Okoniq Journal
Property tips, taxes & HOA guides
Plain-language guides for homeowners, landlords, and HOA boards — written to help you stay organized and keep more of your money at tax time.
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Getting Started
New to managing property? Start here.
Taxes & Accounting
Deductions, basis, Schedule E, and staying audit-ready.
Renting & Tenants
Leases, rent, screening, and tenant relationships.
Maintenance & Repairs
Upkeep, vendors, and keeping a home in shape.
Mortgage & Money
Financing, refinancing, insurance, and cash flow.
Buying & Selling
Valuation, prepping to sell, and the closing process.
HOA & Community
Boards, reserves, meetings, and living in an HOA.
Latest articles
HOA Front Yard Vegetable Garden Rules — What's Legal in 2025?
14 states now prohibit HOAs from banning front-yard vegetable gardens outright, but boards can still regulate appearance and maintenance standards.
HOA Tree Removal Approval Process — 6 Steps That Work
Tree removal requests top the list of HOA disputes, but a documented arborist report and replacement plan triple your approval odds.
HOA Transparency Requirements 2026 — What Owners Can Request
Over 30 states now mandate specific HOA document disclosure timelines — from meeting minutes within 10 days to annual reserve study access.
HOA Transition From Developer Checklist — 6 Critical Steps
The median HOA transition fails to transfer 40% of required documents—here's the six-part checklist that protects homeowners from developer handover gaps.
HOA Special Assessment Approval Process — What Boards Must Do
Most CC&Rs require owner approval for special assessments above a threshold — skipping notice or vote steps can void the assessment entirely.
HOA Solar Panel Restrictions by State — What Owners Can Install
At least 29 states now limit HOA power to block solar panel installations — but every installation still requires proper documentation and architectural approval.
HOA Slip and Fall Liability — How to Reduce Risk in Common Areas
Slip-and-fall claims account for roughly 1 million emergency room visits annually in the U.S., and HOA common areas are frequent targets.
HOA Short-Term Rental Restrictions — What to Check Before Listing
Over 60% of HOAs now restrict short-term rentals — many ban them outright or require 30-day minimum leases, registration, and extra insurance.
HOA Satellite Dish Rules — What Federal Law Actually Allows
The FCC's OTARD rule preempts most HOA bans on dishes one meter or smaller — but location, safety, and documentation still matter.
HOA RV and Boat Parking Rules — What You Need to Know Before Buying
67% of HOAs prohibit visible RV and boat storage year-round — check your CC&Rs parking section before you buy a recreational vehicle or face fines.
How to Recall an HOA Board Member — Step-by-Step Process
Recalling an HOA board member requires following strict procedural rules spelled out in your CC&Rs and state law — skipping steps can void the entire effort.
HOA Proxy Voting Rules — What Boards and Owners Need to Know
Proxy voting rules differ by state and by HOA governing documents — some cap how many one person can hold, others require specific forms or revocation procedures.
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