ceremony were local politicians, community leaders, and Del Webb representatives.  Home construction is expected to begin immediately and residents are able to move in as soon as this summer.  Carolina Arbors is in a great area located in a great city and will be managed by LandArc.  Read the LandArc blog for more news about Carolina Arbors in the future.

Home Shopping? Consider Carolina Arbors!

Are you 55 years or older?  Interested in living in the Raleigh-Durham area?  Considering buying a new home?  If you answered yes to all three questions, consider a home in Carolina Arbors, a new Del Webb Community.  Carolina Arbors is an active lifestyle community with a number of planned amenities, including a fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and many more choices.  Find out more information about Carolina Arbors by clicking on the following links:

http://www.delwebb.com/communities/nc/durham/carolina-arbors/208795/index1.aspx?cmp=carolinaarbors

http://www.55places.com/north-carolina/communities/carolina-arbors

BIA Trade Show

Tomorrow, LandArc will have a table set up at the BIA Builders and Remodelers Trade Show in Sterling Heights.  This show will take place tomorrow, February 13th from 10 am to noon at Best Western Sterling Inn Banquet and Conference Center 34911 Van Dyke Avenue, Sterling Heights, MI, 48312.  Stop by and see us.

Digging Out

Five inches of snow dumped on the tri-county area.  At least two more inches expected throughout the day.  Associations, please be aware that LandArc is doing everything in our power to ensure that roads within your associations are cleared.  We work closely with our vendors to make sure that the job is done.  In the meantime, take it slow out on the roads.  If possible, give yourself more time to reach your destination.  Better to arrive at your destination a little late than to drive into a ditch and not arrive at all.  When it comes to safety, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Hot and Cold

This has been a strange year so far in terms of temperature.  On Tuesday, it was 50 degrees, fairly comfortable.  Yesterday, it dropped down to the mid twenties with snow added into the mix.  Today, it’s cold as well.   This is because the jet stream.  The flow of air that dictates weather patterns in the United States is taking an odd path, pushing cold air to the south and pulling warmer air to the north.

Based on this, it is important to keep an eye on your pipes with all the freezing and refreezing going on.  Did you know that when water freezes, it also expands?  Which is why routine preventive maintenance is necessary for your community.  This way, you can be sure that you do not experience any problems in your community that could have been prevented through routine measures.

2013 Winter Board Review

Presentation Dinner

Now that winter is underway, it is time to think about preventive maintenance.  We can help.  LandArc is holding a presentation on Tuesday, February 26 at 6:30 pm. Among the topics that will be discussed are: routine preventive maintenance, handling delinquencies, and saving money. This event will take place at the Station 885 at 885 Starkweather, Plymouth, MI, 48170. Dinner will be included. 

Call (888) 646-9888 or email rcomins@landarc.com to register.

A drawing and giveaway will be held at the conclusion of the evening.

HOA Conspiracy Busted

In an unfolding fraud scheme involving Las Vegas Valley homeowner associations, a former construction manager has pleaded guilty to fraud.  Dax Louderman is one of  28 defendants in this case who were involved with this HOA conspiracy.  More than $8 million dollars was funneled through secret bank accounts to contracts with various HOA communities.  These contracts ranged from construction to landscaping to community management contracts.   The conspirators are also accused of using election rigging and various other tactics to get people into HOA boards who then awarded them with contracts.   There were a total of eleven HOA communities that were targeted in this conspiracy.

To read more about this topic, click on the following link:

http://www.lvrj.com/news/construction-manager-pleads-guilty-to-conspiracy-in-hoa-probe-183527641.html

Cold Concerns

It’s cold outside in Southeast Michigan.  While driving into work this morning, the thermostat in my car read 4 degrees and that is without wind chill.  When it’s this cold outside (and you can usually tell by the squeaking sound snow makes beneath your feet) there are certain precautions that need to be taken to protect your home and protect yourself.  Limit exposure to these frigid temperatures to prevent frostbite and always make sure you wear proper winter gear: hat, gloves, scarf, etc.

Also, make sure that you check up on the regulations in your HOA community to see what snow removal procedures are in place.  While vendors are hired to take care of many snow removal activities, their contracts can limit what situations they are supposed to handle, so it is always better to be aware of such things before a sudden snowfall catches you unawares.  As always, cold temperatures create the risk of pipes freezing/bursting which creates problems for everyone involved.  Precautions are often as simple as leaving the cupboard below each sink open so warmer air inside of your house can reach water pipes.  Implementing routine preventive maintenance activities makes things easier for you and it also makes our job at LandArc easier too.

A New Way to Connect

Sometimes, the best way to learn about a community is to talk to the people living there.  Del Webb is now offering that option on their website.  Prospective home buyers can now see reviews living in Del Webb communities to get a first hand explanation of what it is like to live in that community.  Through the power of the internet, shoppers have access to a vast wealth of knowledge which they can view before making a purchase decision.   Del Webb’s new feature on their website makes this easier than ever.

For more information, click on the following link:

http://www.cnbc.com/id/100384156

Homeowner Sues Neighbors, Association

When neighbors of Suzanne Taylor decided to clean up her cluttered patio area in a Buffalo HOA, Taylor filed a lawsuit against her neighbors and the Waterfront Village Association.  The case lasted for more than three years, until a federal appeals court ruled against Taylor and awarded attorney fees to Waterfront Village.  Taylor claimed the Association denied her disability accommodations for depression (which she had no formal diagnosis).  She also claimed, in the lawsuit, that neighbors trespassed on her land and stole her property.  She lost the lawsuit on both accounts.   The parties involved are currently in the settlement process.

http://www.buffalonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20121216/CITYANDREGION/121219338

HOA Self Management?

As we begin 2013, many can only hope that his year will bring better economical conditions than previous years.  In the recent recession, many businesses have survived only by drastically cutting costs.  However, where homeowner associations are concerned, self management is not the answer.

In an article titled “The Myth of HOA Self Management,” the author states that the myth of HOA self management was started in the 1960s by developers which stood to profit from the decreased costs of self management.  As many HOA boards went forward with self management, they found the path of self management full of pitfalls and dead ends.

An unhappy truth of HOA Management is the need to collect delinquent payments.  This requires a high amount of diplomacy and very thick skin.  How many board members want to walk next door, knock on their neighbor’s door, and tell their neighbor that they are behind on their association payments?  What kind of community environment does that create?  Is it worth the money that might be saved?

The article went on to say that “…the two most emotional reasons that even the smallest HOAs should be professionally managed: Money and Rules. No neighbor should have to collect money from or enforce rules on another neighbor since the actions are predictably confrontational.”

LandArc has more than 25 years of experience in the property management industry.  This experience simply cannot be matched by volunteer boards of HOA communities.  Within the last year, LandArc has proven our excellence in crisis management when one of our communities was damaged in a tornado last year.  Our response to that situation gained us the business of a neighboring HOA community.  What board member would be able to handle managing the cleanup and reconstruction of not only their own home but their neighbor’s homes as well?

Self management is not the answer to reduced costs and will lead to more headaches.  To read more about the myth of HOA self management, click on the following link:

http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20020123_selfmanage.htm

Delinquency Tips

Delinquencies.   This one single word causes every homeowner association board member to shudder.  And for good reason.  In the current economical environment, money is tight for everyone, but when homeowners fall behind on their payments, the entire community suffers.  Even those who stay on top of their payments are forced to make sacrifices to fill deficit gaps caused by delinquencies. 

According to the source listed below, the best way to keep an HOA community running smoothly is to have clear, decisive delinquency policies.  By applying a concrete, uniform policy situations caused by delinquencies are kept fair for everyone.  It also helps to have an experienced property manager to help collect delinquencies.  LandArc has long experience in taking appropriate measures to handle homeowner delinquencies. Collection agencies have proven very effective partners in this process, and attorneys are also needed in select cases. 

For more information about this topic, click on the following link: http://realtytimes.com/rtpages/20120919_hoadelinquencies.htm