Connected Management Blog

Administering a condo board in Illinois involves grasping complicated laws that are made to protect homeowners and shape decisions. Many board members only understand the extent of their legal obligations when their board faces complaints, fines, or disputes. This guide explains the important Illinois and Chicago laws every condo board must abide by to stay in compliance and avoid costly mistakes. Core Statutes Boards Must Follow Illinois condo boards are generally governed by three main laws. These include: Condominium Property Act (CPA) – It helps in defining elections, meetings, record-keeping, and fiduciary duties.Common Interest Community Association Act (CICAA) – This Act...

In today's property market, sustainability sells, and in Chicago, both buyers and tenants are looking for something more than just comfortable. They want efficient, environmentally responsible buildings that not only reduce cost but also carbon footprint. Knowing this, smart homeowners have started investing in green properties in Chicago, which not only helps them increase their long-term value but also attracts quality residents and lowers operating expenses. Why Green Upgrades Increase Property Value One key thing to note is that energy-efficient buildings are more than just fads; they are a profitable investment. With the help of sustainability features, you can lower your...

Have you ever felt uncomfortable when your condo board revealed there was a “special assessment” for a surprise repair? You're not the only one feeling this way. Surprise expenses from rooftop leaks, elevator malfunctions, and burst pipes can seriously interfere with your community's finances. The fact is, many of these emergencies are preventable. The real issue is the distinction between preventative maintenance and reactive maintenance. By understanding what costs you could incur and budgeting accordingly, boards throughout Illinois would be able to save money for the owners and run a building smoothly without the late-night repair bills. What Preventive vs Reactive...

Every condo board has experienced a knock on the door, or an angry email about a neighbor’s barking dog, music late at night, or a “stolen” parking space. What begins as a minor nuisance can quickly snowball into a conflict that uses up the board’s time and patience. In a city like Chicago, where residents live close together, conflict is likely inevitable. Here is the good news: when plans are in place, boards can turn conflict into an opportunity for fairness, trust, and stronger connections with their communities. Common Sources of Resident Disputes Disagreements can generally happen when you share your...

Being a landlord in Chicago entails more than just receiving rental payments from your tenant. Chicago's Residential Landlord and Tenant Ordinance (RLTO) governs both the legal obligations of landlords and protects tenants. Comprehending the RLTO will not only keep you compliant as a landlord, but also save you from unnecessary costly disputes and help you become a successful landlord. What is the RLTO, and Who Must Comply? The RLTO applies to most rental properties in Chicago, including residential landlords and property managers. However, there are a few exemptions, which include smaller owner-occupied buildings and limited non-residential units. Nonetheless, recent amendments to...