In this eye-opening episode of The Uncommon Area, we tackle one of the most frequently asked questions in the world of property management: Are HOAs a scam? Joining host Matthew is attorney Jeff Bowmont, who brings over 25 years of experience working with HOAs to this lively discussion. Recorded live at The Skybox in San Diego, in front of a group of HOA board members, this episode sheds light on the complex role that Homeowners Associations (HOAs) play in modern communities.

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• Are HOAs delivering value? The hosts explore the idea of value for assessments, how HOAs manage assets, and whether homeowners receive what they pay for.
  
• Common misconceptions: Many homeowners feel frustrated with HOAs, but much of this stems from a lack of understanding and education about the association’s role.
  
• The importance of communication: Successful HOAs are transparent and prioritize educating their members. Boards that actively engage and communicate with homeowners often achieve better results and satisfaction.
  
• Real-world stories: Jeff shares powerful examples of how HOAs and their management affect homeowners, from rules about water bottles on driveways to the impact of reserve funds on long-term financial health.
  
• Humanity in decision-making: A central theme in this episode is the need for compassion in HOA governance. Boards are encouraged to consider the human element, rather than strictly following the “rules” without thought for individual circumstances.
  
• The role of reserves: Properly managing an HOA’s reserve funds is critical, yet poorly run associations often find themselves in difficult financial situations, leading to special assessments or higher fees for future homeowners.
  
• Individual board member preferences: How do personal agendas impact the broader community? The hosts talk about managing conflicts of interest and ensuring that the board serves the community as a whole.
  
• The code of conduct: Jeff explains why having a code of conduct is essential for board members and how it fosters professionalism and trust within the community.
  

HOAs are not inherently a scam, but success depends heavily on how they are managed. Boards that emphasize transparency, communication, and education can deliver immense value to their communities, while poorly managed associations may leave homeowners feeling dissatisfied and undervalued.

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Beaumont Tashjian

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