HOA Rules and Regs

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) [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

Can a Condominium Association Require Gun Registration?

Possession of firearms can be a touchy subject, especially when community members live in close proximity in an HOA community. The following article is a summary of a legal framework at one point in time (subject to change) around a sensitive issue. It is not intended as a substitute for legal advice. Please consult your own HOA attorney for further information. There was a highly publicized case, on June 23, 2022, where the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the case of New York State Rifle & Pist [...]

HOAs: Prepare for a Fun and Safe Summer

Summer is a prime season for fun and exploration, making it a lively time for your neighborhood. Residents and their guests will be keen to enjoy everything the community offers, but they might also be more likely to bend the rules. Your homeowners association (HOA) needs to be prepared. Balancing fun with rule enforcement can be challenging, but with effective property maintenance practices and clear communication, harmony is achievable. Hosting community activities and events can actually boos [...]

HOAs: Don’t Miss Condorama XII!

The Hawaii Real Estate Commission will host Condorama XII, a free educational Webinar, presented by CAI Hawaii on Saturday, June 1, 2024, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM. See the attached flyer for more information and forward the information to others who may be interested in the event. Please visit the Condorama main page for further information and materials. Click here to register to attend. Ayres Christ, a CAI certified reserve specialist, will be discussing the impact of the Lahaina wildfires on [...]

Insurance Questions Condo Owners Should Ask Their Agent

An HO6 policy, also known as condo insurance in Hawaii, is a type of homeowners insurance policy that covers condo unit owners. It can cover damage to your condo unit and belongings, liability claims, and additional living expenses if you can't stay in your residence due to a covered incident. Know the questions to ask about your condo homeowners insurance policy coverage so you don’t get left holding the bag for uncovered damages. Don’t assume something is fully covered It is important to ask y [...]

HI Legislative Update- Condominiums

The 2024 legislative session opened with over 50 condominium related bills. The following descriptions are summarizations of a few  bills that survived decking, a major filing deadline. This list is only meant to provide general information. To find updated information on these or any bills in the HI Legislature, please see this guide from the Legislative Reference Bureau. House Bills:  HB 1814 requires that the Legislative Reference Bureau conduct a wide-ranging study as to how other states man [...]

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