"It's Just My opinion" is just that and nothing more.  In this section of the site I'll share some of my thoughts about community living.  Some of if you will find amusing, and some if will sound like your or possibly your neighbor.

Since it's just my opinion, I start by suggesting everyone should be nicer to their board members. Remember that they are volunteers who are not allowed to receive any compensation. While trying to run the business of the association the board is also responsible for watching out for the general welfare and creating a sense of community for those who live there. Many times the hours and long, and virtually always thankless. In some communities owners do not attend meetings and leave it up to a small group of individuals to take care of their property. In most cases board members also have careers and outside interests. This volunteer effort allows those willing to serve the opportunity to hear any and all complaints from residents regardless of the time of day. Many associations have created environments where the residents truly feel that they live in community. The next time you're ready to jump on your board for something is wrong, just be sure you remember to contact them when they succeed with accomplishments. Remember that when you serve on the board the pay isn't great and there are no benefits. Most people are quick to criticize and tend to forget how far a thank-you goes. ************************************************************** Top 10 Things People Who Live In Condos Should Already Know 10. If the laundry machines in your building are shared by others, don't leave your laundry and then go out shopping or to the gym. 9. Make sure your guests know about parking regulations at your property. If parking is not assigned or if there is no security guard to check in with you may find your vehicle with a ticket when you leave. 8. Dispose of your trash properly. Don't put loose items down any chute and always use the proper size bags. 7. Don't prop any of the doors open at the building even if you are "running out to your car for a minute". 6. If you're going to recycle, make sure you do it properly. Recycling is something that everyone should participate in. It only takes a minute to do it properly and you'll be helping yourself and your environment. 5. Respect the renting restrictions where you live. There is a process involved in community where all residents go through the same screening and orientation. If your docs say that during the first year or two of ownership that the unit must "owner occupied" it means that you can use your unit and bring friends, but you should not be having guests if you are not there. 4. Wear proper attire in all common areas. Although you may think that you look that great in a particular outfit you do live in a an environment where a variety of lifestyles typically converge. If there is a swimming pool, make sure you and your guests are completely familiar with the rules. 3. Turn down the phones and the radios already! If you live in a high-rise remember that when you are sitting outside talking on the phone that there may be others around you who are trying to do the same. It's safe to assume that they won't want to hear your conversation. And when you get in your car to leave or when you return, be aware that if you have your music turned up that it's also likely that other residents could be disturbed by the volume of your music. 2. Respect the hours for work being done in your apartment. It's very easy to want work hours to change when you are the person involved in the project. But when it is not your unit receiving the benefits of the work, it becomes a different story. 1. And the number one thing that people who live in condos should already know............. READ THE RULES AND YOUR DOCS. The documents for the association define everything that will govern your life as long as you live at that property. When you sign your purchase and sale agreement then proceed to closing you are also agreeing to live by everything that's defined in your documents. Read them before you buy, and if you haven't read them yet, you need to do so now. At least that's my opinion today.......