Advertise on podcast: Community Matters

In this episode of Community Matters, host Michael Shaw and guest Holly Stimmel, CMCA, chair of CAI Keystone's Gold Star Committee, discuss the Gold Star Community Recognition Program. They explain the program's purpose, the application and review process, common pitfalls (like outdated reserve studies and missing documents), and tips for boards and managers to prepare a strong submission. Holly shares practical advice on leveraging the award, improving governance and communication, and using feedback to strengthen associations that don't qualify on the first attempt. The episode also highlights application timelines and resources for interested communities. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Manager of Member Development, Amanda Henderson, hosts this episode and sits down with two managers, a homeowner, and a business partner member from CAI's Keystone Chapter to explore what membership really offers — from education and designations to networking, events, and unexpected perks like friendships and long lasting business relationships. The episode highlights practical tips for getting the most from membership, signature events like the Expo and Gala, recognition programs, and how CAI connects vendors, managers, and homeowners to strengthen communities. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to the 100th episode of Community Matters podcast! This podcast covers issues important to managing and governing condos, cooperatives and homeowner associations. We have a special topic today to mark the occasion of our 100th episode. In 2025, Keystone Chapter Community Associations Institute celebrates quite a milestone – its our 50th anniversary and we have some great things in store for this exciting celebration. In addition, during this special podcast episode, we'll reveal the location of the chapter's 50th Anniversary Gala Celebrate - but you have to tune in to be the first to hear this breaking news! Today's guest to talk about this milestone is Keystone Chapter President-elect Brendan Whelan, CIRMS, with Brown & Brown Insurance, who will have the distinction of serving as the Chapter President during the 50th anniversary year. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Have you ever had a buyer fall in love with a home only to get spooked by the words “HOA,” “condo,” or “association fees”? In this episode, “What Every Realtor Needs to Know About Community Associations (But Is Afraid to Ask),” we’re pulling back the curtain on how associations really work, what they are, how they’re governed, discussing resale documents and disclosures, and how Realtors and community managers can work together to the benefit of all parties. Our panel features three industry experts with deep knowledge of real estate transactions in associations: Jody Buchter, CMCA, AMS, Realtor®, owner of Calibre Property Management, brings 25+ years of hands-on experience working with community associations and guiding buyers and sellers through the resale process. Edward Hoffman, Jr., Esq., CCAL, Founder and Managing Member of Hoffman Law LLC, offers a legal perspective on association governance, documentation, and common pitfalls that can surprise even seasoned real estate professionals. Carl N. Weiner, Esq., CCAL of Hamburg, Rubin, Mullin, Maxwell & Lupin, is one of the region’s most recognized authorities in association law. With more than three decades in real estate and land development, Carl has advised on the creation of over 150 condominium and homeowners’ associations and has earned a reputation for his practical, real-world approach to complex real estate issues. Special thanks to our sponsor Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information. Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play, and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the Podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Have you ever wondered what a financial audit really is and why your condo, co-op, or community association might need one? In this episode, “Numbers That Matter: Demystifying Association Audits,” we’re cutting through the jargon and talking about audits in plain English—what they are, why they matter, and what to expect. Our guest for this episode is Mohammed Salyani, CPA. A shareholder at WilkinGuttenplan, Mohammed joined the firm in 2001. He specializes in providing audit, review, and compilation services to not-for-profit organizations, closely-held businesses, and real estate entities such as community associations. He is a co-practice leader of the Firm’s community associations group.  Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play, and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the Podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In his final episode as host, outgoing Chapter Executive Director Tony Campisi speaks with three past Keystone Chapter presidents—Bob Travis, Cathy Dunn, and Jon Katz—about the chapter’s history, key milestones, and future challenges. The conversation covers financial growth, membership and engagement, the impact of COVID, technology and virtual meetings, legislative advocacy, emerging trends affecting community associations and an elusive bottle of Champagne at Bellagio Las Vegas. Tune in to hear personal reflections on volunteer leadership, lessons learned from decades of service, and hopes for the chapter’s future as Tony transitions to a new role within CAI.  Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi sits down with Michelle Baldry, Vice President of Sales with Reserve Advisors and immediate past president of the Foundation for Community Association Research (FCAR). Together, they delve into the pivotal role FCAR plays in supporting community associations through data-driven insights and research. Established in 1975, FCAR provides valuable information to homeowners, association board members, community managers, and developers, aiding them in making informed decisions. Michelle shares her passion for FCAR and its mission to deliver critical research that propels the community association industry forward. The episode explores various FCAR initiatives, ongoing research topics, and the practical impact of their work on associations. From SNAP surveys addressing hot topics to the renowned Homeowner Satisfaction Survey, discover how FCAR's resources benefit community leaders and managers alike. Additional discussion topics include the Foundation's longstanding projects like the Manager Compensation and Benefit Survey, Byron Hanke Fellowship, and best practices reports. Michelle also highlights the importance of collaboration between FCAR and CAI, enabling community associations to be informed, responsible, and great places to live. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to another episode of the Community Matters Podcast, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute. This episode delves into the critical nuances of managing and governing community associations with a focus on landscaping and grounds maintenance—one of the largest budget items for many associations. Featuring Melissa Blake from Bates Landscaping, the discussion covers effective strategies for snow removal, drought-tolerant landscapes, and long-term landscape maintenance planning. Whether you're a board member, a community manager, or a homeowner, tune in for invaluable insights into successful landscaping practices, budget management, and fostering a healthy partnership between community associations and service providers. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Join host Tony Campisi and guest, Ben Rosenzweig, PE, President of CoolSys Energy Design, as they explore electrification and microgrid technology in community associations. Discover how these innovations drive energy efficiency and cost savings, while contributing to sustainability and reduced emissions. Learn practical steps and benefits of transitioning to electric systems and maximizing the potential of energy sources like solar and battery storage. With insights into tax credits, financial incentives, and lifecycle cost analysis, this episode guides listeners on planning and executing energy upgrades in condominium and homeowners associations. Gain professional advice on navigating the intricacies of local regulations and leveraging various energy solutions to foster responsible citizenship within preferred communities. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Join host Tony Campisi and guest Brian Weaver, PCAM, with Association Reserves, as they delve into the essential aspects of reserve studies for community associations in this episode of Community Matters. Discover critical insights into the importance of funding reserves, how inflation influences financial planning, and the impact of new legislation on reserve studies. Learn about common misconceptions and best practices to ensure your association's financial health. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this special episode of Community Matters, we're celebrating National Volunteer Month by diving into the inspiring world of volunteering with Lisa Havrilla, CMCA, AMS. As a seasoned community manager and recipient of the CAI Keystone 2024 Rookie of the Year Award, Lisa shares her personal journey and the profound impact volunteerism has had on her life. Discover the joys of giving back, the stories that shaped her commitment to community service, and the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a seasoned volunteer or considering giving your time for the first time, this episode offers heartwarming insights and practical advice for making a meaningful difference in your community. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters Podcast, host Tony Campisi discusses the essential role of education and training for elected board members of community associations with guest George Greatrex, Esq. The focus is on understanding the intricate legal liabilities faced by board members, especially in light of recent laws such as the Corporate Transparency Act and the New Jersey Structural Integrity and Reserve Law. George shares practice-based advice on safeguarding HOA leaders against personal liability, the importance of knowing their governing documents, and consulting with professional advisors. Learn how to navigate the responsibilities and potential risks involved in being a board member within a community association and ensure you are well-protected and informed. Special thanks to our sponsor – Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute delves into the challenges posed by high-conflict personalities within community associations. This episode features insights from Amber Martin, owner of Woo Cat Martin Association Management, and Ed Hoffman, Esq., CCAL of Hoffman Law LLC, as they explore the intensified dynamics following COVID-19 and the strategies to address these issues constructively. Discover practical tools and legal perspectives to help community managers and board members navigate challenging interactions and maintain a harmonious environment. This podcast previews an education session that will be presented by Amber and Ed at the CAI Keystone Annual Conference & Expo, April 30-May 1, 2025 in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

In this episode of Community Matters, host Tony Campisi of the Keystone Chapter of Community Associations Institute delves into the increasingly emotional climate impacting community associations. Joined by guests Garrett Bond, Assistant General Manager at The Philadelphian, and Stefan Richter, Esq., CCAL, with Clemons Richter & Reiss, the discussion explores the shifting landscape of communications and its effect on relationships and interactions among owners, managers, and board members. With insights into the adaptation to digital communication methods like email and social media, the conversation covers the long-lasting impact of COVID on societal behaviors, introducing new dynamics such as the preference for virtual meetings. The guests share firsthand experiences of managing resident interactions during these transformative times. The episode further explores strategies for maintaining professionalism and civility amid heightened emotions, emphasizing the importance of timely, thoughtful responses and listening to build trust and uphold community harmony. Tune in to understand how to navigate these complex emotional and communication challenges effectively. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.  Community Matters is available in the iTunes store, on Google Play and on Spotify. Subscribe there or download the podbean app and be the first to receive notifications when new episodes are posted.

Welcome to another insightful episode of Community Matters, hosted by Tony Campisi, CAE, Executive Director of the Keystone Chapter of the Community Associations Institute. In this episode, we delve into the complex world of collections in community associations, exploring the reasons behind delinquencies and the processes involved in managing them effectively. Our guests, Mitch Drimmer and Reale Edgerton from Axela Technologies, bring their expertise to the table, discussing the differences between engaging collection agencies and attorneys, and the impact of each approach on community relationships. They provide valuable insights into the proactive strategies that can be employed to handle delinquencies, emphasizing the importance of engagement over immediate legal action. Listen in as we explore the challenges of managing long-term delinquencies and the implications of financial hardships on homeowners. Discover how a well-structured collection policy can safeguard the financial health of your community and enhance property values. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the collection landscape and learn practical strategies to maintain harmonious and financially stable community associations. Special thanks to our sponsor - Hoffman Law, LLC. Visit Hoffman Law online for more information.