What Should Your Management Company Be Doing for You?
Pillar #1 Leadership Support
At the core of every thriving community are leaders who are committed to its prosperity.
Robust leadership support is an essential best practice in community association management, as it provides the necessary framework for decision-making and guiding the community toward achieving its goals. A professional community association management company should offer comprehensive and consistent leadership support to board members, ensuring they have the tools, training, and expert guidance needed to effectively govern the community.
When communities partner with Inframark, they gain access to a dedicated management team that excels in supporting the development and sustainability of their board of directors and committees. Our team is not only enthusiastic but also highly skilled in conducting effective meetings, empowering community leaders through knowledge, and offering proven industry advice.
Board Development, Training and Guidance: Building Effective Leadership
At the heart of leadership support is the development of the HOA board. The board is the governing body that makes crucial decisions affecting the community, from financial planning to enforcing rules and regulations. However, not all board members come with a background in property management or governance, which is why board development is so important.
A reputable HOA management company will provide board members with training programs designed to enhance their understanding of their roles and responsibilities. This training includes educating members on community association laws, ethical decision-making, and best practices in governance. Continuous education is critical as community management needs evolve with new laws and best practices. Regular sessions should be conducted that cover topics, such as legal updates, GAAP best practices in financial management, and conflict resolution. With the right support and relevant training, board members can make informed decisions that benefit the entire community.
At Inframark, as part of the services we provide, we routinely provide complimentary board training sessions, which are open to the public. These educational events are usually facilitated by our team and a trusted, local HOA attorney that Inframark has vetted. This is just one way that we provide a value-added resource for all board members. We offer this training to communities whether they are current Inframark clientele or not, so community leaders receive accessible, meaningful, relevant information to serve their residents in the best way possible.
In addition to training, ongoing guidance is a key aspect of the leadership support we provide. HOA boards face various challenges, from financial issues to resident disputes. An experienced management company acts as a trusted advisor, providing strategic insights and practical solutions, helping boards navigate complex situations effectively.
Hear From Our Team!
“A prime example of our Leadership Support Pillar in motion was when a former community desired to have their ACC/ Modification Applications reviewed and decided upon by a committee comprised of residents from the community. Using a combination of experience within the industry and their governing documents, I was able to advise them on how the committee could be created and facilitate soliciting candidates for selection. Once the committee was established, I provided guidance to the new members as needed, helped them understand their new roles, and familiarized the committee to best practices, state laws, and the community’s governing documents, so that they could perform within their roles successfully.”
Christina Kelley, CMCA AMS | Business Developer | Texas
Committees: Engaging the Community
Leadership support extends to the formation and management of committees, which are essential for engaging residents and representing the community’s diverse interests. Committees—whether focused on finance, landscaping, or social activities—play a pivotal role in shaping the community’s character and priorities. A competent HOA management company provides structured guidance, facilitating meetings, setting clear objectives, and offering strategic advice to ensure these committees operate efficiently and in alignment with the board’s goals, ultimately enhancing the community’s overall well-being.
Meetings: Facilitating Effective Communication
Regular meetings are a cornerstone of successful community association management. These meetings provide a platform for board members, committee members, and residents to discuss important issues, share updates, and make decisions. However, without proper organization and facilitation, meetings can be unproductive.
A professional property management company will take charge of organizing and facilitating these meetings. This support involves preparing agendas, distributing materials in advance, and ensuring that meetings are conducted in an orderly and efficient manner. By providing this level of support, the management company helps to foster transparent communication and effective decision-making within the community – saving boards and residents time and frustration, and enhancing desired outcomes.
Key Take-Aways: Why Leadership Support Matters
The effectiveness of a community association’s leadership has a direct impact on the overall success of the community. Strong leadership ensures that the community’s needs are met, that residents are satisfied, that property values are preserved or improved, and that the association’s financial health is maintained. Without proper leadership support, the board may struggle to make informed decisions, leading to potential conflicts, financial mismanagement, and a decline in community satisfaction.
By investing in strong leadership support, your community association can achieve its goals, foster a positive living environment, and ensure the long-term success of your neighborhood.
Stay Tuned!
In the next installment of this series, we will explore the second pillar of community management: Financial Management, and how it contributes to the stability and prosperity of your association.
