Why an HOA Manager?

The Board hiring an Association manager should catalog and organize all the Association's records starting with the most recent and complete Owner and Vendor Database they have on hand. This will ease the transition for all involved and allow the HOA Manager to easily contact Owners and Vendors to advise them of how assessments will be paid moving forward along with other important messages the owners will need to know during the transition.

Following the records transfer, it is important that the Board clearly explain any pertinent history about the community, their current and future goals, as well as details surrounding any contractual obligations the Association has entered into. Details regarding upcoming projects are key pieces of information, as well.

Although the process may take some time for all the pieces to be in place, remember that the Board of Directors hires an Association Manager for a specific reason.  Usually, Board Members lack the ability to fill a full-time position as opposed to a volunteering position. Also, Board Members may lack the understanding, experience, or time necessary to dedicate to such an important endeavor.

By all means, don't expect your new Association Manager to solve all problems presented right away.  Thorough work takes time. 

It is important to understand that the Association Manager doesn't make decisions for the Board or community.  They are an agent of the Board, but decisions still ultimately stay with the Board of Directors.

Lastly, it is important that Board members are engaged with all communications and vote or provide feedback when requested.  In the end, you will have shorter meetings that are more organized and effective when you utilize your Association Manager.