Sprinkler Low-Head-Drainage

Having problem with run-off and cannot figure out why? According to AZ Master Gardener Manual, "Pop-up spray irrigation systems typically have the poorest uniformities,

Calculating the Fully Funded Reserve Amount

Does your board know how to calculate the amount needed to be fully funded?  It isn't as easy as one may think.  You cannot take the figures calculated on the Cash Flow Specific Projections or the Distribution of Accumulated Reserves Schedules and use them as the amount needed to be fully funded.  Unless your community as been following the study to the letter and the amount in the reserve fund at year end when the study was done was correct. 

It's That Time of Year

Just a reminder it's time to begin selecting which winter grass you will plant this fall.  There are lots of different kinds of winter grass that can be planted.  To avoid weeds and get the best germination rates use the fresh pure seeds.  Not all grass is the same color of green, try planting something different for a new look this year.  Some of the most simple things can change the entire look of a community.  Give it a try.   

Is Your HOA Nickel and Diming You to Death?

Is your HOA charging you for expenses over and above your regular dues?   Do you feel nickel and dimed by the board and watch in disgust as they spend 36K on a very ugly monument sign that doesn't match the Spanish Revival style of the community?  You may not be responsible for them regardless who voted on it.  

Urban Landscaping Ideas | Garden Guides

As we get into the portion of the year where we can get outside in AZ and not go up in flames. People are beginning to think about landscape design and different plants to plant. For those of us in South Scottsdale the city has gone to an Urban Landscape and Urban Desert Landscape.

For those of you wondering what that means here is a good article to give you ideas and explanations. With the exception of the Urban Desert Landscape an urban landscape is still green and lush with lots of color. Which makes sense because in order to keep with the city's heritage the look and feel of the downtown area/S. Scottsdale has to have a "homey" feeling. Where as a desert landscape would create a feeling of being out in the middle of nowhere. Who wants to come to "nowhere" for the winter or vacation?  Nobody, unless of course "nowhere" is on a tropical beach oasis somewhere! (he he)

Urban Landscaping Ideas Garden Guides

Before Approving any Projects the Board Should be Given a Project Evaulation for Each Project to Study

Before a board votes on a motion to complete a project a project evaluation should be given to them.  If it isn't the motion should die.  Project evaluations give the details of the project where a quick 2 minute discussion or motion does not.  It will save time and energy for everyone. 

Some Improvements May Not Be In The Community's Best Interests

Trading one asset for another may not be in a community's best interest.   Increasing maintenance costs also increases dues.    

Design Ideas for Unsightly Utility Boxes

Have you ever looked at your landscaping and thought something just wasn't right?  There's nothing really wrong with it, but it just doesn't look right for some reason.  This could be the culprit;

Desert Landscape - Plant it and Forget it!

If you have ever driven down Lincoln in Phoenix, take note on how much of the landscape looks like crap.  Planting desert plants that don't need water has turned into plant it and forget it.  I will say many of the communities have taken action, but many have not.  Let's get real all desert landscape looks like this eventually. 

Where Does It Go?

When boards decide to remove things from the landscaping that created depth and interest like decorative brick work.  Where does it go?

If Your HOA BoD is Putting Off Scheduled Maintanance it's Only Costing You Money!

Prices have increased for everything and if your reserves were not up to par before. You can bet they aren't now! See how much the 2012 price prediction was in 2005, for doing a sealcoat and the actual cost in 2007, differ.

Do Not Buy Appliances At This Valley Retailer

If you find yourself in need of home appliances to either install in a new home or need to replace an existing item.  Do NOT go to Spencer's TV and Appliance to buy one.  Their prices may be better than other places, but their business practices are not what you would call honest.