When working with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA), board members and property managers often encounter terms like audit, review, and compilation. These represent different levels of financial statement services — each with varying degrees of assurance, detail, and cost. Choosing the right service level depends on your association’s needs,  governing document requirements, and your budget.  In this post, we'll break down the key differences between these service levels and when each might be appropriate.

Investing the time to find the right landscaping partner during budget season.
There is a financial aspect, as landscaping often eats up a large portion of the HOA’s budget, and the quality of that service directly impacts residents’ satisfaction and the property's overall value. Landscaping can represent a significant percentage of the total HOA budget, with estimates ranging from 25% to 75% depending on community size and expectations.

Investing the time to choose the right vendor, who not only fits the budget but aligns with the community’s values, can save headaches down the line. It’s about finding the right balance of cost, quality, and reliability. By carefully planning the budget and following a structured process for selecting and managing landscaping vendors, HOAs can ensure their communities remain beautiful and well-maintained while also safeguarding their financial well-being.

Developing a community is more than just breaking ground and laying foundations- it’s about shaping an environment where residents feel secure, engaged and invested. As a community manager, navigating new developments requires careful planning, effective communication, and strategic problem-solving to balance progress with sustainability.

Playgrounds are a wonderful addition to any neighborhood. Playgrounds help foster a sense of community by giving residents a convenient way to connect with neighbors while their children play and burn off energy—often year-round, thanks to Virginia's mild weather. Most importantly, playgrounds offer a space for kids to take risks and explore boundaries safely.