If you are searching for a home in the greater Phoenix area, you are likely going to find that most available listings are part of planned communities and managed by a homeowners’ association (HOA). Choosing a home that offers an HOA that is not only well-run, but also easy to deal with is important. No one wants to purchase a home in a community that is known for its overly strict rules and regulations.

Looking for a community that uses a Phoenix HOA property management services company is a good place to start, as you’re going to buy into a community that is likely more well-organized, better-managed, and has happier residents than an HOA that has internal disputes, lacks a financial reserve fund, and is known for micromanaging residents.

Creating a Sense of Community

HOAs that go the extra mile to create a sense of community will find that homeowners are happier, and feel the benefits of living in a development with an HOA are worth the assessment fees. The goal should not be to just fix problems but to help homeowners feel invested in their own community.

When you are searching for your dream home, look for HOAs that exhibit some of these characteristics:

• Focused on Common Areas: Does the HOA highlight the common areas? These are spaces where homeowners want to enjoy and interact with each other, so proper maintenance and upkeep is important. Are there neighborhood events that provide homeowners and residents with a chance to mingle and get to know each other?
• Keep Communication Open: Communication is an important aspect of happy HOA-managed communities. This should not be a closed entity that makes members feel alienated or left in the dark. Promoting open communication in both directions is a great way to help members feel like their opinions and suggestions are valued. Talk to residents and find out how the HOA’s communications are. Check their website to see if there are updates, meeting notes, etc.
• Regular Newsletter: This is also one way to effectively communicate with homeowners and can help foster a sense of community with it as well. Is there a community newsletter? Does it ask for feedback or information from the homeowners?
• Rules Clearly Explained: One of the biggest complaints about HOAs is the feeling that homeowners are being watched and scolded. If the HOA communicates the rules up front in a clear manner, there are no surprises from the homeowners. You don’t want to live in a community where homeowners are bitter and trying to get other residents to oppose the board of directors’
• Ask About a Welcoming Committee: In an existing community, it’s common for homeowners to sell and new owners to move in. This can be daunting for new homeowners who may be new to the area as well. Phoenix is a popular destination for people from all over the country, so your new neighbors may not have any friends or family close by either. Ask how the HOA helps new residents assimilate into the community.

Finding the Right Phoenix Home

Even if you find your dream home, a mismanaged HOA can turn your dream into a nightmare. At City Property Management Company, we’ve been helping Arizona communities manage their HOAs since 1979. If you have any questions about Arizona HOAs or are looking for a management service to run your Phoenix HOA, contact our office today at 602-437-4777.