Okoniq Journal
Property tips, taxes & HOA guides
Plain-language guides for homeowners, landlords, and HOA boards — written to help you stay organized and keep more of your money at tax time.
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Getting Started
New to managing property? Start here.
Taxes & Accounting
Deductions, basis, Schedule E, and staying audit-ready.
Renting & Tenants
Leases, rent, screening, and tenant relationships.
Maintenance & Repairs
Upkeep, vendors, and keeping a home in shape.
Mortgage & Money
Financing, refinancing, insurance, and cash flow.
Buying & Selling
Valuation, prepping to sell, and the closing process.
HOA & Community
Boards, reserves, meetings, and living in an HOA.
Latest articles
French Drain vs Dry Well: Which Fixes a Wet Yard? (2024)
A French drain moves water along a trench to a new spot, while a dry well collects and holds it underground — pick based on where your water actually goes.
Flat vs Eggshell vs Satin vs Semi-Gloss: Sheen Guide by Room
Semi-gloss holds up to scrubbing and humidity while flat hides drywall flaws, and picking the wrong one means repainting years sooner.
Flagstone vs Concrete Pavers for a Backyard Patio: What Lasts
Flagstone runs $15-$30 per square foot installed versus $10-$17 for concrete pavers, but the cheaper option isn't always the better long-term bet.
Fire Extinguisher Types: Which One Belongs in Your Kitchen?
A Class K or multi-purpose ABC extinguisher rated for grease fires belongs within 10 feet of your stove, not the one under your sink now.
Fiber-Cement vs Engineered Wood Siding Compared (2024)
Fiber-cement siding lasts 30-50 years and resists fire, while engineered wood costs 20-30% less but needs closer moisture monitoring.
Extended Appliance Warranties: Worth It in 2024?
The average extended appliance warranty costs $150-$400 a year, but most owners spend more on premiums than they ever get back in covered repairs.
Executive Session: What HOA Boards Can Discuss Privately
Most state statutes limit executive session to four topics — legal, personnel, contracts, and delinquencies — everything else belongs in open session.
Engineered vs Solid Hardwood: Which Should You Install?
Solid hardwood can be refinished up to 10 times over 100 years, but engineered hardwood handles basements and radiant heat that solid wood can't.
Electric vs Gas Water Heater: Which Is Cheaper to Run?
Gas water heaters cost about $250-$300 a year to run, while electric models average $450-$600, but the full picture involves more than fuel price.
Dusk-to-Dawn Lights: The Set-and-Forget Security Upgrade
Dusk-to-dawn lights use a photocell sensor to turn on automatically at sunset and off at sunrise, adding security for about $15-$40 per fixture.
Ductless Mini-Split vs Window AC: Which Makes Sense in 2024?
A window AC costs $150-$500 upfront but a ductless mini-split runs $1,500-$4,000 and pays back in 3-7 years through lower electric bills.
Ducted vs Ductless Range Hood: Which Should You Buy?
A ducted range hood vents grease and moisture outside your home, while a ductless model just filters and recirculates air back into the kitchen.
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