As a property manager, I enjoy the dynamics of working with condominium boards and HOAs. Essentially, the Board runs the Association along with the volunteer owners in an effort to keep property values high through proper maintenance of common areas, maintaining uniformity, and ensuring positive curb appeal. The Association works closely with the property manager to set goals for the year, manage annual projects and budgets, and assist homeowners with maintenance issues through the Architectural Committee. Owner participants occasionally have previous experience working with treasury reports, work orders and the various challenges that arise in any home, but many of them learn ‘on the job’. After years of working in association with association boards, I have noticed three qualities that distinguish effective board members. Putting these elements into practice in your role can help empower your property managers, maintain pride of ownership, and keep your property values high.
1. Know your CC&Rs
It is essential that each member be familiar with their community’s governing documents, known as CC&Rs. These are the covenants that govern a community. They are initially written by an attorney and include the Declarations, Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation, parcel maps and plans relevant to the property. Over time, the CC&Rs expand to include Rules and Regulations created by the owners’ Board of Directors and which may be updated and revised, as long as they are in compliance with the governing documents.
2. Compliance is king
Many times the Board of Directors is considered to be the ‘bad guy’ because they initiate letters asking owners to comply, such as replacing window frames that are the wrong color or doors that don’t match other units. But these are necessary requests because when you look at a well-maintained community, the eye will see that uniformity is often the attribute that attracts new home buyers. When a community is well-maintained, the grass is mowed and manicured, trash cans are out of sight, and cars are parked in their proper spaces, it gives the potential buyer the reassurance that the people who live here care about the community. The net result: higher property values for potential new owners and a sense of pride for existing ones.
3. You are part of a team
A good board member will be available to listen to the needs of the owners and let them know that they take their problems seriously. Being on a Board doesn’t have to take a lot of time, but it’s important to remember that the Board is a team and sometimes teamwork requires a bigger investment of time. Decisions are never made by one person: they are made as a group, so they represent the whole community. It is also very important not to take these issues personally, but with an attitude of understanding and compassion. Although it is your responsibility to notify owners when they are out of compliance, it is done respectfully, without causing offense or resentment.
The role of the association board member is essential to the long-term success of a community. The people who dedicate their time and energy to this role make a personal commitment to preserving property values, maintaining pride of ownership and ensuring a better quality of life. These volunteers are appreciated!