First, we recommend that you choose people who have business
experience and financial acumen.
Individuals who have never administered a long-range project
may underestimate how much maintenance situations will change over future years
and not set aside enough money from the association fees to cover future
expenses.
Then there’s the nasty backlash as the monthly HOA fee is
raised dramatically, but sometimes the homeowners association board members
responsible have long vanished from the scene.
Secondly, if you are in the type of development where
neighbors are really fussy about how things look, choose someone with some
urban design talent as well. An architect, landscape architect, or urban
planner could be really useful to the board. Engineers and attorneys always
come in handy as well.
Thirdly, choose people who are truly likely to live in the development
over the long term and are dedicated to its success.
Those for whom your particular development represents a
second or third place to call home are unlikely to serve well even if they have
the professional skills we have been advocating.
Fourth, the community and the board needs to deal promptly
with any personality conflicts that arise. If you are a part of a board that
squabbles frequently, and that seems to be true of many HOAs, ask that
mediation services be purchased.
The threat might actually bring the bickering parties back
into line, but if not, you’re protecting your most valuable financial
investment.
If you’re on the receiving end of the bullying that seems to
happen in a number of homeowners association boards, think about whether the
toll is worth it. Resign if you must. (Source:
http://www.useful-community-development.org/)
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