Roughly 30% of the U.S. population lives in HOA communities. This is because HOA community living offers several attractive benefits, including property value preservation and proximity to amenities like swimming pools and fitness centers.
However, living in an HOA isn't without its fair share of challenges. As community association management, whether you're an HOA board or a contracted association manager, you must have a detailed understanding of the common challenges and find effective solutions. Without these, it's hardly possible to have a successful community.
This article looks at some of the most common challenges of HOA living.
HOA Violations
Every HOA has covenants, conditions, and restrictions that govern the conduct of every homeowner/resident. These rules help to create an orderly environment where everyone's rights and freedoms are respected.
Now, the thing with rules is there will always be those who are not keen on following them. In HOAs, you'll not fail to find residents who violate the rules. Some of these violations are intentional while others are not.
For example, if an HOA has banned certain types of pets, you can find homeowners who ignore the rule and keep those pets, knowing very well there isn't much the management is going to do about it.
HOA violations will always be there. Management needs to be steadfast about enforcing the rules without fear or favor.
The CC&Rs flesh out the consequences of various violations. Enforce them.
Late/Non-Payment of HOA Fees
Living in an HOA comes at a cost. HOA homes are typically pricier than comparable homes in the same location, but it's the HOA fees that get some owners worked up. It has to be paid monthly for as long as one is an HOA homeowner.
HOA management must bill, collect, and put these funds to use. Unfortunately, this isn't always an easy task, as some homeowners pay their dues late and others don't pay at all.
An HOA has bills to pay. Failing to pay a vendor can lead to the withdrawal of services, affecting the operations of the community. Yet, it's from the HOA fees that the management must raise the funds to make these payments.
The solution is to implement an effective fee billing and collection system and take the necessary enforcement measures when a homeowner fails to pay.
Lack of Homeowner Engagement
Residents need to be actively involved in the affairs of the community. However, a common challenge is homeowners failing to participate.
For example, an HOA can call for an annual meeting, only for a handful of homeowners to attend. Without sufficient quorum, it can even be impossible to pass new resolutions.
As HOA management, it's your responsibility to find ways to improve HOA engagement. You can, for instance, host regular community events to foster a culture of togetherness.
Overcome the Challenges Community Association Management
HOA communities face myriad challenges, but with effective community association management, no challenge is too big.
Outsourcing some functions to a professional HOA management company will help steer your HOA to success. For HOAs in Fort Lauderdale, FL, look no further than PMI Broward Sunrise. Although locally-owned and independently operated, we're part of the PMI franchise network -- a national brand with over 20 years of experience.
Contact us to speak to a professional about our services.
