Blogs

It has come to my attention recently that regardless of how nice your house or condo is, it will not sell if the amenities in your neighborhood are not on a par with surrounding neighborhoods.

I’m referring mostly to the Club House. While golfing communities have beautiful facilities for the members, non-golfing communities often neglect upkeep and needed updates.

Now is the time to assess the amenities your association offers. This is especially true in a housing slump when homeowners take on renters while trying to sell their property. This means you not only have to compete with new developments with large incentives for buyers but also with apartment communities with long lists of amenities.

Start with a walk through of the common areas. Try to look at everything as if you are seeing it for the first time. Is the ballroom or party room outdated? Are the bathrooms and locker rooms clean and fresh? Is the card room organized and inviting or are things scattered about? Does the kitchen have working appliances, clean work surfaces free of cracks and damage, and adequate lighting?

I realize that I’ve asked a lot of questions but I’m not done. Today, the exercise room is one of the most important amenities for renters. If the equipment is up-to-date and the hours are convenient, renters will be really pleased they will not have to pay extra money each month for an outside gym.

Another amenity older communities should add, if they don’t have it, is wi-fi access to the Internet. This is great for people who want to work or check e-mail by the pool.

After you’ve compiled your list you’ll have to follow the rules of the association for making improvements to the property. If the reserves have been properly collected then making the upgrades should not be too difficult. If funds are short, then you and your neighbors must develop a plan to raise money to bring your community up-to-date starting with the highest priorities. Everyone will want to be involved, so invite your contractors and design professionals to your association meetings to make presentations.