O&H recently completed remodeling the exterior of its office to provide a drive-up window for debtors to pay their delinquent assessments. “With over 3000 active collection cases, there are days where we get as many as 50 or more debtors stopping by our office to drop off a payment or check on the status of their delinquent account or lawsuit,” managing partner Tom Hindman was quoted as saying. “We wanted to make this experience easier and friendlier to those homeowners who for whatever reason didn’t pay their assessments. Besides, it saves on wear and tear on our carpet and furniture,” added Hindman.
The drive-up window is open from 7:00am to 10:00pm on weekdays and 7:00am-midnight on weekends. It is staffed by former Taco Bell and McDonald’s employees. “By hiring people with prior drive-up window experience we saved thousands of dollars on training these people” said partner, Loura Sanchez. “Sure we’re paying a dollar per hour more than the fast food chains, but it’s worth it to get people with great customer service skills.”
We spoke to a debtor who requested his name be withheld and asked what he thought of the drive-up window experience. “It was really cool; very quick and convenient. O&H rocks! I only wish the other creditors I owed money to offered the convenience of a drive-up window.”
Sanchez has hinted that the firm may also start providing legal advice to board members via the drive-up window.
When asked if other changes could be expected, Hindman replied “While being the only HOA law firm to have a drive-up window gives us the competitive advantage we’ve been looking for, don’t be surprised to see an O&H Visa card debut later this year. Debtors who use this card to pay their assessments will receive points that can be used towards payment of future assessments. We’re even thinking of starting a “frequent debtor” club that will offer reduced attorney fees, easier payment plans, and a lounge in our office with free coffee, snacks and high speed internet access for those debtors who want to stop in and visit their personal collections paralegal.” Sanchez added “Our competition is always copying us, but I’d like to see them match this.”
Check back with us next April to learn about even more changes at O&H.