CAI-NJ May 2018 (w)

PRESIDENT’S CORNER LISA VITIELLO, CPA CAI-NJ 2018 PRESIDENT | TOWNE & COUNTRY MANAGEMENT, INC.

I n my last month’s article, I was wishing for Spring to go out like a lamb. Well, as I write this article for the May issue, we are headed for another April snow storm !!! So much for wishing. I do believe Spring will get here. The warm weather will be upon us and our homeowners and potential buyers will be out and about. Whether you are a long time resident of your community or a soon to be seller, it is important to keep your communi- ty vibrant and competitive. Our homes are one, if not, the largest investment we have and we should do all we can to maintain its appeal and value. For those of us that are in older communities, that trans- lates to upkeep. We don’t want our communities to begin to look “tired”. Throughout this month’s issue, there are arti- cles on “keeping your community competitive”. As a man- aging agent, I offer the following suggestions to consider to keep your community competitive. • If your buildings are in good, structural shape, keep them clean by power washing siding and trim. The north side of buildings tend to get green mold growth due to less sun exposure. If you cannot afford to clean all the buildings, at least look to clean off the north side mold growth. • Older landscaping may be unhealthy and overgrown. Walk with your landscaper to determine what needs spruc- ing up. Then, have the landscaper put together a five year plan to implement in the next few budget cycles.

"Our communities are micro-cities. Like NYC, we have our share of security issues." • Ask the post office if you can paint the cluster mailboxes. Many offices have given permission, in writing, for the community to paint them. • Update your pool area with new furniture. Consider adding an outdoor kitchen facility that can be used for community social events. • Update your gym with “state of the art” equipment such as the new “Peloton” bikes which are all the rage.

“As a managing agent, I offer the following suggestions

to consider to keep your community competitive.”

• Consider a “dog park” in an open, common area. Manhattan has been successful for decades with this amenity. Keep in mind, at least 50% of households have dogs. That’s a huge market segment that would be enticed to purchase in your community. • Last, but not least, keep your entrance signs clean and fresh. If they, too, are “tired” consider replacing them with a new design. Besides the upside of adding value, these suggestions also make your community living more enjoyable. Enjoy your Spring. n

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