HOW TO CHOOSE A MANAGEMENT COMPANY FOR YOUR COMMUNITY
Your community can operate at its best when you work with a management company that fits its specific needs, requests, and lifestyle. And with the help of the right community management company, your association’s board members and homeowners will find peace of mind in a strong community manager backed by an experienced team who are all dedicated to the well-being and harmony of your community.
Selecting the right community management company or community manager for your community requires carefully considering and evaluating factors such as experience, services, resources, reputation, communication, technology, etc., tailored to your community’s specific needs. Whether your community is considering one specific community management company or sending requests for proposals to various community management companies, the selection process will require in-depth consideration of these factors and more. If your association is looking for a community management company or manager, here are some factors to consider to help find the right management company for your thriving community:
- Experience and Expertise:
When evaluating community management companies for your community, it is vital to consider their experience and expertise in the industry with other similar communities or associations. Look for companies with a proven track record of successfully managing communities similar in size and scope to yours. An experienced company will bring valuable knowledge and best practices, helping your community navigate challenges and maximize its potential. Additionally, consider the expertise of the company’s staff, such as certified community managers, as their qualifications can significantly impact the quality of services provided.
- Services and Resources:
Assess the range of services and resources offered by a community management company. Every community has unique needs, so finding a company that can provide tailored solutions is necessary. Consider whether they offer typical management services such as financial management, assessment or violation collection, member communication, and board meeting assistance or “add-ons” such as maintenance, board member training and education, online homeowner and board member portals, technology solutions, and more. A comprehensive suite of services ensures that your community’s requirements are met efficiently, when and where you need them, promoting a well-functioning, cohesive neighborhood.
- Reputation and References:
Take the time to research the reputation of potential community management companies. Seek out or ask for reviews and testimonials from other communities they manage or have managed in the past and double-check the financial controls they have in place to ensure the chosen company has a good financial reputation and standards. Ask the community management company about its experience serving other communities. A reputable community management company will have a solid reputation for professionalism, responsiveness, and transparency and should not shy away from questions regarding its services, financial operations and fraud protection, and client satisfaction.
- Communication and Technology:
Efficient and transparent communication is essential for effective community management. Inquire about the company’s communication methods and tools. Does the management company provide a dedicated community portal or website for residents or board members to access information and submit requests? Are there regular community newsletters or email updates? Are there steps in place for emergency communication? Consider also evaluating the management company’s technology and software platforms for modern solutions that streamline operations, such as online payment systems, maintenance request tracking, document management platforms, etc. These tools can significantly enhance efficiency, trust, and convenience for the management company, board members, and community members.
Choosing the right community management company is critical for both board’s and community members’ satisfaction. By considering factors such as experience, services, finances, reputation, and communication methods, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your community’s unique needs and goals. With a trusted community management company, such as Sentry Management, at your side, your neighborhood can grow into a vibrant and harmonious community.