Next week, the Washington State Chapter and the Oregon Chapter of Community Association's Institute will be hosting their Annual Meeting and Award Galas. read more

Many in the homebuilding industry still believe in the notion of caveat emptor or "buyer beware." Unfortunately, many home buyers aren't aware of what they are purchasing. This can be particularly true with first time buyers who are understandably anxious and excited to join the ranks of home-ownership. When it comes to new home warranties, many builders go to great lengths to disclaim limited protections that purchasers might otherwise enjoy. We often see builders offering "Express Warranties" that are more about disclaiming liability than warranting anything. We often hear that a one or two year warranty coupled with a disclaimer of any and all other liability warranty represents the "industry standard." If that truly is the industry standard then the industry is wrong. Most small electronics come with a better warranty than this. read more

One of Johnny Carson's greatest bits was when he donned a cape and turban and became the Great Carnac. The Great Carnac had the ability to divine answers to unknown questions. If the Great Carnac was real, he probably would have made a nice living as an insurance agent. Presumably, your insurance agent does not have the same mentalist powers as the Great Carnac. Because of these limitations, it is incumbent on you to actually ask the questions that the Great Carnac would otherwise divine. read more

Although summer is the most popular season for construction and it is quickly coming to a close (I am not ready to admit it's over), architectural review committees ("ARCs") operate year-round to review and respond to architectural review committee applications. If you plan on serving on your association's architectural review committee (sometimes called "architectural control committees" or "ACCs"), we have a couple of important tips to keep in mind. read more