July 27, 2002


Dear Board of Directors:

Wow, I hope you saw the recent airing by ABC news about homeowners associations. The program discussed what was really going on with some associations. One of the associations featured is in Virginia, not far from us. This particular board of directors actions caught nation wide attention and mine as well.

As the former president of Denbrook Station Association in Newport News, I could relate to the problems plagued by associations. Without going into the details of our association I would like to take this opportunity to share some helpful advice if you are looking for a better management company.

While talking with a friend of mine who lives in another community, which is professionally managed by Mr. Turner of Jeffrey Charles and Associates, Inc., she related a story to me about her next door neighbor. An apprehensive elderly lady called Mr. Turner’s office about a possible rules violation. A letter of concern was mailed to the homeowner in violation, but, unfortunately, the address was off by single digit. Learning of this mistake, Mr. Turner went to the owner, who had erroneously received the letter, and offered a bottle of wine as an apology. I was struck by the professionalism of Mr. Turner and his kind gesture. I thought this professional may be the answer to our association’s problems. However, I still was not convinced.

Another one of our board of directors was also seeing the results of Mr. Turner’s efforts in her friend’s community. She made a motion that we speak to Mr. Turner – and fast! After a short presentation there was no longer any doubt. Our association needed Mr. Turner and his staff to “rescue” us. We allowed our contract with our then-current management company to expire and hired Mr. Turner of Jeffrey Charles and Associates, Inc. I know from experience, as an association’s president, changing management companies is a tough sale to some homeowners. However, if you want to improve your community as entrusted to you by the membership, you should give Mr. Turner a call today at 873-0111. Doing so places you or your association under no obligation of any kind. Good luck to all of you!

Yours truly,

Lawrence Van Horn
Former President, Denbrook Association