The Benefits of Professional Community Association Management

Community associations undertake a range of roles and responsibilities. This includes managing shared spaces and supporting the board in its decision-making. With professional community association management, the board receives support with daily operations, planning, and communication. Here are a few benefits of using professional community association management:

Support That Guides Boards 

A professional community manager assists the board by facilitating the obligations outlined in the governing documents of the association. A manager’s duties may include communications, documentation, and community financial administration. Managers act as a liaison between the board and residents. 

Some community association management providers review governing documents before board meetings. They outline agenda items that may require motion and then assist in follow-up tasks, including sending notices and updates to residents. A professional manager helps board members identify and prioritize projects, such as areas that need maintenance and repairs. They might offer expert guidance throughout the planning process or handle paperwork for an insurance claim or vendor engagement. Managers are there to help board members stay organized and informed about their responsibilities.

Reports That Clarify Finances 

Financial reports give board members updates on their present and future financial position. A professional manager might track ongoing expenses, trends, and flag expenditures for future board review. Some management teams establish financial plans that prepare those associations for future upgraded items, common area renovations, and emergency repairs. The reports may be useful in establishing a plan for recurring and seasonal expenses. Board members are able to use these reports to create plans for budgeting and projections.

With the help of a professional manager, board members can conduct assessments of service contracts to determine a timeline for larger projects. With transparent documentation and clear reporting, some homeowners’ associations are able to create a reserve fund for unexpected expenses. Financial reports should be available to residents and board members at all times. Some community association management providers offer online portals that provide homeowners with access to the reports and governing documents. These websites or apps can also be used as a communication tool where residents contact board members, make suggestions, and ask questions.

Oversight That Maintains Property Standards 

Managers can oversee routine maintenance of common areas, such as landscaping and cleaning buildings. These services require scheduling, documentation, and follow-up with contractors and vendors. Managers assist the association by performing site inspections to find out what needs maintenance. They can get quotes from contractors and prepare the necessary work orders. Look for community managers who oversee vendor performance on an ongoing service, document maintenance issues, and make reports for future reference. These reports can also be used to update the community on the progress of repairs or provide timelines. 

Guidance That Reinforces Compliance 

Homeowners’ associations have a variety of legal requirements to comply with, such as state law, local ordinance, and governing documents. A professional manager helps keep track of these mandates and lets boards know when updating documents is necessary. Professional managers should be well-versed with both federal and state requirements and assist communities with staying up-to-date and compliant. They may also assist with reviewing compliance deadlines and making sure that residents get notified on time. 

Work With a Community Association Management 

Association managers provide professional services like reserve studies and planning short- or long-term projects. They assist by acting as a bridge between board members and residents, where they facilitate communication. Some management providers offer educational materials and training opportunities for volunteers. With these tools, board members can be more prepared to handle their responsibilities and serve their community. Explore community association management services, and see how they can help with your day-to-day operations.