Do Homeowners in Your HOA Feel Included? Here’s How to Build Real Community Engagement

A strong sense of togetherness is the heart of a successful homeowners’ association (HOA). When residents feel heard, they’re more engaged and satisfied. Not convinced? Consider this: 57% of HOA residents say they dislike living in a managed community. And only 28% feel included in financial decisions.

That may be a big gap, but it’s also a big opportunity. A thriving HOA starts with giving homeowners a voice. When communication breaks down, so does trust. But the right tools and a few simple strategies can turn those numbers around. Give homeowners more than a seat at the annual board meeting. Give them a say with these expert tips.

How to Deliver a Better HOA Experience

If residents feel excluded, it’s not just a communication issue; it’s a community issue. Here’s how to create a more inclusive HOA and transform disengagement into enthusiasm.  

1 . Keep communication clear and consistent

Whether through email, bulletin boards, or printed newsletters, proactive and reliable communication is key. Set expectations for what’s communicated, how often, and through which channels. For example, you may send board meeting agendas a week in advance, post monthly updates on community projects, and follow up on major decisions with a short summary.

2. Amplify participation with digital voting

People want to feel like their opinions matter. They also want to share those opinions at their convenience.

Digital voting software makes it easy for homeowners to shape community decisions from anywhere. Meet quorum by allowing users to cast ballots securely from the pickup line, grocery store, or couch. Bonus: Most mobile voting platforms let you build ballots, track real-time participation, and tally results automatically—giving homeowners more input with greater flexibility.

3. Welcome feedback with surveys

A simple way to encourage resident input is to ask for it! Want to know the best time for a meeting or which vendor to cater at the next big bash? Use a quick poll or survey.

Community management platforms like TownSq make getting resident feedback stress-free. With our Surveys feature, you can create quick, single-question polls in minutes. It’s a low-effort, high-impact way to show residents their opinions matter and to promote a more responsive community.

4. Leverage dynamic communication tools and channels

One size doesn’t fit all in an HOA, especially when relaying important news and events. With residents of different ages, backgrounds, and tech preferences, relying on a single method won’t cut it.

Using a diverse communication strategy and a mix of channels helps you spread information to the whole community with ease. Some key communication channels include:

• Newsletters
• Bulletin boards
• Emails
• Digital forums
• Direct messaging
• Text alerts and push notifications

In short: The more accessible and inclusive your communication, the more connected your community.

5. Bring people together with in-person events

While technology is indispensable, there’s no substitution for face-to-face interaction. Hosting casual social events like block parties, coffee dates, or seasonal celebrations creates community spirit and allows neighbors to get to know each other. People who share authentic bonds are more likely to speak transparently, collaborate, and support goals.

6. Form an HOA resident committee

Giving homeowners a direct voice in community matters is a primary method to boost their involvement. Committees do just that. Select a small group to represent community concerns at meetings and gatherings, and leave plenty of room for feedback and ideas. This helps leadership gauge homeowner sentiment and increases morale.

7. Celebrate wins and share progress

Don’t forget to highlight the good things happening in your community. Whether it’s a completed project, a successful get-together, or a flashy, new amenity, sharing wins raises momentum and positivity. Use your communication platform to post updates, thank volunteers, and foster stronger ties between neighbors.

Cultivate a Community Everyone’s Proud to Call Home with TownSq

Trust and affinity flourish when homeowners feel like an integral part of association matters. A clear communication strategy that uses a multi-pronged approach, from secure digital voting, forums, and surveys to in-person events and dedicated committees, helps residents stay informed, involved, and inspired.

You don’t need countless tools to maximize morale. TownSq is the leading HOA management software that automates your workday, from balancing the books to responding to homeowner questions. Book a custom demo to see how TownSq can enhance engagement with less effort.