Should You Join Your HOA Board of Directors?

If you live in a Homeowners Association (HOA) or condominium community, chances are you know all about your HOA Board of Directors. And, maybe you have…opinions. It’s totally normal! Many serving HOA board members were once homeowners with opinions of their own. Whether you think the board is doing amazing and want to be part of the action, or think your board is struggling and want to be part of a solution, joining the HOA board is a great way to support your community! 

Of course, it can be a big responsibility. Being on the HOA board can be hard work and often goes unnoticed. It’s a volunteer position, which means a lot of effort for no compensation. But that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it! HOA board members are the unsung heroes of their communities. Their dedication and willingness to volunteer their time and skills are important for the HOA to run smoothly. Although being a board member can be challenging and sometimes thankless, the satisfaction that comes from making a positive impact on the community is truly rewarding. 

Why Should You Join the HOA Board of Directors?

Much like in general business, the HOA’s Board of Directors is tasked with protecting the HOA in a variety of ways. Financial protection and physical maintenance are the main goals to protect and improve property value in the community and keep the business operational. This means more than just enforcing rules—it also involves creating a positive environment for everyone. 

As a member of the board, you can contribute directly to this important goal. You would be in a stronger position to suggest new and innovative ideas on ways to support the community and make a difference!

What Makes a Good HOA Board Member?

HOA board members need to meet some standard requirements according to the rules of the HOA. While these may vary from community to community, typically:

• You must be an HOA or condo community member. That means you own property in the community, so renters aren’t qualified.
• You should not owe any money. Anyone with unpaid monthly dues or special assessments, or who owes any kind of late fees or fines should not be considered for the board.
• You should be in good standing with the HOA. That is to say, you follow the rules consistently (no outstanding violations) and are not in any legal trouble with the community.

General board operational knowledge will add an extra feather to your cap, too. If you know the basic duties of board members, such as attending monthly meetings, reviewing financial reports, and approving community requests, you’re on track to serve!

What Makes a GREAT Board Member?

In short, it’s a certain je ne sais quoi.

An undefinable set of traits that will vary from person to person, these qualities will make board membership a breeze for the right people.

For example, you should consider running for the board if you feel you have any of the following:

• You genuinely care about the community. Whether you plan to be in your home for the next two decades or just the next two years, you want to see the community not just get by, but thrive. You want growth and progress beyond what you might see as a homeowner, and you’re willing to devote some extra time in your year to help make that happen.
• Your friends would describe you as being fair, consistent, and open-minded. You don’t pretend to understand every single person’s life or struggles. Instead, you can recognize the expectations everyone is held to and hold yourself accountable when needed. 
• You can plan for the future. Forward-thinking is a fantastic trait for prospective board members. That’s half the job! Being able to look down the road and think about the needs to be fulfilled will go a long way on an HOA board.

These traits will be important when it comes time to apply for an open board seat. There is a voting process, meaning you’ll have to use these innate skills to win over your fellow neighbors.

Reasons You Should Not Apply for the HOA Board of Directors

Now not all motivations are going to benefit you as a board member. It’s important to remember that this is a position based on service to your fellow neighbor, not a power grab. 

• You’re sick of a neighbor’s antics. Issuing violations to only one person in particular can put the entire community at risk of a discrimination lawsuit
• You’re sick of one of the vendors. Firing a vendor isn’t the hard part here–hiring a new one will take effort and time.
• You’re unhappy with a board decision. This is a really common motivation, but it doesn’t always pan out when new board members realize how decisions are made.

If you’re looking at a board position as a means to get power over others, whether that is your frustrating neighbor or a vendor you dislike, this position isn’t for you. At the end of the day, board members must work as a team and make decisions as a team. They must also make those decisions within certain parameters, like governing document expectations and state or local legislation. Your power as a board member holds weight, but it is not immediate or infallible, and needs to be regarded with respect for the role and the community.

Ready to Volunteer?

If you’re ready to make your mark and help your HOA, run for your Board of Directors! And if you’re on the board looking to drum up interest for open positions, contact us today. At Foster Premier, we know a thing or two about the ideal board makeup and are prepared to support board members at every stage of their journey.