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Get to Know the Hawaiʻi Green Infrastructure Authority

The Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority serves as Hawaiʻi’s Green Bank. Green banks are entities that address market gaps to speed up the transition to clean energy and combat climate change. As of January 2023, there are 22 green banks across the U.S., with more in the pipeline. These banks exist worldwide and can be government, quasi-government, or nonprofit organizations. The HGIA operates as part of the state government. Condo Associations may be interested in HGIA favorable capital improv [...]

Understanding and Preparing an HOA Budget

If you are in a position where you are creating an HOA budget for the first time, as part of committee or board member role, or just want to learn more about the process, this article covers the principles of budgeting for an HOA, and a template to create a budget. Each HOA is different, but this should provide a good starting point for most applications. What Is an HOA Budget? An HOA budget is a financial roadmap designed to estimate both revenues and expenses for your association. It should al [...]

How Condo Associations Work and the Rules that Apply

Living in Hawaii is a lot like living in other states, with people working, shopping, socializing, and paying association fees. Of course, there’s the added benefit of beautiful beaches and a laid-back vibe. In Hawaii, there are three main types of community associations: condominiums, planned communities, and cooperatives. Each has its own rules and structures, but this article will focus on condominiums—how they’re run and the laws that apply to them. The Association of Apartment Owners (AOAO) [...]

Managing Your Emotions is Key to Resolving Board Issues

As a volunteer for a homeowners' association (HOA), you may often encounter challenges that feel outside your area of expertise. These situations can sometimes stir up strong emotions, making it essential to find ways to stay calm and focused. Here are some practical tips on how to handle your emotions and the benefits of involving professionals when needed. 1. Work with Qualified Experts One of the easiest ways to lower stress is by recognizing when you need help from someone with more experien [...]

Report Urges Action to Prevent Future Wildfire Disasters

A recent report from the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) offers recommendations on how to rebuild and protect against future wildfires. The report, which follows the tragic wildfire in Lahaina on August 8-9, 2023, that killed at least 102 people and destroyed over 1,500 homes and structures, stresses the need for both individual and community-wide strategies. The study suggests several key measures to help prevent wildfires from becoming catastrophic. These include crea [...]

Real Estate Branch Services Offered to Condo Communities

Support and confliction resolution services can help condominium associations and members solve disputes quickly and affordably to improve the relationship between management and members. Condominium associations in Hawaii are designed to be self-managed, with minimal government involvement. The Real Estate Branch (REB) offers support to the Hawaii condominium community—this includes owners, board members, developers, and the general public—by providing information and referral services related [...]

Hawaii’s Challenging Condo Insurance Situation

It’s been a rough year for Hawaii’s Condominium Associations, with many seeing their master insurance policy costs soar by 300% or more in just one year. Some buildings even faced increases of 900% to 1,300%. Unfortunately, this situation isn’t likely to improve soon. More condos are now carrying master insurance policies that don’t cover the full replacement cost, which could be a problem if a disaster like a hurricane hits. This has forced some buildings to seek expensive insurance on the seco [...]

2024 Hawaii Legislative Recap

A series of bills that lawmakers say will benefit condominium owners, associations, and residents in Hawaii were signed into law in May. Governor Josh Green and state legislators say the measures take a “significant step toward addressing the housing challenges in Hawaii”, by streamlining processes, enhancing management practices, and increasing accessibility to clean energy programs for condominium communities. However, not all measures are without controversy. Signed legislation includes: Cond [...]

9 Common Legal Issues HOAs Face and How to Handle Them

Homeowners' associations (HOAs), like any organization, can face legal challenges. These often come from the community members themselves. It’s crucial for HOAs to understand the typical lawsuits they might face to be better prepared. Here are the most common legal issues HOAs deal with: Misuse of Funds HOAs manage money for community expenses. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to theft or fraud. Board members might misuse funds, paying for personal items or exclusive dinners. This can lead ho [...]

HOAs Look at Regulating Marijuana

The use of marijuana has become a hot topic in homeowner associations (HOAs). While it's still illegal under federal law, in Hawaii, it's only approved for licensed medicinal use. If someone is caught possessing, using, or selling marijuana without a license, they can incur stiff penalties, including jail time. However, with many states legalizing marijuana, HOAs are now dealing with new challenges. Even with medical marijuana, HOAs are questioning if they can regulate its use. Reasons for Regul [...]

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