As A New Board Member Should I Look Into Training?
Answer: Yes! Training for board members is one of the most impactful things a community can do.
Board Member Training
We encourage all community board members, especially someone new to a board, to look into some educational courses on Association management. There are many programs available today. The benefits to a full training program are considerable:
Better Decision-Making
Educated board members understand:
- Their fiduciary duties
- The importance of due process
- How to interpret governing documents, laws, and contracts
This leads to more thoughtful, legal, and defensible decisions that protect the association and reduce liability. The result is:
- fewer legal disputes
- smoother meetings
- smarter policies
Fewer Mistakes = Fewer Costs
Training prevents costly errors like:
- Violating fair housing laws
- Mishandling special assessments
- Hiring unlicensed or uninsured vendors
Mistakes due to ignorance often lead to lawsuits, insurance claims, or angry owners—all of which cost time and money.
Improved Communication and Transparency
Educated boards understand how and when to:
- Hold open meetings
- Provide notice for actions
- Keep owners informed without overstepping
This builds trust and credibility with homeowners, leading to less conflict and more volunteerism.
Stronger Financial Management
Board members trained in:
- Budgeting
- Reserve funding
- Assessment collection policies
are more likely to maintain the community’s long-term financial health and avoid special assessments or deferred maintenance.
A financially healthy association leads to higher property values and better mortgage approval rates.
Smoother Vendor & Legal Relationships
When boards understand:
- The limits of their authority
- How contracts and insurance work
- When to consult professionals (legal, accounting, engineering)
they’re better partners to managers and vendors, and better protect the community’s interests.
Higher Property Values and Marketability
Well-run, legally compliant associations with educated leadership:
- Avoid litigation
- Maintain facilities
- Build reserves
- Treat homeowners fairly
All of this contributes to higher resale values and greater buyer interest.
Less Conflict Within the Community
Uninformed boards may make decisions that seem arbitrary, unfair, or unclear.
Educated boards:
- Apply rules consistently
- Use clear architectural guidelines
- Respect homeowners’ rights
This reduces complaints, appeals, and hostility between the board and owners.
Are you a HOA community board member in the Chicagoland area of Illinois (Dupage, Will, Kane and Kendall counties) ? If you have any questions or are looking for a Community Association Manager, call us here at PMI Service Group - 630-912-8742 - we'd love to get acquainted.
