If you belong to one of the nation's estimated
300,000 homeowner or condominium associations, there is a good chance that you are content with
your living arrangement. National surveys show that most of the 60 million Americans who live in
homeowner and condominium associations are happy in their communities -; but not all association
boards govern as responsibly as they should. When mismanaged, this lack of responsibility can lead
to homeowner frustration, factional conflict and, in the worst cases, expensive lawsuits.

Many families have dreamt of owning a
picturesque log home, which provides both environmental benefits and a natural, rustic appeal that
can withstand the test of time. If you've always wanted to own your own log home, the following
tips can help make your dream of a log home into a reality.

There is nothing more maddening to a
condominium apartment owner than to be forced to pay for someone else's energy use -; especially
when you are away on vacation or an extended business trip. Westcorp Properties has alleviated that
problem for buyers of its 1,200-unit Calgary, Alberta, condominium apartment
development.

Whether you're updating your home for your own
enjoyment or to attract potential buyers, the thought of home improvement can send some people
running for their hammers and others running from them. Before you get a hammer involved, or any
other serious home-improvement tool for that matter, think about making small changes. You may be
surprised how just a few inexpensive, and quick, home fixes can improve the mood and value of your
home. Here are several home-improvement tasks that you can complete in less than a day and on a
limited budget.

There's nothing like being able to travel to
another part of the world, but it's another thing altogether when you can travel and relax in the
luxury of your own vacation home. According to the National Association of Realtors, vacation homes
make up about one-third of all second-home purchases.