Navigating Winter Weather Together: Snow, Ice, and Your Community

Winter storms are unpredictable. When extreme weather strikes, our shared goal is to navigate the season safely and efficiently. While we cannot control the severity of the elements, understanding how cold weather events and snow management work in your community can help set expectations and keep everyone safer.

Important Safety Warning: Proceed with Caution

Please be advised that winter weather creates inherently dangerous conditions. Regardless of whether snow removal or ice treatment has been performed, residents should assume that all driving and walking surfaces are slippery and potentially hazardous. Ice can reform quickly even after treatment. We urge you to exercise extreme caution and take appropriate personal precautions to ensure your safety, as the Association and AMG cannot guarantee the removal of ice, snow or other hazardous conditions.

Understanding the Process: Priorities & Costs

Effective snow removal relies on a pre-determined plan that weighs logistics, safety, and community funds.

• Public Roads: If your streets are public, the city or town controls the plowing, sanding, and ice-melt schedules. Your association does not have jurisdiction over municipal roadways.

• Private Communities: If your community has private roads, the Board of Directors establishes the snow removal policy. This policy dictates if and when contractors are deployed. This includes common areas like sidewalks, mailbox kiosks, etc.

• Budget Responsibility: Snow removal is a significant expense that impacts the Association's annual budget. The Board must carefully weigh the cost of heavy plowing against the forecast or putting down ice-melt. For example, if snow is expected to melt naturally within 24 hours, the Board may opt to conserve funds rather than deploy expensive heavy machinery or material/labor cost for ice-melt.

• Connectivity: It is important to note that even if your community clears private streets, travel may still be impossible if the connecting public roads have not yet been plowed by the city. Plowing private streets before public roads are clear can sometimes be an ineffective use of Association funds.

The Challenge of Extreme Conditions

Residents often wonder why plows haven't arrived or why surfaces remain slippery. In almost every case, unprecedented or extreme weather patterns are the culprit. Additionally, plowing can sometimes lead to unintended issues, such as blocked driveways. When a plow clears a street, the snow must go somewhere, and it is almost inevitable that "windrows" (lines of snow) will block the ends of private driveways.

Here are why weather conditions often dictate the schedule:

• Flash Freezing: Even after plowing or applying ice-melt, rapid temperature drops can cause wet pavement to turn into black ice. This is a weather phenomenon that is difficult to combat until temperatures rise.

• Storm Timing: If a storm hits during rush hour, vendors can get stuck in the same traffic as commuters, delaying their arrival.

• Refreezing Cycles: Plowing snow too early can result in melt-off that runs back onto the road and freezes overnight. Contractors often wait for the storm to conclude to avoid creating dangerous ice patches.

• Equipment and Material Limitations: During blizzard conditions, visibility may drop to zero, forcing crews to pause for safety. Additionally, extremely heavy, wet snow can slow down machinery significantly. Moreover, since the Carolinas receive relatively infrequent ice and snow events of any significance, there are fewer vendors available than in the northeast where such events are common. Ice-melt availability in home improvement stores may be very limited on quantity or have limitations on how much can be purchased.

Ice-melt, Sand, and Surfaces

When treating ice, the goal is traction and melting. However, extreme cold can render ice-melt ineffective (usually below 15°F-20°F).

• Concrete Care: Please be aware that many chemical de-icers can damage concrete or asphalt surfaces over time. You might consider using sand or kitty litter for traction on your personal walkways to minimize surface pitting.

• Pet Safety: If you are walking pets, consider wiping their paws after walks, as municipal salt and some chemical melts can be irritating.

Steps to Protect Your Home: Frozen Pipes

When the temperature drops significantly, the risk of frozen pipes increases. While the Association generally maintains common elements, the pipes inside your walls serving your unit are typically the owner's responsibility. If you lease your home, please ensure your tenant is aware of these requirements and takes the necessary precautions.

To help mitigate the risk of water damage, you might consider the following steps:

• Maintain Heat: It is highly recommended to keep your thermostat set to at least 55-60°F, even if you are away.

• Air Circulation: Consider leaving cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to reach the pipes.

• Drip Faucets: During extreme cold snaps, allowing a faucet on an exterior wall to drip very slowly can help prevent pressure buildup and freezing.

• Vacation Check-ins: If you travel, consider asking a friend or neighbor to check your home periodically to ensure the heat is functioning.

How You Can Help

Winter safety is a community effort. We suggest the following to help operations run smoothly:

• Clear the Way: Please try to park in garages or assigned spots to keep travel lanes open for plows.

• Personal Safety: We recommend wearing footwear with heavy treads and using handrails on stairs.

• Patience: Please understand that during major regional storms, contractors are managing high volumes. They will arrive as soon as conditions allow.

A Note on Insurance

Now is a great time to review your insurance policy. We suggest you check with your insurance agent and verify that your policy includes coverage for water damage resulting from burst pipes, adequate "Loss Assessment" coverage should a large deductible apply to a claim, and other appropriate coverages.

Do you have questions about your specific community's snow policy?

Please email your community manager or log in to the resident portal for your association. Stay warm and safe!

Florida Condo Buyers Get the Full Financial Picture

New Florida condo law provisions effective January 1 require associations to increase transparency by posting financial records, structural reports, and key documents online, giving buyers clearer insight into a building’s health. The changes aim to restore confidence in Florida’s struggling condo market, which has declined following surprise assessments and safety reforms enacted after the 2021 Surfside collapse. Buyers and investors now have better tools to identify financial or structural risks early, reducing the likelihood of unexpected costs. The law also extends the buyer cancellation period from three to seven days, encouraging more thorough due diligence before purchase.

Read More

The Art of the Professional Pivot: What to Do When the Board Disagrees with You

In community association management, disagreement isn’t a disruption—it’s part of the process. Whether you’re a seasoned manager recommending a course of action, or a Board member in the minority of a vote needing to support the decision, knowing how to move forward with professionalism and unity is essential.

At Association Management Group (AMG), we’ve learned over 40 years that strong communities aren’t built on always being “right.” They’re built on respectful collaboration, clear roles, and knowing when to bring in specialized expertise.

1. Your Opinion Is Professional—Not Personal

Every manager and Board member brings experience and perspective to a decision. One manager might urge a timely roof repair based on wear patterns; one board member might oppose a new rule change because neighbors are concerned about fairness.

When the Board ultimately votes in a direction you didn’t advocate, the transition from debate to support matters. The goal is not to win every argument—but to uphold the community’s collective decision with integrity.

This approach reflects Local Carolina Expertise and the humility that comes with professional maturity.

2. Know Where Expertise Begins—and Ends

The best leaders know when to connect the Board with specialized professionals.

• Legal ambiguity? Recommend a consultation with the association’s attorney.

• Structural or infrastructure concerns? Bring in a licensed engineer.

• Insurance questions? Connect with a dedicated risk specialist.

Imagine a community divided over a new parking enforcement policy. Rather than entrenching opinions, a manager coordinated a session with the association’s attorney and an insurance advisor. The expert input clarified liability concerns and helped the Board adopt a policy everyone could support going forward.

This kind of vendor coordination and documentation helps Boards make informed decisions and protects the association.

3. Stewardship Means Supporting the Decision

Once a decision is made—even one you didn’t vote for—your role is to help implement it clearly and consistently. Draft homeowner communication, schedule services, and ensure financial planning reflects the new direction using Transparent Financial Reporting.

This is especially meaningful for Board members in the minority: unified action maintains confidence and community cohesion. One Board member shared, “I didn’t vote for the approach—but once it passed, I made sure our communication was clear and consistent. That earned trust across the neighborhood.”

4. AMG’s Role: Connector, Steward, Trusted Advisor

At AMG, our CAI‑Accredited Management (AAMC®, PCAM®) professionals aren’t just administrators. They’re trusted partners who provide Board Empowerment Tools, facilitate discussions, and help communities navigate challenges with confidence.

We know that effective management isn’t about having the loudest voice—it’s about facilitating informed decision‑making and helping Boards translate choices into action.

Because in the end, the strength of a community isn’t measured by how often people agree, but by how effectively they move forward—together.

⸻

Note: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, engineering, or financial advice. Boards should consult licensed professionals for guidance in those fields.

Closed Sessions

This article was originally published by Jim Slaughter for the Law Firm Carolinas Resources Page.

Updated from "Closed Meetings & Community Associations" in the NC Newsletter of the NC Community Associations Institute (CAI)

[W]e are as a people, inherently and historically opposed to secret societies, to secret oaths, and to secret proceedings." Despite this advice from President Kennedy, “secret proceedings” are not uncommon in community associations. Homeowners may be asked to leave for all or parts of board meetings. At times, boards attempt to conduct business by telephone or e-mail to avoid public scrutiny.

Without question, boards occasionally need to do their business outside of the public eye. Before doing so, however, it's worth considering two questions: (1) Should you go into closed session? (2) Can you go into closed session?

Should You Go into Closed Session?

Generally, too much secrecy by boards leads to suspicion, distrust, and strife. With that said, why would a board exclude association members from its meetings? Most often, boards meet in private to avoid having to deal with association members. Some boards hold closed sessions to discuss controversial issues. In other associations, the board develops an “us versus them” attitude and prefers not to have members watching. At times boards meet in secret to avoid dealing with an irate homeowner.

These are poor reasons to close a meeting, and most can be resolved without upsetting the entire neighborhood. For instance, association members generally have no right to participate—make motions or to debate—in board meetings. As a result, their attendance should not interrupt business. In the event a homeowner becomes disorderly, that owner can be excluded from the meeting without excluding all association members.

Legitimate reasons for closing a meeting generally concern issues that if discussed in public could violate privacy laws, harm the association, or cause embarrassment to a party. Valid reasons for going into closed session include:

• consulting with legal counsel

• discussing litigation or prospective litigation by or against the association

• reviewing information that is confidential or should not be generally known, such as delinquent dues

• conferring about contracts or real property purchases

• reviewing association employees or personnel issues, or

• handling disciplinary matters or rules violations by members.

Can You Go into Closed Session?

A first question is whether state law permits association boards to hold closed meetings. An NC statute for homeowner and condominium associations provides that owners must be given an opportunity to attend a portion of a board meeting to speak about issues or concerns “at regular intervals.” Certainly, then, not all board meetings can be closed. Another statute provides: “Except as otherwise provided in the bylaws, meetings of the association and the executive board shall be conducted in accordance with the most recent edition of Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised.” However, Robert’s doesn't care whether board meetings are open or closed. In fact, there are no general parliamentary prohibitions on closed meetings or what can happen during closed portions.

A better question is how closed meetings are impacted by language in association governing documents. For instance, the declaration or bylaws may restrict when a board can go into closed session to certain circumstances. Occasionally, association governing documents will provide that “all board meetings shall be open to association members.” Generally, such language is too broad in that there are legitimate reasons for a board meeting in closed session.

Associations sometimes attempt to avoid in-person meetings by transacting business through telephone or e-mail. Beware. There are statutes dealing with telephonic or virtual meetings. However, decisions made online or by e-mail are usually not official actions and must be ratified at a later meeting.

Conclusion

Closed board sessions should be approached cautiously and with the advice of legal counsel. Even if permitted by law and the governing documents, the question must still be asked, “Should the meeting be held in private?” Not much has changed since President Kennedy noted inherent opposition to secret proceedings. Except for those instances where closed sessions are truly necessary, the controversy and suspicion may not be worth the trouble.

Articles are intended to provide general information and are not legal advice or a legal opinion. Specific questions should be directed to an attorney at Law Firm Carolinas or to another lawyer.

Hidden HOA Leaves Homeowner with a Costly Shock

A High Point homeowner was shocked to learn she owed thousands in HOA dues after four years of being told her property was not part of an association. Despite a warranty deed and assurances from her real estate agent and closing attorney stating no HOA existed, an inactive association resurfaced and legally pursued more than $4,000 in back dues, placing a lien on her home. The situation forced her to withdraw retirement funds until a News 2 investigation revealed the error should have been caught during closing. After the intervention, the agents and attorney paid the balance, the lien was lifted, and the case was resolved, highlighting the risks of relying solely on seller disclosures without verifying public records.

Read More

Voting by Written Ballot

This article was originally published on November 8, 2025 by Harmony Taylor for the Law Firm Carolinas Blog.

In North Carolina, written ballots play a critical role in the decision-making processes of homeowner, property and condominium associations. It can be difficult to establish quorum at a meeting, much less to get the higher thresholds needed for votes on amendments to governing documents. Most of the associations we work with use written ballots or written agreements when they wish to conduct important votes on amendments or votes to approve special assessments. This blog addresses the written ballot process; other blogs address the written agreement process.

The vast majority of community associations in North Carolina are nonprofits incorporated under Chapter 55A of the General Statutes, the Nonprofit Corporation Act.  NCGS 55A-7-08 states that unless prohibited or limited by the articles of incorporation or bylaws, any action that may be taken at any annual, regular or special meetings of members may be taken without a meeting by written ballots or electronic voting. There are particular nuances to electronic ballot voting and anyone considering using this as a means of voting may wish to review our other blogs on this topic, linked here. However, whether the ballot is distributed physically or electronically, a few basic rules apply.

First, the ballot must be clear and communicate exactly what proposal is being made, and provide the voting party the option to vote for or against the proposition. The ballot should stand on its own, with any proposed new language or item for vote set out on the ballot itself. It is typically not sufficient to reference a previously distributed document or instruct someone to go to another source to review the proposal.

Second, the ballot must state a deadline by which it must be received to be counted. Referencing a “return by” date is not the same thing, as someone may place a ballot in the mail by the stated date, resulting in the ballot’s delivery to the association post the preferred deadline. The statute references a receive by date, and that is what should be referenced on the ballot.

Third, and importantly, ballot deadlines cannot be extended once published. If a deadline comes and goes and an association comes up one or two votes short, it has to start over with a new vote-and everyone who previously voted in favor will have to do so again, or their vote won’t count. It is important that associations choose realistic deadlines when they prepare a ballot. A short window (30 days or less) may be fine for a small community, where most owners are local and responsive, but even then it is best to adhere to and avoid a vote around holidays or other periods when many owners will be traveling and not checking mail. In larger communities, where a door-to-door operation may be needed, or where you have a less responsive membership, deadlines of 60-90 days out are more likely reasonable. There is no legal limit on the duration of the deadline an association can use, however, Boards and their managers should work with their attorneys to carefully weigh the need to balance a reasonable sense of urgency with the actual time it will take to receive enough votes back to matter.

Finally, provide members with as many options as possible for return of the ballot. Electronic ballots are automatically returned to the voting platform. Paper ballots can be returned by mail, but ballots can also be scanned and emailed to the association, and hand delivered to a board member or drop box at a clubhouse or other location and remains a great way to collect ballots.

In summary, best practices for ballots:

1. Allow reasonable time for return.

2. Clearly communicate specific items up for a vote.

3. Send reminders!

4. Make return convenient, with multiple return options.

If you have questions about ballots, or any other community association voting issue, please reach out to the attorneys at Law Firm Carolinas.

Source: LawFirmCarolinasBlog

Attorneys Charles Meier and Bonnie Braudway Join Law Firm Carolinas

This article was originally published on October 28, 2025 by Law Firm Carolinas for the Law Firm Carolinas Blog.

Law Firm Carolinas is pleased to announce that the attorneys from Marshall Williams & Gorham, one of Wilmington’s oldest law firms, will join the firm on November 1. For more than 60 years, Marshall Williams & Gorham has served clients throughout southeastern North Carolina in civil litigation, real estate, business, community association (HOA/condo), and estate matters.

Joining Law Firm Carolinas’ statewide community association practice are Charles Meier and Bonnie Braudway.

Charles Meier brings more than 40 years of legal experience representing community associations, real estate, construction, foreclosure, and commercial clients. He has appeared before state and federal courts, including the North Carolina Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit. Meier holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell and earned both his B.A. and J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Bonnie Braudway has practiced law for 19 years and focused on community association law since 2009. She represents homeowner, condominium, and townhouse associations across North Carolina and is an active member and speaker for the Community Associations Institute (CAI). A Boone native, Braudway earned her B.A. (cum laude) from UNC Wilmington and her J.D. (cum laude) from Campbell University School of Law.

With offices in North Carolina (Charlotte, Greensboro, Raleigh, Wilmington) and South Carolina (Greenville), Law Firm Carolinas provides legal services in community association law, real estate, business, litigation, family law, and estate planning. The addition of Meier and Braudway expands the firm’s strength and reach across the Carolinas.

Source: LawFirmCarolinasBlog

When Your ‘No HOA’ Home Suddenly Has One

A High Point homeowner was blindsided when an inactive HOA resurfaced years after her 2019 home purchase, demanding thousands in back dues despite her deed indicating no association existed. Confused and facing a lien, she discovered the HOA had always legally existed—errors by her real estate agents and closing attorney had misled her. Forced to dip into retirement savings, she ultimately received relief when those parties agreed to pay the full amount and the lien was removed. Her case highlights the importance of verifying HOA status through public records rather than relying solely on disclosures or assumptions.

Source: WFMYNews2

Why HOA Boards Should Celebrate Small Wins—And How It Builds Stronger Communities

There’s a surprising truth I’ve learned in over two decades of working with homeowner associations: the most effective boards aren’t just good at solving problems—they’re also good at noticing progress.

That might sound simple, even trivial, when you’re facing rising insurance premiums, aging infrastructure, or contentious meetings. But recognizing and celebrating small victories isn’t self-indulgence. It’s a critical leadership tool—especially in the high-stakes, volunteer-driven world of HOA and condo board governance.

Why Boards Struggle to Celebrate

In community management, the pressure never really lifts. Even after resolving a budget shortfall or completing a long-awaited capital project, there’s always another challenge on the horizon—an inspection, a complaint, a deadline.

I remember a board president I worked with in a mid-sized Carolina town—let’s call her Sheila. Her community had just completed a major stormwater repair project under budget and with minimal disruption. But at the final board meeting, she brushed right past the success. “We’ve got to move on to the clubhouse roof,” she said, barely pausing to acknowledge what the team had just achieved.

This kind of forward-only motion is common. Many board members feel awkward drawing attention to success, especially in volunteer roles where public praise is rare and scrutiny is constant. Others think celebrating wins could appear boastful to neighbors who are more vocal about what’s broken than what’s been fixed.

But that mindset can lead to burnout—and worse, it deprives communities of the confidence and energy that comes from building on momentum.

The Real Costs of Skipping Celebration

Leadership researcher Lan Nguyen Chaplin writes that “when leaders constantly push forward without stopping to mark their progress, they risk more than burnout. They deprive themselves of a buffer against stress, a source of motivation, and the mood lift that fuels creativity and good judgment.”

That’s not just corporate wisdom—it applies directly to HOA life.

When your board takes time to reflect on a successful vote, a resolved dispute, or a well-run event, it sends a message: We’re making progress. We’re not just managing problems—we’re improving our neighborhood.

And that message matters, especially when trying to keep volunteers engaged and neighbors informed.

Three Simple Ways HOA Boards Can Celebrate Wins

1. Make Progress Visible

After finishing a big project—whether it’s a repaving effort or rewriting outdated bylaws—don’t just file the final report. Share the milestone.

Create a short community update with before-and-after photos. Thank the volunteers, the manager, and the vendors involved. If you work with a professional management company like AMG, your dedicated board liaison can help craft that message and distribute it effectively—so it lands with the right tone.

2. Protect Space for Reflection

Use the last five minutes of each board meeting to go around and name one thing that went well—big or small. This can be especially powerful during stressful periods. As one AMG-managed board in the Carolinas shared during a training session, this practice helped rebuild trust and morale after a contentious assessment decision.

3. Redefine Celebration

Celebration doesn’t have to mean a banner or a party. Sometimes it’s just acknowledging that you’ve crossed something off a long and difficult list. One treasurer we worked with used to email the board a “quiet win of the week”—a small financial oversight that was corrected or a reserve fund target met. Those quick notes built confidence without fanfare.

Why It Matters

HOA boards often deal with the emotional weight of decisions that affect people’s homes, finances, and quality of life. That’s no small burden.

When boards take time to pause and appreciate their efforts, they build resilience—not just for themselves, but for their communities.

At AMG, we’ve seen how regular reflection and recognition lead to healthier boards and smoother operations. It’s part of our Board Empowerment Tools and Community Engagement Programs—strategies designed to make sure your board isn’t just surviving, but thriving.

So, whether you’ve just finalized next year’s budget, resolved a months-long dispute, or got everyone to agree on new pool furniture—take a moment. Celebrate the win.

Because the more your board sees what’s working, the more capable you feel when the next challenge arrives.

About the Author

Paul Mengert is the Founder and CEO of Association Management Group (AMG), a Carolina-based company that has provided professional community association management services for over 40 years. A graduate of Harvard Business School’s OPM and a nationally recognized leader in the community management industry, Paul has trained thousands of HOA board members and managers and board members across the country. Under his leadership, AMG has become known for manager longevity, board empowerment, transparent financial reporting, and a reputation for responsiveness. Paul is a longtime member of the Community Associations Institute (CAI) and a strong advocate for ethical, well-governed, and resident-focused communities.

Backyard Chickens? Not Without HOA Approval

A Missouri judge has ruled that homeowners associations and local governments can once again regulate backyard chickens, overturning a 2024 state law that allowed property owners to keep up to six hens without restriction. The decision came after Four Seasons Lakesites, a large Lake Ozark community, sued the state, arguing the law interfered with reasonable HOA covenants. Judge Brian Stumpe found the law unconstitutional for violating Missouri’s “single subject” rule, rendering it invalid. The ruling is being hailed as a major victory for community associations and their right to self-govern.

Source: Komu

When Machines Know Everything, Humans Must Grow Wisdom

In a world where AI knows everything, true leadership lies in cultivating what machines cannot—wisdom, trust, and human connection. Modern leaders are shifting from engineers to gardeners, nurturing environments where people and ideas can grow organically. Leadership today is less about control and more about coherence, balancing structure with adaptability and purpose with empathy. The future belongs to those who turn knowledge into understanding and understanding into lasting value.

Source: DruckerForum

Behind Open Doors: Why Transparency Builds Stronger Communities

Transparent communication between HOA boards, managers, and residents is key to maintaining trust and harmony within a community. When communication breaks down, residents often feel disconnected, leading to frustration, conflict, and even legal disputes. While personal and confidential information must remain private, most community business should be conducted openly through regular updates, accessible records, and open meetings. By embracing transparency and using tools like newsletters, portals, and virtual meetings, boards can build stronger relationships, reduce complaints, and create more informed, cooperative communities.

Source: CooperatorNews

Adam Marshall Elected to Greensboro City Council

This article was originally published on November 5, 2025 by Law Firm Carolinas for the Law Firm Carolinas Blog.

Congratulations to Law Firm Carolinas partner Adam Marshall, who has been elected to the Greensboro City Council.

A lifelong Greensboro resident and experienced attorney, Adam has long served the city through leadership (often as Chair) on key commissions and boards, including the:

• Human Relations Commission

• Board of Adjustment

• Zoning Commission

• Criminal Justice Advisory Commission

• Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) Board

He ran a positive campaign and secured a commanding victory, by capturing 67% to 33% of the votes—an impressive achievement in these divisive times.

Adam’s solid understanding of city government, steady temperament, and interest in working with others to find practical solutions will make him an excellent member of the Greensboro City Council.

Congratulations, Adam!

Source: LawFirmCarolinas

Avoiding Exhaustion in Community Leadership: Sustainable Strategies for Managers and Boards

Community leadership is deeply rewarding—but it can also be exhausting. Whether you’re a board member juggling responsibilities after work or a professional community manager responding to everything from broken gates to budget questions, the demands never seem to stop. In an environment where priorities compete and issues feel urgent, burnout can sneak in quickly.

At AMG, we’ve seen it time and again: great people wearing themselves thin in service to their communities. But there are ways to lead sustainably—without compromising responsiveness or results.

1. Simplify the Toolset

One board president expressed her frustration with managing updates through emails, group texts, and a shared drive. She admitted to missing important information and feeling guilty about it. The solution wasn’t to work longer hours but to streamline communication. By consolidating all communication into a single board portal called AMG Base Camp (which has been available for years and will become a standard feature in AMG’s customized solutions starting January 29, 2026), she regained hours each week and significantly reduced her stress.

Community managers and leaders don’t need more apps—they need smarter, fewer tools that fit their workflow.

2. Prioritize with Intention

Not every message requires an instant reply. Implementing a “time-tier” system—responding to urgent items within an hour, routine issues within a day, and big-picture topics within a week—can transform your mental space. It also models healthy boundaries for managers, fellow board members and residents.

AMG helps boards set clear service standards and escalation protocols, so no one feels pressured to be “always on.”

3. Clarify Communication Norms

Conflicts often arise from miscommunication. Decide as a team: When should issues be discussed over email versus a live meeting? What’s appropriate for group chat? Establishing norms reduces friction and prevents burnout from endless, unclear threads.

Our board training and education services often begin with these foundational practices—because strong governance starts with strong communication.

4. Build in Breathing Room

One longtime community manager blocked out Friday afternoons for deep work—no calls, no emails. “It was my sanity saver,” she said. Balancing batching (scheduled email time) with streaming (handling live issues) is key to staying present without being reactive.

Whether you’re a new board member or a seasoned CAI-accredited manager, avoiding exhaustion isn’t about doing less—it’s about doing it better. With the right systems, support, and expectations, you can lead effectively and still have energy left for your own life.

That’s what AMG has helped communities do for 40+ years—with proactive maintenance planning, transparent financial reporting, and dedicated board liaison support. Because sustainable leadership is smart leadership.

Palmetto State Ranks High in HOA Living

South Carolina ranks ninth nationwide for the highest percentage of households paying HOA or condo fees, with 34.4% contributing, according to new U.S. Census Bureau data. The state’s average monthly fee is $94, below the national median of $135. With about 7,400 HOA and condo communities statewide, top complaints to the South Carolina Department of Consumer Affairs include failure to enforce covenants, maintenance issues, and fee disputes—most coming from Horry, Richland, and Charleston counties.

Read More: IslandPacket

DIY Mailbox Sparks HOA Action

Kenn and Wendy Francis of Conway went 21 days without mail after moving into their new home in Wild Wing Plantation because their HOA had not installed their mailbox. Frustrated, Kenn created a makeshift mailbox out of a plastic food container and posted about it online, drawing attention to the issue. The HOA’s management company, Waccamaw Management, claimed it was the homeowner’s responsibility to purchase and install a specific “signature” mailbox, while Francis said he was never told that and hadn’t received the HOA’s rule packet. After multiple calls and visits, and following media coverage of the situation, the HOA finally installed the proper mailbox on October 15, 2025.

Read More: AMPmyrtlebeach

Jackhammer Justice: HOA Wins the Case

A Cary homeowner’s association has won a lawsuit against homeowners Keith and Angela Myers over a pedestrian easement that was at the center of a viral video showing a confrontation and the destruction of a trail entrance. The Myerses, who own both properties bordering the easement, argued they had the right to block access and had installed barriers and jackhammered the path. The HOA sued, asserting the easement was granted to the community more than 30 years ago. A Superior Court judge ruled in favor of the HOA, prohibiting the Myerses from interfering with the easement and ordering them to pay $21,152 in fines, with the HOA authorized to enforce liens or foreclosure if necessary.

Read More: WRALNews

HUD Shifts Fair Housing Enforcement Priorities

This article was originally published on October 16, 2025 by Jim Slaughter for the Law Firm Carolinas Blog.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) has released two new documents that signal a major change in how the agency will enforce the Fair Housing Act. The memoranda (“Fair Housing Act Enforcement and Prioritization of Resources” and “Notice of the Withdrawal of FHEO Guidance Documents”) withdraw several earlier HUD guidance statements and outline a narrower, case-by-case approach to investigations.

Under the new policy, HUD will focus its resources on intentional and systemic discrimination rather than on broad theories of “disparate impact.” The agency has also rescinded prior guidance on issues such as criminal background checks, limited English proficiency (LEP), and harassment. These changes appear to give housing providers more discretion when applying screening criteria or managing communications, while still prohibiting clear violations of the Fair Housing Act.

That said, the new HUD guidance is complex and not yet fully clear in its practical effect. Attorneys, community associations, and housing providers are still evaluating what these changes will mean in day-to-day compliance and enforcement. Because the new approach replaces several long-standing policies, it’s best to read the actual HUD documents and Fair Housing Act provisions directly

Note From The Editor: Boards are urged to meet with their attorneys to review the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) two new documents that signal a major change in how the agency will enforce the Fair Housing Act. 

Why “Being Yourself” at Work Can Sometimes Backfire—Especially in HOA Management

In our line of work, we often talk about building trust, solving problems, and leading with integrity. But here’s a twist that may surprise you: being your “authentic self” at work—especially in a people‑centered industry like community association management—can sometimes do more harm than good.

That doesn’t mean you should be disingenuous. It does mean that effective leadership, professionalism, and diplomacy sometimes require tempering impulses to match what a situation demands.

A recent book by organizational psychologist Tomas Chamorro‑Premuzic, Don’t Be Yourself: Why Authenticity Is Overrated, examines how the modern fixation on “being authentic” can create blind spots. While authenticity supports personal well‑being, it doesn’t always help you lead, persuade, or build credibility in the eyes of others.

We see this in action in HOA management. Early in my career, I worked with a portfolio manager overseeing multiple communities who believed in telling it exactly as she saw it. She was transparent with boards—even blunt at times—and refused to sugarcoat issues. At first, residents and board members admired her frankness. Over time, though, several communities began to feel she was rigid or insensitive. Despite her deep expertise and hard work, confidence in her leadership eroded. She ultimately stepped away, frustrated that her intentions got lost in how others perceived her.

HOA professionals live in that delicate space between empathy and authority, between transparency and tact. We juggle board expectations, resident concerns, financial constraints, evolving statutes, and legal risk. What we say and how we say it matters just as much as what we know.

At AMG, we center ourselves on professionalism, adaptability, and emotional intelligence—not to mask who you are, but to strengthen how you show up. Because in our field, discernment is just as important as authenticity.

Here are a few mindset shifts to carry forward:

• Swap “absolute honesty” for “clarity with compassion.” Yes, a board needs to know a reserve fund is underfunded. But you can deliver that message in a way that invites collaboration, not panic.

• Replace unfiltered emotional reactions with thoughtful composure. Residents may vent, but your presence in those moments can calm or inflame.

• Share vulnerably—but selectively. Openness builds connection. Oversharing can undermine confidence.

• Adapt your tone to your audience. What works in a boardroom may not land well in a homeowner meeting.

• Elevate others, even when you have a strong opinion. Giving credit and lifting others builds both goodwill and leadership legitimacy.

We’re not advocating for duplicity. Rather, we’re saying that authenticity in association management means showing consistency, respect, and sensitivity aligned with our core values of service, stewardship, and collaboration.

That’s how we earn trust—and why AMG continues to be recognized for highest Google Ratings across the Carolinas. It’s how we consistently deliver customized and transparent HOA & Condo Solutions that meet the unique needs of the communities we serve. By balancing professionalism with emotional intelligence, and strategy with sincerity, we uphold the standards that define local Carolina expertise and proven results for 40+ years.

About the Author

Paul K. Mengert brings decades of experience in community association management. He has led with a focus on Manager Longevity, Transparent Financial Reporting, and a reputation for responsiveness. Under his leadership, AMG has delivered Proven Results for 40+ Years, combining Local Carolina Expertise with CAI‑Accredited Management (AAMC®, PCAM®), guiding communities through Seamless Transition Processes, Vendor Oversight & Accountability, and Board Empowerment Tools. Paul’s vision continues to guide our mission to serve communities with professionalism, integrity, and forward thinking.

Home Equity Increase Nationwide: What It Means for Carolina HOA and Condo Communities

During the housing bubble of the mid-2000s, mortgage debt ballooned to more than 70% of the nation’s GDP. Today, that number sits closer to 45%. At the same time, household real estate values have surged to roughly 160% of GDP—far higher than the 120% mark we saw at the turn of the millennium.

Put simply: most homeowners today enjoy a large equity cushion.

Why This Matters in Your Community

For individual owners, equity provides peace of mind. For neighborhoods governed by HOAs and condos, it provides resilience and opportunity:

• Financial resilience: Owners with substantial equity are less likely to walk away from their homes in hard times, protecting community stability.

• Property value preservation: Equity-rich communities tend to maintain higher property values, benefiting every resident.

• Confidence in planning: Boards making tough decisions—whether it’s funding reserves, investing in infrastructure, or tackling deferred maintenance—can move forward knowing most owners have a solid financial foundation.

A Story from the Boardroom

In one community we worked with, the board faced a tough decision: whether to move forward with a costly roof replacement project. No one welcomed the idea of higher assessments, but the conversation shifted when members considered the broader picture. Stronger homeowner equity meant that, while the expense was real, neighbors were still building long-term value in their properties. In the end, the board chose to invest in the project—not just to fix a roof, but to help protect the community’s future stability. 

Their confidence came from recognizing equity as more than a personal financial number; it was a shared strength that supported sound decision-making.

How Strong Management Protects Equity

Equity cushions don’t remove the need for careful planning. Costs for insurance, utilities, and vendor services continue to rise. That’s where professional management helps keep the balance. A CAI-accredited firm like AMG supports boards with:

• Transparent financial reporting to help owners see where their money goes.

• Proactive maintenance planning that protects the physical and financial health of the community.

• Vendor oversight & accountability to ensure every dollar is well-spent.

• Board empowerment tools so leaders can make informed, confident decisions.

The Bottom Line

Equity, beyond its numerical representation on a balance sheet, embodies stability, resilience, and potential. Many associations have observed fewer collection matters escalating to foreclosure in recent years—a trend often linked to stronger homeowner equity.  Homeowners’ equity in their properties plays a crucial role. By combining today’s robust homeowner equity with prudent and experienced association management, communities can better safeguard property values and help ensure long-term prosperity.

About the Author

Paul Mengert, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM®, is the CEO of Association Management Group (AMG), one of the Carolinas’ leading professional community association management firms. With more than four decades of experience, Paul has built AMG’s reputation on local Carolina expertise, CAI-accredited management, and a collaborative approach that empowers boards and enhances communities. A recognized educator and industry leader, he regularly teaches for the Community Associations Institute (CAI). AMG is locally owned and operated. 

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