Community Matters

What Every Realtor Needs to Know About Community Associations (But is Afraid to Ask)

Have you ever had a buyer fall in love with a home only to get spooked by the words “HOA,” “condo,” or “association fees”? In this episode, “What Every Realtor Needs to Know About Community Associations (But Is Afraid to Ask),” we’re pulling back the curtain on how associations really work, what they are, how they’re governed, discussing resale documents and disclosures, and how Realtors and community managers can work together to the benefit of all parties.

Our panel features three industry experts with deep knowledge of real estate transactions in associations:

• Jody Buchter, CMCA, AMS, Realtor®, owner of Calibre Property Management, brings 25+ years of hands-on experience working with community associations and guiding buyers and sellers through the resale process.

• Edward Hoffman, Jr., Esq., CCAL, Founder and Managing Member of Hoffman Law LLC, offers a legal perspective on association governance, documentation, and common pitfalls that can surprise even seasoned real estate professionals.

• Carl N. Weiner, Esq., CCAL of Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin, is one of the region’s most recognized authorities in association law. With more than three decades in real estate and land development, Carl has advised on the creation of over 150 condominium and homeowners’ associations and has earned a reputation for his practical, real-world approach to complex real estate issues.

Special thanks to our sponsor Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play, and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the Podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Numbers That Matter: Demystifying Association Audits

Have you ever wondered what a financial audit really is and why your condo, co-op, or community association might need one? In this episode, “Numbers That Matter: Demystifying Association Audits,” we’re cutting through the jargon and talking about audits in plain English—what they are, why they matter, and what to expect.

Our guest for this episode is Mohammed Salyani, CPA. A shareholder at WilkinGuttenplan, Mohammed joined the firm in 2001. He specializes in providing audit, review, and compilation services to not-for-profit organizations, closely-held businesses, and real estate entities such as community associations. He is a co-practice leader of the Firm’s community associations group. 

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play, and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the Podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

 

End of an Era: Tony Campisi Signs Off from Community Matters

In his final episode as host, outgoing Chapter Executive Director Tony Campisi speaks with three past Keystone Chapter presidents—Bob Travis, Cathy Dunn, and Jon Katz—about the chapter’s history, key milestones, and future challenges. The conversation covers financial growth, membership and engagement, the impact of COVID, technology and virtual meetings, legislative advocacy, emerging trends affecting community associations and an elusive bottle of Champagne at Bellagio Las Vegas.

Tune in to hear personal reflections on volunteer leadership, lessons learned from decades of service, and hopes for the chapter’s future as Tony transitions to a new role within CAI. 

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Unlocking Insights: Behind the Foundation for Community Association Research

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi sits down with Michelle Baldry, Vice President of Sales with Reserve Advisors and immediate past president of the Foundation for Community Association Research (FCAR). Together, they delve into the pivotal role FCAR plays in supporting community associations through data-driven insights and research. Established in 1975, FCAR provides valuable information to homeowners, association board members, community managers, and developers, aiding them in making informed decisions.

Michelle shares her passion for FCAR and its mission to deliver critical research that propels the community association industry forward. The episode explores various FCAR initiatives, ongoing research topics, and the practical impact of their work on associations. From SNAP surveys addressing hot topics to the renowned Homeowner Satisfaction Survey, discover how FCAR's resources benefit community leaders and managers alike.

Additional discussion topics include the Foundation's longstanding projects like the Manager Compensation and Benefit Survey, Byron Hanke Fellowship, and best practices reports. Michelle also highlights the importance of collaboration between FCAR and CAI, enabling community associations to be informed, responsible, and great places to live.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Expert Insights on Effective Landscape Maintenance

Welcome to another episode of the Community Matters Podcast, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute. This episode delves into the critical nuances of managing and governing community associations with a focus on landscaping and grounds maintenance—one of the largest budget items for many associations.

Featuring Melissa Blake from Bates Landscaping, the discussion covers effective strategies for snow removal, drought-tolerant landscapes, and long-term landscape maintenance planning. Whether you're a board member, a community manager, or a homeowner, tune in for invaluable insights into successful landscaping practices, budget management, and fostering a healthy partnership between community associations and service providers.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Empowering Communities with Electrification and Microgrid Technology

Join host Tony Campisi and guest, Ben Rosenzweig, PE, President of CoolSys Energy Design, as they explore electrification and microgrid technology in community associations. Discover how these innovations drive energy efficiency and cost savings, while contributing to sustainability and reduced emissions. Learn practical steps and benefits of transitioning to electric systems and maximizing the potential of energy sources like solar and battery storage.

With insights into tax credits, financial incentives, and lifecycle cost analysis, this episode guides listeners on planning and executing energy upgrades in condominium and homeowners associations. Gain professional advice on navigating the intricacies of local regulations and leveraging various energy solutions to foster responsible citizenship within preferred communities.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Unlocking the Secrets of Reserve Studies for Community Associations

Join host Tony Campisi and guest Brian Weaver, PCAM, with Association Reserves, as they delve into the essential aspects of reserve studies for community associations in this episode of Community Matters. Discover critical insights into the importance of funding reserves, how inflation influences financial planning, and the impact of new legislation on reserve studies. Learn about common misconceptions and best practices to ensure your association's financial health.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Celebrating Volunteers: An Inspiring Conversation with Lisa Havrilla

In this special episode of Community Matters, we're celebrating National Volunteer Month by diving into the inspiring world of volunteering with Lisa Havrilla, CMCA, AMS. As a seasoned community manager and recipient of the CAI Keystone 2024 Rookie of the Year Award, Lisa shares her personal journey and the profound impact volunteerism has had on her life. Discover the joys of giving back, the stories that shaped her commitment to community service, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or considering giving your time for the first time, this episode offers heartwarming insights and practical advice for making a meaningful difference in your community.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Understanding Community Association Board Members' Liability

In this episode of Community Matters Podcast, host Tony Campisi discusses the essential role of education and training for elected board members of community associations with guest George Greatrex, Esq. The focus is on understanding the intricate legal liabilities faced by board members, especially in light of recent laws such as the Corporate Transparency Act and the New Jersey Structural Integrity and Reserve Law. George shares practice-based advice on safeguarding HOA leaders against personal liability, the importance of knowing their governing documents, and consulting with professional advisors. Learn how to navigate the responsibilities and potential risks involved in being a board member within a community association and ensure you are well-protected and informed.

Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

The Challenge of High-Conflict Personalities in Community Associations

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute delves into the challenges posed by high-conflict personalities within community associations. This episode features insights from Amber Martin, owner of Woo Cat Martin Association Management, and Ed Hoffman, Esq., CCAL of Hoffman Law LLC, as they explore the intensified dynamics following COVID-19 and the strategies to address these issues constructively. Discover practical tools and legal perspectives to help community managers and board members navigate challenging interactions and maintain a harmonious environment. This podcast previews an education session that will be presented by Amber and Ed at the CAI Keystone Annual Conference & Expo, April 30-May 1, 2025 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. 

Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.