Halloween Safety Tips and Friendly Reminders

 

Hello, Residents! 🎃👻

Halloween is right around the corner, and we know that many of you and your families are getting excited to celebrate! 

This special holiday is all about spooky costumes, sweet treats, and good old-fashioned fun. To make sure Halloween is safe, enjoyable, and respectful for everyone in our mobile home parks, we’ve put together a few important reminders and safety tips. 

Let’s work together to create a Halloween everyone can enjoy, whether they're in the spirit for trick-or-treating or simply enjoying the evening from home.

1. Suggested Trick-or-Treating Hours: 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm

To keep things organized and to ensure everyone’s safety, we’re recommending trick-or-treating hours from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. This allows children to enjoy collecting treats while there’s still some daylight, making it safer for everyone involved.

Tip for Parents: Make sure to accompany young children, and for older children, agree on a route beforehand so everyone is on the same page.

Tip for Trick-or-Treaters: Carry a flashlight or glow stick to help drivers and others see you as the sun begins to set. Bright costumes or reflective tape are also great ways to stay visible!

2. Drive Carefully and Watch for Little Ghosts and Goblins 👀

Halloween brings increased foot traffic, especially with excited little ones running from door to door. We ask all residents who are driving through the park to slow down and be extra vigilant. Children can sometimes dart unexpectedly, so please be patient and keep an eye out.

For Residents Not Trick-or-Treating: Even if you're not celebrating, please be mindful of extra activity on Halloween night. Consider parking your car in a well-lit area to reduce the chance of accidents.

3. Respect Neighbors’ Choices – Not Everyone Participates 🎃🚫

One of the best things about our community is that it’s a place where everyone can enjoy holidays in their own way. Some neighbors may love Halloween and go all out with decorations, while others may prefer a quieter evening. 

As a general rule, only approach homes that have decorations or a porch light on, as these are usually indicators that the household is welcoming trick-or-treaters.

Tip for Trick-or-Treaters: If you come across a house without decorations or lights, it’s best to skip that home. This simple gesture of respect ensures everyone’s comfort.

4. Festive Decorations – Keep Things Safe for All! 🎃🕸️

Decorating for Halloween can be a lot of fun, and it’s amazing to see everyone’s creativity! That said, we ask that you make sure any decorations are safely secured. Wind or weather changes can sometimes blow decorations out of place, creating potential hazards.

Safety Tips:

• Pathways and Porches: Keep these areas clear to avoid tripping hazards for trick-or-treaters.
• Avoid Real Flames: Consider battery-operated candles or LED lights in jack-o’-lanterns to prevent accidental fires.
• Clean-Up: After Halloween, please remove any decorations to help keep our community looking clean and welcoming.

5. Pet Safety: Keep Furry Friends Secure 🐾

Halloween can be overwhelming for pets, with new sounds, costumes, and lots of excitement. To keep our furry friends safe and calm, it’s a good idea to keep pets indoors during trick-or-treating hours or on a leash if they’re outside.

For Pet Owners: Consider setting up a quiet space for your pet inside the home. Not only will this help reduce their stress, but it also prevents any unexpected escapes if they get spooked.

6. Friendly Reminders About Costumes and Courtesy 🧙🦇

Halloween costumes are all about having fun, but let’s remember to be respectful of everyone in our community. Avoid costumes that may be overly scary for young children, and respect the noise levels in the park, especially after 8:00 pm.

For Older Kids and Adults: Remember, Halloween fun doesn’t need to be overly loud or disruptive. Please be mindful of noise levels, especially around neighbors with young children or those who may not be celebrating.

7. For Homes Handing Out Treats: Safety First! 🍬

If you’re planning on giving out treats, thank you for adding to the community fun! Here are a few tips to make it safe and enjoyable for everyone:

• Offer Pre-Packaged Treats: Individually wrapped candies and snacks are easiest and safest for trick-or-treaters.
• Create a No-Contact Setup: If possible, consider setting up a bowl or table outside your door for children to grab their treats. It’s a great way to prevent crowding and allows everyone to keep a little space.
• Think About Allergies: Consider adding a few allergy-friendly or non-candy options to your treat selection. Little trinkets like stickers, glow sticks, or small toys can be a fun alternative for kids with dietary restrictions.

8. Post-Halloween Clean-Up 🎃🧹

Once the holiday is over, we ask everyone to kindly take down decorations and do a quick clean-up of any Halloween debris that might have wandered into shared spaces. A tidy neighborhood helps us keep our community welcoming and neat for all residents.

Wishing You All a Happy and Safe Halloween! 🎉

We’re so grateful for each and every resident who makes our community the wonderful place it is. Thank you for being mindful of these guidelines, and we hope your Halloween is filled with fun, laughter, and plenty of treats!

If you have any questions about our Halloween guidelines, don’t hesitate to reach out to our office. Stay safe, enjoy the festivities, and make this Halloween one to remember!

Responsible Pet Ownership Reminder

 

We value the safety and comfort of everyone in our community. To ensure this, please be reminded of our pet rules and regulations. 

It is essential that all residents with pets adhere to these guidelines to create a peaceful and safe environment for everyone:

1. Limit on Pets: Each household is allowed a maximum of 2 pets. Only domestic pets weighing less than 30 pounds are allowed unless stated otherwise.
2. Leash and Containment Rules: Pets must be kept inside the home, within a properly secured fenced yard, or on a leash at all times when outside. Pets are not allowed to roam freely.

3. Keeping Dogs Leashed and Supervised

   It is crucial that all dogs are kept on a leash when outside and supervised at all times. Allowing dogs to roam freely can lead to disturbances, such as barking, and can pose potential safety risks to both pets and residents

4. Responsibility: Tenants are responsible for their pets’ behavior. Pets must not be left unattended in the park or cause any nuisance.

5. Cleaning Up After Your Pet

   Residents must also clean up after their pets immediately if it defecates on the premises. Proper daily disposal is required.

   Failing to do so can lead to unsanitary conditions and complaints from neighbors, which can adversely affect community living. Taking this responsibility seriously is a key part of being a considerate pet owner.

6. Breed Restrictions Certain breeds are not allowed, including (but not limited to) Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, Doberman Pinschers, and any dog with a history of aggression. These breed restrictions are in place as required by our company’s insurance policy to ensure the safety and liability of our community.

Important Update: 

A $100 fine will be added to the accounts of tenants found violating these rules. Any future offenses will result in a $300 fine, and continued violations may lead to eviction. We encourage everyone to be mindful of these regulations.

Reporting Issues

If you observe any issues or violations related to roaming pets or if you have concerns about compliance with pet policies, please report them to management. Open communication can help us maintain a peaceful and enjoyable environment for everyone in the park.

By following these community rules and regulations, we can ensure a safe and pleasant living experience for all residents. Everyone's cooperation is essential in creating a positive neighborhood atmosphere. Thank you for your ongoing commitment to responsible pet ownership!

Let’s work together to keep Sonnier Mobile Home Park a safe, enjoyable community for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment!

Important Update: New Garbage Collection Starting November 2024

 

At Lucky Communities, we are committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and well-managed community for all of our residents. 

We want to inform you about an important update regarding trash services that will take effect starting November 2024. We will be implementing a $21 per lot monthly garbage collection fee to cover the costs of trash pickup across the park.

In this post, we’ll explain the reasons behind this new fee, how it will work, and answer some of the common questions and concerns we anticipate from you, our valued residents.

Why Is There a New Fee?

You might be wondering why this charge is being introduced. With rising costs for waste management and services, we’ve decided to establish a separate trash collection fee to ensure that we can continue providing reliable and efficient trash services. 

This charge will help us maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the community, ensuring your living environment remains sanitary and pleasant for everyone.

What You Need to Know About the New Garbage Collection Fee:

• Effective Date: Starting November 1, 2024
• Fee Amount: $21 per month, per lot
• Billing: The fee will be added to your regular monthly statement as a separate line item.

We understand that any changes to your monthly charges may bring up questions or concerns. Below, we’ve put together answers to some frequently asked questions.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are we being charged for trash services now?

We are introducing this fee to keep up with rising costs in waste management services. Rather than including it in your rent, separating this charge allows us to clearly show where your money is going and ensures we can continue providing reliable trash collection for the entire park.

2. Can I opt-out of the trash service and dispose of my own trash?

No, unfortunately, you cannot opt-out of this service. Consistent trash collection for every lot is essential for maintaining a healthy and clean community. Handling individual trash disposal could lead to sanitation issues and inconsistent service for others.

3. What exactly does the $21 fee cover?

The $21 fee covers the costs associated with regular trash collection and disposal from each lot. This ensures proper waste management and compliance with local regulations.

4. Will the fee increase in the future?

While there are no immediate plans to increase the fee, it could be adjusted in the future depending on changes in the cost of trash services. We will give you plenty of notice if any future changes occur.

5. How will the charge be billed?

The trash fee will appear as a separate line item on your monthly statement, starting in November 2024. This is to provide transparency and make it easy for you to see where your money is going.

6. What if I have been experiencing unreliable trash service?

We understand the importance of dependable service, and we are committed to improving where necessary. If you have experienced inconsistencies in trash pickup, please let us know. Your feedback helps us address any service issues with our vendor and ensure smoother operations going forward.

7. Can I share this charge with my neighbors?

The charge is assigned per lot, so unfortunately, it cannot be shared between households. Each lot is responsible for its own trash service fee.

8. Why wasn’t this included in the rent?

By separating the fee from rent, we can ensure transparency and prevent future fluctuations in service costs from affecting rent amounts. It also allows us to clearly break down where your fees are going.

9. What happens if I don’t pay the fee?

The trash fee is mandatory and will be treated like any other utility charge. Non-payment may result in penalties or late fees, and even eviction for non-compliance.

10. Will this fee cover recycling services too?

Currently, the $21 fee covers only trash collection. We are exploring the possibility of adding recycling services in the future and will keep residents updated on any developments.

Moving Forward Together

We value each of our residents and strive to maintain transparency in all community decisions. This new trash fee will allow us to continue offering reliable services and keep our community clean, safe, and pleasant for everyone.

If you have any questions or concerns that weren’t addressed in this post, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the management office at 504-445-6500 or admin@luckycommunities.com. We’re here to help!

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep Sonnier Mobile Home Park a wonderful place to call home.

Selling Your Mobile Home? Top Things You Must Do

This is important! Notify us as soon as you start considering selling your home as stated in lease agreement.

Here's an update of the move out process for tenants who plan to sell their mobile home:

1. Bill of Sale

Ensure you have a signed and notarized document transferring ownership from the tenant to the buyer.

When purchasing a mobile home, securing the bill of sale is one of the most critical steps in the process. This legal document serves as proof of the transaction, protecting both the buyer and the seller. Here’s why it’s essential:

• Proof of Ownership Transfer: The bill of sale officially records the transfer of ownership from the seller to the buyer. Without it, there may be disputes or confusion about who legally owns the mobile home.
• Details of the Agreement: This document outlines key details such as the sale price, condition of the home, and any included items like appliances or furniture. Having this in writing helps ensure both parties are clear on the terms of the sale.
• Legal Protection: If any legal issues arise after the sale—whether it’s a dispute about payment, title transfer, or defects in the home—the bill of sale can serve as critical evidence to resolve the matter.
• Tax and Registration Purposes: Many states require a bill of sale when registering the mobile home or paying sales tax on the purchase. Without it, you could run into delays or complications with local authorities.
• Peace of Mind: Securing a bill of sale gives you peace of mind, knowing that the transaction was properly documented, and your rights as a new homeowner are protected.

2. Screening of the Prospective Buyer or incoming New Tenant

Property management conducts screening on the prospective buyer. Screening protects the property and also the other residents. 

Here's the link for the screening: https://screen.boompay.app/

Please note, there's $35 screening fee.

Checks include:

• Credit history
• Criminal background

Upon successful screening, the property management notifies the tenant and prospective buyer of approval.

A thorough tenant screening process plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe, harmonious, and well-maintained community. Here’s why it matters:

• Ensures Community Safety: Proper screening helps ensure that new tenants have a clean background, which contributes to the overall safety of the park. Conducting background checks can help reduce the risk of bringing in individuals with criminal histories that could jeopardize the security of other residents.
• Promotes Financial Stability: Screening allows the management to verify a tenant’s financial history, including credit scores and previous rental records. This ensures that new tenants are more likely to pay rent on time, reducing the risk of missed payments or evictions.
• Preserves Property Value: Tenants with a history of maintaining properties in good condition are more likely to take care of their mobile home and surrounding lot. Proper screening helps attract individuals who will contribute to the upkeep of the community, which benefits everyone.
• Fosters a Positive Community Culture: Welcoming responsible and respectful tenants creates a cohesive community where people feel comfortable and engaged. Screening for good tenant behavior minimizes potential conflicts, noise disturbances, or other issues that can disrupt park life.

3. Move-In Requirements for the Buyer

Here are other requirements of the buyer or the upcoming new tenant in the move in process:

Valid IDs: Copies of valid identification for both tenant and buyer.

Contact Information: Contact numbers and email address

Occupants' Information: List other occupants who will move in (Name, Affiliation, Birth Date)

Security Deposit: Tenant pays any outstanding balances or fees, including security deposit refund or transfer to the buyer (as per agreement).

Lease Agreement: Sign the month-to-month lease agreement online (via DocuSign) or through Resident Concierge's assistance.

In addition, please coordinate on the upcoming payment of rent and other charges like the water and sewer bill charges with your buyer or the incoming new tenant.

By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth transition when selling your mobile home. If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office for further assistance.

For any questions and inquiries, call us at 504-445-6500, send us an email at admin@luckycommunities.com or send us a text message at 504-226-5884. 

Split Your Rent Payment With FLEX

Flex gives you the flexibility to pay rent on a schedule  that works better for your monthly budget. 

Flex can help you: 

1. Pay rent on time. 

By splitting your rent into two payments,  you pay on time on your schedule.  

2. Improve cash flow. 

Flex allows you to pay over the month,  better aligning your rent and finances. 

3. Build your credit history. 

Every payment establishes your payment  history, helping you build your future. 

Join hundreds of  

thousands of renters  across the country  finding more financial  flexibility with Flex. 

Sign up 

for Flex by  

scanning 

the QR code 

or visit getflex.com to learn more

FAQ 

Your questions,  our answers. 

How late can a resident sign up for Flex & still have their rent covered? 

Residents who are approved by 5:00 pm ET on the 3rd of the month will be eligible for Flex rent payment for that  month. If a resident signs up after the 3rd, they will be enrolled for the following month.  

For example, if a resident signs up by 5pm ET on June 3rd, they will be eligible to pay June rent via Flex. If they sign up  on June 4th, they will be able to start paying rent through Flex in July. 

When does Flex make rent payments for residents? 

Flex covers the rent for residents between the last day of the prior month through the first 5 days of the month. For  certain special circumstances, Flex will pay on the 4th and 5th. 

How much does Flex charge the resident? 

Flex charges a flat monthly membership fee. The Blue Ridge Bank Flex Credit Line has 0% APR, no interest charge, no  late fees, or penalty fees. 

Flex offers various pricing options, based on the partners needs for their specific residents. Reach out to your Flex  contact for your portfolio’s pricing. 

What are the resident qualifications to use Flex? 

To be eligible, residents must:  

• Have no outstanding rent balance. 
• Have a minimum credit score. 
• Have a valid debit card that has a history of deposits (no pre-paid cards). 
• Be a current resident at a property that uses an active resident portal for rent payments.  
• Must have funds in their account to cover the first installment payment before the 5th of the month. 

Does Flex affect a resident’s credit score? 

During the application process, Flex runs a soft credit check on the resident which does not affect their credit score.  As residents use Flex over time, their on-time payments may help build credit history.

What happens if a resident doesn’t pay Flex back? 

Flex takes charge of all customer repayment issues internally, including write-offs. For late repayments, Flex works  with residents to develop payment plans to help them get back on track. 

While Flex does not continue to offer  its services to users who have a past due balance when rent is due, users that repay their balance may be eligible  to re-enroll. Residents whose repayment is past due more than 60 days will be reported as delinquent to the  credit bureau.  

Flex processes all customer repayments and write-offs internally, never coming back to the property for  repayment. However, residents can be put on payment plans to help them get back on track. Once the resident  has zeroed out their balance, they will be eligible to reactivate with Flex. 

Is there any reason rent would not be paid after a resident is approved?

There are a few reasons why rent may not be covered for residents that are approved. 

• Rent will not be paid for residents with insufficient funds to pay the initial payment. In order to process  the payment, Flex requires residents to pay an initial payment of 50% of the rent balance.
• The resident has an existing balance with Flex past due from previous months. 
• ACH is disabled on their account by the property and was not enabled by the 5th of the month.

How do residents contact Flex with questions? 

Residents can contact customer support directly within the app or by sending an email to help@getflex.com. 

What does a resident need to do if they no longer want to use Flex? 

Residents can easily cancel their account in the Flex app. They can also reach out to our support team by  emailing help@getflex.com. If they would like to reactivate their account at any point in the future, they can  contact our support team. 

Lucky Communities partnered with Flex, a simple app that pays resident's rent on the due date - first day of the month and let the residents pay it back over the rest of the month.

To sign up and get more information, visit GetFlex.com

Resident qualifications to use Flex:

• Have no outstanding rent balance
• Have a minimum credit score
• Have a valid debit card that has a history of deposits (No pre-paid)
• Be a current resident at a property that uses an active resident portal for rent payments
• Must have funds in their account to cover the first installment payment before the 5th of the month

How to set up Flex account:

1. Download the Flex app or go to onboarding.getflex.com

2. Enter your mobile number and the 4 digit code texted to you

3. Enter your first name, last name, and email

4. Type in your address and search for your property (mobile home park)

5. Enter the username and password you use for your resident portal

6. Enter the estimated monthly cost of rent and utilities

7. Link your primary bank account

8. Confirm your date of birth and SSN (this is only a soft credit check)

9. Confirm your Flex payment schedule and details

Sign up for Flex by scanning the QR code 

or visit getflex.com to learn more 

 

Why It's Important To Sign A Lease Agreement?

 

As a tenant in a mobile home community, signing a lease agreement is not just a procedural step—it’s a critical measure to safeguard your rights, define your responsibilities, and ensure a harmonious living environment. Understanding and signing this document can profoundly impact your living experience and legal standing. 

Here’s why signing your lease agreement is essential.

1. Legal Protection and Clarity

Lease Agreements Define Legal Rights and Obligations

A lease agreement serves as a binding contract between you and the park management. It outlines the terms of your tenancy, providing a clear understanding of both parties' responsibilities. This document can prevent misunderstandings and disputes as it provide information on the:

Rent Amount and Payment Due Dates: Clearly stated rent obligations ensure that you are fully aware of your financial responsibilities, including any late fees or penalties.

Maintenance Responsibilities: The lease will specify which maintenance tasks are the landlord’s responsibility and which fall to the tenant, minimizing disputes over upkeep.

Duration of Tenancy: Understanding the length of your lease and the terms for renewal or termination helps you plan your future effectively.

2. Security of Tenure

A Lease Provides Stability and Predictability

Having a lease in place grants you security of tenure, meaning you have the right to live in your mobile home for the duration of the lease as long as you adhere to its terms. This stability is crucial for:

Long-Term Planning: Knowing you have a guaranteed place to live allows you to plan for the future without the stress of unexpected eviction.

Financial Stability: Predictable rent and clear terms help you manage your budget more effectively.

3. Dispute Resolution

A Lease Agreement Establishes Ground Rules for Resolving Conflicts

A lease agreement provides a framework for resolving such issues through:

Detailed Policies: Clear guidelines on what constitutes a breach of the agreement can help resolve issues amicably.

Legal Recourse: Should a dispute escalate, a signed lease serves as legal evidence that can be used in court to protect your interests.

4. Community Standards and Expectations

Lease Agreement Reflects the Community’s Rules and Culture

Mobile home communities have unique rules to maintain a pleasant living environment. Your lease:

Outline Community Standards: From noise regulations to pet policies, the lease ensures that all tenants adhere to the same standards, promoting harmony within the community.

Promote Fairness: By setting consistent rules, the lease helps ensure that all tenants are treated equally and fairly.

5. Personal and Property Safety

A Lease Agreement Helps Protect Your Home and Well-Being

The lease include clauses that safeguard your personal and property safety by:

Stipulating Security Measures: Requirements for securing your mobile home or adhering to safety protocols is outlined.

Clarifying Responsibilities: The lease specify what you must do to keep your property in compliance with safety regulations, reducing the risk of damage or liability.

As per management's policy and legal obligations, all tenants are required to sign a month-to-month lease agreement with Lucky Communities.

We understand that some individuals may not have certain documentation, including papers typically required for leasing agreements. However, it is crucial to clarify that under current federal law, management of residential properties is governed by local and state regulations, and not immigration status.

Therefore, regardless of documentation status, all tenants are required to sign the month-to-month lease agreement. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy, including rental responsibilities and property guidelines.

Please note that failure to comply with this requirement may result in further actions being taken by management, up to and including eviction proceedings. 

Our goal is to ensure a fair and consistent approach to managing our community, in accordance with legal requirements and best practices. 

Signing a lease agreement is more than a formality; it’s a critical step to secure your rights, responsibilities, and peace of mind as a tenant in a mobile home community. 

By carefully reviewing and signing your lease, you ensure that you are legally protected, aware of community standards, and prepared for a stable and enjoyable living experience. 

If you have any questions or concerns about your lease, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We are here to assist you and address any issues you may have. 

Understanding your lease is fundamental to a positive tenancy and helps foster a respectful, secure, and supportive community environment.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a harmonious and compliant community.

How To Prepare Your Garbage Bins For Pickup?

As part of our ongoing efforts to maintain a clean and pleasant environment in our community, we would like to remind everyone of the proper procedures for preparing and placing your trash bins for collection. It is important to be aware of the guidelines in preparing trash bins for the carbage collection company to pick up.

Following these guidelines will ensure a smooth and efficient process for both residents and the garbage collection company.

Do’s:

1. Use Appropriate Containers: Please use the designated trash bins provided by the garbage collection company. Ensure that lids are securely closed to prevent spillage and to keep pests away.

2. Bag Your Trash: All garbage should be bagged and securely tied before being placed in the bin. This helps to prevent litter and makes it easier for collectors to handle.

3. Positioning: Place your carts curbside the night before your collection day. On collection days, the trash bins should be placed at the designated collection area in front of your home. Ensure that bins are positioned with the handles facing your home and the lids opening towards the street. Do not block sidewalks, driveways, or fire hydrants with your bins.

4. Spacing: Leave at least three feet of space between your trash bin and any other objects, including other bins, mailboxes, and parked cars. This allows the collection truck's automated arms to easily access your bin.

5. Back: Please remember to bring your bins back in after they have been emptied. Leaving empty bins out in front of your home can be unsightly and obstructive.

Don’ts:

1. Overfilling: Do not overfill your trash bins. The lids should be able to close completely. Overflowing bins can cause litter and attract pests.

2. Securely Bagged: When filling your trash bins, make sure that the trash is securely bagged to prevent spills or littering. Overfilled bins can also pose a safety hazard for the collection workers. If you have excess trash that does not fit in your bin, please hold onto it until the next collection day.

3. Hazardous Materials: Do not place hazardous materials such as batteries, paint, chemicals, or electronics in your trash bin. These items require special disposal methods and can be dangerous. It is important to remember that only household waste should be placed in the trash bins.

4. Heavy Items: Avoid placing excessively heavy items in your trash bin, as this can make it difficult for the collection team and could damage the bin.

5. Incorrect Days: Do not place your trash bin out on days other than the designated collection day. Early or late placements can lead to cluttered streets and missed collections. Also, garbage companies delay for a day their collection schedule during holidays.

Separate recyclables from regular trash and place them in the appropriate recycling bins. Follow the local recycling guidelines for acceptable materials. By recycling properly, we can reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and help protect the environment.

We appreciate your cooperation in following these guidelines to help keep our mobile home park clean and orderly. If you have any questions or need further information, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your ongoing commitment to our community.

Reference:

https://www.wasteconnections.com/

https://www.wasteprousa.com/