Despite the coronavirus pandemic, houses are still flying off the market with demand often exceeding supply. That’s good news for sellers. But even so, buyers still continue to research where they want to live and compare their options. Purchasing a home is a major decision.
There are several ways that homeowners associations (HOAs) can be proactive about increasing the appeal and interest in their neighborhood and make it somewhere that potential buyers want to call home.
- Keep the community looking its best.
Work closely with landscapers and maintenance crews to ensure that common areas are well-maintained. Spruce things up with new flowers and shrubs or a fresh coat of paint. Make any repairs in a timely manner, and clean up debris so it does not become an eyesore. Discuss any opportunities for improvement such as updating signage at the entrance to the neighborhood or throughout to help people find their way.
Also encourage homeowners to do their part and adhere to community standards as far as maintaining their home and yard. Remind them that that they play an important role in representing the neighborhood and making a good impression – and that by keeping their property looking nice, it can enhance overall property values. Stay on top of rules enforcement so everyone is held to the same expectations and issues are resolved quickly.
- Update the community website.
One of the first places people go for information is the Internet. If they search your HOA community, will you be proud of what they find? Keep information and photos on your website current so that potential buyers can see the neighborhood and all that it has to offer. Highlight available amenities and different events that the HOA hosts. Put everything they need to know right at their fingertips, and provide contact information in case they have questions.
- Reach out to realtors.
Provide local real estate agents with up-to-date information about your neighborhood and the HOA. You may want to prepare an informational packet for them that contains everything they need to know and can be used as a quick reference guide. When working with buyers, they’ll need to let them know if a home is part of an HOA.
- Focus on current operations.
While you want to bring new people in, don’t forget about the members that are already there. By quickly and efficiently addressing problems, maintaining regular communication, showing appreciation, and making decisions in the best interest of homeowners, you create a stronger sense of community within your association. When current members are happy and feel that the HOA is being run well, they’re more likely to recommend the neighborhood to others. Word of mouth can go a long way, both good and bad, so try to keep things on the up and up.
Partnering with a property management company like Kuester can help your HOA stay on top of communications, operations, projects, and more. We can guide you in enhancing your association and better meeting the needs of members. Contact us today to learn more and keep your HOA running as smoothly as possible.
