http://alstnprkngrfuge.livejournal.com/ ([identity profile] alstnprkngrfuge.livejournal.com) wrote in [community profile] davis_square2007-10-04 10:07 pm
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Condo management company recommendations

How much do condo management companies typically charge small condo associations (less than 10 units) for their services, such as a fee just to be the management, and for things like cleaning, trash removal, landscaping, and snow removal?  And does anyone here have a management company they can recommend?

Thanks!

[identity profile] starry83.livejournal.com 2007-10-05 02:52 am (UTC)(link)
I own a condo in a 10 unit building in Davis and pay just over $200 a month, including all the things you mentioned, plus heat.

When I rented last year, my building had Nordblom Management (out of Allston, I think). At least from a tenant's perspective, they were great. They were friendly and competent on the phone and fixed any issue within 24 hours.

[identity profile] mattdm.livejournal.com 2007-10-05 04:26 am (UTC)(link)
But does your condo association pay a management company? If so, what percentage of the $200 is that?

[identity profile] starry83.livejournal.com 2007-10-05 12:41 pm (UTC)(link)
I pay it directly to the management company (Harvard St. Management), so I'm not sure what percentage is going to them and what is going to the condo association's reserve account. The company seems fine, nothing outstandingly good or bad. If something goes wrong in the building and they have to come fix it, they charge an extra fee to the condo association.

[identity profile] mattdm.livejournal.com 2007-10-05 01:24 pm (UTC)(link)
You should get a yearly budget at some point. I highly suggest you check it out so you know where your money is going. :)

[identity profile] starry83.livejournal.com 2007-10-08 07:56 pm (UTC)(link)
I believe it includes water, master insurance and reserves, although as I said, I haven't looked at a budget and so I don't know for sure. I don't pay anything for any of those separately, so that's my best guess. As you said, I should look at a real budget.