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Corporate Transparency Act – Do You Need to Take Action?

Posted on by Seacrest Services

The Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), aka the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting rule, is a U.S. law that was passed in 2021. It requires certain businesses to disclose ownership information to the U.S. Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN). The federal law was created to increase business transparency.

There are civil and even criminal penalties for those who willfully violate the BOI reporting requirements. Possible violations include deliberately failing to file a beneficial ownership information report, deliberately filing false beneficial ownership information, or deliberately failing to update previously reported beneficial ownership information.

Any domestic reporting company created before January 1, 2024, must file an initial report no later than January 1, 2025. There is a list of required information to be submitted.

While some entities are exempt from beneficial ownership information reporting requirements, community associations are not.

Your company’s beneficial ownership information is reported electronically through FinCEN’s BOI E-Filing website https://boiefiling.fincen.gov/.

Should you have any questions or concerns about the act’s requirements, it is prudent to consult your attorney or CPA for guidance.

James Bourassa

VP of Property Management

Seacrest Services Inc.

Preventative Maintenance – No Longer Optional

Posted on by Seacrest Services
By James Bourassa

WHAT IS PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE?
Preventive maintenance refers to the routine maintenance tasks performed on the association’s physical assets and mechanical equipment
components. It is prudent to have preventive maintenance items on a
recurring schedule. Preventive maintenance is performed to help extend
the life of the different assets and equipment within the community’s property, decrease repair costs, limit liability, and prevent the likelihood of equipment failure and unplanned downtime. Examples of preventive maintenance include a detailed inspection of the assets and equipment, cleaning equipment regularly to limit dirt and dust buildup, lubricating equipment to limit premature wearing optimizing energy efficiency, and making repairs and comprehensive preventive maintenance programs are key components to a successful partnership between the association and the management company.

STAYING AHEAD OF ISSUES
Traditionally, maintenance is more reactive than proactive. This is no longer sufficient to cope with the ongoing maintenance issues an association experiences.
In January 2022 Florida lawmakers advanced Senate Bill 1702 stating that a mandatory structural inspection program for multi-family and residential buildings taller than three stories and larger than 3,500 square feet must be established. The Florida Division of Hotels and Restaurants also states that condominiums with elevators or escalators must be inspected yearly, and buildings with balconies must be inspected every three years.
Even if the association does not fall under these categories, it’s crucial to conduct regular inspections. Inspections can spot any early issues in a building’s foundation, structural and electrical systems, and more. Spotting issues early on can often save hundreds of thousands of dollars and can also protect residents and visitors.
Unexpected repairs can be costly, cause unwarranted headaches, and skew the budget. Why wait? It is best to get ahead of problems as much as possible, Boards are impressed with, extensive and detailed planning It becomes a feather in a property manager’s hat.

WHO EXECUTES A PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE PLAN?
A combination of on-site staff and vendors perform the necessary tasks outlined in a schedule developed by management. A maintenance supervisor plays a vital role in making sure that the community buildings, facilities, and equipment are maintained properly. His/her responsibilities include developing HOA maintenance plans, overseeing repairs, managing maintenance staff, and ensuring compliance with safety regulations. In combination with the property manager, the supervisor also coordinates with outside contractors and vendors, manages the maintenance budget, and schedules regular inspections.
Examples of what the on-site staff can do include detailed insper-tons with documented results and the completion of minor repairs Larger items such as HVAC maintenance, fire equipment maintenance, landscape hazards, roads, generator maintenance, and roof inspections require the expertise of a reputable vendor. An engineer may also have a role in the process, HOAs, condominiums, and high-rise condominiums all require preventive maintenance on different components.
The impact of a maintenance supervisor on the community is significant By maintaining the functionality and safety of buildings and facilities, the supervisor helps to create a positive and secure environment for the community It is critical that the supervisor and property manager effectively communicate and collaborate. Well-maintained facilities also contribute to the overall aesthetics of the community, enhancing its appeal to residents and visitors.

Additionally, the supervisor’s role in confirming compliance with safety regulations and standards helps to protect the well-being of community members, Overall, the work of a maintenance supervisor directly impacts the community by providing a well-maintained and safe environment for all who live, work, and visit the area.

PUTTING TOGETHER A SOUND PLAN
The first step in putting together a plan is to identify, all the components
and assets that should be added to the list of items to be maintained. Robust software
options such as a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) are available to assist with the process of developing a plan. The system automates inspection work orders and preventive maintenance tasks and documents on-time completions. A CMMS also helps support regulatory compliance when it’s time for an audit.
The reserve study can be referenced as part of the process as it serves as a checklist. Vendors and manufacturers can be consulted to determine an inspection frequency.
Age of the components is a significant factor. The determination of which items can be completed by on-site staff vs. an appropriate vendor should be made.
Establishing a system for recording and storing the data that comes as a result of the inspection and resulting maintenance is paramount. Accurate record-keeping is crucial. This is an area where the use of software can be effective.

Effective planning includes proper budgeting. While some may wish to avoid maintenance issues as much as possible, emergencies can arise when least expected. Whether dealing with a ruptured water line, broken HVAC system, or a kitchen fire, it is crucial that the association has an emergency fund.
Setting this healthy budget can prepare you to act quickly to resolve the problem and provide the safest experience for residents.
In conclusion, a successful preventive maintenance program requires preparation, planning, and proactive scheduling. A diligent management company can assist in creating a successful program customized to any association. A successful plan is one that provides peace of mind.

Your Essential Hurricane Readiness Checklist

Posted on by Seacrest Services

Preparing for hurricanes as a South Florida resident is crucial for your safety and the protection of your property. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get ready: 

  • Develop a Family Emergency Plan 

Create a plan with evacuation routes, emergency contacts, meeting points, and communication methods for family members in case of a hurricane. 

  • Assemble an Emergency Kit 

Prepare a comprehensive emergency kit with essential items like food, water, first aid supplies, medications, flashlights, batteries, cash, important documents, and supplies for infants, the elderly, or pets. 

  • Prepare Your Home 

Secure outdoor items, trim trees and shrubs, and reinforce garage doors and windows to protect against damage from high winds and flying debris. 

  • Review Insurance Coverage 

Check your homeowner’s insurance policy for sufficient coverage for hurricane damage, including windstorm and flood insurance. Understand deductibles, coverage limits, and exclusions. 

  • Stay Informed 

Stay informed about weather by monitoring forecasts, using reliable sources like radio, TV, weather apps, and signing up for emergency alerts from local authorities. 

  • Evacuation Planning 

Ensure you know your evacuation zone, have a plan, identify shelters, learn evacuation routes, and arrange transportation and accommodations for yourself, your family, and your pets if needed. 

  • Protect Important Documents 

Create digital backups of essential documents like IDs, insurance policies, medical records, and home ownership proofs in a secure place for protection. 

  • Secure Your Property 

If you’re not evacuating before a storm, secure your property by turning off utilities if advised, moving valuables to higher ground, and using sandbags to prevent flooding. 

  • Stay Safe During the Storm 

Stay indoors, away from windows. Use flashlights, not candles, if the power goes out. Avoid using generators indoors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. 

  • After the Storm 

Wait for authorities to declare safety before returning home. Beware of hazards like power lines and floods. Document property damage for insurance. Be patient while waiting for utilities and recovery efforts. 

Get Hurricane Ready with Seacrest’s Personalized Planning 

Seacrest helps associations create personalized hurricane preparedness plans tailored to their specific needs, breaking down steps and setting actionable goals for full readiness during hurricane season. 

 

By, Cliff Cameron 

Director of Landscape Services 

Marty’s Game Time! (Or Being Ready When the Other Shoe Drops)

Posted on by Seacrest Services

Game Time! What a Great Mindset! 

Communities are often faced with difficult decisions that come in many different forms. Usually, the unexpected most concerns us. While we cannot predict these challenges, we can regulate precise actions to minimize their impact. 

Seacrest already has the safety protocols you need to follow in the event of emergencies and injuries. Please familiarize yourself with them. 

Safety Protocols for Emergencies and Injuries 

Being prepared is often associated with foreseeable circumstances and is important for maintaining a well-run community. But how do we handle issues we have never experienced before?  

  • As a professional manager, you should first gather all the information about what happened and its impact. This should include calling witnesses and staff and visiting the location, even after the event. Keep hearsay separate from the facts.  
  • For mechanical breakdowns, conduct a thorough one-on-one interview with the repair person to understand the exact cause. This way, you can intelligently answer questions later, elevating your standing with the board. No one should know more about your property than you! 
  • Strive to be the person in your community who knows every aspect and can provide every answer. Your value expands as your knowledge encompasses all that you survey. 
  • As a manager, you should communicate the issue to the full board based on the facts presented and your knowledge of the property. Your suggestions should be presented as an option for the board to comment on and alter. A strong, well-researched recommendation shows the board you are competent, caring, and loyal to the community. 
  • If the board receives it well, it’s a testament that you’ve done your job and earned their trust. Also, always inform the board when you negotiate a good deal or find ways to save the community money. Boards appreciate managers who think about lowering expenses and showing they care! 

  

That’s Game Time! 

Marty Wainer, LCAM

Regional Director of Property Management

Save Big By Hiring Property Management Professionals

Posted on by Digital Resource

Managing your property or community on your own might seem like a smart idea at first, but it can actually cost you more money in the long run, especially if you are not experienced in what it takes to run its day to day operation. While you might save a small amount of money initially, the stress and burden on you will eventually become too much to bear. Whether you’re managing a homeowner’s association, condo complex or rental property, hiring the right management company is the key to running your business successfully. At Seacrest Services, Inc., we’ve been in business as a full-service property management company since 1975. With our goal to deliver unparalleled service to your community, our property management service in West Palm Beach is here to help you with all of your property’s management, financial and janitorial needs. Rest assured that we can save you time and money in the long run with our numerous streamlined services.   

What Can a Professional Property Management Service in West Palm Beach Help You With?   

If you live in West Palm Beach, you may be dealing with a condominium association or a homeowner’s association or even a rental property. All of these properties are unique and have specific needs. At Seacrest Services, Inc., we know that you may require different property management services in West Palm Beach for each community your own. That is why we customize everything to your specific needs. We handle every aspect of property management and offer a host of services such as:   

  • Landscape Design and Maintenance Services – we ensure the proper maintenance of your property to help increase the value of your homes.  
  • Utility Audits – we will help you save on water cable and electricity by monitoring your residents’ and tenants’ usage.  
  • Customer Service Program with a live operator 24/7 who takes resident calls and provides a ticket to make sure the work gets completed.    
  • Delinquency and Collections –we have programs designed to help manage your residents or tenants to make sure that you receive maintenance or rent on time.  
  • Help in dealing with difficult HOA’s and Condo Associations  
  • Accounting and financial services including budgeting, automatic debut services for owner’s maintenance payments, organizing bills, providing a lockbox service and daily plans that will ultimately save you money.  

With the help of our professionals at Seacrest Services, you can trust that we are here to handle all types of property management services for you with the care and expertise we are known for in many West Palm Beach communities. From financial assistance to landscaping to everyday daily management tasks, our property management specialists will make sure everything is completed efficiently and without delay.   

Can I Afford Property Management Services in West Palm Beach?    

Is your community in need of management help? Is your current management company dropping the ball or simply not living up to your expectations? Then, you may already be overpaying for services in areas that you are not even aware of. At Seacrest Services, we know that our expert property management services in West Palm Beach are the key to keeping costs down. By offering an array of on-demand services, we’re able to keep tabs on costs that will save you money in the long run.   

If you need property management services in West Palm Beach, don’t hesitate to reach out to the team here at Seacrest. We can handle all of your management needs and more. Call us today for a personalized and professional consultation at (561) 697-4990.   

Need to Meet HOA Requirements? Here’s How to Do So

Posted on by Digital Resource

Homeowner’s Associations are very prevalent in South Florida communities. Everywhere you look you will find an HOA that runs your community to help maintain its beauty and real estate value. Home Owner Associations are created to establish rules and regulations. This helps to make sure all of the community’s owners keep their properties looking pristine and the neighborhood as a whole continues to look aesthetically pleasing. And when your neighborhood looks beautiful and well-maintained, property values exponentially rise. Generally, there is a monthly maintenance assessment for these services depending on what security systems and amenities your property has. Communities can range in size, but everyone will agree that every HOA has its own unique challenges. At Seacrest Services, we’re here to help with all of your HOA property management needs in West Palm Beach.    

  

Don’t Let Your HOA Get a Bad Rap   

Sometimes the logistics of an HOA can be downright frustrating! Some require that you can only use certain exterior color paints on your home and certain kinds of fences. And if this isn’t enough to make you frustrated, what if your HOA put a lien on a homeowner’s property just for putting their trash can out before 6 PM? Avoiding HOA horror stories start by bringing in a professional, and reputable team that does not look to undermine your residents and your property. If you’re ready to experience an HOA that works to help and can do the best for you and your community, it’s time to contact the property specialists at Seacrest Services, Inc.     

  

Exactly How Does a Property Management Company Help with an HOA?   

When it comes to finding a reputable HOA Property Management Company in West Palm Beach, it can be a difficult choice because no company is one size fits all. At Seacrest Services, we know that communities have different needs. We focus on providing customized management plans for each property and bringing the best solutions for your property’s needs. You will immediately notice the difference when you hire us. Some of the benefits of a top run HOA association include:    

  • Your property’s value will increase  
  • Amenities are properly serviced and maintained  
  • Pride of ownership because everything is organized  
  • Homeowners may feel safer and more secure   
  • Code compliance issues may be solved   
  • Landscaping and landscape design is uniform and attractive   

The task of overseeing your HOA can be a daunting experience for some property owners. Taking care of repairs, rule enforcement, arranging meetings and other tedious tasks can become overwhelming after a while. That’s why you need to call the professionals at Seacrest Services to help.   

How Do I Get Started?   

Services vary with each property and when we meet, we will devise a plan tailored to your community’s individual needs. At Seacrest Services, we provide a customized approach to each HOA and community association we work with. We assess your HOA’s specific needs and then form a plan to meet those needs. This can include tasks such as exterior maintenance and janitorial services, landscaping and landscaping design, accounting services, project management, rule enforcement guidance, and more.     

We work to meet the exact needs of your community with our dedicated, full-service HOA property management services in West Palm Beach. If you need a reputable, well-run HOA property management service, look no further than the team at Seacrest Services. Call us today at (561) 697-4990 to receive your personalized management plan.

What to Expect from a Property Manager

Posted on by Digital Resource

Owning your own property can be a huge task, whether it’s independent ownership or part of an association. Numerous areas need your undivided love and attention. Residents often have complaints or need a maintenance team immediately. If you do not respond within a reasonable amount of time, tenants can become frustrated, and they may even threaten to leave. While this is only one example, it goes to show how important it is to have a quality property management team on-site at all times. At Seacrest Services, Inc., we strive to provide excellent property management services in West Palm Beach, and beyond. To get an idea of what to expect when you work with experts from Seacrest Services, Inc., keep reading!   

  

Longevity Paired with Property Management Services in West Palm Beach   

Perhaps one of the biggest advantages of working with our team is that we pride ourselves in offering longevity, alongside our services. We know that there are companies out there who claim to be the best, yet fail to offer the results you were hoping for. At Seacrest Services, Inc., we want to be your property management company for years to come. That’s why we work side-by-side with both you and your Board of Directors. It’s crucial to us that everyone involved is happy. We don’t want to change the way your property feels, but we do want to boost both customer and shareholder satisfaction.   

  

Variety of Services   

When you choose to work with Seacrest Services, Inc., you’re choosing more than a basic management package. In fact, we’re state-of-the-art, and we introduce the ease of technology wherever we go. From accounting to maintenance, to landscaping, to professional management, we’re the team to take your property from okay, to incredible. Our detailed-oriented team works to never miss a beat!   

  

Communication is Key   

Last, but certainly not least, we’ve been in the business of customer care since the 60s, meaning that we have plenty of experience when it comes to working as a team. We know that what separates an average company from a great one lies in their ability to communicate efficiently. We’re here for any questions, at any time. We’re also here to help your tenants whenever they need us! We’re transparent, open, and honest.   

If you’re looking for property management services in West Palm Beach you can trust, simply give the experts at Seacrest Services, Inc. a call. You can reach us by phone at 561-697-4990 or visit our website at https://seacrestservices.com. There, you’ll find more information about how we started, and what we believe in. Don’t let just anyone manage your property. Instead, choose the professionals! We can’t wait to exceed your expectations and to deliver the results you’ve been hoping for.   

  

Winning Residential Property Management in West Palm Beach

Posted on by Digital Resource

At Seacrest Services, we know that being a winning property management company in West Palm Beach requires more than just providing excellent quality service, Five-Star ratings and the best reviews. Top residential property management companies in West Palm Beach also have to provide a full spectrum of various services that are required for the best maintenance, support, administration and upkeep of residential properties.

A Seacrest Services, we not only love what we do, but truly enjoy having a positive impact on the people who choose to live in wonderful West Palm Beach, Florida. We know that beautiful landscaping enhances the visual appeal and value of our many residential properties. As your winning residential property management company in West Palm Beach, we can promise your association that we will keep your property looking its best throughout the year with our dedicated team of experienced and knowledgeable landscape professionals. We have the expertise to create and maintain a lush, healthy landscape for your property, and our comprehensive landscape services eliminate the hassle of having to hire multiple vendors. By choosing Seacrest Services, we can ensure you receive the highest quality, complete property management services from one easy source.

The expert Seacrest Services landscaping team is comprised of:

-A Certified Landscape Irrigation Contractor (U-22050)

-A Certified Nursery Professional

-A Lawn and Ornamental Certified Pest Control Operator

-A National Arborist Association Member

-A Certified Horticulturist

Some of the many landscape services included with our complete residential property management in West Palm Beach includes:

-Landscape design

-Landscape maintenance

-Full irrigation service including design, installation, and maintenance

-Tree removal, installation, and care

-Lawn and ornamental pest control

-Turf management

-Planting and transplanting

-Seasonal maintenance

-Interior and exterior pest control

So Much More Winning with Seacrest Services

For more than 40 years, Seacrest Services has redefined what winning residential property management in West Palm Beach means. Our full-service property management comes replete with superior amenities of lifestyle programming, convenient expert community association management, and unparalleled financial resources and organization for West Palm Beach communities – all provided under one roof.

Even though we offer white glove services, we are not afraid to get our hands a little dirty – so your properties can stay clean! With decades of maintenance and janitorial experience and a track record of “doing it right the first time,” Seacrest Services has the know-how to bring unique and economical solutions to maintain your facility. We are so proud to offer our clients an experienced and capable management team that utilizes the latest building maintenance equipment, cleaning techniques, and commercial janitorial supplies that will meet and exceed all of your standards of cleanliness and enhance your facility’s appearance. We have knowledgeable and experienced “Maintenance Technicians” who are prepared to handle all of the aspects of your day-to-day projects and even your large projects that need to be done in a timely and professional manner. With responsive janitorial and maintenance service and meticulous attention to detail, we can take the stress out of keeping your property looking its best.

The Seacrest Services community janitorial advantage includes:

-Full service janitorial

-Monthly lighting checks and bulb replacement

-General cleaning and washing of building exterior

-Upkeep of pool and patio furniture

-Event setup and takedown

The Seacrest Services Maintenance advantage includes:

-Pressure cleaning

-On-site handyman services

-Water intrusion cleanup

Seacrest Services stands out from the rest with our signature “Total Quality Management (TQM)” Program, which is uniquely tailored to the specific needs of your residential property in West Palm Beach. This innovative, proactive approach to property management keeps Seacrest Services at the forefront of our industry and allows us to provide the highest level of service to your association. Call us today to find out how you can be winning with Seacrest!

Keeping Up Curb Appeal: Seacrest Landscape Design and Maintenance

Posted on by Digital Resource

At Seacrest Services we are constantly searching for ways to improve the curb appeal of the properties we manage. Whether you’re in Palm Beach County, St. Lucie County, or Martin County, the terrain in Florida presents similar challenges and opportunities. Seacrest Services commercial landscape maintenance provides multi-faceted processes designed to help community associations create and maintain their optimum vision, all while keeping their landscapes healthy, clean, attractive and safe.

Nothing says success better than landscaping services that include not only sustainable development and functional maintenance, but also a harmonious and attractive overall landscape. The best landscaping is not just about maintaining, but also requires improving your landscape.

Seacrest Services can improve the curb appeal of your property within specific budget and time parameters. As one of the most popular residential landscaping experts in Florida, we have raised the bar for beautiful pretty high!

No matter what you are picking, like it or not, people really do judge a book by its cover. When it comes to picking the best residential landscape company in Florida, you definitely want to weed out the competition by finding a company that understands how making a good first impression means presenting the best image possible for your property.

Curb Appeal and Summer Landscapes

Curb appeal is essential to keep up with the Joneses! As the first thing people see should speak volumes, you want to foster long-lasting impressions with the best possible residential landscaping.

Since South Florida is home to some of the most popular travel destinations and attractions, and almost 40% of family travelers visit during the peak summertime months, your properties are sure to get some curbside views.

Residential landscape architecture and planning is really important as we head into our Florida summer months. The month of May is a time of transition for the landscapes and gardens of the Treasure Coast. The weather is significantly warmer, and the rainy season is at hand, making it a typically stressful time for landscape plants, shrubbery and trees. Special attention needs to be given to irrigation systems as well as hurricane preparation. But fear not, at Seacrest Services we think of our clients as partners, therefore our innovative and inspiring ideas are grounded in a collaborative process. We can help get your landscape installation or project in the ground on time, within budget; no if’s, and’s, or “buds!”

From full-service property management, professional accounting services, to complete landscaping and maintenance needs, Seacrest Services can tailor any kind of unique service plan for your property or community association.

Experience the Seacrest Difference

At Seacrest Services, we are focused on maintaining beauty in all the communities and properties we manage. By picking Seacrest, you will experience a world of difference in all of your landscaping needs. We are committed to 100% satisfaction! Call Seacrest for:

o Landscape design & maintenance
o Full irrigation services: design, installation, and maintenance
o Tree maintenance: removal, installation and care
o Lawn and turf management
o Planting and transplanting
o Seasonal maintenance
o Interior and exterior pest control
o And much much more!

To find out more about how Seacrest Services can make a difference in your world, call us today at (561) 697-4990. We look forward to working for you.