Studies have shown that over half of Americans don’t know their neighbors. As a result, homeowners don’t feel a sense of community. The HOA needs to create a sense of community with its homeowners so that they’ll recognize the benefits of living there. A successful HOA gives homeowners opportunities to become invested in their community just as they are in their own homes. Here are the top ways to increase homeowner involvement in your community.
Welcome New Homeowners
The HOA must welcome every new homeowner into the neighborhood and acknowledge their arrival. New owners are typically excited about moving into their new homes and enjoy sharing that excitement with others. A monthly or quarterly New Homeowner Welcoming Reception is perfect for honing in on that excitement, educating them about community, and getting them involved!
Common Areas
Highlight neighborhood common areas and encourage residents to come together. Residents should use common areas to their fullest as often as possible. Offering an easy process to reserve clubhouses, recreational facilities, and other common areas will help members interact with each other regularly.
Fun Events
With the holidays coming up, now is the perfect time to schedule fun events that will encourage neighbors to interact. Sometimes homeowners just need a fun event to get them out of their homes and into the community to meet and interact with each other. There are endless opportunities: Memorial Day BBQs, recipe exchange, holiday parties, clothing swaps, 4th of July celebrations, or anything else that makes sense for your community. Establishing a recurring annual event can create something to look forward to and allows the excitement to build year after year.
Social Committees
Set up committees that create goodwill among homeowners.
- Neighborhood Welcome Committee
- Social & Event Committee
- Landscape Committee
- Homeowner Education Committee
- Neighborhood Safety Committee
Recognize Volunteers
Publicly recognize and acknowledge the efforts of your community volunteers regularly. Publicly thanking volunteers for their actions will increase engagement and gratitude across your community.
Showing value can come in many forms. Homeowners are less likely to balk at their dues and more likely to contribute to the overall success of the community when they feel seen, heard, and valued.
If your HOA Board needs help with member engagement or any other association issues, contact Prism Realty Management. Give us a call at 512-676-5842 — we’d be happy to talk to you about who we are, the services we offer, and our process.