Deciding to hire a community management company is a big decision. You need to weigh the pros and cons to determine if this is the right step for your community association. Yet, once you are committed to using a community management company, the decision-making is not over. Now, you need to focus on choosing the right company.
Don’t worry if the choice feels overwhelming. We have created this guide to help you make the best determination possible.
To Five Tips for Choosing the Right Community Management Company
Here are five essential tips to help you select the perfect community management company for your needs:
1) Define your needs.
The best first step when looking for a community management company is to define your needs. Are you looking for basic administrative services, financial management, maintenance coordination, or a comprehensive package that includes all aspects of community management? Understanding your requirements will help narrow down the options and ensure you choose a company that aligns with your specific requirements.
2) Search for the best-rated companies in your area.
Local companies are often the best option for community associations. They will have a greater understanding of the region, have experience navigating local laws and regulations, and have existing connections with the top vendors. Plus, locally owned and operated companies are much more likely to provide personalized services.
When searching for local community management companies, seek out recommendations. You should also look at online reviews and testimonials. These can provide valuable insights into how each company treats its partner communities.
3) Review all contracts carefully.
Every community management company will have its own contract. Make sure you understand what services are included in the contract and when you may need to pay additional fees. We recommend asking multiple companies for sample contracts for you to review.
As you assess the contracts, look for transparency in the company’s billing practices and the ability to customize service packages. Avoid companies that require long-term contracts with no provisions for termination or changes in services.
4) Assess the resources of each company.
The top community management companies will have all the resources and expertise needed to manage your community. Make sure that the organization includes property managers, accountants, and maintenance personnel or has established relationships with vendors that provide these services. Additionally, the company should use technology in its community management.
As you assess the company’s overall resources, remember to inquire about the team members’ qualifications, certifications, and experience. The more experienced and credentialed, the better.
5) Schedule multiple interviews.
Once you have reviewed the other tips, it is time to select your top choices. However, before you make your final decision, we recommend scheduling interviews with a few candidates. Interviewing multiple companies allows you to better understand each one’s management style and approach and allows you to find the best fit for your community.
As you begin your search for the best community management, make sure to add ACRI Community Realty to your list. We are the Pittsburgh area’s source for stress-free property management. Contact us today to learn more.
