Hillcrest - HOA Management Blog

HOA Board MeetingHOA Meetings

What Is The Open Meeting Act in HOAs?

Both board members and homeowners should familiarize themselves with the Open Meeting Act in HOA communities. This law, found in many states, allows homeowners to attend board meetings. An association's governing documents may also contain similar provisions.   What is the Open Meeting Act in HOA? The Open Meeting Act requires HOAs to keep their board meetings open to all homeowners. Although not a federal law, many states have versions of this law that apply to HOAs and condo communities. Board…
Denise
May 8, 2025
HOA Vendors

The Ins And Outs Of HOA Vendor Contracts

HOA vendor contracts play a crucial role in maintenance and operations. These contracts define the relationship between vendors and HOAs, determining responsibilities and setting expectations. Board members can make better decisions if they understand these contracts and what goes into them.   What are HOA Vendor Contracts? A vendor contract is a legal agreement between the HOA and a third-party service provider. These contracts outline the terms for landscaping, repairs, or maintenance. They define the work to be performed and…
Denise
May 2, 2025
HOA Vendors

How To Choose The Right HOA Vendors

Choosing the right HOA vendors is one of the most important responsibilities of any association. Whether it's landscaping, maintenance, security, or pest control, these vendors aid in the community's daily function and appearance. With so much at stake, board members must use a thorough selection process.   What are HOA Vendors? Homeowners associations are responsible for maintenance, operations, and management. While the HOA board primarily spearheads these activities, board members can't do them alone. Maintenance, for instance, requires the help…
Denise
April 28, 2025
HOA Renters

HOA And Renters Rights In Chicago: A Smooth Relationship

As with any other local area, renters rights also exist in Chicago. This law protects the rights of renters, ensuring they have a safe and habitable place to live. In HOA-managed properties, additional rules could impact tenants. Board members, homeowners, and renters alike should understand these laws and rules.   Understanding Renters Rights in Chicago Renters rights, also known as tenant rights laws, refer to the legal protections for tenants when renting out a property. These rights protect renters by…
Denise
February 14, 2025
HOA FinanceHOA Reserves

How HOA Reserve Funds Protect Your Community’s Future

HOA reserve funds are an important tool for the long-term financial stability of any association. While HOA managers can help maintain and budget the reserves, it is the primary responsibility of the HOA board to manage this fund.   What are HOA Reserve Funds? A reserve fund is essentially a savings account that an HOA sets aside for future major expenses, such as repairs and replacements. This fund is not the same as an operating fund, which is used to…
Azalea
January 22, 2025
HOA FinanceHOA Insurance

Rising HOA Insurance Costs And The Impact On HOA Fees

Rising HOA insurance prices prevent some associations from securing the coverage they need. Even worse, many homeowners are increasing dues to cover the additional costs. Board members must understand the reasons behind these increases and how to deal with them effectively.   What is the Cause of Rising HOA Insurance? For many homeowners associations, insurance is a major expense. In addition to the master policy, HOAs need to acquire various coverage types, including D&O insurance, workers' compensation insurance, liability insurance,…
Azalea
January 22, 2025
HOA FinanceHOA Maintenance

How To Reduce Maintenance Costs In HOA

Managing an HOA budget is like walking a tightrope. You must balance quality services with reasonable costs, all while keeping homeowners happy. Sound overwhelming? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Here’s how you can fine-tune your community’s expenses without sacrificing what makes it unique.
Azalea
December 10, 2024
HOA Board

Duties And Responsibilities Of HOA Board Members

You're part of a team running a mini city — your HOA. It's a big deal, right? You're not just organizing community events or deciding on paint colors. You're managing finances, enforcing rules, and keeping everyone's best interests at heart. But with great power comes great responsibility (and, yes, potential legal risks). Let's explore those responsibilities, how to handle them like a pro, and where Chicago property managers can make your life much easier.
Azalea
December 10, 2024
Technology in HOA

The Future Of Smart Home Technology In HOA Communities

Imagine this: you're coming home on a chilly Chicago evening, your favorite playlist already humming softly as the door unlocks at your arrival. The lights adjust, your thermostat dials to the perfect setting, and security systems run a final check. There is no need for manual adjustments; it's all taken care of, thanks to smart home tech. Sounds like a sci-fi movie? Not anymore—it's becoming the standard, even in HOA communities across Chicago.
Azalea
November 13, 2024
HOA CommunityHOA Management

How To Increase Community Engagement In Your HOA

Let's be real: most of us barely know our neighbors. In fact, studies show over half of Americans don’t even know the folks living next door. If you're a board member for your HOA, you might feel the challenge of trying to bring the community together in a world where door-knocking feels outdated, and people would rather scroll than stroll. 
Azalea
November 13, 2024