Running a successful homeowners association is no easy feat! The tasks of maintaining a safe, welcoming, thriving community in which members will love to live falls in the hands of a board of directors.

Board of Director Positions

Most HOA boards elect officers –  including a President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer –  and typically have additional members-at-large to attend board meetings and assist as needed.

Because these volunteers dedicate countless hours to their positions, they are crucial to keeping the association running smoothly.

Qualifications

So, who should serve on an HOA board of directors? The short answer: any homeowner who wants to better their community! Positions are open to anyone who wants to volunteer. However, these elections should be much more than just a popularity contest, and board members must make careful consideration before casting their votes.

While there is no law that establishes required qualifications for those wishing to serve, there are guidelines that are strongly encouraged.

When electing officers, boards should consider whether candidates possess the following pertinent characteristics typical to exceptional HOA officers:

  • Honesty – Associations are governed by laws, codes, and covenants designed to help the community thrive and avoid misconduct. HOA officers must be willing to abide by these rules and ensure that all community members follow them. Additionally, certain board positions, especially Treasurer, grant access to and management of association funds; therefore, a trustworthy volunteer is vital to ensuring the financial stability of the HOA.
  • Reliablily –  Community members are much more likely to follow association rules when they know their board will follow through on penalties for breaking them. Reliable board officers who fulfill their duties with consistency and with the best interest of their members greatly help to foster an increased sense of unity within the association.
  • Education or Knowledge –  While some larger association CC&Rs require those filling a board position to have a bachelor’s degree, generally a high school diploma or equivalent is sufficient. It’s also helpful for board members to have a background in management or administration, with a working knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping procedures, as well as basic computer skills to help manage account information and communications.
  • Motivation –  HOA officers have a big job, as they are in a position to help create a strong, flourishing community. When they recognize and elect a candidate who is passionate about what they do, board members can be sure that their officers’ actions are always motivated by a desire to improve the association, rather than promote or push their own agenda.
  • Communication –  Running an HOA requires constant communication. Board members must be prepared to distribute association news to residents, make phone calls, and send emails on behalf of the HOA. Good interpersonal skills between board members, vendors, and homeowners are integral in creating a constructive environment for all involved.

Establishing a strong board of directors is a critical step in HOA management and shouldn’t be taken lightly. Carefully elected officers can make all the difference in the quality and success of the association!