Board Mentoring

Hi George,

I agree that BODs need expert advice on all aspects of running the HOA. I think this is true even with a good MC, as they can only do so much. My belief is that BOD members should be proactive about learning all they can, which doesn’t necessarily mean attending seminars. The internet is an excellent source of information as there are several websites available (such as HOATalk!). In addition, in my experience, there is “free” consultation out there, if only one were to ask. For example, we had a ½ day financial management session by our MC’s finance department (how budgets are prepared, what do all that types of paperwork comprising the financials mean); meeting with a reserve consultant to learn about reserve planning; meetings with our Village arborist and landscaping company to learn about plant and tree care; meeting with painting contractor to learn about wood and how to protect it (decks and trim); meeting with a pond/natural landscaping consultant to learn about options for water retention basin (pond) maintenance.

I will readily admit, though, that BOD members need to be open to learning as this has been a challenge with ours in the past (long story here about how the MC should do everything - but our BOD is now on the right track). :-)

Great article (BTW, the author’s firm has many articles covering HOA management, including a few tongue-in-cheek articles worth the read for a good chuckle).

Thanks for sharing,
Bonnie