Below are ways to get more involved in your co-op, condo, or HOA, ranging from social engagement to civic duties.
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Ways to Get Involved in Your Community Association
- Attend Annual Meetings and Special Meetings
Annual meetings held within your cooperative, condominium, or homeowner’s association will provide a snapshot of what’s happening behind the scenes in your community. Additionally, they may provide insight into how your money (monthly maintenance fees, common charges, assessments, etc.) is being allocated towards the maintenance or betterment of your community. - Participate in Board Elections and Special Elections
By voting for board members at the annual meeting, or voting on issues at special meetings, you exercise your right as a shareholder or homeowner to weigh in on matters such as major improvements or maintenance. - Run for Your Co-op, Condo, or HOA Board
The board of directors or board of managers is a group of elected volunteers (usually current residents of the community). They volunteer their time and skills to make decisions on behalf of the community-at-large with skilled management professionals.
Board elections typically take place during the annual meeting, which will typically occur around the same time each year. Your property manager will be able to inform you when and how to submit self-nomination. Additionally, position terms will vary depending on the community (see governing documents).
- Join or Create a Committee
Residents who volunteer their time make up the backbone of a thriving residential community. There are many reasons and benefits for creating a committee within your co-op, condo, or HOA, whether it’s for the social benefit or the community’s well-being. Below are a few ideas:
- Giving Back Committees: There are many local organizations actively seeking donations such as canned goods, clothing, furniture, and more.
- Social Committees: Organize or identify social activities and/or outings for your community. For example, start a book club, knitting club, movie of the month club, etc…
- Get to Know Your Neighbors
Being or having friendly neighbors can make a home feel like a thriving and desirable place to live. It creates the “tight-knit” quality that people seek when choosing to live in a multi-unit home or community. Additionally, knowing your neighbors on a personal level helps in the event noise needs to be addressed. - Be Alert and Aware of Suspicious Activity in Your Community
This does not mean that residents, shareholders, and homeowners should be overly nosy, nor does it mean that they should be policing their community. However, there are proactive measures that homeowners can take to help be the eyes and ears of their community. See New York Neighborhood Watch for tips. - Read (or listen) to Communications from Management
Enroll and stay tuned with communication from management. This may include:
- Robocalls & Texts
- Emails
- Letters
- Safety Newsletters
- Read Your Community’s Governing Documents
Doing this is critical if you are a shareholder or homeowner in a co-op, condo, or HOA. It will inform you of your rights and responsibilities and will give you insight that will help you be prepared and informed. - Be Aware of Local Resources
Local websites (and social media pages) will give you vital information such as recreational events, permits, and emergency hotlines:
- Local Emergency Resources
- Your Town/Municipality Website
- Town Parks and Other Amenities
- Get to Know your Community Staff
Community staff may include:
- Property Manager
- Super
- Porter
- Security Staff
- Lifeguard
- Let Management Know When Repairs Are Needed
If you see something in need of repair in common areas or on community grounds let management know.
- Enroll in Local Emergency Alerts and Resources
Enrolling in these vital alerts and 911 tools are vital in case of an emergency.
- Stay Connected with Einsidler Management, Inc.
We share community-geared tips, information, and more for homeowners, shareholders, and residents.
Getting Involved in Your Community Association Has Many Benefits
Shareholders, homeowners, and residents play a vital role in helping to maintain a friendly, informed, and prepared community. Involvement can be as small as reading communications from management, or as large as serving on the board, but every effort to stay involved and engaged goes a long way in ensuring that your co-op, condo, or HOA thrives.
