HOA software suggestions

Tig

I also would be interested in the replies. Please feel free to Email me anything to AccuFitGolf(at)aol.com

I am interested in that we are an HOA about to be turned over to HOA control. We are 113 private home HOA with few amenities/common areas so not that complex to mnage and operate. We are looking at all ways of doing things from self management to hiring a management company. All have pros and cons.

Back on subject.

Some have advised that an interactive web site can turn into a bytching session (it only takes one or two) and maybe it is best to just set up a site that is informational (as in can only be viewed), not the type where one can reply as in not interactive. One where the BOD/Management can post notices, meeting minutes, documents, etc. but one where people cannot post. This way one might not even have to control who has access to it. Let anybody look.

Also some banks offer lock box services for collecting and tracking dues. Doing it ones self (the BOD) is nice until there is no longer interest and/or there are issues.

I aslo have seen smaller associations that hired a part time bookeeper/accountant to manage dues collection and tracking.

I am sounding like a pessimist but quite often I have seen issues arise as people simply did not look down the road. Typical example is an HOA heavily dependent on BOD participation then apathy sets in and no one wants to be on the BOD thus no one is left to do anything. Another common issue is where the operation/complexity of the place is so far beyond the ability/experience of the BOD Members thus they cannot properly operate the association.

Thank you Tim,

The ease of use of the system (or the final version, if I get something half done and need to extend it) will be essential for that reason.
Other features I am looking for are:
(1) Accounting - homeowners should see their personal history and status, public expenses, etc.
(2) Public (users only) Discussions - A discussion board type area will do.
(3) Public (users only) Documents - Bylaws, vendor contracts, announcements etc.
(4) Public (any visitor) Information - For anyone to see, basic public information about our community

I am sure that some self-managed associations have found systems to help them. Perhaps we can come up with a good list of required features for such system.

Please feel free to suggest features.

Thank you.
Tigran

Any other suggestions ?

I'm sure some of the self-managed HOAs here are using some kind of software to manage their accounting and HO communication needs.

Please suggest...