Rental Management Program
Tracking rental properties within an Association has long been a challenge to both Management and to the Board. “Managing” those Owners that choose to rent by ensuring they abide by any policies the Association might have regarding renting is even harder. It goes beyond the scope of the Management Agreement, and certainly adds further burden […]
Board Tips: Make Your Meetings Matter
There’s no denying that we live in a culture of meetings. The ease and accessibility of virtual meetings have furthered exasperated the reactionary notion of “let’s get together to talk it through.” As we approach the spring/summer season and the cadence of Board meetings increase, step back and consider two things – Frequency and Productivity. […]
A Look Ahead to 2024 & Back at 2023
2023 has been another great year for Sharper Management! To name just a few successes— Continued growth in welcoming 31-new clients. In doing so, we passed a milestone of 200 associations managed. We also continue a strong retention rate of existing clients. We opened a satellite office in Maple Grove. This summer we rolled out […]
Sharper Dominates at Industry Gala & Award Ceremony
For the second consecutive year, Sharper had a huge night at the annual Community Association Institute (CAI) Holiday Gala and Vision Awards ceremony. CAI, the international trade organization for community associations and regarded as the national experts in education programs, publications, association governance, and advocacy, and the accreditation body holds this annual event to recognize […]
Board Tip: Tabling vs. Postponing Agenda Items
While each HOA may conduct business differently, a standard procedure for board meetings is essential to optimize efficiency and productivity, commonly known as Parliamentary Procedure. Some boards use Robert’s Rules of Order to create the meeting format, agendas, motions, and floor discussion, while others create their own procedures. But, even with a solid structure to […]
The Benefits of Spring Cleaning
With all of us being at home for the time-being, this might be your year to do a deep-down spring clean. There are a lot of surprise benefits to spring cleaning! It helps alleviate allergy and asthma symptoms. Cleaning up pollutants like dust, pet dander, dirt, mildew, mold, and more will improve your air quality […]
So, What Goes in Meeting Minutes, Anyways?
Ok… time to elect Officers! Who wants to be Secretary???……Anyone?……Hello?…. No one wants to be Secretary because most people find the role of taking Meeting Minutes to be a daunting task. If you refocus your view of what Minutes are supposed to be, however, it really isn’t a tall task at all. Minutes should document […]
Don’t Break Your Own Rules in Rule Enforcement
Spring is here and that means Community Managers and Board members will be active in walk-arounds/site inspections while hoping to whip the association back in to shape after a long winter’s nap. Rule violations are always a focus in these efforts. Melted snow un-earths pet damage to turf; holiday lights still adorn balconies; neglected exterior […]
Board Tips: Overcoming Decision Making Paralysis
There is nothing more frustrating for members, managers, and even homeowners than a Board that is collectively stuck in the muck, endlessly spinning their wheels deeper in the rut of indecision. Rest assured, it is a common condition. If it is not a recognized medical disorder, it should be! Perhaps it is a large construction […]
Committees, Committees, Committees – Part II
Welcome to Part II of Committees, Committees, Committees. As a Board member, the responsibilities and tasks to keep the association running smooth can add up quickly. And as a leader, the art of delegation is incredibly important. Committees can be a great resource to, and outlet for, the Board of Directors. The goal of this […]