For real estate developers, management of subdivision development projects starts upon the turnover of the project to the homeowners. The homeowners then organize themselves to form the homeowners association, the governing body that will manage the affairs of the subdivision and its members.
If you are an elected member of the homeowners association or a concerned homeowner, here are some practical things that you can do to ensure safety, and goodwill among neighbors. All of which, when properly done, would eventually add value to your property.
Techie Bautista, who has gained respect in the real estate industry as a consultant and practitioner, shares her advice.
Orient yourself on the provisions of the Magna Charta for homeowners
The law provides rules and regulations on the operations and activities of the association. HLURB and the local government likewise have standards and regulations to implement like those affecting roads, open spaces, security and peace and order, sanitation and garbage collection, water supply and electricity. This template should address most immediate concerns, and provide a basis for discussion for further enhancements or revisions—assuming minimum stated standards are met, of course.
Be aware of administrative functions
Other administrative functions of the association include election, dues, conflict resolution, community relations and the implementation of special projects. These are the services that members expect from their association and its officers. It is therefore imperative that the association put in place a well-informed and properly trained property management team that will be able to provide these services to the satisfaction of its members.
A well-managed subdivision builds goodwill among its members, while maintaining a positive atmosphere which eventually creates a good reputation, which in turn increases the value of the property.
Inquirer Academy, in partnership with Reap Academy, will hold a course on “Property Management of Subdivisions.” Example of topics to be discussed are standards and regulations, managing a homeowners association and its salient features of the Magna Carta and environment issues.
Another run of the “Building and Condo Management” will be held on May 18. Both courses will be held at the Inquirer Academy.
For Cebuanos, there will be a “Facilities Management and Comprehensive Maintenance” program on May 18.
The Inquirer Academy is at 4168 Don Chino Roces Ave. corner Ponte St., Makati City. For more information about the workshops or if you would like to add your input on the article, you may email ask@inquireracademy.com, call (632) 834-1557 or 771-2715 and look for Jerald Miguel or Judy Bondoc, or visit the website at www.inquireracademy.com.