Coming Home Magazine

From hosting exciting events to balancing the budget and paying vendors on time, HOA board members have a lot on their plates. Leading a community is no small feat, and as part-time volunteers, it can be tough for board members to complete every task—there simply aren't enough hours in the day! To divide some of the workload, many HOAs establish committees. Comprised of groups of residents, committees help with community aspects that may call for extra oversight and planning. Every community has different needs, rules, and requirements for committees, but here are eight you should consider forming right now. 1. Welcome Committee The welcome committee is in charge of meeting and greeting new homeowners. Providing a warm introduction, committee members welcome new neighbors by stopping by and saying hello, talking about processes, or delivering a welcome packet filled with key information, like contact phone numbers, nearby restaurants, and event calendars. First impressions go a long way, and this committee ensures HOA life starts with a friendly greeting. 2. Social Committee It's true: involved homeowners are happier homeowners. But with so much to do, planning social events may not be top-of-mind for board members. That's where a committee comes in. Social committees take on organizing, promoting, and hosting events like garage sales, block parties, or fall festivals. Their work creates a positive atmosphere, lifts spirits, and builds enthusiasm about the community lifestyle. 3. Architectural Review Committee Most HOAs have architectural standards that state what you can and can't do to the exterior of your home. Outlining limitations on things like roofing materials, paint colors, pool construction, and yard changes, every homeowner agrees to abide by these rules when purchasing a home with an HOA. The architectural review committee's role is to interpret, review, and enforce architectural guidelines. Members collaborate to keep your neighborhood beautiful and protect property values so you can be proud of the place you call home. 4. Landscape Committee Many homeowners choose to live in an HOA because of the clean and attractive aesthetic. A landscape committee guarantees the community's grounds are cared for and tended to regularly. Member responsibilities could include upkeep of flower beds, lawns, and trees, or finding landscaping vendors. Maintaining a cohesive landscape is a group effort—and thanks to the landscaping committee, achieving a stunning outdoor space is possible. 5. Contract Review Committee Whether it's a management company, landscaper, insurance agent, or construction firm, your HOA probably relies on professional vendors to sustain operations. These vendors have contracts that are often complex and difficult to decipher, so boards may need some support in this arena. The contract review committee assesses vendor contracts to confirm the association is getting what it paid for and being charged appropriately. They might also solicit bids, connect with an attorney for guidance, and conduct annual performance reviews. This group knows value when it sees it and finds the best people at the right price. 6. Budget Committee Overseeing the financial health of an association is a massive undertaking and shouldn't be a solo endeavor. The budget committee lends a hand to the board treasurer by assisting with financials. Committee members can develop timelines for key action items, like dues communications, budget approvals, notifications, and ratifications. This committee is usually responsible for obtaining estimates, setting goals, evaluating funds, and resolving other financial concerns, too. If you're financially savvy, there might be a spot for you on your community's budgeting committee. 7. Neighborhood Watch Committee Fostering a safe and secure environment is important. Focusing on crime observation and awareness, a neighborhood watch committee may patrol the area, share safety tips, look out for suspicious activity, and contact the local police department to report possible crimes. While the committee isn't a replacement for law enforcement, having one does make homeowners feel safer. In fact, the National Institute of Justice estimates that the presence of a neighborhood watch committee can reduce crime by up to 16%. 8. Homeowner Education Committee Your HOA experience will be more rewarding when you understand your community, the industry, and your role as a homeowner. The homeowner education committee offers a way for you to get informed. This group could organize orientations, quarterly meetings, or other instructive sessions to help residents become well-versed in the lingo and ins and outs of HOAs. Knowledge is power, and a community can go further with the help of a homeowner education committee. COMING HOME MAGAZINE 35

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