What’s on your bookshelf?

Started by JoeN6 • 7 replies • 197 views

💬 Join us to post & get advice from 50,000 HOA & Condo leaders.

⚡ Takes 30 seconds

Already a member? Log in

JoeN6 (Virginia)
Posts: 94

Posted:

Besides reading ones his documents and bylaws , and state code , is there any reading that’s helped you run your HOA or conduct your meetings . For instance , consulting Amazon I came across “ So you bought a condo “ , and of course they start making recommendations like “ Turn HOA stress into success” then there “ Robert’s rules “ . Anything you recommend?

KerryL1 (California)
Posts: 14,550

Posted:

Review the literature at caionline.com. CAI is the Community Association of America. They have several free publications., The one that helped me a lot when I was new to my HOA and even though I wasn't yet on the Board was something like "The Board Members Toolkit."

I would NOT bother reading Robert's Rules. Chances are your HOA's board meetings do not require that any "parliamentary system"must be use. Your Bylaws about meetings of the members (owners) may require Robert's or any alternate system. I turned to Robert's over the years when I was on our Board for special cases or to answer weird questions. One should always read their Bylaws first and often their state's relevant states before turning to Robert's. If those are silent, Robert's MIGHT help.

Here's one I cited from Robert's: A previous board president (our most ignorant) insisted that once the Board approves meeting minutes, they may not be amended. Robert's (and common sense) states that of course the Board with its votes may amend previously-approved meeting minutes's errors.

Are you on the Board, JoeN?

SheliaH (Indiana)
Posts: 6,964

Posted:

Besides CAI, I often find good suggestions from articles I read from dozens of websites and magazines. Some are business magazines and there are one or two e-newsletters I get on developing leadership skills. Sometimes I post the links on this website.

I think HOA sucess is less about the documents and more about the relationships between neighbors that live in a community. You don't have to be friends with everyone, but you can start by bring the type of neighbor you want living next door or across from you. This can lead to better board members - they don't just drop from the sky. Taking a long view and not acting like a spoiled brat is also useful. In short, do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

For board members, the main thing to remember is it's not just about them,, but doing their best, being candid, using common sense and considering the long and short term effects. This means sometimes you fo have to be the adult in the room and make decisions people don't like. The thunder is scary, but staying calm and riding through it will make you better.

If it is not right do not do it; if it is not true do not say it. Marcus Aurelius

JoeN6 (Virginia)
Posts: 94

Posted:

Not a board member , altho next call for candidates I will try , now that I have the time . I’m found this website to learn from the board members who post solutions . In the meantime I’ll post a remark or topic or two .

TimB4 (Tennessee)
Posts: 21,062

Posted:

There is a lot more, but here are a few:

CAI Best Practices Reports

The Board Member Tool Kit from CAI

Community Associations Resources from a sponsor of this site. Select your State for specific info on the State (about 1/2 way down on the right)

Beginner's Guide to HOA Boards of Directors Duties and Responsibilities from The Educational Community for Homeowners (a California based organization - keep that in mind when they refer to statutes)

Additional Resources from a reserve specialist firm (many are free)

An Introduction to Community Association Living

Governance Guidelines

Since you are from Virginia:

FAIRFAX COUNTY Community Association Guide

Community Associations Fairfax County VA website (has some good links)

JoeN6 (Virginia)
Posts: 94

Posted:

Thanks! Good reading.

LetA (Nevada)
Posts: 2,679

Posted:

Robert's Rules of Order is a good read and very informative.

KerryL1 (California)
Posts: 14,550

Posted:

With 14 years on my Board and having studied Robert's Rules pretty carefully, it was useful in board or member meetings, perhaps 1% of my entire meeting time. I sent a hella lot more time reading it than using it.

🎯 You've read this entire discussion

Join the conversation with 50,000 HOA & Condo Leaders:

✓ Ask follow-up questions
✓ Share your experience
✓ Get expert advice
✓ Access 350,000 discussions

Create Free Account →

⚡ Takes 30 seconds

Already a member? Log in here