3 Things You’re Missing Out On If Your HOA Doesn’t Have A Website

Does it make sense for your HOA to have a website? Will owners actually use it? The answer to both questions is a resounding YES.

You’re currently on this website because you know it’s a great source for HOA information. Your HOA website will be similarly useful as it will act as a central source of information for owners and tenants.

In most cases, homeowners associations do not need a website (however a few states have made them a requirement), but there is no doubt that associations that don’t have a website are missing out. Keep reading to find out what your community can gain with a good HOA website.

Some States Now Require a HOA Website

The benefits of HOA websites are so significant that a few states have made them a legal requirement. Websites help promote transparency within governed communities. Since almost everyone can access a website through a computer or smartphone, it is considered a fair and accessible channel for sharing governing documents, reports, notices, and information that will enable members to make informed decisions.

If you live in Florida, Texas, Nevada or Wisconsin, your community may be legally obligated to maintain a website, depending on the size and type of association you belong to. California does not have a law about HOA websites, but they can share general notices if this action is mentioned in the association’s annual policy statement.

Things You’re Missing Out On Without a HOA Website

Some communities may be concerned that maintaining a website will be too challenging or expensive. But the reality is websites help to reduce costs and workloads.Furthermore, homeowners associations might miss the opportunity to attract new buyers if their association cannot be found online.

1. An easier way to share information

An HOA website gives management and/or the board the ability to share announcements, amendments, events, newsletters, and more with residents.

Instead of having to print and mail hundreds of notices, or have owners pick up and drop off forms, documents can simply be uploaded to the site. Suddenly, it only takes you a couple of minutes, as opposed to a couple of hours, to share information.

If the information is sensitive, such as a member directory, it can be placed in a password-protected section of the site so that only members can view it. It is even possible for owners to make payments for books or dues if that functionality has been included in the website.

2. Time and money

Some communities might use three or four different tools to manage communications and documents. All those separate costs can really add up. And using several different programs can create unnecessary work. A website can help consolidate communications and document storage, and reduce the number of subscription fees your community pays for.

Then there’s all the time and money you save when you don’t have to print and mail every letter and document to each member of the association. Some communities have saved thousands of dollars the first year after launching a website.

3. Opportunities to attract prospective buyers

The main difference between an owner portal and an HOA website is that a website can be viewed by anyone, even if they aren’t members of the HOA. While most communities do choose to keep some parts of their website private, things like amenities, governing documents and even annual fees are often visible to the public.

Websites can double as marketing material for buyers who are looking for a new home. By showcasing the best of your association, and sharing important information that future owners would need to know before signing a contract, you position your community as an attractive option.

Don’t underestimate the importance of a seamless mobile site experience. Not only do search engines favor mobile-friendly websites, but people are more and more likely to find your site on their phones rather than on their laptops.

Who Should My HOA Contact to Get a Website?

If you’re now feeling ready to get things started, you’ll want to explore some options before you make a final decision. Depending on your comfort level and the HOA’s needs, you could opt to build and update a website on your own or hire a team to do most of the work on behalf of the association.

HOA Sites – full-service option

HOA Sites has gained the trust and appreciation of thousands of HOAs over the last two decades. This company creates simple, practical sites for a very reasonable price. However, it’s the exceptional client service that truly separates it from other HOA website providers.

Each website created by HOA Sites fits the needs and personality of the association it is designed for. It can build responsive pages for forms, blogs, amenities, reservations, online payments, and virtually anything else an HOA could need from a website.

Condo Control – integrated option

Condo Control, an HOA management software company, offers its clients simple websites as an additional feature. The company will create a website that aligns with the HOA’s brand, and works collaboratively with the software system.

Owners can use the website to access their Condo Control accounts, find contact information for local service providers, or even take a quick look at upcoming community events. Potential buyers can get a better understanding of what the HOA is like and what it has to offer.

Wix – simple self-serve option

Small HOAs that don’t require many pages might enjoy an option like Wix. This company has made it easy for non-technical people to build and maintain a website. You don’t have to know any code to use Wix. Customers can also choose from premade templates, and hire a professional if they decide the self-serve option isn’t for them.

WordPress – advanced self-serve option

There is virtually nothing you can’t do when you use WordPress. Furthermore, customers can add nearly any feature with third-party plugins. But you have to know what you’re doing to get the results you want. WordPress is not for beginners, and it can be a frustrating experience, even for people familiar with the system. WordPress can also be costly, depending on the themes and plugins you select.

Examples of great HOA websites

Whether you hire someone to build your HOA site on behalf of the association or go for the self-serve option, you’re going to need an idea of how you want your website to look and operate before you start designing.

If you need a bit of inspiration, take a look at these examples:

1. Mill Pond at Stonehouse

• Clean design
• High-resolution photos of the community
• Easy to navigate
• Mobile site is attractive and responsive

2. Lake Linganore

• Top banner has breathing space (not cluttered with options)
• Important contact information is easy to locate
• Visuals are on-brand
• Interactive amenities map and history timeline are great ways to attract prospects

3. Del Mar Shores

• Focus on the HOA’s best asset – its proximity to the ocean
• Simple font keeps visitors reading
• All content is consolidated on a single landing page

4. Summer Place

• Sets the tone right away. Makes this HOA feel like home
• Transparent. Dues and home values are listed on the homepage
• Very easy to navigate

5. Canary Hill

• Excellent example of a DIY website
• Clean and minimalistic, all the essential elements are there
• White font is a bit challenging to read, but that is a simple fix

With so many features and functions available, having an HOA website just makes sense. Not only does it give owners and tenants an easy way to find information, but it doubles as a cost-effective marketing tool, too. An effective HOA website must be aesthetically pleasing, but, more importantly, easy to use. Simple design is always a smart choice. Finally, mobile functionality should be prioritized since potential buyers are more likely to research homes using their phones.