HOA Management Blog
On a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the best, how well do HOA board members in your homeowners association communicate with members?
Take a moment to think about that, or even discuss it with your fellow board members. Be honest! If you’re like many other HOA boards, communication with members can be a challenge, especially without the help of a manager. So what can you do to get your messages read or heard?
The clubhouse/recreation center is the “crown jewel” of your homeowners association, offering a common area where members can get to know one another, socialize, and entertain their guests. In order to make the clubhouse safe and enjoyable for all who use it, you need a clear access policy—and that means homeowner’s must have their association ID to access the facility.
Homeowners within a homeowners association possess a right to participate in deciding what will be done about community issues that affect all residents. By casting their vote—either in person, or by proxy, or absentee ballot—they can help make important choices.
Are you looking for ways to save money in your homeowners association? After necessary repairs and upkeep, it seems like there’s never enough dollars to get all the jobs done. Your fellow HOA board members all agree that a last resort is raising monthly dues, so instead, consider some of these unique ideas that both help enhance the Association and get members involved too.
As a volunteer member of the Board of Directors, you have the opportunity to help the homeowners in your community through issues that impact one of their biggest investments. Unfortunately, at times, owners forget that you are a volunteer of the Board and not a full-time employee. It’s very important to set boundaries with homeowners and fellow HOA board members on the appropriate time to discuss HOA related issues and do HOA related tasks.
Some associations have extra space for various amenities. Some have parks, tennis courts, or even lakes and water features. One amenity that’s a feature in some associations is playgrounds for children. There are many different types of playgrounds and play apparatus for associations to choose from. Whether your association has had a playground from the beginning or it’s considering the addition as a capital expenditure, there are certain things an HOA board should keep in mind.
Is your board constantly faced with residents who don’t pay their monthly HOA fees on time?
As a member of your homeowners association, when you bought a home in your community, you should have received copies of all the Association's governing documents—including the Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&RS) and Rules & Regulations—prior to or at the closing of escrow. The CC&Rs explain what the homeowners association is responsible for and what the homeowner is responsible for.
Whether you’re a resident of a homeowners association or a Board member looking for ways to encourage residents to get involved in their community, here are some great tips for being an active member of your Association and enjoying the place where you live.
If your homeowners association property has been damaged in a natural disaster—hurricane, tornado, flood, earthquake or fire — there are some important steps you can take in the immediate aftermath to ensure your safety and minimize financial loss.
