We believe that the sooner you get serious about investing, the longer lasting your financial
success is likely to be. But as countless community associations, board members and individuals have
discovered, the hardest part about investment planning is getting started.
If you need help with plans that will put your financial house, condo or timeshare in order, consider the following three-step program. It’s designed to show you that where there’s a will, there’s a way to become affluent, or at least conserve the capital you have accumulated for future use.
Step 1. Put A Price Tag On The Future
The first step in a sound investment program should be to identify your financial objectives—then determine how much your present assets will have to grow in order to achieve them. For most community associations this means preparing a well-documented reserve study, budget and some long range planning for the future of your HOA.
Step 2. Do Your Homework
Once you have focused on your communities financial objectives, the question you should ask is “How do we develop an investment program that will meet the unique needs of our association, at a level of risk we’re willing to assume?” The great number of available investment options can be confusing, even intimidating to many novice investors. That’s the reason why many people turn to professional financial advisors for guidance in making their investment decisions.
Many financial services firms maintain research efforts that closely monitor hundreds of companies in numerous industries as well as fixed-income analysts who follow bonds, corporate issues, and municipal offerings. This enables analysts to spot trends, form timely opinions, and offer valuable recommendations—all in an effort to help investors spot opportunities and maximize their nest eggs. Some of this research may also help in tracking interest rate trends, allowing an association to take advantage of higher returns on certain fixed-income vehicles.
Step 3. Keep Investments “On Track” With Your Financial Advisor
One thing is for certain, cash flow requirements for your HOA will change over time, yet they will always remain as individual as you are. Since successful investing is a long-term undertaking, it’s a good idea to stay in regular communication with your professional Financial Advisor. We will review your portfolio, assess new investment opportunities and reevaluate your overall strategy, as your long-term needs, objectives, and market conditions change.
Now Is The Best Time To Plan For Your Future
Why should you invest association funds for financial future? Because just like your own financial nest egg, economic security for your community can help you meet future challenges head-on and enhance the overall value of your community or resort complex. The key to your future financial health is a sensible investment plan. That’s why it’s important to start planning today for tomorrow’s needs. No matter how much you currently have to invest, your Financial Advisor can help you select the investments that are appropriately suited to your investment style, risk tolerance and goals, and can provide you with the information you’ll need to make a prudent decision. Remember that sound financial management is the solid foundation upon which the future of your community is built.
Start with a well-formulated set of plans and work with professionals as you build toward the future.
Helping You Build a Firm Financial Foundation For Your Future
Nico F. March is the Managing Director for The March Group, LLC. He has worked with Community Associations since 1974 and has served on several Boards, including the Board of Directors for the Community Association Institute (CAI), San Diego Chapter. His team has specialized in Corporate Cash and Association Financial Management since 1982 and has assisted over 1000 Associations, Nonprofits and Timeshares invest over $4 Billion in reserve, operating and reconstruction funds. Nico and his team work out of their San Diego and Wyoming offices and may be reached at 888.811.6501 or email [email protected] for further information and consultations.
The March Group is not a tax or legal advisor. We will be glad to work with your professional CPA and Attorney to help you with your financial goals. Neither the information contained herein nor any opinion expressed shall be construed to constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy any securities mentioned herein. Clearing services provided by LPL Financial.
CMAX #1-05109620