Thursday, December 4, 2008

Easy ways for Condo Associations to lower costs

By Chris Lim

Unused Amenities - Cut back or close unused amenities. Close the pool during winter months when no one is using it. Reevaluate the hours of the fitness center. If people are truly not using the the services they will not mind if they are cut back. They will also appreciate the saving.

Quest Fees - If you complex is attractive you may be able to sell memberships to the gym, swimming pool and and tennis courts. You can also charge a small fee for quests.

Sell advertising - Sell advertising in the newsletter, in common areas and on the website. One easy way to sell advertising on the website is through Google adsense.

Landscaping - Many developers only look at the initial landscaping cost and not the cost of maintenance. When replacing landscaping be sure to look at the recurring costs.

Collect Past Due Fees. Monies owed to a condo association can drag it down. Also you want to make sure fees are collected before they get so high the property goes into foreclosure. Lawyers many be willing to work on contingency.

Insurance Claims - If in the last five years your association had to get a loan (like those from SBA or FEMA) for repairs (Storm, Hurricane, Natural Disaster, Tornado or any accident) your regular condo lawyer many not be enough. Contact an attorney at law who focuses on insurance claims. Many insurance companies deny underpay insurance claims. The law may state that the insurance company has to pay the legal fees. Also many attorneys will handle insurance claims in a way that no funds will be out of pocket.

Rehabilitate instead of Replace. instead of copper pipe repair can be rehabilitate to better than new condition with epoxy pipe lining from CuraFlo. It is generally 30% cheaper than re piping and is much less obtrusive. RLS Solutions offers sewer lining and manholes to increase their life and save on costs.

Property Manager - Hire a property manager who is experienced in lowering costs. A property manger with experience will also know which contractors come in on budget and which ones have a history of not competing jobs on time. - 16738

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