Steps to Take When Your HOA Changes Management Companies

by Linda Cappello, Broker, GRI, ABR 01/10/2021

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In a perfect world, every HOA would find an amazing property management company, and the union of the two organizations would last forever. Unfortunately, this world can be imperfect sometimes, and there are many reasons why the agreements between property management companies and HOAs may need to be dissolved from time to time. If your HOA is switching property management companies, you might be facing a lot of unknowns. If there's a change of property management companies looming in your not-too-distant future, here are some things you should keep in mind:

1. Print All of Your Financial Records

Maybe you've paid ahead a little, perhaps you're behind a smidge, or conceivably, you're all paid up and in good standing with a zero balance. No matter the case, you don't want any confusion to take place regarding your account. Print or save copies of your ledger balance on the last day in which it's accessible to you; it's a good idea to print copies a few days before the expected termination date, too, in case you unexpectedly lose access to your account.

2. Obtain Contact Information of the New Company Immediately

You don't need to wait until someone gives you the new company's contact information. As a homeowner, it's your right to have the contact information of the new property managers. If you've been given the name, you should easily be able to find contact information online. If you've not been given the name of your new property management firm, talk to your board of directors to clear up any confusion and ensure transparency within the community.

3. Continue Making Payments

Just because you haven't received an invoice, it doesn't mean you're not on the hook for your HOA fees. Just as you'd have to pay your car payment or cell phone bill even if you didn't receive a statement, your community expects you to make timely payments whether you're receiving a bill or not. The tricky part when new companies take over management of properties usually boils down to timing: which company is responsible for taking your money and cashing your checks at the time you send it in? If you're unsure, reach out to your board or the most recent property management company for direction. Again, be sure to keep record of all payments you make in case there's a discrepancy when management changes hands.

Don't let the fear of the unknown keep you from protecting your property. There are a lot of moving parts when HOAs switch property management companies, but once you've done your homework and have a better understanding of what the process looks like, you'll be better prepared to put your real estate investment in the best position possible.

About the Author
Author

Linda Cappello, Broker, GRI, ABR

Linda A. Cappello, Owner/Broker of Cappello Realty Shoreline Properties. Cappello Realty is a full service boutique Real Estate firm that specializes in 06855 - East Norwalk, and services all of Norwalk and Fairfield County, CT. Linda has been in the Real Estate business for 20+ years, spending 18 of them as a Owner/Broker. Being a Broker adds a lot responsibility to her job. She is responsible for overseeing every transaction and agent in the office. This is a challenge that she looks forward to and takes very seriously. She is constantly taking continuing education classes and attending seminars to keep abreast of the ever changing market as well as the industry standards, rules and regulations.  

She is a native to East Norwalk, and has an in-depth knowledge of the city that she loves, as well as the intricacies of the many unique neighborhoods and areas that Norwalk offers. Linda offers her clients a network of professionals ranging from Attorneys, Mortgage Brokers, Home Stagers and Home Inspectors to any and all pros that you may need for a successful transaction and for the convenience of her clients.  

"My job doesn't end at the closing table. It goes far beyond that, keeping in touch and staying friends who refer their family and friends. A lot of my business is referral business which is the greatest accomplishment and honor of all. Earning my clients trust."