Urban development in recent decades has sparked the rise of a new system for neighborhood administration. Often, people think of a homeowner association bringing people together in this way but, in areas with more dense populations, a more professional standard is being required. A community association manager might work with homeowner associations, condominiums, townhouses, or planned communities to take care of the everyday business needed to keep an area running smoothly. Many of the amenities that residents enjoy are all handled by a manager.
Licensing Requirements
Professionals in this field are already under government regulation in nine states. More states have legislation being introduced. To be considered for a position in those states, a person must have a community association management license. This is often acquired by those who already have a background in real estate or business management though no professional degree is officially required.
Specialized Skills
Some community managers specialize in working with a particular style of habitation. A focus on senior living units, high-rise apartments, or suburban neighborhoods can be beneficial to those living in the area. A community manager must have a solid understanding of local regulations to ensure a building or zone meets any public statutes.
Professional Responsibilities
Much of the business dealings of a neighborhood aren’t considered by its residents, it is simply expected to be already taken care of. People who live in a condo never worry if the city will empty the dumpsters. Those in gated communities don’t consider how the security company gets paid. These things are all made easier because of the hard work of the community’s manager. A few of the major responsibilities of this role include:
- Maintaining sidewalks or arranging for new ones to be built.
- Assuring that streets and walkways will be salted or have snow removed.
- Working with municipal service providers to negotiate trash and recycling removal.
- Keeping up with city codes and insurance requirements for shared areas.
- Hire and manage landscaping professionals for common spaces.
- Maintain and budget for upkeep and repair to all community enclosures or facilities.
- Uphold a financial allowance for any unforeseen projects or needs that may arise.
Managing the various aspects of a community would be frustrating and time-consuming for a group of people already working full-time. Since many communities are relying on association managers to make sure everything gets done, the homeowners only need to relax and enjoy the area.
