Happy New Year! I don’t know about you, but I am quite happy to put 2020 behind me. And while it may be a while before we can get back to seeing each other in person and leading our lives “normally,” we can still make New Year Resolutions! Like I do every January, I have some suggestions for resolutions for you and your communities! Many years, I just reiterate some, like checking your association’s status with the Secretary of State (you can do that here: https://businesssearch.sos.ca.gov/ ), and reviewing or creating a community policy dictating who is responsible for the deductible in the event of a property insurance claim.

This year, we have some new ideas that reflect on 2020 and incorporate what we have learned into, hopefully, making this year a great one.

Check on closed amenities
Is your clubhouse and pool area closed and locked up? When is the last time you checked on it? It may be time to do a quick walk-through just to be sure everything is OK. It would be sad to finally get to opening up only to find out a pipe broke months ago or a family of raccoons has been living in the community kitchen.

Get your association board members more involved in CAI
Many board members don’t usually have time to break away from their full-time jobs to attend the educational luncheons provided by CAI (Community Association’s Institute). Now that everything is virtual, they may be able to attend or watch a past presentation on a YouTube channel. Check with your chapter to see if this is an available option.

Value your people and lean into their strengths
One thing 2020 has taught us is that some people have a LOT of time on their hands! Do you have one unit owner who picks apart the financials every year? Maybe encourage them to serve on a finance committee. Is there one who has been complaining about dead plants? Create a landscape committee! If they are detail oriented, find them something detail oriented to do that will serve the community. If they are involved and have responsibilities, maybe they will be less apt to complain and more apt to help and offer solutions. Think positively – it leads to smiles!

As we embark on what we hope to be a wonderful new year, we at Berg Insurance Agency appreciate that you take the time to read our little blog each month. Happy New Year!

Terri Guest, CIRMS, CMCA is the Northern California Sales & Marketing Representative for Berg Insurance Agency and can be reached at Terri@berginsurance.com.