Halloween is around the corner, and for some homeowners, being a part of a community association can be more spooky than sweet. Both your community association Board and Ghertner & Company (as your association’s management company) want you to see the treats, not the tricks, of living in and supporting your community association. Today, we’re sharing some not-so-scary ways to support your community association.
Abide by the community rules
Living in a community association means following the rules outlined in the governing documents. These rules help protect property values, maintain the common areas and make your community a safe and enjoyable place to live. The governing documents also outline what maintenance responsibilities belong to the homeowner, and which are covered by the community association. Being clear on the rules and responsibilities that apply to you as a homeowner will improve your community association experience.
Be a good neighbor
We all know the golden rule—treat others the way you want to be treated. There’s no better place to follow that than your community association. Being respectful toward your neighbors and getting to know others in the community (through community events or other ways) can help create a community everyone wants to live in.
Volunteer for a spot on the Board of Directors
The Board of Directors for your community association is a group of volunteer homeowners elected to their positions for a specific term. The Board makes decisions for your community as outlined in the governing documents for that community, ranging from financial to maintenance and others. Being a part of the Board allows you to have direct involvement in your community's short- and long-term future. Elections for Board members typically take place during an annual meeting. If you’re interested in running for a Board position when it's available, contact your Community Association Manager.
Support community associations
Laws created by legislators without the knowledge of community associations can potentially harm communities. Homeowners can partner with their Boards and association management company to voice support or concern about local and federal laws that affect community associations. At the state and national level, the Community Association Institute (CAI) leads these kinds of efforts and occasionally asks Board members and homeowners to contact their legislators about key issues.
For more answers to your questions about how to support your community association, log in to your owner portal at portal.ghertner.com, email the Ghertner & Company Homeowner Service Center at email@ghertner.com, or contact your Community Association Manager directly.