Homeowners Associations require strong leadership and teamwork from the Board of Directors. They need to be able to run the daily operations of their community smoothly and efficiently. When evaluating the effectiveness of an HOA, Board Member characteristics come into play. Here are the top traits of successful homeowners associations:
Professional Conduct
Board Members are community leaders and should conduct themselves professionally at all times. They should be courteous to residents attending Board Meetings and require the same in return. Set the example rather than becoming one.
Respect
A culture of mutual respect is essential for successful HOA Boards. Respect for residents, vendors, and fellow Board Members will set the tone and foundation for the entire community. If the element of respect is missing, nothing else will matter, and it begins with each individual Board Member.
Leadership
Those who serve on the Board of Directors must genuinely desire to be there and do what’s best for the Association. Those who join Boards to pursue personal agendas are usually aggressive, blaming, and authoritarian towards fellow Board Members. These Board Members do not always have the Association’s best interest in mind and should not be allowed to serve. These are not attributes of a successful leader, nor will they ensure the foundation of respect required to be a successful Association. Board Members should focus on policies, procedures, and operational decisions that benefit the Association as a whole rather than a single individual.
Problem Solving
One of the top traits of successful homeowner associations is the ability to practice blameless problem-solving. Those who assign blame and point fingers waste time and resources. An effective Board should move forward and focus on solutions by implementing policies to ensure the same mistakes won’t happen multiple times.
High-functioning Associations are governed by strong leaders who build and nurture partnerships in a mutually respectful and productive work environment. The primary responsibility of the HOA Board of Directors is to protect the value and integrity of the community. They should enforce the Association’s governing documents and oversee its operations. Each Association Board should reflect on their leadership style and ask whether they embrace these top traits of successful homeowners associations.
For help managing your association, contact Prism Realty Management. Learn about who we are, our services, and our process, then call us at 512-676-5842.
