New Year Resolutions For HOA Managers and Boards

As the New Year approaches, HOA managers and boards should start thinking about what 2024 has in store. Here are some important resolutions that are essential for a well-running homeowners association.

1. Recruit Board Members and Volunteers

Each HOA manager needs to focus on recruiting and finding people who are interested in community affairs. Both board members and community volunteers are needed to keep an HOA running smoothly. Extend an invitation to residents to join the board. You may find residents who have an interest in events to serve on the events committee. Another good idea is to put a notice in the newsletter that they are accepting new members. Also, ask current board members to invite new people.

2. Community Events Committee

Events are an integral part of an active community. Events keep residents engaged and encourage new residents to get involved. Find people to serve on a committee that will create events that all residents will participate in. Set up an advanced schedule for the year. Propose a budget for yearly events and plan to promote the events.

3. Community Safety

Each year safety and security procedures should be reviewed and updated. Plan and implement updated safety measures in the community annually. Conduct a safety check on all community lights, door locks, pool lights, fencing, and community signage. Make sure all safety measures have been taken to keep residents safe.

4. Community Maintenance

Make sure all pool equipment, playground equipment, tennis court, and all recreational amenities are functioning properly. Make necessary repairs to the common buildings, grounds, and areas. Make a new year plan and budget for lawn maintenance, seasonal planting, and curb appeal for the community.

5. Review and Update Governing Documents

As part of the HOA New Year’s resolutions, a board should consider reviewing and amending old documents. At the annual board meeting new guidelines should be introduced, implemented, and voted on. Refresh board members on the procedures for holding annual meetings and board elections. Notify new residents of community policies and guidelines.

New Year resolutions can keep an HOA on track and make being an association Board member a more enjoyable experience. Discuss these resolutions with the board and make changes where needed to make 2024 a positive and successful year for you and your HOA board.

Festive Holiday Event Ideas for HOAs

As the holiday season approaches, homeowners’ associations (HOAs) have an excellent opportunity to foster community spirit and create lasting memories for residents. By organizing festive holiday events, HOAs can encourage community interaction and make the holidays even more special for everyone.

Here's a list of some engaging holiday event ideas for HOAs to consider:

1. Host a Holiday Potluck: Celebrate the holidays with community events that cater to all ages. Host a holiday dinner or potluck. Invite residents to bring their favorite holiday dish or dessert to share. As a special treat for the kids, have someone dress up as Santa, or hire a Santa if it is within the HOA budget.

2. Plan a Tree Lighting Ceremony: Lighten up your community by setting up a tree in the common area of the community. There may be volunteers with musical talents who will play instrumental holiday music.

3. Have a Holiday Decoration Contest: Homeowners love to decorate their homes for the holidays. Engage more residents and start a little friendly competition by offering a prize or award for the best decorated home. Let neighbors in on the voting.

4. Host a Holiday Cookie Party: This is much easier than a dinner. Provide hot chocolate and holiday punch. Ask residents to bake cookies and bring extra to share. Encourage bakers to bring enough for residents to take a few cookies home.

5. Host a Holiday Game Night and White Elephant Gift Exchange: Set a reasonable limit for gifts to make it fun and affordable for attendees.

6. Christmas Caroling: Ask a resident on each street to plan music and Christmas caroling.

Remember, HOAs are important to the community on every holiday. HOAs should plan for the holidays in the budget. Setting up an events committee with committed members will contribute to the success of the events.