Between the media coverage, consumer marketing campaigns, and governmental programs, the concept of living “green” has become a sometimes-confusing catchphrase over the last few years. Are you “going green?” Exactly how “green” are you? …
Des Plaines, Illinois in Cook County was originally settled by the French who named the town, “of the plains.” Today, the town is officially nicknamed the "City of Destiny." This suburb of Chicago, which sits right next to O'Ha…
When you’re decorating your home, there are two things you want to bear in mind if you have children. You want to keep the design functional, but safe. After all, anyone who’s ever had, or just looked after, a baby or toddler, can tell …
The Great Recession has required all boards and property managers to investigate new and progressive ways to ensure that their bottom line is covered. While this has always been the mission, the economic reality of recent years has ins…
If you live in a condo or a co-op, you’ve probably noticed that your building has at least one annual shareholders’ or unit owners’ meeting each year. It’s not random. The annual meeting is actually an Illinois state-mandated la…
A well-run condominium or co-op requires that it is getting its supplies and services smoothly and at the best price, which is why a board of directors or management company needs to stay on top of its vendors and its contracts with th…
The relationship between boards and management is, by its very nature, a deep one. The two teams rely on each other to ensure the smooth oversight of their co-op and condo communities. Both are dedicated to doing everything possible to …
The date is fast approaching for The Chicagoland Cooperator’s first annual Chicagoland Condo, HOA, & Co-op Expo, to be held at Navy Pier Convention Center on Wednesday, November 16, 2011 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Along with the booths and n…
It was time for the the Chicago-based senior association's annual meeting. The board and residents, men and women, some in their 70s, were emotionally charged and concerned about various issues that the board would discuss. The issues d…
Q We have an owner in our condominium association, who is several months behind in his fees. He currently has a tenant in his unit. The association pays the bill for his water, sewage, pool and other amenities. Do we as an association h…