FAQ's

What does CAI-NH have to offer me?

As one of 57 Chapters of the non-profit Community Associations Institute, CAI-New Hampshire brings quality educational programs and extensive research to community association owners, Board members and related professionals and service providers in New Hampshire. Along with those nationally-produced programs, the Chapter offers a number of seminars and workshops designed specifically for those involved in the community associations field in New Hampshire - as well as a variety of networking events like the annual Golf Tournament and the Awards Banquet.

CAI advances excellence through seminars, workshops, conferences and education programs, some of which lead to professional  designations

CAI publishes the largest collection of resources available on  community associations, including books, guides, Common Ground magazine and seven specialized newsletters on community  association finance, law and management

CAI advocates community association interests before legislatures, regulatory bodies and the court 

CAI conducts research and acts as a clearinghouse for information on innovations and best practices in community association creation and management

CAI provides networking and referral opportunities through both the national office and local CAI chapters, CAI-sponsored insurance programs for directors and officers and discounts on products

What is a community association, and what are association fees for?

Community associations, homeowner associations, and coops. There are three features that make these homes and communities different  from traditional forms of homeownership. One is that you share ownership of common land and have access to facilities such as swimming pools that often are not affordable any other way. The second is that you automatically become a member of a community association with all other homeowners, and as such must abide by association rules. The third feature is that you  will pay an 'assessment' (a regular fee, often monthly, that is used for upkeep of the common areas).

What is a reserve fund, and why is it important?

As with all buildings, the homes of a community association eventually need major work. Roofs, heating systems and other major components of the common areas will eventually need replacement or updating. The reserve fund is designed to set money aside over a period of years so that when these major expenses come up, there is no need for the association to hit owners with a large special assessment. Associations should have a reserve analysis conducted - and should keep it up to date - in order to be prepared for those expenses.  To read more about reserve funds, visit the www.condomagazines.com/article/static/15/ Community Advisor website.