Homeowners' Associations play a pivotal role in shaping the communities they oversee. At the heart of every HOA is its board of directors, a group of individuals entrusted with the responsibility of making decisions that affect the entire community. However, being an HOA board member is not merely a title; it comes with a set of duties, responsibilities, and ethical considerations that require careful attention and dedication. In this article, we dive into the intricate world of HOA governance, exploring the roles and obligations of board members, the decision-making processes they employ, an ..read more

Is your homeowners’ association facing challenges that seem insurmountable? If you’re managing a small HOA with limited financial resources, there's a solution. Every board of directors encounters similar obstacles and responsibilities, and seeking expert guidance can be the key to navigating them effectively. While larger HOAs might be able to afford a full-time HOA Manager, smaller ones can still benefit from consulting services to steer them in the right direction ..read more

In a significant stride towards fostering community development and empowering HOA boards, Hignell HOA Management proudly announces its partnership with ECHO (Educational Community for Homeowners). This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in enhancing HOA management practices, aimed at providing invaluable resources and support to HOA boards and members across Northern California ..read more

Homeowners Associations play a significant role in many communities, providing services and amenities that contribute to the overall well-being and maintenance of the neighborhood. However, when tax season rolls around, homeowners often wonder if they can claim their HOA fees as deductions on their taxes. While it's crucial you consult a tax professional, in this article, we'll explore HOA fees and generally whether or not they can be claimed on your taxes ..read more

While understanding tax deadlines and requirements is crucial for any HOA board, navigating through these can be complex and overwhelming. The intricacies of tax filings often require professional guidance to ensure compliance and avoid penalties. In California, HOAs are subject to various tax reporting and filing deadlines, each with its own set of requirements and implications. While it's imperative for HOA boards to collaborate with accounting professionals who specialize in HOA tax matters, Davis-Stirling offers some key deadlines and considerations for HOA tax returns ..read more

The New Year is upon us! As an HOA board, this may be a good time to consider making resolutions that will help to make it a great year for your homeowners association. These commitments don't have to be profound and they are generally things you should be doing anyway, but it's always good to go back and review things while keeping an eye out for what might be coming your way.  ..read more

As the stewards of your community, HOA board members shoulder significant responsibilities. You're entrusted with making crucial decisions that affect the lives of homeowners and the overall well-being of your neighborhood. One of the most critical aspects of your role is staying informed about the ever-evolving landscape of homeowners association laws and regulations. In this blog, we'll explore the importance of staying updated on new HOA laws, provide valuable resources to help you do so, and explain how hiring an HOA management company can be a game-changer ..read more

HOA board members play a pivotal role in maintaining the harmony and functionality of their communities. Yet, many board members find themselves thrust into their roles without adequate preparation or training. This lack of education can lead to misunderstandings, mismanagement, and even conflicts within the community. To address these challenges and ensure the smooth operation of your HOA, it's crucial to prioritize board member education and training ..read more

A common misconception in community management is the belief that one-size-fits-all HOAs. When HOA boards attempt to adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, they risk overlooking critical aspects of their community's management. For instance, implementing a strict set of rules without considering the cultural and social dynamics of the community can lead to unrest and dissatisfaction among residents. On the other hand, being too lax in governance can result in financial mismanagement and maintenance neglect ..read more

Misconceptions often plague homeowners' associations, causing friction and discord among community members. The erroneous belief that all residents automatically read, follow, and never ignore the rules can lead to challenges in ensuring homeowner compliance. These misunderstandings can disrupt the harmony and functionality of an HOA. However, there is a powerful tool that can address these issues head-on: HOA consulting ..read more