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. 

The Virginia General Assembly continued to take an interest in the important work of community associates in its 2025 session. We highlight below notable changes that may affect property owners’ associations and condominium unit owner associations.

These changes will take effect on July 1, 2025.

They’re aggressive, persistent, and showing up in more places than ever before. Red Imported Fire Ants (RIFA) have become an increasing concern for communities across Hampton Roads. Despite their growing presence, infestations often go unnoticed until they’re widespread—causing costly damage, painful stings, and long-term control challenges. For HOA boards and community managers, awareness is the first line of defense. Let’s take a closer look at why fire ants are thriving, what signs to watch for, and how proactive action can protect your community.

Particular times and events stand out in my mind as I mature (age; I’ll never grow up).  “Dirty Feet” is one of them. In a former life, I often attended meetings at the BASF plant in Anderson, South Carolina. In the lobby hung a banner that read: DIRTFTET. After numerous visits and much brainstorming, I was at a loss in determining its meaning. Not being shy, I finally asked.

Managing an HOA can sometimes feel like juggling flaming swords while riding a unicycle. Between handling homeowner complaints, organizing meetings, and keeping up with ever-changing laws, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Enter AI, your new best friend (after coffee). 

As spring approaches in Southeastern Virginia, HOA communities must take proactive steps to manage their ponds and stormwater devices. These systems play a crucial role in managing runoff, preventing flooding, and improving water quality. However, without proper management, they can quickly become sources of erosion, pollution, compliance violations, and costly repairs. 

Vendor relationships are at the heart of successful community association management. Whether it’s landscaping, maintenance, security, or financial services, the quality of service delivered to homeowners often depends on the strength of the partnerships between community managers and business partners. These relationships, however, don’t develop overnight. They require careful selection, clear expectations, and ongoing communication to ensure they remain productive and beneficial for both parties.

As we step into 2025, the community association management industry continues to evolve rapidly. From technological advancements to shifting resident expectations, today’s community managers must be more adaptable, tech-savvy, and forward-thinking than ever before. The days of simply enforcing governing documents and coordinating maintenance are long gone—today’s managers are strategic leaders, financial experts, and customer service professionals all in one.

On Dec. 23rd, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals granted a stay over the injunction issued by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas earlier this month, and issued a court order reinstating the January 1, 2025, beneficial ownership information (BOI) filing deadline under the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) for applicable community associations required to file under federal statute.

Look What's Back!

Currents is returning as Currents Jr., a triannual e-newsmagazine!

Strengthening Our Community Through Volunteerism

Our community thrives when its members come together with a shared goal of making a positive impact. Whether you’re passionate about supporting vulnerable animals, mentoring youth, or helping families in need, Hampton Roads offers countless opportunities to give back. Volunteering not only enriches the lives of those we serve but also fosters a stronger, more connected community. Every act of service, no matter how small, contributes to building a compassionate and thriving environment for all.

Hampton Roads Community Action Program (HRCAP):

Don’t wait until a hurricane is imminent: Proactively prepare before the next hurricane to help keep your organization, employees and yourself safe. 

While the recently celebrated Independence Day, that is not the only special occasion this summer. July 1 is the day that most new laws in Virginia take effect. The Virginia Condominium Act (the “Act”) was enacted on July 1, 1974. It superseded the Horizontal Property Act, which was enacted in 1962. Condominiums are purely “creatures of statute” meaning that without the laws permitting them, they would not exist. In other words, they are a legal entity created by statute. The Act is a legislative marvel, crafted by deep thinkers and innovators. It was a new breed. 

As the summer winds down and we approach the latter part of the year, it’s time for our community association to turn its focus to one of the most crucial tasks on our calendar: budget season. This period is not just about crunching numbers; it’s an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, plan for the future, and ensure the continued well-being and growth of our community. Here’s what budget season entails and why it’s essential for all of us.

Understanding Budget Season

Budget season is the time when the community association reviews its financial status, plans for upcoming expenses, and sets priorities for the next fiscal year. It involves several key steps:

As we enjoy the long, sunny days of summer, it's easy to get caught up in the season's festivities and relaxation. However, summer is also an ideal time for property inspections to ensure our community remains safe, well-maintained, and ready for the rest of the year. Regular property inspections during the summer months are crucial for several reasons, and here’s why they should be a priority for every community association.

Preventing Heat-Related Damage

The intense summer heat can take a toll on various aspects of our properties. Regular inspections help identify and address issues before they become major problems: