Hillcrest - HOA Management Blog

HOA BoardHOA Elections

HOA Board Resignation: How To Fill In Vacancies?

When an HOA board resignation takes place, the remaining directors must know how to proceed. This knowledge will keep operations running with minimal disruptions. There may be a learning curve for the new board member, but the rest of the team can help ease them into the role.   When Does an HOA Board Resignation Happen? Board members volunteer to serve their community through an election process. They manage day-to-day operations, perform long-term planning, and make decisions that impact the…
Denise
April 10, 2026
HOA Committees

The Most Important Homeowner Association Committees

Homeowner association committees are a normal part of any community. These committees aid the board in day-to-day operations and give owners an opportunity to get involved without making a large commitment. It also serves as a way for owners to dip their toes in before deciding to take on a larger leadership role.   What are Homeowner Association Committees? HOA committees are groups that consist of volunteer homeowners who help the board with specific activities or tasks. Committees are not…
Denise
April 8, 2026
HOA Insurance

What Is Fidelity Insurance? Why Does Every HOA Need It?

What is fidelity insurance? An essential form of insurance, fidelity insurance protects the association from financial strain as a result of dishonest acts. Often required by law, this policy offers several benefits, making it imperative for association boards to obtain one.   What is Fidelity Insurance? Fidelity insurance is a policy that protects an HOA or condominium from direct financial losses resulting from dishonest acts by board members, community managers, and employees. Dishonest acts include theft, embezzlement, and forgery. Also…
Denise
April 8, 2026
HOA Accounting

HOA Chart Of Accounts: A Checklist For Clear HOA Bookkeeping

An HOA chart of accounts is the foundation for all accounting transactions and books. It keeps an association's finances clear and organized, allowing the board to view its reports with accuracy and make informed decisions. Because of this, it is important to learn how to establish a solid chart of accounts.   What is an HOA Chart of Accounts? A homeowners association chart of accounts is a structured list of financial categories used to record every transaction. It works as…
Denise
April 7, 2026
HOA Budgeting

What Are HOA Budget Assumptions A Board Shouldn’t Forget?

The association board is responsible for preparing the HOA budget, but this task is more than just listing down expenses. Boards must rely on assumptions about future costs, income, and financial conditions. If these assumptions are unrealistic, the association may face funding gaps, forcing the board to either levy special assessments or significantly increase dues.   What is the HOA Budget? Everything starts with the homeowners association budget. The budget is essentially a forecast of all expenses, with the board estimating…
Denise
March 18, 2026
HOA Board Meeting

Balancing Trust And Confidentiality In An HOA Executive Session

Every now and then, the board will have to meet in an HOA executive session, a closed-door meeting that owners can't join. This type of meeting, while permitted, can cause problems for boards if they hold them without the authority to do so. To avoid claims of mismanagement or impropriety, association boards must learn to navigate closed meetings legally.   What is an HOA Executive Session? Homeowners might have noticed that board members sometimes adjourn into executive session in HOA…
Denise
March 18, 2026
HOA RulesHome Maintenance

A Board’s Guide To Spring Gardening Rules In HOA Communities

Spring gardening in HOA communities comes with certain rules that homeowners must follow. On their part, board members should enforce these rules with fairness and consistency. Gardens add beauty to the neighborhood, so keeping owners accountable is essential.   Common Rules for Spring Gardening in HOA Communities Gardening rules are more prevalent in single-family associations, where owners maintain yards and lawns. In condo associations, on the other hand, owners don’t have the outdoor space to grow a garden, leaving them…
Denise
March 9, 2026
HOA Committees

How To Build An HOA Committee Structure That Actually Works

It helps to have an effective HOA committee structure so the board can manage its responsibilities more effectively. A committee also allows homeowners to participate in governance and keeps operations running smoothly. While valuable, committees can be difficult to establish without the proper guidance.   What are HOA Committees? Committees are small groups of volunteers that address specific tasks or areas of community management. These groups assist the board by researching issues, making recommendations, and sometimes carrying out projects. That…
Denise
March 9, 2026
HOA Insurance

HOA Insurance Claim Process: From Damage Report To Settlement

Managing community damage can feel overwhelming, especially when HOA insurance claims are involved. Boards often face pressure from owners, vendors, and insurers simultaneously. A clear understanding of the process can help reduce stress and avoid costly mistakes. Board members can then navigate claims more smoothly.   What are HOA Insurance Claims? Homeowners association insurance claims refer to formal requests that an HOA submits to its insurance carrier after covered damage or loss. These claims allow the association to recover funds…
Denise
February 25, 2026
HOA Finance

HOA Audit vs Review vs Compilation: What Do You Need?

The topic of HOA audit vs review vs compilation is often a source of confusion for board members. Each option serves a different purpose and offers a different level of financial assurance. Choosing the right one depends on the association's size, budget, and governing documents.   HOA Audit vs Review vs Compilation: What's the Difference? Financial reports help boards understand the association's financial health. An audit, review, and compilation all serve this goal, but each does so at a different…
Denise
February 25, 2026