eBooks, Articles, & More

Independence (and its Value to the Association)

Independence in the Reserve Study process means freedom from control or influence. Independence means the Reserve Study professional is able to provide their complete findings and recommendations without interference.

Is Percent Funded Based on Current or Future Costs?

A client recently asked a good question: if Reserves are all about becoming prepared for future expenses, why would you use current cost in computing the Percent Funded (Reserve Fund strength) value for the association?

Why Don’t our Reserve Study Cost Estimates Match our Experience?

So you've received your Reserve Study. You notice that the asphalt seal coat project, which the association just paid $30,000 to have done, shows a $20,000 estimated (current) cost in your Reserve Study.

Is it a Maintenance Expense or a Reserve Expense?

A reader recently asked a good question, asking for clarification about where the money should come from for a particular expense. The answer illustrates an important concept.

What is a “Diligent, Visual Site Inspection”?

In some areas of the country, specifically California where it is required by State Law, at least every few years a Reserve Study needs to be prepared on the basis of a “diligent visual site inspection”. But what does that mean?

When is a Special Assessment not a Special Assessment?

Some Governing Documents (or jurisdictions) require that a Reserve Funding Plan not be based on a special assessment. But some communities wiggle around that requirement by just "temporarily increasing the monthly assessments", not levying a one-time special assessment. What is the difference?