Why a Community Management Company is Helpful for Homeowners

Often working behind the scenes with a board of directors, community management companies bring big benefits to the neighborhoods they serve.

According to the Community Association Institute, more than 286,000 communities (23.1 million housing units) in the United States are governed by associations. In Arizona, 47% of homeowners live in a community with association – more than double the estimated national average of 21%.

What’s more, the majority of Arizona residents who live in communities governed by associations (93%) purchased their properties knowing an HOA was present. In fact, 57% indicated it had no impact on their buying decision.

For most homeowner associations, the most effective way to manage a community is by hiring a professional company. Not only can the staff help reduce long-term costs, but they have extensive experience dealing with community-related issues that few board members possess.

In addition to enforcing a set of standardized rules and coordinating maintenance on the grounds, a community management company is especially helpful when settling disputes.

In Arizona, this guidance has generally led to satisfied homeowners. A recent Homeownership and Association Living Study by Zogby International revealed only 15% of homeowners said they ever filed a complaint with a homeowner association against another homeowner – one-third fewer than the national average.

Even those who have been the subject of a complaint are generally satisfied. While most homeowners felt there were treated fairly, only 19% described their treatment as unfair.

The bottom line is community management companies allow homeowner association boards to make decisions and set direction without getting slowed down by day-to-day operations and minor issues.