Choosing the right community management partner is one of the most important decisions an HOA Board can make. A lot of things factor into this decision. How is the manager’s communication? Do they offer comprehensive management services? Etc.
But there is also one key factor to consider. That is, whether your HOA manager will hold a professional certification or not. These credentials can help indicate a great manager and imply the manager meets industry standards, stays up to date on best practices, and is equipped to handle your community’s needs.
Want to know more about why HOA manager certifications are so important? Keep reading.
What are HOA Manager Certifications?
HOA manager certifications are professional designations awarded by respected industry organizations to individuals who meet specific education, experience, and ethic requirements in community association management. Often, HOA managers are required to take a course and pass an assessment to obtain the certifications.
Some of the most recognized certifications in the HOA management field include the following.
- CMCA (Certified Manager of Community Associations): Awarded by the Community Association Managers International Certification Board (CAMICB), this certification is given to managers who demonstrate the fundamental knowledge of community management practices.
- AMS (Association Management Specialist): Awarded by the Community Association Institute (CAI), this certification builds on the CMCA certification, but requires additional experience and education.
- PCAM (Professional Community Association Manager): Also awarded by CAI, the PCAM certification is the highest professional designation for community managers in the United States. A manager with the PCAM certification has extensive experience and leadership in the industry.
Why Do They Matter for Your Community?
Yes, certifications are prestigious, but they represent more than just a fancy title. Community association managers with one of the certifications listed above are better qualified to protect your community’s financial health, property values, and increase resident satisfaction.
Here are a few more reasons why credentials are so valuable.
1. They prove expertise.
To receive national certifications, managers must demonstrate a specific level of expertise in key areas, including financial management, legal compliance, maintenance planning, and conflict resolution. Therefore, your community will be guided by a professional who understands all the complexities of HOA operations and knows how to navigate them effectively.
2. They show commitment to best practices.
Certification programs require managers to stay informed on the latest laws, regulations, and industry standards, providing your manager the information they need to handle emerging issues and guide your Board with confidence.
3. They increase a manager’s communication skills.
Certified managers will be skilled in all aspects of communication, including facilitating open communication between the Board and homeowners.
4.They provide peace of mind for the Board.
Hiring a certified manager will enable your Board to focus on strategic decisions, knowing that a competent professional will manage all day-to-day tasks.
At ACRI Community Realty, we prioritize professional education and certification for our management team. If you want to work with the most credentialed team in the Pittsburgh area, contact ACRI Community Realty today!
