feedback on community websites

We went with a free website service.
It is easy to set up, allows owners to input as much information as they would like, and offers a bulleton board, discussion lists, etc.
I think it is a great way to get into a website. If people really use it, and want their own identity, then go with a personalized site. We just want it for communication purposes.

Because this forum is actually sponsored by Community123.com who are in the business of HOA websites, most folks here are a little more discreet about posting their competitors .. .. ..
In fact, it wouldn't surprise me if this thread disappears

While our HOA doesn't use Community123.com, I've heard nothing but good things about them and they certainly are reasonably priced for what they provide, customized and all.

Our community does use a competitor that doesn't base the monthly fees on the number of members, but rather on the level of website functionality.

We have 3+ years experience with this vendor and are extremely pleased.

I suggest that your best strategy is to realistically determine how many of the three broad types of functionality that a website can provide you'll actually use:

1). Community Communication (largely 1 way from HOA to owners)
2). Interactive Communication (2 way between HOA and owners)
3). HOA Management Functions

The more you want, the more it will cost you, but be realistic in your approach.

Roger - this is an excellent point - one that I, perhaps simplistically took for granted. It goes without saying that anytime personal and/or sensitive information is placed on the web, security to protect it is critically important. Certainly our vendor supports this capability.

As I have posted on another current thread on this topic, our small HOA tried the one year free offer through Community123.com and have been pleased. We are soon approaching the end of our free trial period.

Yes, Community123.com fees are based on the number of homes within the Community but for us, with only 27 individual homes, the fees wound up being nominal.

Also, as I have said, it wasn't the website itself that frustrated the BOD. It was getting the Membership to register...and view it often (which I don't know if they do).

It is great for getting out Announcements, anything that isn't required to be mailed by our CCRs.

As far as security of the website, we have only one HomeOwner who doesn't feel "secure" in registering, and that is the only one who hasn't. But that means they are the only ones who don't get all the news that goes out from the website. Maybe in time, they may feel it is safe...or not...That is their choice.

I believe websites are a thing of the future, and HOA's are getting into them along with everyone else.

Gloria