The Difference Between an HOA and a Management Company

New to an HOA community? You might hear “HOA” and “management company” tossed around like they’re the same thing. They’re not. At Integrator Community Management, we get this mix up a lot. Homeowners sometimes think we’re the ones making rules or calling shots. Truth is, we’re a third party working for your HOA board. Here’s a clear breakdown to help you understand who does what.

1. The HOA Is You and Your Neighbors

The HOA is the group of homeowners in your community. You elect a board of directors to run it. They set rules, make big decisions, and keep the neighborhood on track. It’s your voice, not ours. We don’t own the HOA, we just help it function.

2. We’re the Management Company

Integrator Community Management is a hired team. The board tells us what to do, and we do it. Think of us as assistants. We handle day to day tasks, answer calls, and keep things moving. But we don’t decide the rules or budget because that is the board’s job. Our goal is to guide the board of directors to make the best decision possible for the community.

3. Rules Come from the Board

Ever get a notice about a rule? That’s not us flexing power. The board sets the CC&Rs and policies, then asks us to enforce them by contract. We’re following their lead as they are the elected representatives of the HOA. If you’re unsure why a rule exists, or if you are unhappy with the rules, come join the board at their meeting. You can also check your portal for the most up-to-date rules and regulations.

4. Fees Go to the HOA

Your HOA fees don’t come straight to us. The board collects them and decides how to spend them based on the HOA's budget which could be landscaping, insurance, or reserves. They pay us a fee to manage things, but that’s a small piece of the pie. Wondering where the rest goes? Your budget report has the answers. Or check our other blog: Understanding Your HOA Fees: Where Does the Money Go?

5. We’re Here to Help, Not Run the Show

Our job is support the board of directors in their role and help them to make the best decisions for the association, not control the community. We fix issues, send updates, and keep records so the board can focus on big plans. The HOA runs the community and we make it easier. If the board wants a new project, we jump in to help. Got ideas for them? Come to the next board meeting!

Final Thoughts

The HOA and Integrator Community Management aren’t the same. Your HOA is the community and its elected board, setting the course. We’re the third party team acting under their direction, handling the details. Knowing this helps you know who to contact! Integrator Community Management for questions, and the board for decisions. Check your portal for board contacts, or reach out to us with any mix ups. What’s on your mind about this? Let us know!

Want more HOA tips? Look for our next post about how to make short term rentals work in your HOA.