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 Holiday Decoration Rules — What to Check Before You Decorate
Most HOAs limit display windows to 30-45 days around each holiday — check your CC&Rs before you decorate to avoid a violation notice.
HO-6 Condo Insurance Explained — What Your Master Policy Doesn't Cover
HO-6 insurance fills the gaps left by your condo association's master policy — typically covering interior walls, cabinets, personal property, and liability inside your unit.
HOA Flag Display Rights — What Federal Law Actually Protects
The Freedom to Display the American Flag Act bars HOAs from banning the US flag outright, but associations can still regulate size, placement, and installation method.
How to Fire an HOA Management Company (Process + Checklist)
Most HOA management contracts require 30-90 days' notice and a formal handover — here's how boards switch companies without losing records or service.
HOA Fidelity Bond Coverage — How to Size and Structure It
Fidelity bond coverage protects associations from theft by board members, managers, and staff — most states require coverage equal to operating funds plus reserves.
HOA Fence Rules — Height, Color & Material Guidelines (2025)
Most HOAs regulate fence height, materials, and colors differently for front, side, and back yards — here's what to check before you install or replace.
HOA Fair Debt Collection Compliance — Federal FDCPA Rules
The Fair Debt Collection Practices Act applies to HOA dues collection when third-party collectors are involved—boards must follow federal notice and communication rules.
When Can an HOA Hold an Executive Session? 5 Legal Topics
HOA executive sessions are limited by state law to five specific topics — most board business must happen in open meetings accessible to all owners.
HOA EV Charger Rights 2026 — What Homeowners Need to Know
More than 20 states now limit HOA power to deny EV charger installations, but approval processes still apply — here's what changed in 2026.
HOA Emotional Support Animal Rules — What Boards Must Know
Emotional support animals have federal Fair Housing Act protections that override standard HOA pet restrictions — boards need compliant documentation processes to avoid violations.
HOA Emergency Preparedness Plan — What to Include in 2025
A written emergency plan cuts HOA response time by 48-72 hours during regional disasters when vendors are overbooked and communication networks fail.
HOA Emergency Meeting Notice Rules — What Boards Must Follow
Most states allow 24-48 hours' notice for emergency board meetings, but only when the situation meets a narrow statutory definition of urgency.
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