Qualities of Exceptional HOA Board Members

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Qualities of Effective Board Members
   1. Treating it Like a Business
   2. Not Taking Things Personally
   3. Focusing on a Common Purpose
   4. Diffusing Anger with Explanation
3. Example of Effective Board Member
4. Putting the Community First
5. Fiduciary Responsibility of Board Members
6. Looking to the Future
7. Enhancing Community Features
   1. Signage
   2. Access to Technology
   3. Internet Service
   4. Telecommunication Services
   5. Comparing with Newer Communities
8. Conclusion

Traits of the Best Board Members

In any homeowners association (HOA), having an effective board is crucial for the smooth running of operations. These board members play a significant role in making important decisions and ensuring the community functions harmoniously. In this article, we will explore the habits and qualities of the best board members, as shared by our experts Elina Gilbert and Brad Van Ruan. Their insights provide valuable lessons on how to become an exceptional board member and contribute to the success of an HOA.

Treating it Like a Business

One of the most vital qualities of successful board members is their ability to treat their role as a business. Elina Gilbert emphasizes the importance of not taking things personally. Being on the board means being responsible for various aspects of the association, and board members often become the targets of blame for any issues that arise. However, truly effective board members understand that the association's success is not about them as individuals but about the collective welfare of the community. They approach their duties with a professional mindset, focusing on the facts and finding solutions rather than getting caught up in personal emotions.

Focusing on a Common Purpose

To be an effective board member, it is crucial to understand the common purpose shared by the community. Board members should recognize that not everyone will be pleased with all decisions, and their goal is to ensure the overall welfare of the association. They work towards maintaining a sense of unity and aligning everyone towards the common purpose. Rather than internalizing anger or frustration from homeowners, these board members focus on fostering open communication, discussing the issues at hand, and finding ways to address them collectively.

Example of Effective Board Member

In a large Master community, a board meeting was held to address concerns about criminal activity. Homeowners arrived at the meeting with anger and blame towards the board for their perceived inaction. However, the board president, a savvy businessman, responded with empathy and understanding. He acknowledged the homeowners' frustration and took the opportunity to explain the actions and efforts made by the board behind the scenes. By diffusing the anger and engaging in a transparent conversation, the board president successfully shifted the focus towards finding constructive solutions. This interaction exemplifies the qualities of an effective board member who prioritizes communication and fosters a sense of understanding among the community.

Putting the Community First

Brad Van Ruan emphasizes that effective board members prioritize the community's interests above all else. While it is natural for board members to have personal desires and preferences, it is vital to avoid self-serving actions and instead focus on the greater good of the entire community. Serving as a board member entails fiduciary responsibilities towards the association, maintaining its financial stability, and planning for its future growth. This includes comparing the community's standards with neighboring developments and making investments to enhance its features.

Looking to the Future

As communities age, it becomes crucial for board members to look ahead and strive for continuous improvement. Apart from managing finances, they should consider how to keep the community updated and modernized. This involves evaluating the common elements and amenities of the association and ensuring they remain competitive with newer communities. Board members should explore opportunities to enhance features such as signage, access to technology, internet service, and telecommunication services. By planning and making strategic investments, they can raise the overall standard of the community, making it more attractive to current and potential homeowners.

Conclusion

Being a board member in an HOA requires more than just attending meetings and making decisions. Effective board members understand the importance of treating their role as a business, focusing on the common purpose, and putting the community's interests first. By fostering open communication, diffusing anger with explanation, and working towards continuous improvement, they can create a thriving and harmonious environment within the association. By embracing these qualities, you too can become an exceptional board member and contribute to the success of your homeowners association.

Highlights:

• Successful board members treat their role as a business and do not take things personally.
• Effective board members focus on a common purpose and foster open communication among community members.
• Putting the community's interests first is crucial for board members.
• Board members should plan for the future by investing in enhancing community features.
• Continuous improvement and adaptability are vital for the success of homeowners associations.

FAQ:

Q: How can board members handle criticism from homeowners effectively? A: Board members should approach criticism with empathy and understanding, focusing on addressing concerns through open communication and transparent explanations.

Q: What are some key responsibilities of board members in an HOA? A: Board members have fiduciary responsibilities, including financial management, planning for the association's future, and ensuring the community's overall well-being.

Q: How can board members keep the community updated and modernized? A: Board members should evaluate the community's features and amenities, compare them with newer developments, and make strategic investments in areas such as technology, internet service, and common element enhancements.

Q: What qualities make an exceptional board member? A: Exceptional board members possess qualities such as treating their role as a business, focusing on a common purpose, putting the community's interests first, and striving for continuous improvement.