Community managers are an important part of homeowners' associations (HOAs). They are responsible for a wide variety of duties that keep the community running smoothly. While some people might think that the role of the community manager is to make decisions for the board or to be a middleman between neighbors, that is not actually their job. In this article, we will discuss what community managers do and what they are responsible for. We will also discuss how it benefits HOAs to have a professional community management company in charge of the day-to-day business functions so that volunteer board members can focus on their personal lives and build a sense of community among association members.

The Community Manager's Responsibilities

Depending on the association's contract with the management company, the community manager may be responsible for various administrative tasks. These responsibilities include contract management, coordinating the association's insurance renewal, attending meetings, and handling other business management tasks. In addition, they may play a role in enforcing the community's rules and regulations and managing communications from both residents and owners. 

Community managers may also play a role in overseeing community maintenance. For example, they can conduct property inspections and facilitate recurring maintenance and special projects. Community managers also assist with owner concerns and complaints and must effectively communicate with board members, owners, and professional service providers. In addition, community managers need to be organized and detail-oriented. They must expertly keep track of all the different tasks that need to be completed for each community they manage and make sure things are completed on time. Without community managers, many communities would quickly fall into disrepair.

The community manager and their administrative support team often assist the board in preparing the budget, keeping track of delinquent balances, and collecting monthly assessments from members. In addition, the community manager is responsible for providing the board with detailed, accurate reports on the community's financial status. These reports help the board to make informed decisions about the community's finances. Finally, by working closely with the board and internal and external financial experts, the community manager helps to ensure that the community's finances are managed responsibly.

Things the Community Manager Can't Do

There are, of course, things that fall outside the community manager's job description. For example, community managers are not responsible for making decisions for the board; that is the elected officials' job. They are also not allowed to stray from board policies or handle disputes between neighbors. Hopefully, if neighbors have a problem with each other, they can resolve it between themselves. If they cannot do so, they can contact the board, but it is ultimately up to the board to decide how to handle the situation. The responsibilities of a community manager should be specified in the association's contract with the professional management company or individual community manager.

Providing Relief for Board Members

HOA board members are responsible for handling many different tasks, from financial matters to addressing resident concerns. While most board members are passionate about their community and want to see it thrive, the reality is that managing an HOA can require more time than they have available and unknowingly expose them to liability. This is one of the biggest reasons hiring a community manager can be beneficial. Community managers are experienced professionals who understand the inner workings of HOAs. They know how to handle many issues that can arise, from managing the association's financials to enforcing rules and regulations. In addition, community managers have processes that can help HOAs run more smoothly. As a result, hiring a community manager can free up time for the board members to devote to their families, professions, and hobbies, relying on professionals to handle most association business, ultimately leading to a more peaceful community.

What to Look for in a Community Management Partner

When looking for a new community manager, HOA board members should ask various questions to ensure they find the best fit for their community. A great way to start is by looking at online reviews to get an idea of other people's experiences. They can also reach out to friends who live in other communities and ask about their experience with management companies. Finally, they should interview the company to understand its qualifications. A good management company will be experienced, have credentialed managers, use the latest technology, and have the resources necessary to make your community the best it can be. By asking these important questions, HOA board members can rest assured that they are making the best decision for their community.

Community management companies are a valuable resource for HOAs; they can handle many day-to-day tasks that board members don't have time for. However, it is important to remember that community managers should not do everything - the board of directors is ultimately responsible for the community. Therefore, when looking for a community manager, be careful to ask the right questions before making a decision.

Are you looking for new management for your community? Contact us at 888.798.2624 or on our website to learn more about the Trusted Guidance CAMS can offer your community.