Running a homeowners’ association board isn’t easy. The board handles many tasks on behalf of the community, and any missteps could have far-reaching consequences. How can the board make this job easier for all who step up and take on this responsibility?
Assemble a Solid Board
Residents want a board they can easily communicate with. Competent board members are better able to serve residents, but they can’t act unless they know what the residents want and need.
Every board member must be familiar with the bylaws and regulations they have put into place. They must thoroughly understand them if they wish to take on one of these positions. This ensures they apply the bylaws and regulations fairly, which residents appreciate.
In addition, board meetings must be conducted properly. Many states require these meetings to follow parliamentary procedure, which means board members must be familiar with this procedure.
Develop a Vision and Mission
Every HOA board needs a vision statement. This statement outlines where the board sees itself in the future. In addition, a mission statement is necessary to outline where the board is today and what it does. With these two statements, the board lays out its organizational objectives. The board then looks at these objectives when planning for the future of the community.
Use All Available Tools
Thanks to advances in technology, the job of a homeowners’ association has become much easier. The board can use email to communicate with residents quickly rather than having to send information through the postal system. They can distribute monthly newsletters and have them in the hands of residents immediately after the newsletter is complete. This ensures information is received in a timely manner.
In addition, the board can use association management software to handle the flow of information. This is only one of many tasks the software can be of help with. This is one investment every board should consider making to ensure smooth operations.
Assess Fines Cautiously
An HOA bears the responsibility of assessing fines for infractions committed by residents. However, they need to assess these fines cautiously, particularly when it comes to new residents of the community. It is easy for new residents to overlook a minor rule, particularly when they have moved from a neighborhood without an HOA.
Assessing a fine for these minor infractions isn’t going to help new residents feel welcome in the community. This doesn’t mean the board shouldn’t enforce the rules. Talk with the homeowner so they understand what they did wrong. When they have been in the neighborhood for a period or if they commit the same infraction multiple times, then fines should be assessed.
Operate Under a Budget
Every HOA board needs a treasurer to track funds coming in and money spent by the board. This budget makes it easy to come to an agreement on financial matters. Many HOA software programs feature accounting capabilities to simplify this task.
Implement these tips to see how they benefit the organization. If they are helpful, begin looking for other ways to simplify these tasks. Boards that do so find they have people who are willing to step up and serve. Community involvement is always a good thing.
