Homeowner apathy can hobble community associations
What if you had a government, and no one came? That's what is happening at many community associations. Plenty of people want to live in communities where the snow, roofs...
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On the quieter side of South Loop, new rentals offer impressive amenities
The South Loop has seen explosive development over the past decade, but most of the attention has been focused near Lake Michigan. The growth continues several blocks west, although in...
What should community associations expect in 2017?
As another new year approaches, community associations face lengthy agendas. Some issues they will grapple with are ongoing, while others are first-time challenges. What's ahead in 2017? Several industry veterans...
Luxury living, neighborhood feeling at boutique West Town building
Some Chicago renters prefer to reside in gleaming downtown high-rises rich in amenities and finishes. Others favor city neighborhoods, where they are closer to community culture and street rhythms. Luxe...
8 time-saving strategies for community associations to avoid strain
For many community association residents, serving on the board is a rewarding experience. They guide how the money gets spent, and they reap satisfaction when improvement projects are successfully completed....
Remodeling? Beware of condo association rules
Your condominium is your castle, until you try to remodel it. Associations have a say in the types of alterations that can be made and the materials that can be...
Downtown Wheaton’s converted courthouse district welcomes luxury rentals
For nearly a century, the neighborhood surrounding Wheaton's downtown red-brick courthouse and its signature clock tower served the legal and civic needs of DuPage County. Its usefulness ended in the...
First-time condo buyers: Compare assessments, count reserves, expect maintenance
Condominium sellers customarily pay any upcoming special assessments, but Natalie Renna of Re/Max Vision 212 writes the clause into her contracts to make sure. Recently, while a sale was pending...
New law loosens restrictions on community association board meetings
For community associations, change is afoot. New legislation will ease some of the restrictions on how board members conduct their affairs, allowing them to convene privately for an expanded number...
Become a savvier homeowner with fall lineup of seminars and forums
The end of summer ushers in myriad educational opportunities for board members and residents of condominiums and homeowner associations. On the calendar are conferences, seminars, forums and trade shows designed...