Life on The Other Side - A Resident’s Candid Take on Condo Living and Community Governance

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Everyone knows that boards and management are the decision makers in community associations—but what’s it like to be on the receiving end of those choices?

In this week’s episode of Take It To The Board, host Donna DiMaggio Berger flips the script with a guest who provides a candid look at life within a condominium association where he believes things are going awry. To protect his privacy and avoid potential backlash, his identity is concealed, and he’s referred to as “Bob.” A retired attorney with four decades of executive-level experience in public companies, Bob brings a unique and thought-provoking perspective to the table.

Bob shares valuable insights into the importance of due diligence when purchasing property, reflecting on his own missteps and lessons learned. His conversation with Donna highlights the vital role diverse perspectives play in shaping the quality of life within shared ownership communities.

The discussion delves into the inner workings of board meetings, with Bob advocating for increased transparency and resident participation. He challenges the rigidity of traditional meeting formats, calling for innovation and decorum to better accommodate the varied demographics in many communities. Special assessments, the impact of meeting formats—virtual vs. in-person—and the balance between accessibility and engagement are all topics explored in depth.

From the responsibilities of board members to the rights of residents, Donna and Bob shine a light on the delicate balance between governance and community harmony. They address challenges like navigating strict community rules while maintaining personal freedoms and ensuring communal safety. Bob’s anecdotes—ranging from frustrations with hiring contractors to the convenience of maintenance-free living—paint a realistic and balanced picture of today's condo lifestyle.

Join Donna and Bob for an enlightening conversation that blends personal stories, legal insights, and practical advice on thriving in shared ownership communities.

Conversation Highlights Include:

• What led to Bob’s dissatisfaction with his Condo Board
• Ways to improve communication channels between the board and the residents 
• Rules or policies that Bob finds unfair or overly restrictive (see if Donna agrees!)
• Bob’s advice to someone considering moving into a community association
• Ways a board can restore trust and improve relationships with residents