As a property manager, I enjoy the dynamics of working with the boards of directors of homeowners’ associations and condominiums. Basically, the Board runs the Association alongside volunteer homeowners in an effort to keep property values high by properly maintaining common areas, maintaining uniformity, and ensuring positive curb appeal. The Association works closely with the Property Manager to set goals for the year, manage projects and annual budgets, and assist homeowners with maintenance issues through the Architecture Committee. Participating homeowners occasionally have prior experience working with treasurer 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 Councils, I have noticed three qualities that distinguish effective council members. Putting these elements into practice in your role can help empower your property managers, maintain homeowner pride, and keep property values high.
1. Know your CC & Rs
It is essential that each member is familiar with their community’s governing documents, known as CC & R’s. These are the covenants that govern a community. They are drafted at the outset by an attorney and include the Relevant Declarations, Bylaws and Articles of Incorporation, parcel maps and plans of the property. Over time, the CC & Rs expand to include the Rules and Regulations that are created by the Homeowners Board of Directors and can be updated and revised as long as they are in compliance with the governing documents.
2. Conformity is king
Many times the Board of Directors is seen as ‘the bad one’ because it initiates letters asking owners to comply, such as replacing window frames that are the wrong color or doors that do not match other units. But these are necessary requests because when looking at a well-kept 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, garbage cans are out of sight, and cars are parked in their proper spaces, it gives the potential buyer the assurance that the people who live here care about community. The net result: higher property values for potential new owners and a sense of pride in 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 are serious about their problems. Joining a Board doesn’t have to be time consuming, but it is important to remember that the Board is a team, and sometimes teamwork requires a greater investment of time. One person never makes decisions, they are made in a group, so they represent the entire community. It is also very important not to take these issues personally, but with an understanding and compassionate attitude. While it is your responsibility to inform owners when they are in default, it is done with respect, without offending or causing resentment.
The role of the association board member is essential to the long-term success of a community. The people who put their time and energy into this role are personally committed to preserving property values, maintaining homeownership pride, and ensuring a better quality of life. We appreciate these volunteers!