Saratoga HOA Boards Rely on Our Legal Insight

Schneider Buchel LLP proudly supports homeowners’ associations in Saratoga and across Upstate New York. Our attorneys are experienced in every facet of HOA law and serve as general counsel to associations of all sizes and types. We advise boards on governance matters, enforcement of rules, assessment collections, and day-to-day legal needs with professionalism and precision.

Our firm is known for cultivating lasting relationships with our clients, often continuing to advise HOAs well beyond the resolution of their initial legal issues. If your board is managing a complex legal matter or simply wants proactive legal oversight, we’re here to help. Schedule a consultation today to find out how our experienced team can serve your Saratoga homeowners’ association.

Enforcement of the Terms of the HOA’s Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules

Schneider Buchel LLP works closely with HOA boards to enforce community rules and maintain lawful governance. We routinely advise associations on enforcing their Declaration, By-Laws, and House Rules in a manner that complies with internal procedures and state law. Many boards inadvertently implement policies that require a homeowner's vote, exposing themselves to lawsuits.

We help prevent these mistakes and offer corrective solutions when they occur. Our firm also defends associations in lawsuits related to enforcement disputes. In many cases, we recommend adopting a provision that shifts legal costs to homeowners who bring unsuccessful lawsuits against the HOA—saving associations thousands and deterring unfounded claims.

Even with broad enforcement rights, boards must act prudently to avoid escalating tensions or inviting litigation. Delayed or improper enforcement can be far more costly than early, measured action. Our attorneys offer clear, actionable advice so boards can make informed decisions and enforce rules with confidence. Whether you're addressing a specific violation or evaluating your procedures, our firm is here to support you every step of the way.

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Non-Payment of Assessment and Other Charges

Unpaid HOA assessments can place a serious financial strain on the entire community. When homeowners fall behind on monthly or special charges, it undermines the association’s ability to meet budgetary needs and maintain shared spaces.

Legal Remedies and Post-Foreclosure Strategy

Our firm offers deep experience in assessment collection, including lien filing and foreclosure proceedings. We have a dedicated department that handles these matters swiftly and effectively. Once the lien has been foreclosed, we advise HOA Boards on strategic options for recovering funds—whether that involves selling the unit, negotiating with the mortgage lender, or leasing the property.

We go beyond simply recovering the principal balance. Our attorneys pursue all available charges—interest, late fees, legal costs, and any other amounts authorized by your governing documents or applicable statutes. Our objective is to help the HOA recover every cent owed as efficiently as possible. Acting quickly and decisively helps avoid long-term losses and ensures that the association’s financial position remains stable and enforceable.

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Contract Review, Drafting, and Negotiation

Contractual decisions can significantly impact your association’s budget, liability, and operations. Our attorneys handle contract drafting, review, and negotiation for all essential documents, including vendor agreements, construction contracts, employment-related documents, and professional service agreements. We tailor our guidance to your specific goals and governing rules.

Comprehensive Legal Protection

We spot unfavorable indemnification language, vague deadlines, and insurance gaps before they become problems. Our work ensures your association doesn’t absorb unnecessary risk. Whether you’re approving a simple vendor service or navigating a multi-million-dollar construction contract, our attorneys provide experienced legal support every step of the way.

Client Testimonials What Our Clients Have To Say

Highly skilled at navigating the complex web of laws that apply only to associations.

John, Board Member

Your diligence and commitment to our community has been the catalyst to solving our delinquencies.

Ralph, Board President

Your professionalism and strong determination was the leading factor in winning all of our litigations.

Steve, Board President

We've had the pleasure of working with this exceptional law firm over 25 years and couldn't be more impressed.

Paul, Property Manager

Extremely competent and an exceptional ability to communicate effectively with Board Members.

Alexis, Board Member

Deep expertise in HOA law and strong commitment to protecting the best interests of our community.

Billy, HOA Association

Results-driven and the best choice we ever made. Highly recommended to anyone seeking the best legal counsel.

Steven, Co-Op Association

I am a property manager and have used Schneider Buchel for many years. They are extremely experienced in coop/condo law. Pete Weintraub recently advised a Coop Board on adopting a fine policy. He helped the Board develop the policy and gave them expert guidance on the process to get it approved by the shareholders. I highly recommend both the firm and Pete.

Richard Rush

Top Notch law firm. We entrusted Schneider Buchel LLP over the years as they provide us with their expertise on Co-Op Law. Justin Buchel has demonstrated his unwavering commitment to us, provides top tier representation and always delivers positive outcomes. Thank you.

Ingrid Baerwald

I've had the pleasure of working with Victoria Waller for a luxury condominium in the heart of Gramercy and can say, hands down, she is one of the best! Her construction background is just a bonus to her work ethic, professionalism, and thoroughness! When Victoria is involved, clients are confident that their concerns will be heard and addressed timely.

Maribel Vega

The firm exemplifies a high level of professionalism and great attention to detail. Throughout my years of experience collaborating with various firms in the industry, I have found this particular firm to be the most responsive and professional. Notably, Victoria Waller, who is extremely competent and has an exceptional ability to communicate effectively with Board Members, providing thorough explanations.

Alexis Fritz

We have had nothing but excellent interactions with Victoria Waller and the team at Schneider Buchel. Her advice is on point, clear and practical. She's readily available and always responds to messages and emails. She's a great addition to the team.

Tom Flood

Schneider Buchel LLP have represented our cooperative for over 20 years. Their staff are friendly, knowledgeable, and on target no matter what issue we present. They are result driven and the best choice we ever made. I highly recommend them to anyone seeking the very best legal counsel.

Steven Liss

I am an attorney in Florida and I have known Marc personally and professionally for almost 10 years. I would not hesitate in sending him any work relating to HOA or COA law; his expertise is amazing, and his ethics are second to none.

Craig Goldenfarb

Great law firm! Everyone is extremely helpful when dealing with all of our co-op issues. Big shout out to Anda! She is on top of everything all the time and constantly updates us! Highly recommend!

Lori Max

Love working with Victoria. She is very attentive and responses very quickly to e mails and calls. Working with Victoria makes the transactions go smooth and easy.:)

Elham Danialian

Marc has unmatched focus on everything an association needs to be successful and well run. His firm truly is one of the top in the country for this very specific area of law.

John Lin McCraw

I would like to share my experiences with this firm. All of my dealings with the entire team have been exceptional. All matters are dealt with efficiently, effectively and professionally. The level of expertise is beyond compare.

Joei Losito

Regulatory Agencies and Code Mandates

Our legal team is well-versed in navigating the complex landscape of regulatory agencies and code enforcement. We track ongoing changes to local, state, and federal regulations to help our clients maintain compliance before issues arise. By anticipating shifts in legal requirements, we minimize risk and prevent costly penalties. Whether you require counsel on proactive strategies or representation in regulatory disputes, our attorneys are equipped to guide you through every phase, including litigation when necessary.

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Governing Documents

Our legal team is experienced in assisting HOAs that serve as umbrella associations over condominium developments. When governing documents are disjointed or unclear, we help unify responsibilities—such as assessments, common area repairs, and board powers—under a single cohesive HOA board.

Sponsor-drafted Offering Plans and bylaws often require significant revision. We craft amendments tailored to each community’s specific needs, improving clarity and ensuring smoother operation for all residents and board members involved.

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Construction Defect Litigation

Many community associations face construction defects shortly after developer turnover. These issues often arise once homeowners assume control of the Board from the sponsor. At Schneider Buchel, our litigation department is highly experienced in addressing these types of claims and helping associations secure necessary repairs or compensation.

Supporting Boards from Day One

We advise Boards on how to select qualified engineers and professionals, ensure warranty requirements are followed correctly, and submit all claims with precision. When the situation requires litigation, we’re prepared to initiate legal proceedings and follow through with appeals to pursue the association’s full rights and remedies.

We also handle claims against third-party contractors hired by Boards. If a contractor fails to deliver on project specifications or performs work negligently, we help Boards resolve these matters effectively. While litigation is not always required, we are fully equipped to represent your association in court if negotiation fails. Our attorneys act as strong advocates throughout the process, working to protect your property and financial investment.

Additional HOA Law Assistance

  • Financial security of the HOA
  • Complex dispute resolution
  • Negotiate, mediate, and litigate practical solutions
  • Loans (CIRA Loans) for capital expenditures and repairs
  • Contract drafting
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Preeminent Specialists Meet Our Attorney Teams

At Schneider Buchel, every attorney is focused on a specific area of Community Association Law. When legal issues arise, you don’t get a generalist. Here, you get a coordinated team of legal specialists, each bringing deep experience in their field. Whether it’s day-to-day governance, contract negotiation, or complex litigation, you have the right attorney with the right experience working to protect your community’s interest and deliver the legal outcome you need.

Transactional Department:

Handles all day-to-day legal needs, including governance and contract matters.

Landlord, Tenant & Foreclosures Department:

Manages complex disputes and represents boards and associations in court.

Real Estate Department:

Specialists in all real estate transactions—drafting and negotiating leases, closings, etc.

Litigation Department:

Manages complex disputes and represents boards and associations in court.

Justin S. Buchel

Partner

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George J. Mullane

Foreclosure and Landlord/Tenant Department Chair

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Cassidy R. Kalmenson

Landlord Tenant Litigation Attorney

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Ivana Garbowski

Foreclosure Attorney

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Jason Goodman

Transactional Department Chair

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Jason Mohabir

Landlord Tenant Litigation Attorney

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Mitchell J. Flachner

Litigation Department Chair

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Amy Zamir

Attorney

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Pete Weintraub

Attorney

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Sloan Zarkin

Attorney

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Suzanne Player

Foreclosure Attorney

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Vanessa Wilcox

Attorney

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Victoria M. Waller

Real Estate Department Chair

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Jennifer Anderson

Paralegal

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Idalia Innocent

Paralegal

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Margarita Morales

Paralegal

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Meet Our Founder & CEO Marc H. Schneider, Esq

Having served as a Board President of a community association himself, Marc knows firsthand the unique needs of associations and what it takes to protect and elevate a community for all. He built his entire New York law practice around meeting and solving these needs. Today Schneider Buchel is very much a reflection of Marc’s personal affection for and sense of commitment to the people who manage community associations.

Group icon media Former Board President of a NY Community Assn.
Work icon media Three Decades of Community Law Experience
Co-Chair icon media Co-Chair NY State Bar Condo & Co-Op Committee
Building icon media Council of New York Co-Ops & Condos Member

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Dedicated to Providing Excellent Client Care

At Schneider Buchel, we prioritize seamless collaboration. We’re always prepared to work closely with your HOA’s other professional advisors to ensure thorough, coordinated representation. Recognizing that multiple professionals may be involved in guiding your association, we promote active communication and teamwork to align legal strategies with your broader goals and advisory input.

What Makes HOA Law Different

A Homeowners Association governs the shared interests of a residential community, providing structure and services in return for agreed-upon limitations on individual autonomy. Residents receive benefits—like recreational facilities, maintenance services, and safety measures—while submitting to the HOA’s authority as laid out in governing documents and New York’s Not-For-Profit Corporation Law.

The Transition From Private to Shared Governance

Homeowners accustomed to personal discretion in their property choices often struggle with the rules and procedures of HOA life. Common flashpoints include restrictions on exterior aesthetics, landscaping, and signage. Without proper education, these differences can lead to friction between residents and Boards.

HOA Boards are responsible for not only enforcing rules, but also fostering understanding. Legal guidance supports both efforts, ensuring that restrictions are applied correctly and fairly. Whether Boards are updating outdated documents or managing a difficult dispute, attorneys help deliver sound governance that stands up to scrutiny. Proactive legal involvement makes HOAs stronger, clearer, and more resilient to challenges.

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Saratoga’s Source for HOA Legal Advice

Schneider Buchel supports HOAs with personalized legal guidance grounded in experience and results. Whether your board is updating governing documents or managing resident disputes, our HOA lawyers in Saratoga are ready to assist. Schedule a consultation to learn how we can help.

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