tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80240164818859492072024-03-08T04:10:26.904-05:00Hyatt and Stubblefield Blogfinding common interest where the law and real estate development intersectHyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-74435852207894336872017-02-03T16:45:00.000-05:002017-02-03T16:58:02.741-05:00Club Members Cannot be Forced Into Giving Up Contractual Rights<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
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<i><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 115%;">By Janet L. Bozeman, Esq.</span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span style="line-height: 115%;">Hirsch v. Jupiter Golf Club
LLC</span></i><span style="line-height: 115%;">,
No. 13-80456-CIV (S.D. Fla. Feb. 1. 2017), provides a cautionary tale for clubs
looking to restructure their membership options: tread lightly on existing members' rights. It is possible to restructure a membership
program, but care must be taken not to breach existing membership
agreements. Where the club owner does
not have the right to alter existing membership rights, members may be offered
incentives in exchange for giving up membership rights, but a change in
membership rights cannot be forced on the members. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2017/02/club-members-cannot-be-forced-into.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-11971891004798535002016-05-03T16:42:00.001-04:002016-05-04T16:30:52.230-04:00Law Unsettled on Liability for Post-Chapter 13 Association Assessments<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">By: Janet L. Bozeman</span><br>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">If a condominium unit owner files for bankruptcy protection under Chapter 13 of the Bankruptcy Code and continues to own the unit, should the owner be responsible for future assessments by the condominium association? Most people would say, "Yes." After all, why should the unit owner reap the benefit of the association's maintenance and insurance and, in some cases, the provision of services and utilities to the unit for free? Unfortunately, that is the result in some jurisdictions where the bankruptcy courts have relieved the unit owner of assessment responsibility.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">State condominium law generally creates two types of liability for association assessments – the personal liability of the unit owner and the <i>in rem</i> liability (property liability) of the unit. The unit's <i>in rem</i> liability means that the association has a lien against the unit for unpaid assessments. The owner's personal liability means that the association can sue the owner to obtain a money judgment. Once a money judgment is obtained, the association may pursue any of the owner's assets to satisfy the judgment, including garnishing the owner's bank accounts and wages.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">The bankruptcy courts are in agreement that a Chapter 13 bankruptcy does not affect the association's assessment lien against the unit. However, there is a split in authority among bankruptcy courts as to whether a unit owner remains personally liable for assessments by a condominium or homeowners association after the owner completes a Chapter 13 bankruptcy plan. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy allows the owner/debtor to create a plan for paying all or a portion of his or her pre-bankruptcy debts. The plan must be approved by the bankruptcy court and may include discharging or relieving the debtor of responsibility for some pre-bankruptcy debts.</span><br>
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</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2016/05/law-unsettled-on-liability-for-post.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-47720025387733169592013-11-25T09:08:00.000-05:002013-11-25T09:08:00.941-05:00Do Not Neglect the Association During the Developer Control Period<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.0407pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the Spring 2012 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">When there are </span><span lang="en-US">just a few residents in the community, it is easy to overlook the homeowners or condominium association. Many developers think that, if there is nothing or nothing much for the association to do, the association does not have to hold meetings, enter into contracts, or otherwise be operational. While the developer is still in control of a project and the association, and will be for quite some time, why bother? This approach is a recipe for disaster. While developers may perceive their biggest risk as a weak real estate market, it actually can get worse if the developer, and in some cases, the developer representatives personally, have to face lawsuits for mismanaging the association.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The association is a separate legal entity with its own board of directors and legal requirements and must be treated as such</span><span lang="en-US"> from the date that the first lot is sold. Association operations may be minimal for a period of time (years even), but that does not mean that observing required corporate formalities may be neglected. Among other requirements, the association must hold meetings of its board of directors as frequently as the documents or state law require; must also hold an annual meeting of the members; and, most importantly, must prepare and pass a budget and levy assessments for the subsequent fiscal year.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">If you would like more information on the developer's obligation with respect to the operation of the association or need assistance in developing an operational roadmap, please contact us.</span></div>
Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-77120774517311173792013-11-21T09:44:00.000-05:002013-12-10T10:12:04.528-05:00Social Host Alcohol Liability<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.0407pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the Fall 2011 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "The Client Letter"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">If someone has too much to drink at a social function hosted by a community association or private club and then the person causes property damage or injury or death to a third party due to his or her intoxicated state, can the association or club (the host) be liable for the injury or damage? The answer may vary depending upon whether the host is licensed to sell alcohol. Persons and establishments that are licensed to sell alcohol may have liability under what are called "dram shop" laws. Licensed vendors are generally well aware of the rules that govern their business, so dram shop liability is not the subject of this article. Instead, the focus is on the social host that does not sell alcohol but serves alcohol at a social function.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The laws vary from state to state, but the prevailing thought is a social host should not be liable for injuries to a third party since the act of the host serving the alcohol was not the cause of the injury but rather was the act of the intoxicated person. The intoxicated person may be liable to the third party for the injury he or she caused, but the social host is generally not liable to the third party.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">There are two common exceptions to this general rule, however. In many states, the social host may be liable for third party injuries if alcohol was served or otherwise made available at the event to a minor or to a person that had obviously had too much to drink. At least one state will not impose third party liability unless the social host knew that the intoxicated person would soon be driving, but most states do not make that distinction. So what can an association do to protect itself from social host liability for serving alcohol? Here are a few recommendations:</span><br>
</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/social-host-alcohol-liability.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-42239404068761066932013-11-18T09:47:00.000-05:002013-11-18T09:47:00.700-05:00Don't Rush to Make Changes in Club Membership Structures <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 18.0pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the December 2010 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "The Client Letter"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">A great many clubs are having a difficult time selling memberships in these economic times. In many cases, they have a lot of unsold inventory. At the same time, the club might be experiencing an expanding resale wait list. As a result, clubs are trying to think of creative ways to invigorate their sales programs to generate new interest or to tap into a new market.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">If your club is considering making a change in the membership structure or offering new types of memberships or new membership arrangements, we encourage you to obtain legal advice before making any changes to ensure that the new structure or offering is permitted by the club documents and is structured to avoid inadvertently creating securities problems.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Depending upon how they are structured and marketed, the offering of club memberships can be considered a securities offering under state and/or federal laws, requiring registration of the offering with state or federal authorities unless an exemption is available. Failure to comply can result in significant liability for the club and those involved in the sale of unregistered securities.</span><span style="text-align: start; text-indent: 0px;"> </span><br>
</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/dont-rush-to-make-changes-in-club.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-31841404639057280162013-11-14T10:00:00.000-05:002013-11-14T10:00:07.757-05:00Due Diligence for Planned Community Acquisitions<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.4486pt; text-justify: inter-word; text-justify: inter-word;">
<span lang="en-US"><i>[NOTE:</i><i> This article first appeared in the Summer 2013 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i>]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Now that sales of homes and condominium units are picking back up, developers are once again looking for development opportunities. Sometimes a better deal can be made by buying a partially completed development rather than starting from scratch and assembling raw land. However, buying into an existing development can bring risks and obligations as well. A prudent buyer always conducts research and analysis of a proposed real estate acquisition, but purchasing unsold inventory in a planned community or condominium project may require additional research beyond what is normally done when acquiring raw land for future development. This is particularly true where the seller is a lender who acquired the property through foreclosure. This article outlines a few of the issues to be examined.</span></div>
</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/due-diligence-for-planned-community.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-57093528830403616632013-11-11T09:03:00.000-05:002013-11-11T09:03:00.655-05:00Is Your Senior Housing Community Legal?<div style="text-align: justify; text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">
<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;">The news is full of reports about the enormous rise in the senior population as baby boomers begin to reach retirement age.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;">The population of seniors is projected to grow at a faster rate than the total population of the United States in the coming years.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;">Therefore, it is not surprising that many developers are building housing that is geared towards and marketed to seniors.</span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman', serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 22.4486pt;">However, many developers are marketing their products in a manner that violates the Federal Fair Housing Act.</span></div>
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</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/is-your-senior-housing-community-legal.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-17212084834167307062013-11-07T08:58:00.000-05:002013-11-07T08:58:00.233-05:00Applicability of New ADA Regulations Affecting Pool Facilities Revised and Extended<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.0407pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the Spring 2012 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Last fall we reported that the U.S. Department of Justice ("DOJ") issued revised regulations for the Americans with Disabilities Act ("ADA") that included new accessibility standards (the "2010 Standards"). Prior to the 2010 Standards, the regulations provided that new construction and alteration of existing construction had to meet the building codes and standards applicable at the time of the alteration or construction. A facilities owner did not have to "retrofit" or comply with newer standards unless they were building new facilities or modifying the existing facilities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Under the 2010 Standards, however, recreational facilities that are considered to be "public accommodations" may have to comply with the barrier removal requirements of the new regulations if it is "readily achievable" to do so. While there is no hard and fast rule, "readily achievable" means easily accomplished without much difficulty or expense. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">There is a "safe harbor" provision with respect to the obligation to modify some facilities, but the 2010 Standards provide that facilities for which no previous standards existed do not fall within the "safe harbor" provision. Specifically identified as not falling with the safe harbor of the 2010 Standard's are swimming pools, wading pools, and spas.</span><br>
</div><a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/11/applicability-of-new-ada-regulations.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-44586989395349604522013-11-04T09:34:00.000-05:002013-11-04T09:34:00.868-05:00HUD Charges Homeowners Association with Discrimination<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.0407pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the Fall 2011 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "The Client Letter"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development ("HUD") filed charges against a homeowners association and its property management company for refusing to accommodate a veteran who required an emotional support dog due to a disability resulting from his war service. The Fair Housing Act makes it unlawful to make reasonable accommodations in rules, policies, practices or services when such accommodations may be necessary to afford persons with disabilities equal opportunity to use and enjoy a dwelling.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">According to the HUD charges, the association required the disabled resident to pay a $150 registration fee for the dog, provide proof of liability coverage, and sign a medical release for the association to obtain his medical records. The resident provided medical documentation of his need for the assistance animal and obtained liability insurance, but he refused to give the association access to his medical information or to pay the registration fee. The association then began levying fines against the unit for non-payment of the registration fee. HUD asserts that the Fair Housing Act requires that reasonable accommodations be made to no-pet rules for persons with disabilities who need support animals. HUD also asserts that requiring a disabled person to pay a registration fee for a service animal, obtain liability insurance, or provide access to medical records is prohibited by the Act. The case is currently pending.</span></div>
Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-57987247084715783522013-10-31T09:20:00.000-04:002013-10-31T09:20:00.222-04:00FHFA Publishes Final Rule on Private Transfer Fee Covenants<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.0407pt; text-justify: inter-ideograph; text-justify: inter-ideograph;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;"> This article first appeared in the Spring 2012 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i style="text-indent: 29.931467056274414px;">]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Last summer we reported that the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) had moved beyond proposed "guidance" and had proposed a final rule in its effort to restrict Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and all federal home loan banks from purchasing mortgages on properties in communities with "private transfer fee covenants." <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The proposed guidance broadly construed the term "private transfer fee covenant" to include essentially any kind of transfer fee payable on successive transfers of property regardless of who collects the fee or the intended use of the fee. This would have adversely impacted many communities with covenants that provide for collection of such fees as contributions to working capital or capital reserves, for community enhancement, or to fund nonprofit entities organized to promote cultural, educational, environmental conservation, historic preservation, and similar purposes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">FHFA's proposed </span><span lang="en-US">final rule purported to exempt transfer fees paid to homeowner associations to be used for the direct benefit of the community. However, the language of the proposed final rule created numerous practical and interpretative issues reflecting a lack of understanding as to how such fees are really used. Due to the difficulty of determining when a transfer fee qualified for the exemption, the proposed final rule would have created major problems for financing of home purchases in communities with transfer fees.</span></div>
<a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/fhfa-publishes-final-rule-on-private.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-3651297308710198752013-10-28T09:12:00.000-04:002013-10-28T09:59:49.549-04:00Georgia Imposes Restrictions on Transfer Fee Covenants<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.4486pt; text-justify: inter-word; text-justify: inter-word;">
<span lang="en-US"><i style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">[NOTE:</i><i style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;"> This article first appeared in the Summer 2013 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">]</i></span><br>
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<span lang="en-US">Georgia recently adopted a statute which prohibits the imposition of a non-exempt restriction or covenant running with the land on real property which obligates the seller or purchaser of the real property, or their heirs, successors, or assigns, to pay a fee in connection with the transfer of such property to the person establishing the restriction or covenant or to a third-party (often called a "transfer fee covenant"). A transfer fee covenant, however, may be imposed under limited circumstances. The statute makes only new non-exempt transfer fee covenants created on or after July 1, 2013 void and unenforceable and does not affect existing transfer fee covenants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The prohibition does not apply to a restriction or covenant running with the land that requires the fee to be paid in connection with the conveyance of property to:</span></div>
<a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2013/10/georgia-imposes-restrictions-on_28.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-6906985051661966862013-10-25T17:01:00.001-04:002013-11-07T16:25:59.270-05:00Upcoming Event - CCR's and Easements for Commercial and Mixed-Use Projects<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">On November 7, 2013, 1:00-2:30 PM EST, David Herrigel will be
presenting in a webinar entitled <u>CCR’s and Easements for Commercial and
Mixed-Use Projects</u>, sponsored by Strafford Publications.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt;">The panel will provide real estate
practitioners guidance for drafting effective easements and declarations of covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CCR's) for
commercial and mixed-use projects, avoiding common pitfalls, and amending
existing documents, offering </span><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt;">perspectives and guidance on these and other
critical questions:</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<br />
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are
the fundamental components of commercial or mixed-use CCR's?<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are
some common, and potentially costly, drafting errors that attorneys make
when drafting CCR's?<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="color: #333333; line-height: 12.75pt; margin-bottom: 6.0pt; mso-line-height-rule: exactly; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">What are
the best practices for drafting, analyzing, interpreting and amending
CCR's?<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">After the presentations, the panel will engage in a live question-and-answer
session with participants.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #333333;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333;">For registration information, please visit </span><a href="http://www.straffordpub.com/products/tlxrrx1ana?utm_campaign=tlxrrx1ana&utm_medium=email&utm_content=&utm_source=exacttarget&pid=591730&trk=RS1RB2-QTO2AF&mid=28131">the Strafford Publications website</a>.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-76097588128723152992013-10-24T15:59:00.001-04:002013-10-25T13:41:09.839-04:00Wayne Hyatt Receives National Recognition<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-pagination: none; text-align: justify; text-align: justify; text-indent: 22.4486pt; text-justify: inter-word; text-justify: inter-word;">
<span lang="en-US"><i>[NOTE:</i><i> This article first appeared in the Summer 2013 Edition of Hyatt & Stubblefield, P.C.'s "Community Developments"</i><i>]</i></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">The American College of Real Estate Lawyers (ACREL) awarded its prestigious Frederick S. Lane Award to Wayne Hyatt at its Mid-Year Meeting in Florida this past spring. Jonathan R. Shils, President of ACREL, stated: </span><span lang="en-US">"</span><span lang="en-US">The Frederick Lane Award is the highest honor the College can bestow. The Lane Award has </span><span lang="en-US">previously </span><span lang="en-US">been given only seven times since the College was founded in 1978 to honor the career contributions of distinguished real estate lawyers who have selflessly served the profession, the College and their community. In honoring Wayne Hyatt with the Lane Award, the College affirms these values by recognizing such a worthy recipient with this accolade from his peers.</span><span lang="en-US">"<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Wayne served as President of ACREL in 2004. His prior service to the </span><span lang="en-US">organization </span><span lang="en-US">included terms as President-Elect, Vice President, </span><span lang="en-US">Secretary</span><span lang="en-US">, and member of the Board of Governors; Chair of the Bylaws, Common Interest Ownership and Affordable Housing committees; and membership and leadership participation in over a dozen committees. He was the driving force behind establishing ACREL Cares, a community service program. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">ACREL was founded in 1978 as a non-profit organization of lawyers who have </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">gained </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">distinction in the practice of real estate law. The group devotes its efforts to improving the practice </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">of </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">real estate law around the country, and its membership consists of lawyers from 50 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It has become the nation's most prestigious peer selected organization for practicing real estate lawyers.</span></span><span lang="en-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span lang="en-US">A</span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">dmission to </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">ACREL </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">is by invitation only. This national legal real estate </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">organization </span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">elects to its membership lawyers distinguished for their skill, experience and high standards of professional and ethical conduct in the practice of real estate law</span><span lang="en-US" style="text-indent: 22.4486pt;">. </span></div>
Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-25857901861057053082011-05-04T16:21:00.003-04:002013-10-23T16:07:10.675-04:00FHFA Proposes Rule Targeting Private Transfer Fee Covenants<span style="font-family: arial;"><span style="font-size: 85%;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;">In August 2010, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) announced that it was considering issuing "guidance" that would restrict Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the Federal Home Loan Banks from dealing in mortgages on properties encumbered by certain types of transfer fee covenants. Following a 60-day comment period during which comments were submitted by over 4,000 individuals and organizations, including the American College of Real Estate Lawyers (ACREL), the Community Associations Institute (CAI) and the American Land Title Association, the National Association of Realtors, and numerous community associations, FHFA announced on February 8, 2011 that it was moving beyond "guidance" to formal <span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;">rulemaking, publishing a proposed rule to prohibit private transfer fee covenants, with an exception for certain transfer fees paid to homeowners associations, condominiums, cooperatives, and 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations.</span></span><br><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"></span></span><br><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: JA;">While we are generally pleased with FHFA's response to public comments as expressed in the Part IV.C. of the proposed rule, we believe the actual language proposed to be codified at 12 C.F.R. Part 1228 requires some modification in order to appropriately reflect FHFA's expressed intent and avoid unintended consequences. Of particular concern are the following:</span></span></span><br><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-language: JA;"><span style="mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: JA;"></span></span></span></span></span><br>
<a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2011/05/fhfa-proposes-rule-targeting-private.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-69539324383953061042010-12-16T15:25:00.004-05:002010-12-16T15:43:54.286-05:00Special Update: Bent, Broken, or Unbowed? Community Associations in 2010 and Beyond<span style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: JA; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-font-kerning: 14.0pt; mso-fareast-: ENfont-family:'MS Mincho';color:black;" lang="EN" ><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">The following is a brief excerpt from <?xml:namespace prefix = st1 ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:smarttags" /><st1:city st="on">Wayne</st1:city> Hyatt's keynote address at the 25<sup>th</sup> anniversary celebration of the <st1:state st="on"><st1:place st="on">Hawaii</st1:place></st1:state> Chapter of the Community Associations Institute in October 2010.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes"> </span>For a complete copy of the speech and to see <st1:city st="on"><st1:place st="on">Wayne</st1:place></st1:city>'s predictions on the future of community associations, please visit <a href="http://www.hspclegal.com/resources.html">www.hspclegal.com/resources.html</a> . </span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;">[excerpt] ... Today's challenges and circumstances surpass the general level of operational acumen that was tailored and tested in a different, more positive area in which success, perhaps in some cases, came too easily. Skills and wills were not honed for a more difficult time. Today's challenges are unique to a different environment and not met by commonly embraced practices and guidelines. In other words, business as usual no longer will address the challenges faced in this industry...</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-86346568923536538302010-09-21T11:17:00.002-04:002013-10-23T16:07:50.116-04:00FHFA Proposes Action Targeting Private Transfer Fee Covenants<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">A recent proposal by the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) aimed at curtailing the use of private transfer fee covenants could have a devastating impact on any community that collects fees upon transfer of lots or homes in the community to fund beneficial programs and services for the community.</span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">If adopted in its present form (see <a href="http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2010/08/16/2010-20108/private-transfer-fee-covenants">http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2010/08/16/2010-20108/private-transfer-fee-covenants</a>)<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, the FHFA proposal would restrict Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and all <span style="color: black;">federal home loan banks from purchasing mortgages on properties in communities with "private transfer fee covenants.</span></i></b><span style="color: black;">" </span></span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: black;"></span></span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">While we believe the primary target of this proposed action (and a recent surge in state legislation on the same subject) is a rise in activity promoting use of transfer fee covenants to create an income stream for the primary benefit of developers and the promoter, the FHFA proposal would broadly construe the term "private transfer fee covenant" to include</span><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"> essentially any kind of fee that is payable on future transfers of the property and designed to generate income, regardless of who collects the fee or the intended use of the fee.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This would include communities with covenants that provide for collection of such fees as contributions to working capital or capital reserves, for community enhancement, or to fund community councils or other nonprofit entities organized to promote cultural, educational, environmental conservation, historic preservation, and similar purposes.</span></span></span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span></span></span></span><br>
<span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">If your community is considering or already has a transfer fee covenant in place, it could be adversely impacted if the FHFA proposal is adopted -- <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">even if you haven't started collecting the transfer fee yet</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span><br>
<a href="https://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2010/09/fhfa-proposes-action-targeting-private.html#more">Read more »</a>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-71260234519640910432009-04-30T17:06:00.001-04:002009-04-30T17:07:33.224-04:00Developer (Mis)representationsOne of the three primary areas of developer liability in community association development and operation is representation made about the nature of the project (the other two being construction defects and association operation). In simple terms, when someone reasonably relies upon what you say and takes – or refrains from taking – action based upon that reliance, you can be bound by what was said and the consequences of those actions. It does not matter that the person making the representation is not a principal in your company if, as an agent or employee, he or she has the apparent authority to speak for the company.<br /><br />In these troubled economic times, potential buyers as well as existing owners will have questions about your development and the effect of the economy on development plans and the construction timeline. They will also be concerned about the completion of amenities, any operational changes, and changes in marketing strategies. It is important to have a "communication strategy" and to stick to it throughout these periods of uncertainty.Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-60826771733397688622009-03-12T10:39:00.002-04:002009-03-12T10:43:57.308-04:00Federal Law Imposes New Requirements on Community PoolsThe Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act, 15 U.S.C. § 8001 (the "Act"), which regulates the safety of public pools and spas, went into effect on December 19, 2008. The Act regulates "public" swimming pools and spas, including privately owned community pools and pools owned or operated by a homeowners association, condominium association, apartment building, or other residential real estate development.<br /><br />As of December 19, 2008, all public pools and spas must have drain covers that meet the American National Standards Institute and American Society of Mechanical Engineers A112.19.8-2007 standard on every drain and/or gate. If the pool or spa does not have these drain covers, it must close immediately. A list of drain cover manufacturers can be found at the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website: <a href="http://www.cpsc.gov/whatsnew.html#pool">www.cpsc.gov/whatsnew.html#pool</a>.<br /><br />In addition, if the pool has a single main drain (other than an unblockable drain), the operator must either disable the drain or install a second anti-entrapment device or system. This can take the form of an automatic shut-off system, gravity drainage system, Safety Vacuum Release System, or suction-limiting vent system. If a pool has dual or multiple main drains more than three feet apart, it may be exempt from this second requirement. Pools and spas with single main drains that are unblockable are also exempt from this requirement. A list of SVRS manufacturers can be found at <a href="http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/draincman.html">www.cpsc.gov/businfo/draincman.html</a>.<br /><br />The Consumer Product Safety Commission has issued technical and legal interpretations of Act, which can be found at <a href="http://www.cpsc.gov/businfo/vgpsa.pdf">www.cpsc.gov/businfo/vgpsa.pdf</a>.Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-31126671707040335792009-02-17T10:09:00.000-05:002009-02-17T10:10:48.394-05:00Keeping Homeowners Informed, Part 2: Protecting Your ASSets<span style="font-size:85%;">This is a follow-up to and expansion of a previous post, </span><a title="http://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2009/02/keeping-homeowners-informed-and-happy.html" href="http://hspcblog.blogspot.com/2009/02/keeping-homeowners-informed-and-happy.html"><span style="font-size:85%;">Keeping Homeowners Informed and Happy</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">. Ensuring that homeowners are aware of developer decision-making and even developments in the actual planning process is not just an admirable goal for developers; in a time of economic recession, rising foreclosures, and mounting homeowner unease, it is a vital necessity. Developers concerned about lowering their risk and minimizing their liability in an environment of change and upheaval should communicate to homeowners not only regarding decisions involving the board of directors or homeowners directly, but also regarding planning and development decisions such as reducing density, the size of units, and price points. Although owners may have no direct say in any of these decisions, keeping them informed of the issues, considerations, options, and possible outcomes facing developers will go a long way toward enhancing developer-homeowner cooperation, building trust, and reducing developer exposure to unhappy residents in these uncertain times.<br /><br />If you have any questions about how to keep homeowners in the loop on a regular basis, or how to navigate communications with homeowners generally, please contact us. As always, questions and comments are encouraged and greatly appreciated.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-10856722557692242222009-02-13T16:23:00.000-05:002009-02-13T16:26:45.903-05:00Hyatt & Stubblefield and CSOs featured in Houston Business Journal<span style="font-size:85%;">Today’s </span><a title="http://houston.bizjournals.com/" href="http://houston.bizjournals.com/"><span style="font-size:85%;">Houston Business Journal</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> features an article by Teresa Talerico entitled </span><a title="http://houston.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2009/02/16/focus1.html?b=" t="printable" href="http://houston.bizjournals.com/houston/stories/2009/02/16/focus1.html?b=1234760400%5e1776976&t=printable"><span style="font-size:85%;">Building Roots into the Master Plan</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">. The article discusses the creation and success of community stewardship organizations, or CSOs at </span><a title="http://www.telfair.com/Home.aspx" href="http://www.telfair.com/Home.aspx"><span style="font-size:85%;">Telfair</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> and </span><a title="http://www.laderaranch.com/" href="http://www.laderaranch.com/"><span style="font-size:85%;">Ladera Ranch</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;">, two communities in Sugar Land, Texas, and Orange County, California, respectively. Both of these communities were developed with the help of Hyatt & Stubblefield. As noted in the article, “these social and philanthropic nonprofit organizations complement traditional homeowners’ associations, or HOAs. While HOAs handle deed restrictions and other matters, CSOs can enhance quality of life for residents and foster a greater sense of neighborhood — both inside and outside the community.” If you have any questions about CSOs or would like information on how we can help you establish CSOs, or what CSOs can do, please do not hesitate to contact us. We’re more than glad to help.<br /><br />Shareholder </span><a title="http://www.hspclegal.com/joanne.html" href="http://www.hspclegal.com/joanne.html"><span style="font-size:85%;">Jo Anne Stubblefield</span></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> is quoted in the article.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-5031138067179741592009-02-12T11:08:00.003-05:002009-02-12T11:46:13.046-05:00Renters Are Your Friends<span style="font-size:85%;">Renters have long been perceived and treated, rightly or wrongly, as negative forces within a community. Because of anticipated problems relating to property maintenance and upkeep, the behavior of renters generally, and the negative impact of rentals on property values in the community, many communities have included provisions in their governing documents which limit or prohibit rentals in the community. The secondary mortgage market also has contributed to this perception of rentals by encouraging owner-occupied communities.<br /><br />Given the current economic and housing downturn, it is appropriate for communities to rethink such strict restrictions on rentals. Permitting renters in a community may help financially, by allowing non-occupying owners to pay assessments. Also, people occupying units or homes in a community, whether as renters or owners, creates a vibrancy within the community that, ironically, may help stabilize or increase values. As such, while targeting the negative behavior associated with renters should remain a priority, loosening restrictions on rentals within the community may provide some short or long term assistance in distressed environments.<br /><br />Now is the time for communities to analyze their governing documents and their practices to determine whether policies and provisions relating to renters are appropriate in this environment and to consider how to encourage responsible renting while continuing to discourage the negative behaviors associated with rentals. Please contact us to discuss this. We would be happy to help.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-79819205576035158922009-02-12T11:03:00.002-05:002009-02-12T11:45:36.052-05:00Keeping Homeowners Informed and Happy<span style="font-size:85%;">During tough economic times, while it may prove necessary to reduce operating costs by, for example, limiting access to amenities or even shutting them down altogether, it is also imperative that the association keep homeowners informed throughout the decision-making process. Although excluding homeowners from decision-making may seem like the easiest, most conflict-free way to go, overlooking homeowner opinion may turn out to be the worst possible course of action, as angry homeowners may react very strongly and negatively to such lack of communication and involvement. Keeping owners informed is your best bet to limit conflict and your legal exposure in a weak economy. Who knows? As homeowners themselves retrench and tighten their own budgets, they may be able to come up with creative ideas and solutions to help the association survive the recession as well.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-78643933766240007262009-01-27T15:17:00.008-05:002009-01-27T18:58:42.259-05:00A Timely Announcement for Developers, Lenders, & Fellow Lawyers<span style=";font-family:arial;font-size:85%;" >As the economic and housing downturn has gotten worse, many real estate developers and developments have fallen into distress due to the lack of sales, inadequate or dysfunctional community association governance, and potential liability issues arising from construction, representations, operations, or other causes. These problems can be quite significant as lenders seek to operate and reposition projects, as successors seek to revitalize a development, or as the original developer tries to make the project ultimately work.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Community association law in all its variations is our fundamental area of practice. Over the years, we have worked with developers not only in creating and operating hundreds of new condominium and homeowner associations, but also helping to restructure and reposition distressed projects. </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Many of our clients have welcomed simple, straight forward assistance such as a day or half-day "tutorial" on community association governance and addressing homeowner concerns.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >We are also genuinely interested in working together with homeowners themselves to make them part of a viable solution rather than a permanent part of a growing problem.<br /><br /></span><span style=";font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;" >Our national practice has provided us with an extremely deep and well-equipped "tool box" of ideas and approaches and an awareness of what works and what perhaps might not. Over the coming weeks and months, we will use this blog to discuss lessons we have learned and ideas we have gleaned from over three decades as leaders and innovators in community association law. We hope you will find this information useful, and we look forward to receiving any feedback or questions you may have for us.</span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-16885978422550596962009-01-27T15:09:00.003-05:002009-02-03T10:23:14.877-05:00Publication of New Article: Practical Issues in Planning for Age-Restricted Housing under the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA)<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Associate <a href="http://www.hspclegal.com/marian.html">Marian Black</a> and shareholder <a href="http://www.hspclegal.com/janet.html">Jan Bozeman</a> authored the recent article “Practical Issues in Planning for Age-Restricted Housing Under the Housing for Older Persons Act (HOPA)” published in the January/February 2009 issue of </span><a title="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/publications/magazine/home.html" href="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/publications/magazine/home.html"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Probate & Property</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">, a publication of the </span><a title="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/" href="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"> of the </span><a title="http://www.abanet.org/" href="http://www.abanet.org/"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">American Bar Association</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">. The article discusses practical issues and potential pitfalls for developers of age-restricted communities, such as distinguishing business strategy from marketing strategy, disclosing age restrictions, selling into the “20% buffer,” defining “occupancy,” and taking account of state and local laws. Members of the Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section of the ABA can access the article directly </span><a title="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/publications/magazine/2009/jf/index.html" href="http://www.abanet.org/rppt/publications/magazine/2009/jf/index.html"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">here</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">, or you can </span><a title="mailto:h&s@hspclegal.com" href="mailto:h&s@hspclegal.com"><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;">contact us</span></a><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:85%;"> directly for a copy.</span> </span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8024016481885949207.post-4635867745238937182008-12-18T08:31:00.004-05:002009-01-27T18:59:23.171-05:00Upcoming events: Winter 2008-2009<span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></span><span style="font-family:Arial;font-size:85%;"><span class="917275122-17122008"><a href="http://www.hspclegal.com/joanne.html">Jo Anne Stubblefield</a> will be serving as a faculty member for the upcoming <a href="http://www.ali-aba.org/">ALI-ABA</a> program on "<a href="http://www.ali-aba.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=courses.course&course_code=CP047&contenttype=11">Drafting (and Re-Drafting) Documents for Condominiums and Planned Communities in Troubled Times</a>" to be held February 26-28, 2009 at The Westin Riverwalk in San Antonio, Texas. Attorneys and developers involved and/or interested in workouts and revitalizing troubled projects should attend.</span></span><span style="font-family:arial;font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"></span></span>Hyatt and Stubblefield, PChttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09318815792297158433noreply@blogger.com0