Although we have discussed many services that we offer, GrandShores spends considerable dollars on other systems, processes and procedures important in the operation of an association.  Although the list is not all inclusive we trust these other services will be important to those considering joining with us either as a customer or an employee.

• Systems & Technology – We spend thousands of dollars each year on computers and other technology.  Secure data storage, secure association records, and protected financial information is vital to the well being of your association.  Adequate fire walls, backup procedures, redundant servers, off site data storage, and virus software are installed to protect data assets.

Our technology is also reflected in:
1)      Client specific copiers and postage accounting.
2)      Association specific accounting software.
3)      Secure, high-speed remote access.
4)      Data download directly to audit firms.
5)      World class Web based applications.

 All technology decisions are based on saving GrandShores and our client’s money.

• Banking Partnership: - GrandShores has a banking relationship with one of the largest banks in Florida.  Because of the deposit size of GrandShores’ associations the following features are provided at  no charge to our associations:

1)      Automatic debit of account assessments (ACH).
2)      Credit card payment through our website.
3)      Monthly account item processing.
4)      Low financing of insurance premiums.
5)      Downloading of month-end bank statements.
6)      Uploading of owner payments directly to GrandShores accounts receivable program.
7)      Ability to view statements on-line.
8)      Full service on-line banking.
9)      Check scanning giving GrandShores the ability to view front and back of checks for both owner payment and accounts payable.

In addition, we are working in a joint effort to establish a low cost method of charging assessments by credit card.

• Non-Reimbursed Expense: - Both GrandShores and EmeraldShores have major expenditure at our associations.  Over the past five years we have estimated over $35,000 has been spent on office equipment, supplies, tools, and materials:  things that another company and/or the association would have to buy to adequately equip for future/equivalent services. 
• Special Projects Expertise – GrandShores and EmeraldShores have many years of Special Projects experience.  Special Projects are defined as those projects outside of the normal scope of work.  The term “Special Projects” shall include such things as reconstruction or other projects relating to hurricanes, storms, fires, construction defects, warranty and various types of capital improvements to the property.  When a Special project is approved by the board, GrandShores and EmeraldShores set up separate accounts and records so that the project can be properly managed both on a completion and fiduciary basis
• Employment – GrandShores Management Group, Inc. implements a very detailed hiring process.  GrandShores Management Group, Inc. is a drug-free workplace and workers are drug tested when hired and subject to random drug testing throughout employment.  Also, workers are taught how to work safe and making environments they are in safe for everyone.  Various positions require different skills and talents but the hiring process is the same.  Background checks are done, multiple level people interview potential employees, and profiles are taken of people for best placement in the company.  A combination of the aforementioned processes has made GrandShores a better company and it goes back to better people.
• Experienced Management – Our twelve (12) association managers are currently in the process of obtaining their advanced designations through Community Association Institute our industry trade organization.  These twelve (12) managers combine for over fifty (55) years experience.  Meetings are held weekly to insure all association managers are familiar with management issues and problems that might have arisen during their Manager on Duty rotation.  All association managers are very familiar with all managed properties insuring smooth operations during paid days off.
• Manager on Duty – We believe that it is of utmost importance that homeowners and guests are able to contact someone in case of an emergency. We developed the Manager on Duty process to cover these issues. On a rotational basis, each licensed CAM carries a dedicated cell phone and a three ring binder 24 hours per day, seven days per week. The binder contains all of the pertinent information about the association such as landscaper, irrigation, elevators, alarms, gate code companies, insurance company, etc. This assures that any of our managers can respond to an emergency at any of our associations.
• Hurricane Response Plan – In the event of a hurricane threatening the association property, it is the goal if the GrandShores Management Group to minimize hazards internal to operations and to protect the interest of the association. Personnel will seek to see that the facilities are secure and that recovery is as timely and orderly as possible. Our Hurricane Response Plan has been prepared to fulfill goals and objectives. It describes employee duties under categories of severe weather, as described by the National Weather Service. The National Weather Service will advise when a Tropical Storm or Hurricane develops. When this occurs, all GrandShores personnel will begin preparations to protect and safeguard the association’s property.
• Board Meetings – GrandShores holds board meetings at times and days that is accommodating to the board members.  This includes after 5:00 pm and on weekends.  Some association management companies will not hold board meetings after 4:00 pm or on weekends.  Unless otherwise specified, GrandShores strives to have association manager, association accountant and administrative assistant in attendance at all board meetings.
• Processes – GrandShores with extensive consultation from Carr, Riggs & Ingram has developed processes in our internal control procedures.  All internal controls are in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principals and Florida Statute 718 and 720.
• Accountability – GrandShores staff is held accountable and realize the awesome responsibility of protecting the investments that owners have made.  This is seen daily from the maintenance staff, association manager, administration, and accounting staff as they perform their duties in an organized well defined methodical process.
• Extensive Cross training – GrandShores spend time and effort making sure our employees are trained on multiple duties and multiple systems, have knowledge of good (and bad) subcontractors, and experience for handling emergencies.
• Community Involvement – Our people are excited to give back to our local organizations.  We presently have people heavily involved in the following community organizations:

1)      TDC – Beach Restoration Committee
2)      Scenic Corridor – Board of Directors
3)      CAI – Community Association Institute, Legislative Actions Committee
4)      Children’s Playground – Construction Team
5)      Chamber of Commerce – Leadership for Future