November 2002
The issue of landscaping attracts more attention than virtually any other facet of life in a Homeowners' Association. Everybody seems to be an expert or at least to have an opinion they feel compelled to verbalize. So much so that an important point gets lost: landscaping means "curb appeal," and that translates almost directly to "market value." Your Board is certainly aware of the latter, realizing that their "landscape" decisions will have a direct impact on the value of your home and your neighbor's home. Accordingly, the landscape folks do their homework, taking into consideration such matter as tree care and irrigation. As well, they recognize that plant materials don't last forever and that the renovation of old, tired plantings can boost property values. They seek out consultants and specialists to extend their own knowledge, and always they're on the lookout for colorful plants and shrubs that need only modest amounts of water and trimming. In short, their goals are to create a look that says "this is Villa Monterey."
You may have noticed moving containers at Villa Monterey. We have been told that the company that provides the containers does not pick up on Saturday, Sunday or Monday. So, if you see a container, it will most likely be picked up on Tuesday. When moving, people usually try to schedule their move over a weekend. So, please be patient while they are coming / going.
Please don't put bird seed in the common area, for it's apt to germinate. And that results in some very strange looking grass. More work for our landscape people. And we urge you not to put up bird feeders in your patios. For seed that falls to the ground attracts rodents. The same applies to mini-fountains. You'll attract animals you're not apt to want. You just have no idea of the wildlife that's out there.
Pool users have broken keys off in the gate lock twice in the past month, and each time we'd have to get a technician to clear the lock. Those with broken keys may be asked to assume the cost of repair when they come for replacement keys.
Many of our newer residents are coming into condo/ townhouse living for the first time. And those who come with dogs have a special challenge. Yes, we know it's strange and that your animals are going to bark at first. But there comes that point when their barking is annoying to neighbors. And they're not going to understand when your patio becomes a dog "potty yard" - it isn't. Please do read that section of the rules manual that covers pets and your responsibilities. Spare yourself the letters that are going to come your way, the "Show Cause" hearings before the Board.
When you rent the clubhouse, the manager verbally goes through what we expect from renters. The latter sign a form, as well, that spells out much of what they've heard. In brief, the renter is responsible for the condition and safety of the clubhouse. Why then, when he exits, does he fail to lock the outside door or the bathroom door? He's responsible and presumably liable for any damages or loss that follow. And why does he fail to take away his trash - he's been told to do so. One recent renter thought he could stuff the outside cans with party residue. That meant ants and more ants. That's extra work and that means we may have to ask an extra fee. The clubhouse is inspected both before and after every rental. It will be clean and trash free when you enter; it should be much the same when you exit.
Along with having air vents cleaned, another aspect of home maintenance that needs to be addressed by the homeowner is dryer vent cleaning. When it's running, the dryer consumes 50% of the energy used in a household, generating heat which needs to be dissipated, and lint which needs to be removed. This lint buildup in the dryer vent is the source of many problems to the homeowner and the renter alike. The results of improper vent maintenance range from increased energy consumption, dryer damage, and the inconvenience of longer drying time, to the worst case of excessive heat buildup and fires.
Just what is an "A" unit in our homeowner's association? What is a "B" or a "C"? These terms-assigned by the builders-keep coming up and make sense only to Realtors or to Board Members. Here then is something by way of clarification. An "A" unit? We have only one and that was part of the model homes. I'm guessing it did not prove all that popular and thus the lone specimen. Get an early settler to show you where the "models" were and it's the end unit near Antigua.
"B" units -- our most popular end unit -- are distinguished by two large upstairs bedrooms with bathrooms attached. As well, there's a half bath down stairs. "C" units -- end units again -- are one-story affairs with two bedrooms and a bath between. As well, there's a vanity in the larger of the two bedrooms. "D" units are distinguished by three bedrooms and a single bathroom on the 2nd story. There's a vanity in the principal bedroom and a half bath on the 1st floor. "E" units are readily recognized by what's usually referred to as "the bonus room." Look for that upstairs balcony -- over the garage. That tells you it's an "E" just as looking for a flat garage room tells you it's a "D."
"F" units boast a "den" on the ground floor. As well, their principal bedroom is at ground level. Two other bedrooms and a bath are in the 2nd story. The "F" today seems our most popular model. But all have features that appeal. Not least are "upgrades" that owners have added over the years. Eye catching surely is the creation of recessed "housing" in the kitchen ceiling. Dated neon light tubes are replaced by recessed fixtures and sometimes a ceiling fan.
Floor plans for "B" through "F" may be viewed at the Floor Plans page.
There have been questions when a parking permit is required for visitors parking. A parking permit is required only when a guest is utilizing visitor parking more than 48 hours in a seven day period. The seven day period begins with the first parking notice. Parking notices are placed each night on the windshields of cars parking in guest parking not displaying guest permits. This allows the Association to monitor parking within Villa Monterey HOA. With the Holidays fast approaching, many of you will have guests staying longer than two days. Guest parking permits can be issued for up to seven days by calling Preferred Property Managers, at (619) 220-8773.
The next monthly Board Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, 2002 at 6:00 p.m. at the clubhouse located in the community.
© Copyright 2002 Villa Monterey HOA
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