Managing the work of a homeowners’ association is no different than running a business. There are several tasks at hand, and while the elected board members may have the best intentions, they often don’t have the required experience and expertise. If you are comparing flagstaff hoa management companies, make sure to avoid the mistakes listed below.
#1 – Not having a clear agenda
Why is your HOA board considering an outsourced firm? What kind of tasks do you want the company to manage? What would be the aspects that would remain in complete control of the board? Are there enough volunteers to look into the work of the HOA management company? What are the current issues that the board is facing?
These are some common questions that the board must answer before starting the search. The idea is to look for a firm that is the right fit for your community, for which having a clear agenda is critical.
#2 – Not looking for experience
An HOA management firm should have the necessary experience to handle the work of your community. As a client, the board has the right to question the profile of the company, and it is best to include queries like –
- How long have you been working in Flagstaff?
- Do you specialize in comprehensive HOA management?
- What kind of services do you offer?
- Do you offer assistance for legal matters?
- Do you have a ready list of vendors and contractors in our area?
#3 – Choosing a firm based on the price alone
While the cost of hiring an HOA management company is a significant factor, it shouldn’t be the only reason to make a choice. Instead of being enamored by the quote, consider what a firm brings to the table and get proposals. The best idea is to discuss the challenges that the board is currently facing and ask for proposals. The proposal allows the board to have a sneak peek into the approach of the firm and how they intend to resolve vital issues.
Final word
It is also essential to ensure that the HOA management company relies on tech to get considerable work done. From accounting software to apps for tracking the development of projects, a professional firm should be able to automate what’s possible. Also, check whether the firm has good reviews online and don’t forget to ask for a few references. The ultimate objective is maintaining a long-term relationship with the HOA management company.