Top 5 New Year’s Resolutions for the HOA (That are Easy to Achieve!)

Let us work on something that brings us together! New Year’s resolutions have a certain stigma to them, mostly “they never stick” or “we never see them through.” However, developing a few New Year’s Resolutions that foster positive relationships between HOA Board and resident, effectively govern the association, and decrease expensive and avoidable conflicts between the like, are SIMPLE to achieve and long lasting with little effort. Are you ready for the best year yet for your HOA! Let’s go!

• Leave the Egos at the Door. Buh-bye 2020! And buh-bye egos. In many cases, HOA disputes can be settled easily. But when one gets invested in their ego, simple matters can quickly escalate into huge conflicts. If an HOA Board member takes an honest look at a situation they may be dealing with a resident, and feels personal feelings about the resident (or vice versa) are influencing any decisions being made, it is time to step out of that dispute and ask for another Board member to assist in the situation.

• Review the Governing Documents. The largest reason for conflict to arise is mis or dis-information. HOA board members, and residents alike, need to read and understanding the governing documents. If there isn’t clear understanding, then no one is enforcing and/or complying with the HOA rules properly. Clear understanding = less headaches. If you are a board member, also be sure you have the complete set. Sometimes amendments are lost as papers and files are shared between passing board members.

• Get Organized! We are talking about report filing, accessible minutes, review insurance requirements. Phew, we know sounds like a LOT. But it’s quite simple with a checklist. Ah-ha! We have one called, The Ultimate HOA Board Organization Checklist. Click here to access it.

• Delegate and Seek Help. HOA Board members and volunteers are usually juggling full-time jobs and families, which leaves little time for the HOA duties. Can committees be utilized to investigate initiatives? Ask for help, use your social media tools, go door-to-door, have functions, and see if small groups can form to tackle some of the issues.

• Stay Informed. For residents, the benefits of getting to know your HOA Board are outstanding. For the HOA Board, commit to continually educating and improving your knowledge about HOA management and your community!

Phew…that’s a lot of resolutions….now where’s the champagne? Cheers to 2021!