Learn for yourself and your Community

The Basics

Getting Started:
Your First Steps into HOA Finances

Welcome to the world of HOA finances! Whether you're a homeowner wanting to understand where your fees go or a new board member learning the ropes, this guide will give you the foundation you need.

Here, we'll break down the basics in simple terms so you can:
✔ Understand common financial terms
✔ Feel confident at HOA meetings
✔ Ask the right questions about budgets and spending

No finance degree required—just straightforward explanations to help you get started.

Let's begin with the key concepts every HOA member should know.

What's an HOA Assessment?

Breakdown of what monthly/quarterly fees cover (common area upkeep, insurance, utilities, etc.).
Why fees vary by community.

Where does your money go?

Typical expenses (landscaping, pools, trash, management fees).
Fixed vs. variable costs.

What is an HOA Budget?

How budgets are created (board vs. management input).
How to read your HOA’s budget (example line items).

What's a Reserve Fund?

Definition: Savings account for big future repairs (roofs, roads, etc.).
Why underfunded reserves lead to special assessments.

Learn More ->

What's a "Special Assessment"?

When/why they happen (emergencies, low reserves, unexpected costs).
How boards decide on them.

Can an HOA raise fees? How?

Governing docs vs. state laws on fee increases.
Typical caps or voting requirements.

What is a "Healthy HOA"?

Signs of good financial management (e.g., >70% funded reserves, audits).
Red flags (constant special assessments, no budgets shared).

How can Residents get involved?

Attending meetings, reviewing financial reports, joining committees.

Mastering HOA Finances:
A Strategic Guide for Board Leaders

Master HOA Finance

Ready to take your HOA's financial management to the next level? This section is designed for board members, treasurers, and community leaders who want to move beyond the basics and implement professional-grade financial strategies. Here, we'll explore:

✔ Advanced budgeting techniques for long-term stability
✔ Proactive reserve planning to avoid special assessments
✔ Financial transparency best practices that build community trust
✔ Vendor management strategies to maximize your budget

Whether you're preparing for major capital improvements or optimizing day-to-day operations, these insights will help you make informed, strategic decisions that protect your community's financial health for years to come.

Financial Responsibilities of an HOA Board

Fiduciary duty explained (legal obligation to act in the HOA’s best interest).
Consequences of financial mismanagement (lawsuits, personal liability).

How to Create a Solid HOA Budget

Step-by-step process (historical data, vendor bids, homeowner input).
Balancing needs vs. affordability (avoiding underfunding or overcharging).

Reserve Studies 101: Why They Matter

What a reserve study is (professional assessment of future repair costs).
How to read one and implement its recommendations.

Funding Reserves: Best Practices

What % funded is "healthy"? (70%+ is ideal, but varies by community).
Strategies to catch up if reserves are underfunded.

Handling Special Assessments & Fee Increases

Legal requirements (notice periods, voting rules).
How to communicate them to homeowners (transparency reduces backlash).

Contracts & Vendor Management

How to bid out contracts fairly (avoiding conflicts of interest).
Red flags in vendor agreements (auto-renewals, unclear pricing).

Preventing Fraud & Financial Abuse

Common scams (embezzlement, fake invoices).
Safeguards (dual signatures, transparency software).

Handling Delinquencies & Collections

Fair but firm policies (payment plans vs. liens/foreclosure).
Legal limits on penalties (state-specific rules).

Legal Compliance & State-Specific Laws

Key financial laws (e.g., Florida’s condo reserve requirements, CA’s HOA fee caps).
How to stay updated on regulatory changes.

Communicating Finances to Homeowners

How to present budgets/assessments without causing panic.
Tools: Dashboards, infographics, Q&A sessions.

HOA Audits & Financial Reviews

Difference between audits, reviews, and compilations.
When to hire a CPA vs. DIY checks.

Advanced Financial Management

Whether you're managing a single HOA or an entire portfolio, these solutions strengthen your value proposition, streamline financial operations, and ensure your communities are positioned for long-term financial success.

✔ Enhanced financial oversight tools to support your boards
✔ Strategic investment options beyond traditional CDs and savings
✔ Customized reserve fund growth strategies tailored to each HOA
✔ Expert financial consulting that complements your management services

Managers

Courses Coming Spring 2026