The Uncommon Area

Action Property Management
  • 5.0 (4)
  • BUSINESS
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

The Uncommon Area is a leading HOA podcast for board members, community leaders, and industry professionals looking for clear, practical guidance on homeowners association management. Hosted by Matthew Holbrook, CEO of Action Property Management, the show breaks down complex HOA topics including governance, financial management, insurance, legal issues, and community operations. Each episode features expert guests from across the industry, offering real-world insights, proven strategies, and fresh perspectives to help you run a more effective, well-managed community. Whether you're a board member, property manager, or homeowner, this podcast delivers actionable advice you can actually use.

  1. MAY 5

    When HOA Meetings Go Wrong: Texas Law & Codes of Conduct | Ep. 90

    What happens when a homeowner refuses to leave a board meeting? When a fellow board member is exposing the association to liability? When one resident sends 173 emails in four months and every single one is technically civil? In Episode 90 of The Uncommon Area, Matthew Holbrook is joined by Texas HOA and condominium attorney Teddy Holtz to explore one of the most pressing challenges in community association management: what to do when civility breaks down. From meeting notice requirements to codes of conduct, from disruptive homeowners to dysfunctional boards, this episode gives board members and property managers the legal tools they need to run better, more protected communities. Topics covered in this episode: Texas board meeting notice requirements for HOAs and condominium associationsWhen and how to run an executive session properlyWhether boards are legally required to allow homeowner participationHow to handle a disruptive homeowner, including removal, adjournment, and reconveningWhether a homeowner can legally be barred from a reconvened meeting in TexasRecording board meetings in Texas: what is allowed and what is notHomeowner codes of conduct: what to include and how enforceable they areBoard member codes of conduct: ethical standards, self-dealing, and speaking with a unified voiceWhether a board can vote to remove one of its own members under Texas lawWhy financial consequences may be the only thing that changes a bully’s behaviorThe growing impact of AI-generated responses in HOA disputes Resources: Guest: Teddy Holtz, Texas HOA Attorney Host: Matthew Holbrook, Action Property Management Subscribe to The Uncommon Area on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode? Subscribe to our YouTube channel. Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn. *Legal requirements vary by state. This episode uses Texas law as examples. Board members should consult local counsel for state-specific guidance.

    51 min

  2. APR 21

    Is Your HOA Properly Insured? | Ep. 89

    In this episode of The Uncommon Area, Action Property Management's CEO, Matthew Holbrook, is joined by insurance expert Dennis Socher to break down HOA and D&O insurance in a way that is practical, clear, and actionable. From directors and officers (D&O) insurance to general liability coverage, this conversation helps boards understand what their policies actually cover and where they may be exposed. Many associations assume they are properly insured, but coverage gaps, exclusions, and outdated property valuations can create serious financial risk. This episode explores how those gaps happen and how boards can take a more proactive approach to managing insurance. We cover: The difference between HOA D&O insurance, errors and omissions, and general liabilityWhat HOA insurance policies typically cover and what they excludeHow HOA insurance coverage limits are determined and why minimums may not be enoughHow to evaluate property replacement cost and avoid underinsuranceWhy HOA insurance premiums are rising and why the market is tighteningHow water damage, maintenance, and claims history impact your policyWhat to expect during the HOA insurance renewal processThe role of an insurance broker and how to choose the right oneWhen umbrella insurance makes sense for additional protection This episode is essential for HOA board members, community managers, and anyone involved in community association management who wants to better understand HOA insurance, reduce risk, and make more informed decisions. Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    27 min

  3. APR 7

    HOA Board Conflict Series (Pt. 2): Executive Session and Board Dynamics | Ep. 88

    Executive session is one of the most misunderstood aspects of HOA governance. In Episode 88 of The Uncommon Area, Matthew Holbrook continues his conversation with HOA attorney James McCormick of Delphi Law Group to explain when boards should move discussions into executive session and why it matters. They discuss legal matters, collections, member discipline, contract formation, foreclosure discussions, and payment plans. The conversation also explores leadership lessons from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and how trust and healthy conflict shape effective boards. Resources Learn more about James McCormick Read The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    25 min

  4. MAR 24

    HOA Board Conflict Series (Pt. 1): Can a Board Member Be Removed? | Ep. 87

    What happens when conflict erupts inside the HOA board? In Episode 87 of The Uncommon Area, Matthew Holbrook speaks with HOA attorney James McCormick of Delphi Law Group about one of the most uncomfortable realities of community governance: disagreements between board members. They explore whether a board member can actually be removed, how recall elections work, and why most association conflicts stem from human dynamics rather than legal issues. The conversation also highlights the importance of education, expectation management, and strong governance practices that help boards work together effectively. If you serve on a board or manage an association, this episode offers practical insight into navigating difficult situations. Resources Learn more about James McCormick Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    25 min

  5. MAR 10

    HOA Audits Explained: Fraud Risks, Financial Controls, and What Boards Should Watch | Ep. 86

    HOA audits play a critical role in ensuring financial transparency and accountability within community associations. In this episode of The Uncommon Area, host Matthew Holbrook sits down with CPA Sam Timothy to discuss how HOA audits work and what boards should pay attention to when reviewing financial reports. They explore how auditors verify cash balances, confirm expenses, and identify irregularities that may indicate fraud or financial mismanagement. The conversation also covers internal financial controls, the purpose of forensic audits, and how tax rules apply to associations. Guest: Sam Timothy, CPA Timothy, DeVolt & Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-timothy-c-p-a-3b9b17/ Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    43 min

  6. FEB 24

    How to Avoid Defect Litigation | Ep. 85

    Litigation is one tool, not the only tool. This episode with Chad Thomas of Berding & Weil explores how boards can evaluate defects, understand SB 800, and pursue resolution without rushing into a lawsuit. Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    32 min

  7. FEB 10

    Hacked? Understanding Cybersecurity in HOAs | Ep. 84

    Cybersecurity threats against homeowners associations are increasing, and HOAs are becoming prime targets for cyber attacks, fraud, and data breaches. In this episode of The Uncommon Area, host Matthew Holbrook is joined by Brad Perry, CIO at Action Property Management, to break down what HOA board members and managers need to know about cybersecurity today. This conversation covers why the human element is the biggest cybersecurity risk, how phishing and spear-phishing attacks work, and why HOAs must take a layered approach to digital protection. Brad explains the importance of cybersecurity training, multi-factor authentication, device security, and working with a management company that maintains and documents secure systems. The episode also explores how artificial intelligence is making cyber attacks more convincing through voice and video scams, and what boards should do if a breach occurs. If you are an HOA board member, property manager, or real estate professional responsible for safeguarding association finances and resident data, this episode provides practical guidance you can act on right away. Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    21 min

  8. JAN 27

    What Every HOA Board Member Should Know | Ep. 83

    What does it really mean to serve on an HOA or condo board? In this episode of The Uncommon Area, attorney Grant Neidenfeuhr joins Matthew Holbrook to unpack the legal and practical realities board members face. From understanding that associations are nonprofit corporations to navigating enforcement, assessments, communication, and decision making, this conversation provides clear guidance for board members who want to do the job well. They explore why acting in good faith and in the best interest of the association matters, how condos and single family HOAs differ under the law, and why education and transparency can dramatically change how homeowners perceive their HOA. A must listen for board members, community leaders, and managers who want to build trust and protect their communities. ***Legal requirements vary by state. This episode uses Texas law as examples, and board members should consult local counsel for state specific guidance. Follow The Uncommon Area for expert-led discussions on HOA law, governance, and property management best practices. Rather watch the episode video? Subscribe to our YouTube Channel! Have a topic you’d like covered? Email us at marketing@actionlife.com or follow us on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn.

    46 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

The Uncommon Area is a leading HOA podcast for board members, community leaders, and industry professionals looking for clear, practical guidance on homeowners association management. Hosted by Matthew Holbrook, CEO of Action Property Management, the show breaks down complex HOA topics including governance, financial management, insurance, legal issues, and community operations. Each episode features expert guests from across the industry, offering real-world insights, proven strategies, and fresh perspectives to help you run a more effective, well-managed community. Whether you're a board member, property manager, or homeowner, this podcast delivers actionable advice you can actually use.

Information

  • Creator
    Action Property Management
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    91
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 The Uncommon Area
  • Show Website
    The Uncommon Area

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