How Our HOA Got Back on Track

When I first decided to join our HOA board, I thought it would be an easy way to give back to the neighborhood—a few occasional meetings, perhaps some discussions about landscaping or parking rules. Nothing major. But it didn’t take long before I realized the reality was quite different, and there was a lot more responsibility than I had expected.

All of us on the board were volunteers, genuinely passionate about making our community better. But none of us were exactly experts when it came to running a neighborhood. We suddenly found ourselves trying to balance budgets, oversee repairs, and address the endless stream of residents’ questions and complaints. Meetings dragged on for what felt like forever, weekends disappeared into answering emails and taking calls, and the work just never seemed to end.

Things hit a boiling point when the pool pump broke out of the blue. The cost of fixing it was way more than we had in our budget, and there was no backup plan for situations like this. Residents were upset (understandably so), and we were stuck without a clear solution. That’s when someone floated the idea of hiring a professional management company. At first, I wasn’t convinced it was necessary, but after weighing the pros and cons, we decided to give it a shot. Looking back, it was hands down the best decision we could’ve made.

Financial Peace of Mind

One of the first things the management company tackled was our finances. They went through everything with a fine-tooth comb, found areas where we could save money, and set up a reserve fund specifically for emergencies. Just having that safety net in place took an enormous weight off our shoulders. If your HOA struggles with financial management, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers resources on tax obligations and exemptions for associations. Learn more on their official site.

Navigating Legal Challenges

Another area where we struggled was keeping up with Florida’s ever-changing HOA regulations. Between paperwork deadlines, legal updates, and proper ways to handle disputes, it felt like we were constantly at risk of making mistakes. When one resident dispute started spiraling out of control, the management company stepped in, reviewed our policies, and found a fair resolution. They also made sure we were better prepared for future challenges. For anyone navigating similar challenges, the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) is an invaluable resource for HOA boards.

Clearer Communication with Residents

Before hiring help, our inboxes were overflowing with emails from residents—some asking questions, others voicing complaints. It was chaotic. The management team introduced a website where residents could pay dues, request maintenance, and get updates about the community. Everything became so much more streamlined, and residents seemed much happier. For legal guidance on communication standards and fair housing compliance, check out resources from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

Smooth Project Management

Big projects used to completely overwhelm us. We didn’t even know where to start when it came to things like repaving the parking lot—finding contractors, figuring out timelines, the works. But with the management company’s help, we didn’t have to stress. They coordinated everything, and the project was finished on time. For more insights into managing large projects while staying compliant with labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL).

Building a Sense of Community

An unexpected bonus of having professionals on board was how they helped bring our neighborhood closer. They encouraged us to plan events like holiday parties and clean-up days, even helping with the details. Those events turned neighbors into friends and made the community feel tighter-knit. If your HOA wants to encourage more engagement while staying within state regulations, the Florida Administrative Code is a helpful starting point.

A New Chapter for Our Neighborhood

Looking back now, I wish we’d reached out for help much sooner. It wasn’t just about making our jobs easier—it was about improving life for everyone in the neighborhood. With stable finances, better organization, and stronger relationships, everything changed for the better.

If you’re part of an HOA or condo board that feels overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to look for professional support. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Start by exploring resources like the Florida Bar for legal advice or the Community Associations Institute for broader support. With the right help, your neighborhood can thrive.

You can get help for your association too! If you want to learn more like I did, click this button here to:

FAQ's: 

What services does Precedent Hospitality offer?
They handle financial management, legal compliance, communication, vendor oversight, and much more to make HOA and condo management easier.

How does Precedent Hospitality simplify communication?
They provide online tools and act as the point of contact for residents, streamlining the process and saving you time.

Can Precedent Hospitality help with legal issues?
Absolutely. They ensure compliance with state laws and keep your association up-to-date on new regulations.

What size communities does Precedent Hospitality work with?
They work with communities of all sizes and tailor their services to fit your needs.

Does hiring Precedent Hospitality mean the board loses control?
Not at all. You stay in charge of decisions while they handle the execution.

What kind of events can they help with?
From holiday parties to clean-up days, they assist with planning events that bring the community together.

How do they handle vendor selection?
Precedent Hospitality works with trusted vendors and oversees projects to ensure quality and cost-effectiveness.

How much does it cost to hire Precedent Hospitality?
Costs vary, but their efficiency often saves money in the long run.

Can they help improve resident satisfaction?
Yes! Their approach to communication, events, and management fosters a happier, more connected community.

How do I get started with Precedent Hospitality?
Contact them today to learn how they can tailor their services to meet your community’s needs.