The start of the year has brought a lot of highs and lows in terms of weather. One day it’s blustery with snow flurries, and the next it’s warm enough to crack the windows open. Warmer temperatures combined with a lot of rain means the grass has started growing and many homeowners have had to mow already.
According to the calendar, the first day of spring is March 20, but meteorological spring starts on March 1. That means that no matter how you look at it, it’s time to start preparing for the change in seasons. There are many ways the HOA and homeowners can embrace the warmer weather:
- Spruce up landscaping.
Start thinking about what flowers and shrubs you want this year, and make a plan for when you need plant each one. If your lawn is looking a little worse for wear, now is the time to overseed and fertilize so you’ll have lush grass come summer. Get on a schedule for mowing as well to keep everything freshly cut and well-maintained.
The HOA should also get with its landscaping company to see what plans are in the works for spring. When will they be starting mowing, mulching, and planting? Is there anything homeowners need to be aware of so the landscapers can work as efficiently and effectively as possible?
- Clean up playgrounds.
Kids are starting to spend more time outside running around. The HOA should take the time to thoroughly inspect any play structures and make repairs. Check for loose or missing nuts and bolts, cracks in plastic or wood, bug infestations, and any other safety concerns. Give equipment a good power washing to remove dirt and grime that has built up over the fall and winter. Homeowners should evaluate and clean up their own backyard play structures as well to keep everyone safe.
- Plan social activities.
Help everyone to shake off the winter blues by organizing a few social events. This could include an egg hunt, movie night, ice cream social, or decorating contest. Encourage homeowners to join in the fun and get to know their neighbors. It can be a great time to ask for their feedback about other events they’d like to see throughout the next few months as well.
- Provide reminders for upcoming activities.
Is the HOA getting ready to do some minor repair projects to fix sidewalks or repave the clubhouse parking lot? Has a date been set for opening the pool? Is there an upcoming board meeting? Send out communications to remind homeowners about what to expect over the coming weeks and how they can prepare. You may have mentioned these activities at the annual meeting in the fall, but a timely update is always good to keep them top of mind.
As the HOA ushers in the spring, talk to your property manager about how you can better work together to meet the needs of the community. It’s always a good idea to catch up and review what’s working and what’s not in order to make any adjustments moving forward. Contact Kuester today to learn more about the wide range of services we offer to HOA communities throughout the Carolinas.