With most elections occurring between the beginning of January and the end of March, election season for HOAs is now upon us. Even the word “elections” can bring a feeling of dread upon board members, but the process does not have to be a painful one. In fact, there are several tips you can follow…
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Good HOA managers make a huge difference in how an association functions. They are the face that homeowners see, and the person with whom most will communicate. It is important, therefore, that they exhibit many of the qualities that are necessary for a leadership position. Aside from strong interpersonal skills, a good HOA manager should…
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The terminology surrounding the HOA governing documents can be confusing at times. If you have been a part of an HOA or even on the board, you may have heard the terms “governing documents”, “CC&Rs”, “articles of incorporation”, “bylaws”, and “rules and regulations” without really understanding the difference between them or what each individually means.…
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Poor communication in HOA communities is already a serious issue in its own regard. That same lack of communication in HOA neighborhoods can lead to bigger HOA issues down the road. From minor HOA management issues to open conflict between the board and homeowners, HOA communication issues have a systemic impact on the whole community.…
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One of the greatest challenges for HOA boards is a lack of participation in annual meetings. This is detrimental for the residents, who will miss key information, and for the board, who will have a harder time communicating important information to a community who neglects to come to the meetings. Luckily, there are some surefire…
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The line between the owner’s responsibility for damages, repairs, and improvements and the HOA’s responsibility is oftentimes extremely hazy and uncertain. Among these much-debated topics is the question of who is responsible for water damages to individual properties. In an area where heavy rainfall is common during the summer months, the issue becomes more pressing.…
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Enforcement of the rules and regulations of an HOA can be an intimidating challenge at the best of times. Many of the rules may seem impossible to enforce, and homeowners may often challenge enforcement that they feel is unwarranted or unfairly implemented. In some cases, a resident may plead “selective enforcement” in a court of…
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Perhaps the largest and most important purchase that you will ever make is that of your home. Not only are you choosing the place that you will live in for a good portion of your life, but you are also making an investment that will affect your future as well as the future of your…
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Deciding to resign from an HOA board is difficult. There are times though that resignation from the board is the best choice for everyone. If your schedule no longer allows for the added responsibilities or there are conflicts that prevent the board from functioning well, it may be time to hand in your HOA board…
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Homeowners associations are rapidly gaining in popularity in the United States. More and more homeowners are finding the security and ease of being part of a privately governed community appealing compared to the hassle of maintenance. Perhaps your neighborhood is lacking an HOA community, or maybe it has always been your dream to start one.…
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