What Matters Most in Your Community Association?

The question, "What matters most within your association?" will in all probability be answered differently based on whether it is answered by an owner or perhaps a board member. The difference in focus is related straight away to one's a higher level involvement and understanding of the operations of an residential association. Having said that, it appears obvious that someone must address the disparity; since owners represent the pool of candidates for your board, it behooves us all to do something for this earlier than later.
Oftentimes, board members who had been around for a long period can dilute the value of a lot of knowledge and history by dismissing "new" ideas promulgated by owners at meetings or newly elected towards the board, with the age old phrase "We tried that before also it doesn't work." No one wants to be summarily dismissed for the reason that manner and sometimes things change; what have not before could be exactly the ticket these times. In  What To Know About Your Property Management Company Before Renting , knowledge is history and not necessarily association policy.
On the other side of the coin, we've eager owners elected to a board while using mission for change just about everything, without realizing that the main things are essentially guaranteed. For instance, payment dates for assessments - it truly wouldn't work to abolish all due dates and extra fees even though the economy is screaming for relief for the people who've experienced job loss. Without its lifeblood of assessment income, the association just can't operate. In this case, lack of understanding may lead to conflict as a result of misguided intentions and efforts.
Who are at fault for rampant naivete? The board? The individual owners? The management company? Where can the finger be pointed? Likely it is usually pointed in most direction mentioned and much more! The key is correction with the issue, the issue being probably the most essential element in any association- knowledge!
Everyone involved in an association comes with an obligation to complete his or her advisable to learn. Those "in charge" should take responsibility to make available all the details and tools that will aid the uninformed to get informed. This effort must be ongoing, not really a flash in the pan effort once every couple of years. Much time and may be conserved if everyone involved has a basic working expertise in how associations are required to operate. Basic knowledge may also reduce discord and misunderstandings between owners, the board, and also the management company.
The professionals inside industry including management companies, attorneys, and CPAs, should all produce a concerted effort to never just answer the questions with the facts, but to describe in a fashion that educates. Imagine a world where everyone in most community association clearly understood everything relating to rules, obligations, etc. - such a copacetic community we would have!