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Picture this: You finally join a neighborhood with a homeowners association in Oakland. For a monthly fee, you get many benefits, such as landscape maintenance, increased security, and higher property values.
Have you ever wondered who oversees the actions of the HOA? An HOA board is the governing body of your community organization. Read on to learn about the four responsibilities of an HOA board.
1. Choosing an HOA Manager
The HOA manager is the most integral figure in the day-to-day oversight of the community. While the board meets occasionally, the manager is the person who deals directly with complaints and issues from residents.
An HOA manager will also send out warnings and violation notices if a resident does not follow the rules. The board needs to choose someone who can handle the heat when it matters most.
2. Managing HOA Finances
Since residents pay dues when they live in an HOA, it is important to know where that money goes. The responsibility primarily falls on the treasurer, but all of the HOA board member roles can participate in financial decisions.
Some of the aspects of financial management include deciding to increase fees, establishing a budget, and bookkeeping.
The board may also assist in preparing financial statements for the HOA that show where the money is being spent.
3. Enforcing HOA Rules
One of the reasons HOA communities look and feel more prestigious is because of HOA rules. These include guidelines for holiday decorations, noises, and the outer appearance of homes.
HOA documents often include lists of rules that the residents need to follow. The HOA board can update the rules if an issue arises or residents vote for a change.
Usually, the board will enforce HOA rules through a tiered system. For instance, there might be a warning, followed by a fine if the offender doesn't comply.
The board needs to ensure that the rules are realistic enough for residents to follow. If they are too arbitrary, it may discourage people from moving in.
4. Listening to Residents
When residents pay a significant amount in HOA dues, the board must listen to their opinions and suggestions. Most of the time, HOA board meetings are a great way for residents to air grievances and offer improvement ideas.
For example, if there is room left over in the budget for new amenities, the board can poll residents to see which they would like to see in the HOA community. They can include this in the HOA meeting topics.
The HOA board of directors should respond promptly to residents who have concerns or complaints. This shows that they care about the residents and the overall well-being of the community.
The Many Responsibilities of an HOA Board
Are you interested in learning more about your community HOA board? With this guide, you can know all about its responsibilities to the homeowners association.
Want to learn more about HOA boards? PMI Oakland has all of the information you need. Our team of professionals can help you navigate all of your HOA needs in Oakland, CA if you contact us today.
