Community Associations Network Industry News

PALO ALTO, Calif., Aug. 29 /PRNewswire/ -- Video demands high speed, and residents at the brand new Watermark luxury condominiums next to the San Francisco Bay Bridge can now enjoy warp speed Internet, thanks to Palo Alto based SecureNet. With documented speeds of 50 mbps and above, SecureNet's optical fiber Internet service makes cable and DSL look like throwbacks to the Stone Age. Already providing Internet and unlimited worldwide VoIP at the Watermark, SecureNet is close to launching their IPTV service for a full Triple Play offering. Tech-savvy residents are particularly thrilled, and eagerly awaiting their new IPTV connection.

"Your system is stunningly fast. Makes our plain old T-1 look like dial-up AOL. Very impressive," said Tom Prlain, Watermark resident and Client Services Director at Cynergy Financial. It is customers like Prlain that SecureNet caters to, because these are people who appreciate the good things in life, and don't want to sacrifice their time or quality of life due to outmoded technology.

"Our services are not for everybody, and we know that," explains Derwin Cox, SecureNet's founder and President. "Our product is tailored for an upscale niche that only wants the very best internet, phone, and television experience available -- a service that is beyond the reach of your average consumer," continued Cox. SecureNet offers a minimum of 10 mbps in both directions, for both uploads and downloads, that's burstable to 100 mbps. Because of the foresight of the Watermark's developer and management, SecureNet was able to pull their fiber up the building's core during construction. That positions their fiber to be no further than 50 feet from every Watermark unit. SecureNet's optical fiber is powered by the Fiber Internet Center of Palo Alto, California.

"Unlike satellite, cable, and DSL, our optical fiber is not sensitive to weather, distance, or the number of simultaneous users," explained Joel Gutierrez, SecureNet's Director of Information Technology. "That's why we can provide unbelievably fast speeds and incredible quality," he added. In today's slowing real estate market, every edge can make the difference between a successful sale and a lost prospect. The Watermark has an advantage over other luxury condo complexes that are hamstrung with maddeningly slow cable and DSL for their buildings. By installing optical fiber during construction, rather than retrofitting, the cost of fiber is only slightly more than copper (as little as 10 cents more per linear foot). SecureNet can install fiber in existing buildings as well, to give building owners viable solutions to stay competitive in their market, and meet growing consumer demands for IP services. "It's vital that developers get accurate information about their technology options for new construction, to keep their projects on the leading edge in the marketplace, and to maximize their revenues," advised Cox.

That's why SecureNet is spreading the word to building developers and owners, to help them ensure that their condo, hotel, and commercial towers include the newest technology available, and the very best in concierge IP services.

About SecureNet, LLC

SecureNet, LLC is a leading provider of triple play and concierge IP services which include Internet, Voice Over IP, and IPTV. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. SecureNet uses high-speed fiber optic networks to provide the latest IP-centric services to condos, hotels and commercial towers throughout the State of California. For details please visit http://www.the-securenet.com or Call Derwin Cox at 650-353-3538.

About Watermark

The Watermark condo project is the first phase of a project that will include offices, shops, a parking garage and cruise ship terminal. The condominium tower was built in the parking lot across from Pier 30-32 along the Embarcadero. For more details call 415-371-1608.

About Fiber Internet Center, LLC

The Fiber Internet Center is a leading provider of fiber-to-businesses in Northern and Southern California. Headquartered in Palo Alto, CA. the Fiber Internet Center uses the latest fiber technologies to provide the most cost- effective fiber connections to businesses. For details and fiber maps please visit http://www.FiberInternetCenter.com or Call Gus Sanchez at 650-330-0428.

Contact: Derwin Cox
Phone: 650-353-3538

Posted by Joe at 11:30 AM | Permalink

Parker Finch Management, a leading Arizona community association management firm, has awarded its latest franchise to real estate veteran Lori Warring of Kingman, who will open offices in Kingman, Bullhead City and Lake Havasu City.

"Lori has shown in the past that she knows how to operate and grow a very successful business," said Matthew Wolach, Director of Franchise Development at Parker Finch. "She is an asset to the Parker Finch system as she and her team bring a great deal of professionalism to the table."

Warring, who has been a franchisee and broker with West USA Realty, sees the opportunity in community management and recognizes the need for a professional company across these growing areas of Arizona.

"The market in this area of the state is very young but there is tremendous growth," said Warring. "We believe that we are just at the beginning stages of that huge growth period."

Since announcing its plans to become the first community management firm to franchise its services, Parker Finch has already expanded its capabilities across Arizona and into Denver, with plans to expand its service across the southwestern United States in coming months.

"We’ve uncovered a fantastic opportunity to marry our successful business model with local expertise in communities across the southwest," said Jim Small, Chief Executive Officer of Parker Finch. "As we continue to rapidly expand our system, we intend for each of our franchises to become national models of superior customer service and overall industry excellence."

Parker Finch Management provides a comprehensive suite of services to homeowners associations and developers including clients such as Equity Residential, 20/20 Properties, Elliott Homes, Stratland Homes, Richmond American Homes and several other homebuilders. The firm’s expertise, professionalism, and commitment to quality service are second to none. Associations that partner with Parker Finch Management have found a way to experience a better community. For more information about Parker Finch, or to inquire about franchise opportunities or HOA services for a community, please visit www.parkerfinch.com

Posted by Joe at 11:42 AM | Permalink

FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Aug. 22 /PRNewswire/ -- One year after Hurricane Katrina swept across the Gulf Coast, hurricane victims, joined by the Academy of Florida Trial Lawyers (AFTL) and the Association of Trial Lawyers of America (ATLA), are today launching a national petition drive calling on insurance companies to put policyholders over profits by paying fair and just claims to area residents who find themselves near ruin.

AFTL and ATLA also released a report today, "Pattern of Greed: How Insurance Companies Put Profits Over Policyholders," which shows the insurance industry has made a practice of collecting billions of dollars from policyholders over the years and then stiffing them in their time of greatest need after various natural disasters. Meanwhile, the insurance industry is making record profits. To view both the petition and the report, visit http://www.peopleoverprofits.org/disaster_report.pdf.

"While the insurance industry enjoys record profits and CEOs bulging bank accounts, too many residents of the Gulf region are left waiting for the settlements they deserve to help them get back on their feet," said AFTL President Ed Zebersky. "Whether it be an earthquake, tornado or a hurricane, insurance companies have engaged in questionable tactics over the years to delay or deny the payment of justified and fair claims. That is why we are urging the insurance companies to clean up their act and pay fair and just claims once and for all."

"This mistreatment by our insurance company is unfair for our association because we have not filed a claim in 25 years. It is unfair to senior citizens on fixed incomes to have to come up with the money because insurance companies are playing games," said James Ofstein, board president of the Embassy Condominium Apartment Association, whose building in Ft. Lauderdale suffered significant damage as a result of Hurricane Katrina. Ofstein is using the civil justice system to hold his insurance company accountable for refusing to pay 100 % of what their association deserves.

"As long as our insurance company continues to act irresponsibly and fails to pay fair and just claims, the last resort for our association and its homeowners to hold the company accountable is the civil justice system," added Mr. Ofstein.

The report notes Hurricane Katrina is just the most recent example of insurance industry indifference. The storm caused an unthinkable $135 billion in damage, leaving thousands homeless, jobless and bereft of hope. Facing their darkest hour, residents from the Gulf region find themselves victimized a second time by an insurance industry offering pennies on the dollar, refusing to honor many agreements and not paying policyholders what they are deserved.

The report details a troubling pattern of questionable tactics used by insurance companies after earthquakes, tornados and other hurricanes to delay or deny the payment of fair and just claims. Meanwhile, as the report notes, insurance companies continue to increase their profits, posting a record industry-wide profit of more than $40 billion for 2005.

The report also highlights how some insurance companies may have even engaged in fraud. In Mississippi, Attorney General Jim Hood is charging that adjusters for some firms tried to trick Katrina victims out of millions of dollars in homeowner claims.

Posted by Joe at 10:26 AM | Permalink

For some people getting ready for the hurricane season means buying bottled water and checking the flashlight batteries, but the National Weather Service wants residents to be better prepared.
The NWS has created StormReady, a program that helps communities prepare through better planning, education and awareness.

Thanks to the efforts of Sandestin’s Director of Security Tom Cooper, the Sandestin Community has been recognized as a StormReady Supporter by the NWS.

The StormReady program establishes a warning system, requires communities to have more than one way to receive warnings and alert the public, creates a weather monitoring system and promotes public readiness.
“That’s two thirds of the battle,” Bob Gorre of the National Weather Service in Tallahassee said.

When people receive a storm warning and know what to do, lives are saved, Gorre said. “Tom was eager to take part and move forward with the readiness program,” Gorre said. Within the StormReady program, there are three designations – communities, commercial sites and supporters. Businesses, schools, hospitals, shopping centers and malls often establish severe weather safety plans and actively take part and promote severe weather safety awareness activities, which is required for the StormReady Supporter designation.

“The county is a StormReady county,” Cooper said, “and we support the county in their readiness programs.”
The program involved administrative and organizational work for Sandestin personnel, but Cooper, who learned of the program at the Governor’s Hurricane Conference, said he also worked with the county and the state to earn the distinction.

“It’s an honor for the Sandestin Community to receive this designation. It shows the commitment of Sandestin Owners Association to keep everyone informed the best way we can to assist the county and the state in weather awareness,” Cooper said.

Sandestin’s security office monitors weather warnings from an approved Web site, weather radios and emergencymail.org to be aware of emergency weather issues. Security has a list of all PCs in the resort and sends out warnings as necessary. Cooper plans to include a homeowner database in the distribution to alert residents in the community of emergency weather conditions.

“Many people look out the window and see a thunderstorm, but aren’t necessarily aware that it is a severe thunderstorm. With our system to alert them, they can be informed,” Cooper said.

Posted by Joe at 10:48 AM | Permalink

Seahaus has been named the Best Low-Density Attached Project of the Year by the Building Industry Association of Southern California at the 31st Annual MAME Awards.

"It is indeed an honor to receive such a high level of recognition from the building industry," said Michael D. Pattinson, president of Barratt American. "We at Barratt have always strove to maintain the topmost standards in home design, construction and outfitting, and such a significant endorsement is truly gratifying."

As Barratt's premier urban redevelopment undertaking, Seahaus in the Bird Rock area of La Jolla is no stranger to being first. It was named a finalist in more categories than any other community in the 2004 SAM Awards, produced by the San Diego Building Industry Association and, in 2005, earned top honors in several categories at The Nationals, a building industry award program presented by the National Association of Home Builders.

Despite the effects of a slowing housing market, Seahaus is heading toward a sellout with only a handful of the 138 units still available. This year alone, 20 homes have sold -- most for a million dollars or more.

When Seahaus debuted, two-story townhomes, large elegant flats, single-level oceanview condominium homes and sprightly loft studios were offered in five distinct product lines with prices ranging from the $400,000s to more than $1 million.

Currently available are four one-bedroom, 2 1/2-bath homes and three two-bedroom, two-bath homes. Prices for available units start in the $800,000s.

From atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific, Seahaus captures the elegance of seaside living with classic 20th century coastal architecture. The neighborhood incorporates several fountains on beautifully manicured grounds and recreational amenities such as swimming pool with changing rooms, spa, firepit, barbecue grills and fitness center.

The MAME Awards, or Major Achievement in Marketing Excellence Awards, annually attracts over 500 entries for new-home communities in all six Southern California counties: Ventura, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange and San Diego.

Further information can be obtained by clicking onto http://www.barratt.com/ or calling toll-free (866) SEAHAUS.

Posted by Joe at 10:18 AM | Permalink

Parker Finch Management, a leading Arizona community association management firm, has awarded its first franchise, located in Denver, to real estate veteran Frank Madrid. With the award, Parker Finch has become the first community association management firm in the nation to franchise its operations.

“Parker Finch is lucky to have found a franchisee who is so driven and motivated,” said Matthew Wolach, Director of Franchise Development at Parker Finch. “I think Frank will be very successful in the Denver market.”

Madrid, who previously worked in real estate sales with Keller Williams, sees the opportunity in community management and recognizes the need for a professional company in the Denver area.

“With at least 300,000 home owners associations in the country, and thousands in the Denver area, the market for these service offerings, including professional management, accurate accounting, assessment collection, property supervision, vendor management, board member training, consulting and budgeting has never been stronger,” said Madrid.

This year, Parker Finch plans to expand its capabilities and superior customer service across the southwestern United States, including Tucson, Kingman and Casa Grande in Arizona, along with Las Vegas and Salt Lake City.

“It makes sense to expand our capabilities through franchising. It will give each market Parker Finch Management’s experience, technology and highly successful business model coupled with local expertise and understanding,” said Jim Small, Chief Executive Officer of Parker Finch.

Parker Finch Management provides a comprehensive suite of services to homeowners associations and developers including clients such as Equity Residential, 20/20 Properties, Elliott Homes, Stratland Homes, Richmond American Homes and several other homebuilders. The firm’s expertise, professionalism, and commitment to quality service are second to none. Associations that partner with Parker Finch Management have found a way to experience a better community. For more information about Parker Finch, or to inquire about franchise opportunities or HOA services for a community, please visit www.parkerfinch.com.

Posted by Joe at 10:45 AM | Permalink

In a recent real estate lawsuit, the buyers of a condominium alleged they had suffered health problems and damages as a result of mold exposure. They sued the sellers of the condo, their real estate agent, the homeowners association, and home inspectors. Their failure to disclose lawsuit alleged negligence, breach of contract, and misrepresentation. When the case went to trial, Plaintiffs presented numerous expert witnesses that testified the toxic mold had been present for some time. Kevin J. Gramling, an attorney for Klinedinst PC, represented the sellers of the condo, and was able to successfully demonstrate that the sellers had not misrepresented the sale, and that there was no negligence, fraud or breach of contract in the real estate transaction. This case could be a harbinger of lawsuits to come, given the myths still surrounding mold and toxic torts, and the high number of real estate transactions in California.

Santa Ana, CA (PRWEB) August 2, 2006 -- Kevin J. Gramling, the managing shareholder in Klinedinst's Santa Ana office, recently won a complex bench trial where the Plaintiffs alleged that the sellers of a condominium failed to disclose the presence of toxic mold.

Klinedinst represented a husband and wife who sold their Huntington Beach condominium to the Plaintiffs in November, 2004. Weeks after escrow closed, the Plaintiffs began experiencing water leaks and noticing water stains. The Plaintiffs hired construction and industrial hygienist experts to examine the problem. The experts concluded that two exterior decks and the condominium's wood siding were indeed leaking and causing mold growth.

The Plaintiffs and their two minor children moved out of the condo in January, 2005. One child was hospitalized repeatedly for symptoms allegedly caused by exposure to toxic mold spores. The other Plaintiffs complained of symptoms frequently associated with mold exposure, including respiratory ailments, rashes, and fatigue.

Four months after purchasing the condo, the Plaintiffs filed a lawsuit against the sellers, their real estate agent, the homeowners association, the termite inspector and the home inspector. Plaintiffs alleged causes of action for negligence, fraud, breach of contract, and negligent misrepresentation against the sellers. The Plaintiffs were seeking over $250,000 in damages from the sellers; all other parties settled prior to trial. The sellers denied experiencing leaks while living there, and denied covering up the water stains prior to completion of the real estate transaction.

Klinedinst attorneys were brought in to represent the sellers, and Kevin J. Gramling personally handled the case. Mr. Gramling has defended housing manufacturers, developers, mobile home park owners, apartment owners/managers, and commercial building owners in toxic tort litigation. Mr. Gramling's experience in complex toxic mold trials, including a defense verdict in the first mold wrongful death case to go to trial, was recognized as being crucial for the defense, especially with allegations of health ailments involving minor children.

In June, 2006, the bench trial (bifurcated) began in Orange County Superior Court, with Judge Derek Hunt presiding. The Plaintiffs presented numerous experts to prove their case, including a general contractor and a certified industrial hygienist. Mr. Gramling, on behalf of the sellers, was able to cut through the myths involving toxic mold, and presented a clear, concise defense without calling any expert witnesses.

On June 29, 2006, a minute order was issued finding in favor of the Defendants on all causes of action. The Defendants will file a memorandum of costs, and a motion for attorneys fees to recoup nearly $60,000 in fees and costs.

The impact of this case could be far-reaching, especially in light of the incredible number of real estate transactions in California. There are still many myths that surround mold and other toxic torts, and we expect these failure to disclose lawsuits to continue in the future.

The case was Griffith et al. v. Nguyen et al. (Orange County Superior Court, Case No. 05CC05122)

Klinedinst congratulates Kevin J. Gramling for his success in this contentious toxic mold case.

Posted by Joe at 10:13 AM | Permalink