Many homeowners don’t know their neighbors or feel a sense of belonging that comes with living in a neighborhood. Homeowners who live in neighborhoods with HOAs know they pay monthly fees but don’t necessarily know what they’re for or the value HOAs provide.
As HOA Board members, increasing engagement and building a community within your neighborhood makes homeowners feel like they’re a part of something and helps them better understand the importance of the HOA. Here are four ways to build your community within your HOA.
Coordinate Fun Events
Creating events people want to attend allows them to talk with their neighbors, get to know them, and create memories. There are various events that are great ways for your neighbors to get out of their homes and socialize. Hosting a BBQ on July 4th or Memorial Day, putting together a home decorating competition around the holidays, or hosting a happy hour are all great ideas to get you started.
Create Committees
Sometimes homeowners in your neighborhood want to participate and get involved in their HOA, but they aren’t sure how. Creating committees within your HOA are great opportunities to share some of the responsibilities and get more homeowners involved. Committees like the Social Club Committee or Landscaping Committee are ways for homeowners to help their HOA and get involved in committees they’re interested in.
Open Lines of Communication
Being open and honest with homeowners will go a long way. Your homeowners should feel comfortable coming to your HOA Board members with questions and concerns without fear that they will not be listened to or addressed. Knowing what your homeowners want to see more and less of and listening to their feedback is essential for their overall involvement.
Organize a Neighborhood Welcoming Committee
Having new homeowners feel included from the beginning is crucial. This might seem like something so small, but it makes a big difference to new homeowners coming to the area for the first time. Not only will it make them feel welcomed, but it will allow the HOA to shine and persuade them to get involved.
If your HOA Board needs help building a community within your HOA, 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.