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Guides

Each guide is a short sequence of articles in reading order. Pick the one that matches where your board is, and read it front to back.

Guide 014 articles · 12 min

HOA fundamentals

You joined the board, or you're about to. This guide covers what an HOA actually is, the documents that give it power, and the duties you take on when you accept the seat — in about twenty minutes.

1What is an HOA?
2What are CC&Rs?
3The Important HOA Legal Documents that all Community Members Should Review
4Understand the Fiduciary Duties for HOA Board Members
Guide 025 articles · 24 min

Reserves and funding

Every board argues about dues. This guide replaces the argument with numbers: what your reserve study says, how reserve funds differ from operating cash, what underfunding actually costs, and when a special assessment is the honest answer.

1Making Sense of Your HOA Reserve Study
2Operating Funds vs Reserve Funds: Understanding Your HOA Fees
3What are the Risks of Insufficient HOA Reserve Funds?
4A Board Member’s Guide to HOA Budget Planning
5Understanding HOA Special Assessments: A Guide for Homeowners
Guide 035 articles · 27 min

Projects and operations

The reserve study tells you what will need work. This guide is about actually running it: board meetings that decide things, a maintenance plan that prevents surprises, a project calendar you can defend, and a budget the community understands.

1How to Organize an Effective HOA Board Meeting
2Critical Steps to Operate your HOA like a Business
3Creating a Preventative Maintenance Plan for your HOA
4Tips for Planning and Prioritizing your HOA Projects in the New Year
5Tips for Communicating the HOA Budget to the Community