A note

To all that have wondered about me. I still try and read some of the postings but don't have the time to devote to posting. Wife is hospitalized and at her age their are other items on my agenda that needs attention. I hope that before to long she will be able to come home, we'll see.

It does point out a problem that is just around the bend for HOA and Condo's.
I am sure nearly all of you know someone elderly in your association that may be approaching some tough decisions about where and how to spend the rest of their life. Costs may be eating away at what they planned would provide them with a comfortable living and they suddenly find themselves in trouble and have important decisions to make. I am not suggesting the associations are responsible, but I am suggesting that the Associations think about this from an economic viewpoint. Can the association make any mutual contribution concerning economically strapped elders with the hope of keeping them in the association as a home owner. I am sure I don't have to go into explaining the real estate picture to anyone but it does seem that it would be better for all if these seniors were considered for some reduction of fees if it means they can stay in their homes. A tough nut to crack but associations could consider this kind of thinking from a mutual benefit project.

I am a senior on a fixed income, and my wife is disabled and in the hospital frequently. In fact, she was just in the hospital for an operation two weeks ago and came home last week. She is still recovering. So, I can certainly empathize with Robert.

Unfortunately, as Mary says, there's nothing an HOA can do about breaks on fees and assessments. Most state laws, and I think even federal law (in order to maintain your status as an HOA), require that the fees be the same for everyone. So, it just isn't an option.

But, there are ways HOAs can help. I know when we establish our budget each year we are aware of these facts and try to seek ways to reduce and/or control costs. I'm sure most HOAs do. We're also promoting the formation of a "help your neighbor" team to help neighbors who have difficulty with some tasks, like taking the trash out on trash collection day, replacing the chemicals in their water softeners (if they own one), etc. It's not a big deal to help someone out for a few minutes once or twice a month, or even once a week.

Robert & Bruce,

Sorry to hear about both of your wives. My thought and prayers are with you and I truly hope they can find some relief from their ills.

My husband just retired last week so we're now on a fixed income. Or at least we will be once his paycheck runs out the end of July and we go on s/s. I certainly wouldn't expect our HOA to give us any special consideration on paying our assessments. But I will take advantage of all the senior perks I can even though I believe young families really need them too.

Bruce, I really like the "help your neighbor" project being started in your HOA. An HOA that is willing to start such a program speaks volumns of the type of people serving on your board. Hats off to them!! Is your HOA large or small? We have 1,702 homes in our HOA and it's spread over 8-10 different communities. Here, most people don't even know their neighbors. I know most of the people on our cul-de-sac -- note I said "most" and we've lived here 5 years and I'm a very friendly person. But, most wives work and are gone all day and I believe that does make a difference. But we do have at least one neighbor who I know we could count on if we needed help. In fact, I know he would come over and do anything I asked of him.

Robert, I had noticed your MIA status and was worried that it might be because of an issue with something at home.

Sending lots of positive energy your way for you and your wife.

Please keep us posted and hope all goes well during her recuperation.

RobertR1: I was saddened to read of your wife's illness. I, too, have missed seeing your personal critique for the last few weeks.

I don't really see how an association would or should accept responsibility to reduce financial payments of anyone who may find themselves in a 'shaky ' financial position; however, a payment plan could certainly be suggested and could benefit both parties.

In a time of crisis, kind neighbors can be a wonderful help and I sincerely hope you find this to be the case in your community. We will think good thoughts for you and your wife. Take good care of yourself as well.

Bruce,

Thx for the info on your community. It surely sounds like a great place to live and it appears you have a wonderful board. Keep up the good work! :-)

Robert,

Best wishes for your wife's speedy recovery. Please do take equally good care of yourself during this difficult time. Both you and your wife need it. Tracy