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Should You Be Aware Of An HOA Super Lien?

Many homeowners know that homeowners associations can place a lien on your property. But, did you also know that some associations, depending on the state, can place an HOA super lien instead?

 

What Is an HOA Super Lien?

Simply put, an HOA super lien is a type of lien that takes a higher priority than all other lien types. A lien automatically attaches to a property when the owner has failed to pay the monthly fees or assessments to their homeowners association. A super lien takes a much higher priority and operates similarly to a property tax lien.

To better comprehend the nature of super liens and how they work, though, you must first understand lien priority.

 

Breaking Down the Priority of Liens

When you buy a house, you take out the first mortgage. This mortgage, recorded first, serves as the first lien on your property. Sometimes, you may need to take out a second mortgage on your home. This mortgage is then recorded second, turning into the second lien. Whether or not a lien is first or second depends on the date the lien was recorded. As such, priority follows the recording date.

The priority of a lien decides which lien holders receive payment first following a foreclosure sale. Most of the time, the first mortgage holder gets all of the sale’s proceeds, leaving little to nothing for second or third lien holders, also known as junior lien holders.

In the context of a homeowners association, liens can be used as a form of covenant enforcement. Homeowners who default on their monthly dues or special assessments will see an HOA lien automatically placed on their property. The lien’s recording date typically follows the date the association’s CC&Rs were recorded or the fees’ due date. The HOA can then later foreclose on this lien.

Unfortunately, HOA liens usually take a lower priority than first and second mortgages, even if the mortgage was recorded after the HOA lien. Many associations have such stipulations written in their governing documents. Some states also deem mortgage liens as superior to HOA liens.

A super lien, though, overrides all of that. In states that allow them, super-priority liens take a higher ranking over all other liens. That includes first and second mortgage holders. Super liens apply to the part of an HOA lien that holds superiority over other lien holders. In such a case, the association’s interest takes priority.

 

The Case for HOA Super Liens

Some say an HOA super lien is unnecessary and harsh for homeowners. But, in reality, they help protect the value and desirability of a community. When homeowners fail to pay dues, the community can suffer maintenance issues and start to decline.

Super liens make sure homeowners associations receive the right amount of dues to maintain their neighborhood. Any late notice or insufficient funds are important and need to be paid. This helps keep the community’s worth high and acceptable for all other homeowners in the association.

 

When Does an HOA Lien Become an HOA Super Lien?

Whether or not your association can attach super liens depends on your location. In addition to the District of Columbia, there are currently a total of 21 states in the country that can give HOA liens the status of a super lien. HOA super lien states are as follows:

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Hawaii
  • Illinois
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Vermont
  • Washington
  • West Virginia

These states have differing laws, though, when it comes to how an HOA lien becomes a super lien. In some states, a regular lien can attain super lien status after a fixed number of months of delinquent dues and assessments. For instance, in Colorado, it is six months, while in Nevada, it is nine months. You can learn more about super lien states and their individual laws regarding super liens here.

 

Foreclosing on HOA Super Liens

property foreclosure | hoa lienWhen a property has a super lien, an association can initiate HOA lien foreclosure. Once the lien enters into foreclosure brought on by the HOA, it could remove the first mortgage.

Because of this, most lenders will usually settle the super lien to put a stop to the foreclosure and, thus, retain their place as the first lien holder.

Lenders will not just let the super lien amount go, though. Typically, they will add the amount to the homeowner’s (i.e. borrower) total mortgage debt. They will ask the borrower to reimburse them for the amount paid. If the borrower refuses or fails to do so, the lender may then initiate foreclosure.

 

What If the First Mortgage Holder Forecloses?

In some cases, the lender or first mortgage holder will foreclose on a property if the owner or borrower stops delivering mortgage payments. When that happens, what will become of the homeowners association lien?

 

For Regular HOA Liens

As mentioned above, first mortgage liens generally take priority over HOA liens. Therefore, when a mortgage holder forecloses on the property with an HOA lien attached, the HOA will not get anything.

It is important to check your own CC&Rs and state laws regulating the priority and nature of liens in your homeowners association. This way, you have a clear understanding of how your liens work and can set the proper expectations. When in doubt, it is always a good idea to consult with a foreclosure attorney with experience handling HOA cases.

 

For HOA Super Liens

As you may know by now, HOA super liens have more pull. Therefore, if the first mortgage holder forecloses in a state that allows HOA super liens, the association gets paid first. The amount the HOA receives depends on state laws, but it is usually a specific number of months’ worth of delinquent dues or assessments.

 

Moral of the Story

Homeowners have an obligation to pay their dues on time and in full. Liens and foreclosures are only two of the possible consequences you might face when you default on your payments. To avoid suffering these repercussions, it is best to stay up-to-date on all your dues payments and leave no room for error.

Collecting and paying dues and assessments can become a headache when done manually. Allow for easy dues collection and payment online with the help of Condo Manager’s software. Call us today at (800) 626-1267 or reach out to us online for a free demo.

 

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HOA Candidate Nomination: What’s The Process?

Behind every homeowners association is a set of board members, collectively known as the HOA board, running it. These board members are elected into position by the association’s members. With every board election, though, comes HOA candidate nomination.

 

Determining the HOA Candidate Nomination Procedure

It is important to know that every homeowners association may have different guidelines when it comes to the nomination process. State laws and an association’s governing documents usually dictate how candidate nominations should go. Thus, it is best to refer to your HOA bylaws to learn the exact details of your association’s election rules.

Typically, the nomination procedure will lay down how members can nominate candidates, what qualifications are needed in a candidate, and the general steps that the association must follow. The HOA board will normally start with a call for candidates. This is to invite members to send in their nominations through an HOA board nomination form. The board will also need to send a general notice to all members containing the nomination procedure as well as the deadline for nomination submissions.

Some associations might require candidates to write a letter of intent to run for the HOA board, while others may not. This letter simply confirms a candidate’s interest in running for the position. In most cases, candidates will also need to submit an HOA board of directors candidate statement. This statement consists of the HOA board candidate bio and how the candidate believes they can contribute to the community.

If you need board candidate statement examples, here is one:

HOA Candidate Nomination_HOA Board Candidate Statement

Download Your Sample HOA Board Candidate Statement Here

 

Candidate Qualifications

Who is qualified to run for the HOA board? It depends on the association. Your HOA bylaws should have explicit qualifications for candidacy. Generally, though, for candidates to qualify, they must first be a member of the association. This means the candidate must own a separate interest within the HOA at the time they are nominated. This is a mandatory qualification.

Another common qualification is that the candidate must be current on all payments, including dues, assessments, and applicable fines. If an association places such a qualification on a nominee, though, it should also expect as much from current board members. That means no existing board members should be behind on payments.

Some states, such as California, go into further detail about what kind of qualifications are allowed. For instance, a nominee may be behind on payments but has enrolled in a payment plan with the association. In this case, the board may not disqualify the candidate from running.

Apart from qualifications, associations may also have grounds to disqualify candidates. California law, for instance, allows associations to disqualify a member from running if, when elected, that member would be serving with another board member who owns the same separate interest. The same law allows disqualifications if the candidate has only been a member for less than one year or if the candidate has a past criminal conviction. You may also disqualify a member if they miss the deadline for nomination submissions.

If your association intends to disqualify a member for whatever reason, though, you must allow the member to engage in an Internal Dispute Resolution with the HOA. Associations may not disqualify members without conducting this first.

 

Methods for HOA Nomination of Candidates

Floor Nomination | hoa board nomination formThere are a handful of ways members can nominate candidates for the HOA board election, namely self-nomination, floor nomination, and write-in candidates.

Again, the specific methods for HOA candidate nomination should be written in your governing documents. This includes whether or not your association allows certain nomination procedures, such as write-ins and floor nominations.

 

Self-Nomination

Many associations allow members to nominate themselves to run for a position on the board. Although an HOA may disqualify a member from running with justifiable cause, it may not take away a member’s right to self-nominate.

If you intend to nominate yourself, you must answer the board’s call for candidates. Usually, this means submitting an application form or a letter of interest to the board prior to the deadline. Your HOA may have a specific format for such a form or letter, so it is best to check with your board first. Some boards will include a copy of the application form or letter with the general notice, while others have it up on their HOA website for easy access.

Here is a sample letter of interest for an HOA board position:

HOA Candidate Nomination_Sample Letter of Interest for HOA Board Position

Download Your Sample Letter of Interest for HOA Board Position Here

 

Floor Nomination

Floor nominations are typically not required of homeowners associations unless its governing documents say so. The procedure for floor nominations is simple. After the association meets a quorum, the board president will open the floor for HOA candidate nominations.

Members may then nominate individuals who meet the candidate qualifications. The validity of the nomination persists even if the board president fails to recognize it. Additionally, members need not second the nomination.

During floor nominations, members can nominate other members or even themselves, though there is a limit on how many nominations each member can make. Moreover, the nominated members also do not need to be present at the meeting. It is worth noting that those who have already sent their ballots through the mail may not vote for floor nominees.

 

Write-In Candidates

If your association’s governing documents permit write-in candidates, then you must allow members to do so. But, if your governing documents say no such thing, then you can eliminate write-ins altogether. In that case, if members do write candidates in on their ballots, the association or election inspector can disregard the write-in votes. Any other votes that were not written in remain valid.

You may wonder about the verification process for write-in candidates. If your association permits write-ins, then you must consider these write-ins even if no previous nomination took place. Should the write-in candidate accumulate the votes necessary to secure a position on the board, you must then contact the candidate and confirm if they want to accept the nomination.

It is essential to make it clear in your governing documents whether or not to allow write-ins (and even floor nominations). Consider amending your governing documents if ambiguity remains.

 

Closing Nominations

Either your association’s governing documents or your HOA board will set a deadline for nominations. In the case of floor nominations, the HOA board may close nominations for the duration of ballot preparation and mailing. Once the annual meeting takes place, the board can then reopen floor nominations.

 

The Final Review

Write-In Candidates | hoa board of directorPrior to distributing the ballots, the association must finalize its list of candidates and disseminate it to the candidates. The timing can vary depending on the location or the HOA’s governing documents.

For instance, in California, the association must make this list available at least 30 days before distributing the ballots.

The association must allow its candidates to review this HOA candidate information sheet. For any errors spotted, the inspector of elections must make the necessary changes to correct the inaccurate information. The inspector must make this correction within two business days of any reported errors.

 

Make Election Season a Breeze

It is imperative for every association to know and practice its HOA candidate nomination procedure properly. This will ensure a smooth nomination and election process, thus, avoiding wasting time and money. Always check your governing documents and state laws for any provisions relating to candidate nominations. When in doubt, consult with an HOA attorney.

Condo Manager can make the election season easier for homeowners associations everywhere. Our software can track homeowner information, print customized ballots, and send notices with the click of a button. Contact us today at (800) 626-1267 to learn more or fill out an online form for a free demo.

 

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What’s The Difference Between HOA Assessments And HOA Fees?

What is an assessment fee? Contrary to popular belief, HOA assessments are not exactly the same as HOA dues. It is essential to learn the difference between the two, especially if you are considering moving into an HOA community.

 

Separating HOA Assessments from HOA Fees

Before moving into any community governed by a homeowners association, it is imperative to evaluate any related fees that you might need to shoulder. No two associations are the same, so one HOA might charge a higher fee than another.

What is the difference between dues and assessments? To understand the distinction between these two terms, you must first understand how a homeowners association works. Homeowners associations exist to maintain the community, hence, keeping property values high. To carry out this type of work, HOAs naturally need to source their funds from somewhere. Enter you, the homeowner.

 

What Are HOA Fees?

hoa fee | hoa special assessmentsHOA dues, which are sometimes referred to as HOA fees, are recurring fees homeowners pay to the homeowners association. The association uses these fees to cover the cost of maintenance and repairs required to keep the community’s common areas in good shape.

This includes landscaping expenses, insurance premiums, legal fees, utilities, and the like. Additionally, homeowners receive access to community amenities, such as clubhouses, pools, and tennis courts, in return.

 

What Are Special Assessments?

What is a special assessment? An HOA special assessment, also known as simply assessments, is a one-time fee imposed by a homeowners association to its members. Typically, HOAs only charge special assessments when unanticipated expenses arise.

For example, if a disaster occurs that affects the community, the HOA would usually turn to its insurance provider. But, if the HOA’s insurance is not enough to cover the cost of the associated expenses, it might need to levy special assessments. Another instance where an association may need to charge homeowner assessments is if the HOA board made inaccurate budget projections.

It is worth noting that homeowners associations should have a reserve fund with sufficient money to cover unexpected costs as well as major repairs and replacements. This is why it is important to perform a reserve study every few years to keep a healthy reserve level. Special assessments are usually the last resort for HOAs.

 

Calculating HOA Assessments vs HOA Dues

How are HOA dues calculated? The association calculates how much homeowners should pay based on the annual budget. Typically, the HOA board drafts a budget for the upcoming fiscal year consisting of projected expenses.

From this total amount, the board will divide it either equally or according to certain terms across all homeowners. You can find specific provisions for calculating HOA dues within the association’s governing documents. State laws may also play a role in determining your HOA dues.

How are HOA assessments determined? Most of the time, the amount the association needs to cover the cost of the unanticipated expenses will dictate how much it levies against homeowners.

For example, if the HOA requires $10,000 to pay for uninsured damages, it will split that amount among all the members of the association. The formula used to split the charge, though, will depend on the association’s HOA special assessment rules. To learn how your association divides up assessments, refer to your governing documents.

 

Assessments and Dues: Are There Limits?

Many factors can influence the cost of HOA dues. For instance, if you live in an affluent neighborhood, your HOA dues are likely higher than the average association. The nature and extent of an association’s amenities and common areas can also affect dues amounts because there are more expenses involved.

Can an HOA raise the fees? Yes, though there is usually a limit as to how high an HOA can increase its dues. You will normally find such stipulations within the HOA’s governing documents or state laws. Associations in Arizona, for instance, cannot raise dues by more than 20 percent without securing a majority vote from members.

Many CC&Rs also have regulations limiting the amount of the special assessment HOAs can charge. Some associations have a fixed amount, while others work on a percentage basis. It is necessary for homeowners and board members alike to familiarize themselves with the HOA’s governing documents. This way, you know what to expect and when an HOA board is in breach of its authority.

There are also some states that have laws that impose an HOA special assessment limit. In California, Civil Code Section 5605 mandates that associations cannot charge assessments that exceed 5 percent of the preceding year’s budgeted gross expenses without obtaining approval from members. Check your state laws to see if any regulations apply to your HOA assessments.

 

Can HOA Special Assessments Be Written Off?

Are special assessments tax deductible? In a word, no. You usually cannot deduct special assessments from your taxes. But, if you use the home as a rental property, you may be able to write it off. It is always best to check with your tax adviser first, though, to avoid any problems with your taxes.

 

Can I Get Out of Paying HOA Assessments?

hoa dues | hoa special assessmentMany homeowners wonder how to fight a special assessment or their monthly dues. Unfortunately, there is generally no way around these.

Homeowners agree to follow the covenants and rules within their association, including paying fees and assessments. So long as the HOA is exercising its power to levy assessments correctly, then you really have no choice but to pay it. Keep in mind that board members are not exempt from paying HOA assessments.

There will always be delinquent homeowners, though, in any given HOA. In case you fail to pay your dues and assessments, the association can force compensation through a number of means.

  • Impose a Late Fee. Can an HOA assess fines? Yes, many associations do have the ability to charge penalties or fines if a homeowner has violated a covenant or rule. This includes defaulting on dues and assessments.
  • Revoke Privileges. In some cases, an HOA may suspend your rights and privileges as a consequence of nonpayment. This can include anything from your right to vote on association matters to suspending access to community amenities.
  • Take Legal Action. An HOA can file a lawsuit against delinquent homeowners to force payment.
  • Attach a Lien. When you fail to pay your dues and assessments, a lien will automatically attach to your property. If you live in a super-lien state, the HOA’s lien has superiority over all other lien holders.
  • Foreclose. An association has initiate foreclosure on a lien, causing you to lose your home.

 

The Importance of HOA Assessments

As a homeowner, you might feel that HOA assessments are unnecessary when there are already monthly dues to cover the association’s expenses. But, as in life, many things can go wrong in an HOA community. The board can make budgeting mistakes or unexpected costs might arise. And special assessments allow HOAs to source funds when the going gets tough.

Stay on top of your association’s dues and assessments with the help of Condo Manager’s state-of-the-art management software. We make dues and assessment payments a breeze for any size HOA. Give us a call at (800) 626-1267 or reach out to us online for a free demo.

 

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Everything You Need To Know About HOA Software

Do you need help managing your condo or homeowners association? If you’re not ready to hire a professional management company, why not consider HOA software instead? To help you make this decision, here’s everything you need to know about HOA management software.

 

What Is HOA Software?

HOA software is an industry-specific computer program that performs essential community association management tasks. It functions as an all-in-one management tool that can make HOA board members’ lives easier. Condominium association software is the same thing, except that it is made for COAs.

 

HOA Software vs Generic Software

Generic software is designed to work across industries. It offers essential management features, which can be very helpful for HOAs. However, adjustments may be needed to adapt the generic software to the specific needs of your community. On the other hand, HOA software is already tailor-made for your association management needs. It will be easier and more intuitive to use.

 

HOA Software vs Spreadsheets

Many self-managed HOAs are likely familiar with Excel, Google Sheets, and other spreadsheet programs. It’s a low-cost option that allows HOAs to track their income, expenses, budgets, reconciliations, and other financial transactions. Spreadsheets can perform a wide variety of accounting functions. And even though macros and formulas can be difficult to learn, there are many tutorials and resources available to board members

The main drawback of spreadsheets is that it cannot perform more complex tasks that are essential to HOA management. Spreadsheets are also not efficient because it requires manual data entry, which can lead to as much as 88% errors. Scalability is another issue. While spreadsheets may be sufficient for a small HOA, it will become harder and harder as your community grows. While software may cost more, it’s much better at serving your current and future needs.

 

HOA Software vs Property Management Software

Property management software is also an industry-specific program. It is used by landlords to manage rental properties. Though they may have some overlaps, HOA management and property management also have unique responsibilities. As such, property management software may not have all the features that you will need to manage an HOA — and vice versa.

 

What Are the Features of HOA Software?

Accounting and Bookkeeping | condo association softwareNo two HOA software are exactly alike. Nevertheless, here are essential features that you should look for when choosing the best software for your community.

 

Accounting and Bookkeeping

Managing finances is one of the most difficult responsibilities of the board. As such, many look for HOA accounting software that can make financial tracking easier and less tedious. With a digital ledger, board members can easily keep track of money coming in and out of HOA accounts.

 

Communications Platform

With HOA software, the board can send announcements and updates to the entire community. The program also keeps track of all personal communications with homeowners so you won’t have to keep rehashing the same details over and over. In addition, some software options offer a forum or community board where homeowners can communicate with each other. These communication features are essential in creating a sense of community.

 

Financial Reporting

One of the best features of HOA software is robust financial reporting capabilities. You can create comprehensive and detailed reports that help keep track of the HOA’s finances. Financial reports are also customizable so you can make them as simple and easy to understand. This will help board members make accurate and sound financial decisions for the HOA.

 

Maintenance Management

Board members can use association management software to keep track of maintenance requests, work orders, and vendor payments. The association can also create maintenance schedules and to-do lists for each service provider.

 

Homeowner Portal

HOA or condo association software may include an online portal for the members of the community. Homeowners can log into their account to view assessment due dates, payment history, communication history, architectural review applications, amenity bookings, service requests, and events calendars. They can also conveniently access HOA reports and documents instead of having to request them from the management office.

 

Board Member Portal

HOA software may come with a separate HOA portal for board members. It comes with password protection to ensure that confidential or sensitive documents such as annual budgets, financial reports, delinquency reports, incident reports, and reserve studies are safe and secure. This ensures transparency among board members and can help them work more efficiently.

 

Violation Tracking

In a large community, software can be essential in keeping track of homeowners’ violations. With an all-in-one platform, each violation can be seamlessly integrated into homeowners’ accounts and the accounts receivable sheet. Automation also enables the software to send notices or emails to offending homeowners. Thus, the board can save a lot of time since they don’t have to manually perform these tasks one by one.

 

Should You Use Free Software?

Board Member Portal | self managed hoa softwareHOA software is an investment. Associations that are hesitant to spend that kind of money may consider free software instead. Is this the right move for your HOA? Here are the pros and cons of free software.

Benefits of Free HOA Software

  • Little or No Cost: Free software is an attractive option for communities that have limited budgets. It allows them to experience the benefits of HOA software without having to shell out a lot of money.
  • Basic Features: Free software may not have extensive features, but it can still help associations perform essential administrative and management tasks.
  • Free Trial: Most software options have free trials so that you can experience the features first-hand. If you are stuck between two software options, you can use the free trial to determine which one is better suited for your community.

 

Drawbacks of Free HOA Software

  • Limited Features: Free software won’t have the same features as paid versions. It will perform basic functions but you won’t be able to access more complex features such as analytics, forecasting, and financial reporting.
  • Intrusive Ads: Free software may offer full features but with ads. These are not only intrusive and annoying but they also bring up security concerns. Make sure to read the fine print because some companies may be selling your data to third-party marketers.
  • Lack of Support: Don’t expect frequent updates — or if any at all — with free software. Since the software company isn’t making money from the program, it also won’t have the funds or resources to continuously update and improve the program.

 

Why Consider Paid HOA Software?

Going for the full, paid version is still the best option for associations. Contrary to popular belief, HOA software is not that expensive. Most companies offer different packages at different price points. It’s up to you to find the software that meets your community’s specific needs and budget. You can also start with the basic package then move up to higher tiers over time. This way, you won’t be spending more money than is currently needed.

 

Investing in HOA Software Is a Commitment to Your Growth and Success

 There’s no doubt about it; HOA software can make board members’ lives easier. With essential features and automation capabilities, the association can save valuable time, money, and effort. Board members become more efficient and thus, are better able to serve the community. Though purchasing software may be a long-term financial commitment, it brings with it amazing benefits that can serve as the impetus for your community’s growth and success.

Interested in self-managed HOA software? Feel free to reach out to the Condo Manager team today! We have created comprehensive and innovative software solutions designed to meet the needs of HOAs and COAs. Call us at (800) 626-1267 or email us at sales@condomanagerusa.com for a free demo.

 

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The Importance Of An HOA Website And How To Design It

Homeowner association websites are no longer a nice-to-have, bonus feature. In this digital age, it’s a must-have for any HOA community. If your association has yet to take the plunge, here’s why you need an HOA website — as well as how to design one that works for your community.

 

Why Do You Need an HOA Website?

A homeowners association website has many benefits for both management and the members of the community. Here are key reasons that underscore the importance of having an HOA website.

 

1.  Increase Online Visibility

HOA websites are an important marketing tool, especially since over 90% of home buyers use the Internet for their homebuying process. Apart from increasing online visibility, you can also use your website to showcase your community. It can attract potential homebuyers and provide them with the information that they need when choosing a home to purchase.

 

2. Provide Convenience to Homeowners

An HOA website serves as a one-stop communication hub for your homeowners. They can simply visit your website to learn about upcoming events, read the latest community news, obtain copies of HOA documents, or submit requests to HOA management. With integrated software features, homeowners can even use the website to pay for their monthly association dues. This makes it very convenient for homeowners to stay involved and participate in HOA matters.

 

3. More Efficient HOA Operations

Going digital can lead to more efficient HOA operations. A website can save the HOA board, management, and employees a lot of time. For instance, instead of rummaging through cabinets to find a single document, you’ll be able to find what you need in mere seconds. You’ll also have less phone calls and emails from homeowners since they can access the online portal instead. Thus, you’ll have more time to focus on more important community matters.

 

4. Cost-Effective

Running a website is not cheap; however, it’s also not as expensive as some may think. You don’t need to hire an entire HOA website design team. There are many HOA software and tools that can provide the features that your website needs. Some options even have HOA website templates that are easy to use and customizable. Considering the other benefits, an HOA website is a worthwhile investment. Also, you can offset the costs of the website with the money you save from fewer office supplies and overtime fees,

 

How to Design an HOA Website

Now that you know the importance of having an HOA website, it’s time to create one. If you’re looking for HOA website ideas, here are important elements to consider.

 

Skill Level of Homeowners

Having an advanced and intricate website is useless if your homeowners do not know how to use it. When designing an HOA website, make sure to consider the skill level of homeowners. For instance, it’s better to have a simple and easy-to-use website if you are catering to an older audience.

 

Features Based on the Needs of the Community

There is no perfect HOA website. The best HOA websites are those that cater to their members. If you want to identify crucial website features, think about the needs of your community. Here are some features that you might want to include:

  • Community Calendar to keep homeowners updated on upcoming social events, seminars, board meetings, and so on.
  • Bulletin Board to post important announcements, board meeting schedules, and agendas, the latest community news, etc.
  • Photo Gallery to show potential homebuyers what it’s like to live in your HOA. It also encourages homeowners to visit your website after social events.
  • Blog and Newsletters to provide homeowners with valuable information that can increase their quality of life, such as tips for saving electricity or how to prepare for a storm.
  • Suggestion Box is an easy way for homeowners to send their comments, questions, complaints, and recommendations to the board or management.
  • Online Portal where homeowners can log in to see their account details, overdue details, and HOA documents.

 

Modern and Responsive Design

Regardless of what aesthetic design you choose, there are modern design elements that must be present in your HOA website. For instance, since most people browse the Internet using their mobile devices, it’s important to have mobile compatibility. Thus, a responsive design is a crucial website element to have. It ensures that your website displays properly regardless if it is viewed on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone.

 

Website Security

Some HOAs decline to have a website because they want to avoid potential security breaches or leaked information. That shouldn’t stop you from creating a website, though. There are many ways to make your HOA website secure. An important tip would be to choose a reputable host that offers security features like secure sockets layer (SSL), denial-of-service (DDoS) protection, web application firewall (WAF), or structured query language (SQL) server security. These can ensure that governing documents, homeowner directory, and other sensitive files are kept safe.

 

Update Regularly

A well-maintained website is just as important as one that is well-designed — or maybe even more. If your website is clunky and outdated, it will send the wrong message to potential homebuyers. It will also prevent homeowners from finding the information that they need. As such, HOAs must update their website regularly to keep it running smoothly and properly. Regular updates will also keep your website secure and protected from potential breaches.

 

Getting Started on Your HOA Website  

An HOA website can help your association meet its many goals and responsibilities. Though it will require some capital, the benefits you get in return make it a worthwhile investment. When getting started on your HOA website, you can look for HOA website examples for inspiration. However, with every website design decision, make sure to consider the specific needs of your community. Choose features that make HOA life easier for both the board and the members.

Need help with your HOA website? The Condo Manager team has the website features you need to make it attractive and fully functional. Feel free to call us at (800) 626-1267 or email us at sales@condomanagerusa.com to learn more about our HOA software solutions.

 

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How Can Collecting HOA Online Payments Help?

Collecting homeowners association payments is a very time-consuming process. Each month, the HOA has to issue invoices, collect fees, process checks, and then deposit them to the bank. If you want more efficient operations, here’s how HOA online payments can help your association.

 

7 Great Benefits of HOA Online Payments

HOA fees are the financial lifeline of any association. It pays for maintenance and repairs, utilities, vendor services, management fees, salaries, insurance premiums, reserve contributions, and contingency funds. HOA fees ensure that your community runs smoothly and seamlessly.

Collecting HOA fees is harder than it looks, though — especially if your primary modes of payment are cash and checks. Homeowners don’t always pay on time and for those that do, you have to spend time processing their payments and depositing them to the bank. All that time you spend on collecting fees each month could be better spent on more important HOA matters.

It’s time for your community to embrace online HOA payments and here are seven reasons why.

 

1. More Convenient for Homeowners

Almost everyone is busy with their day-to-day lives. Most homeowners simply do not have the time to visit the management office or the bank to pay their HOA dues. Having an online payment system will make it easier for homeowners to settle their outstanding balances. They can pay HOA dues online from the comforts of their own home and at any time of the day or night.

 

2. Lower Delinquency Rates

As more homeowners pay HOA fees online, associations can see a significant decrease in their delinquency rates. You can save a lot of valuable time because there are fewer late HOA payments to follow up on. The HOA can also reduce attorney fees and other legal expenses that arise from having to deal with delinquency cases.

 

3. Reduce Operating Expenses

less HOA operating expense | online hoa paymentsAre you under the impression that having online HOA payments leads to more expenses for the association? It can actually help you save more money!

The average cost of processing a single check is $1.22. By switching to online payments, HOAs can save on labor costs, office supplies, postage fees, fuel costs, and other expenses that come with manual payment processing.

 

4. Reduce HOA’s Carbon Footprint

HOA online payments can help associations become more eco-friendly. Since the payment process is done digitally, you use less paper and ink. There’s also no need to keep driving to the bank just to deposit checks. All checks are also destroyed after 90 days, which only contributes to landfill waste. As such, online payments can help the HOA reduce its carbon footprint and do its part in saving the environment.

 

5. More Efficient HOA Operations

HOA online payments help eliminate a lot of time-consuming administrative tasks such as manually collecting payments, sorting through the mail, recording each payment details in your books, and driving to the bank to deposit checks. Instead, board members and managers can devote their time to other tasks that are essential to HOA operations.

 

6. Easy and Accurate Payment Tracking

Having an online system will make it easier to see whenever homeowners pay HOA fees. You’ll be able to keep track of all financial transactions, as well as monitor the amount coming in and out of your bank accounts. If your website is integrated with HOA software, you may also be able to create financial reports for these monthly online payments.

 

7. Attract More Homebuyers

online homebuyers | online hoa paymentIn this digital age, an online payment system is expected. If potential homebuyers see that you are still using cash and checks, it will create an impression that your community is outdated and unable to keep up with the times.

Today’s consumers place a lot of importance on modern conveniences when choosing a home to purchase. Thus, an online payment system helps convey that your HOA is up-to-date and properly managed.

 

How to Choose an Online Payment System for Your HOA

If you’re ready to give your homeowners a way to pay HOA online, it’s time to choose an online payment system for your HOA. There are plenty of available options out there so it’s important a provider that meets your specific needs and budget. For starters, here are some important things to consider.

  • Transaction Fees: Make sure that your online payment system does not have any hidden charges. Some payment systems may have monthly charges while others will charge a nominal fee per transaction.
  • HOA Software Integration: Choose an online payment system that is compatible with your HOA software. This ensures that you’re able to seamlessly transfer payment data or details from the system to your software. Thus, less work and potential headaches for you.
  • Homeowner Accounts: For even more convenience, you can set up password-protected accounts that allow homeowners to pay online, view their payment history, and save payment details. You can even include other features such as easy access to governing documents for better compliance to homeowner association rules — which includes HOA fees and assessments.
  • Multiple Accounts: HOA management companies should choose an online payments system that is able to handle multiple accounts. You can set up payment channels for each HOA that you are managing and have the payments go to the correct bank accounts.

 

Getting Started on HOA Online Payments

Most associations understand the importance and convenience of HOA online payments but have yet to make the transition due to concerns about costs or available options. By now, though, you’re more familiar with online payments and how they can help your HOA. Since there are many available options, take the time to analyze each payment system to find the most suited for your community.

 Looking to get started with HOA online payments? Do not hesitate to reach out to the Condo Manager team today! Our HOA software comes with digital payment integration for easy and hassle-free online payments. Call us at (800) 626-1267 or email us at sales@condomanagerusa.com for a free demo.

 

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