2009 June
2009 June Vol. 7 No. 6
Focus on...Law & Legislation
Premier Condo Expo Attracts Throngs of Decision-Makers
The premier New England Condo Expo drew visitors from across the region to the Seaport World Trade Center in Boston for a full day of networking, seminars –and a chance to win a host of prizes. Read More
Admittance Denied
For many prospective co-op shareholders, finding the living space of their dreams is only half the goal. The other half involves making the cut before the co-op’s admittance committee, meeting all of the seemingly mysterious criteria that can mean the difference between a new home and a rejection letter. Read More
2009 Legislative Update
While only a few states guarantee a “right-to-dry,” at the time of this writing, proposed legislation aimed to remove bans on clotheslines within condominium associations appears on several statehouse docket lists in New England. Arguments are fervent on both sides of the issue; at the core is the balance of the protection of private rights versus energy conservation for the public good. The wording and intent of the right-to-dry bills vary by state. While as many as ten states currently have legislation allowing energy-saving devices such as solar panels, only a handful – including Florida, Utah, Colorado and Hawaii – currently have laws that specifically protect homeowners’ rights to use clotheslines, according to various reports. Read More
Resident Vs. Board
Jack has heard talk that the board has voted to continue a contract with the poorly-run lawn care company the association has contracted with for years. Rumor has it that damage was done to a window by a careless worker and a complaint has even been filed. Read More
A Shot in the Arm
Fresh from hoisting up the banking and automobile sectors, a newly muscular Uncle Sam is now turning his attention to putting the skids on the real estate meltdown. The Obama Administration earlier this year rolled out two major housing initiatives that combine one part stimulation with one part bailout. The stimulus portion awards an $8,000 tax credit to first-time home-buyers, aimed at creating demand that will stabilize the housing market. This is especially beneficial to condominiums, which have become default starter homes for many buyers. Read More
Q&A: Who Passes the Annual Budget?
Does our condominium board of directors need to have our next annual budget passed by the condominium owners or can they pass it themselves? Read More
Q&A: Can I Run a Home-Based Business?
Recently I left my job and have decided to start my own business. Am I permitted to operate a business out of my condominium unit? Read More
