Homeowner associations (HOA), composed by volunteer residents within communities, determine, modify, and generate all the decisions that affect the faction as a hole. This system is used throughout Florida, with 9.4 million locals following the rules that are set by their elected board of directors within their given association.
The effect that condo and homeowner association elections has overall, extends from improving the quality of life to increasing or decreasing the value of a home, as well as shaping the reputation the community holds. These factors, set to enhance the wellbeing of every individual, will influence the neighborhood’s appeal. For this reason it is crucial to direct as much attention as possible to the homeowners associations elections, as if they were presidential elections. With a proficient group of board members, communities will experience significant, valuable change.
Most associations work like a business. They make the decisions and they invest fully in the community, optimizing budgets, reducing risk, and are aware of the needs of the residents. Like leaders to a corporation, boards turn into property managers. As such, they strive to improve lifestyle and strengthen home values by providing a number of services and resources.
There is a big difference between the association board and the property manager. The association boards are in charge of decision-making and enforce the rules and regulations of the community. Ultimately, they select a property management company who will supervise, advise and guide the association board on community matters. They are aware of everyone and are always looking for improvement. However, the final say always belongs to the board.
325,000 homeowners have been elected to serve on Florida’s association boards. Unfortunately, most of the people that won the election aren’t exactly the best fit for the responsibility and achieved their position because only 45% of the residents participated in the voting process. To have a community that will run successfully, homeowners need to be active participants in their communities, starting with voting at the board elections. Those who vote and participate are able to create a thriving community, protected from injustices and inconveniences, where the welfare of everyone is the main focus.
