Buying in an HOA? How to Get the Most Value from Your HOA Dues – Pt 2

5. Swing By the Holiday Events

HOAs also spend some of the dues revenue on holiday events and parties each year. Some residents love these events, but many roll their eyes at the idea of a community-organized mixer. Why snub the party when those snacks and cups of punch are already yours by right? Even if you’re not much for parties or don’t feel like mixing, swing by each holiday party for a handful of goodies and a party bag. Try an activity. Catch a movie or win a prize in the raffle. Maybe even meet a few neighbors.

In fact, some HOA parties are really swinging events. Halloween tends to be the biggest bash, if it’s not rivaled by a 4th of July or Labor Day barbecue party. Music, decorations, and early evening festivities are the best. Make the most of your HOA dues by soaking up a little joy and picking up a few free snacks at each HOA event. Just swing by on your way home from work for a pick-me-up that you’ve already paid for.    

6. Skim the Meeting Minutes

Want to know how your HOA dues are being spent? Want to be assured that decisions are practical, or know when it’s time to show up and vote? Skim your HOA meeting notes. If you don’t have the time or attention to attend every meeting, simply browse what is discussed and the decisions that were made. Most HOAs will make this information available, and many today will simply publish the minutes after each meeting – if not a full recording of the whole meeting.

Stay apprised of what is going on in your neighborhood governance and spending decisions so you know you’ll enjoy what your dues are going toward.

7. Pick Up Your Free Resources and Decorations

Did you know that many HOAs give away free stuff throughout the year? Sometimes it’s ribbons for your mailbox around the holidays. Sometimes it’s seeds for your garden. You might swing by and pick up a packet of tips for home safety during the region’s storm season – a useful resource for those new to the area. Or you might get a packet of plastic eggs for the neighborhood easter egg hunt.

HOA resources are sometimes left on your porch, but often only attentive and participating members get every packet and decoration that your HOA makes available. This is a great way to get value back on your dues by swinging by the HOA office a few times a year.

8. Schedule Events at the Clubhouse

Remember when we said an HOA is like a miniature country club? You can even book the clubhouse for your own events. If you want a private spot for your parent’s anniversary party, or if you want to host your child’s birthday party near all their neighborhood friends, book the clubhouse for an event.

You are a partial owner, so booking your clubhouse for an event is often more affordable than other venues. And anything you pay to book the space goes back into your HOA as revenue for the board – which means you get that value back indirectly and enjoy your private party.

9. Hire Neighborhood-Recommended Contractors

If your home needs work – as all homes eventually need work – ask your HOA office which contractors they recommend. They will give you the card or number of teams who are familiar with the neighborhood, are known to do good work, and will ensure your home projects are always within HOA regulations. 

Whether you’re getting your windows upgraded or reinstalling your roof, getting the right recommendation is a sure way to reap the value of your neighborhood’s shared knowledge and maintenance history.

10. Use the Amenities Like You Partially Own Them

Last but not least, kick back and enjoy your community. Make use of all the amenities – whatever they may be – as if you are a partial owner. Because you are. As an HOA homeowner, you are a partial owner of the whole neighborhood and every shared space. Have a barbecue in the park. Take your kids to the playground and pool. Swing by and grab a handful of candy at the Halloween bash. It’s all yours to enjoy – because that is what your dues are paying for.

Want to make the most of the HOA dues you pay? Get ready to enjoy your neighborhood like it belongs to you. To find the perfect HOA home where your dues feel like a rewarding investment, contact us today.