What Is an HOA Manager vs. a Property Manager

You may think there’s not much difference between an HOA manager vs. a property manager. While the roles are similar in some aspects, there are several differences between these two jobs. Today, we’ll review some of the tasks and responsibilities of each job role, the fees each manager charges, and common professional certifications and designations associated with each role.

Key Takeaways

• HOA managers primarily support homeowners associations and their boards, while property managers oversee individual rental properties on behalf of property owners.
• HOA management often involves community finances, board meetings, common area maintenance, rule administration, and communication with homeowners.
• Property management typically involves rental marketing, applicant screening, rent collection, lease administration, maintenance coordination, and tenant communication.
• HOA and property management fees vary based on factors like location, property or community size, and the scope of services provided.
• Professional certifications and designations can demonstrate industry knowledge and experience, although requirements vary by role and jurisdiction.

Contents of This Article: 

What Is an HOA Manager vs. a Property Manager?

Despite what some may assume, a homeowners association (HOA) manager and a property manager have different roles and responsibilities. While they both manage properties and handle administrative tasks, there are a few key differences in their daily roles. 

For instance, an HOA manager primarily works with homeowners associations. HOAs are organizations that govern certain residential communities according to their governing documents and applicable laws. So, HOA boards may adopt and enforce community rules, oversee common areas, collect assessments, and manage other association responsibilities.

On the other hand, a property manager is in charge of the overall management of individual properties on behalf of property owners. This may include residential, commercial, or rental properties. Philadelphia property managers handle tasks like marketing properties, screening tenants, collecting rent, managing maintenance, handling repairs, and addressing tenant concerns. Essentially, they’re responsible for the day-to-day operations of a property. 

HOA Management Company Tasks

An HOA management company oversees and handles various tasks related to managing an HOA community. While the specific tasks may vary depending on the needs and agreements within the HOA, they generally include the following. 

• Collecting and managing HOA fees or dues
• Budgeting and financial planning for the HOA
• Handling financial records and statements
• Organizing and facilitating board meetings
• Keeping records of meetings and important HOA documents
• Assisting the board with administering and enforcing community rules and regulations
• Addressing violations and coordinating appropriate actions
• Coordinating regular maintenance of common areas
• Overseeing repairs and improvements to facilities or common areas
• Working with vendors or contractors for necessary services
• Helping the association follow applicable laws, regulations, and governing documents
• Coordinating legal matters with the HOA’s legal counsel when necessary
• Facilitating communication between board members and homeowners
• Managing a communication channel for the community
• Organizing community events or initiatives
• Planning and managing reserve funds for future repairs or improvements
• Maintaining accurate records of HOA information and documents
• Assisting in resolving disputes or conflicts within the HOA
• Mediating between homeowners or between homeowners and the board

Property Management Company Tasks

Property management companies have their own set of tasks and responsibilities. While some of them are similar to those of HOA managers, property managers generally handle tasks on behalf of property owners. Additionally, the specific tasks may vary depending on the type of property and the property owner’s expectations. However, most property management company tasks include the following. 

• Advertising and marketing rental properties
• Screening rental applicants using consistent screening criteria, including credit, rental history, income verification, references, and other permitted background information
• Drafting and managing lease agreements
• Handling lease renewals, terminations, and rent adjustments
• Collecting rent from tenants and enforcing late rent policies
• Coordinating regular property maintenance
• Addressing repairs and helping maintain compliance with applicable health and safety requirements
• Handling emergency situations like property damage or urgent repairs
• Serving as a point of contact for tenants and property owners
• Addressing property owner or tenant inquiries and concerns
• Conducting regular property inspections
• Identifying and addressing issues related to the property condition
• Helping property owners comply with applicable housing laws and regulations
• Coordinating eviction-related processes when necessary and permitted by applicable law
• Hiring and supervising vendors or contractors for property services
• Maintaining accurate records of property-related transactions
• Keeping property owners informed about the status of their property
• Providing reports on property performance
• Conducting market analysis to determine competitive rental rates
• Facilitating positive relationships between property owners and tenants
• Handling disputes or conflicts when they arise 

HOA Manager vs. Property Manager Fees

Another difference between an HOA manager vs. a property manager is the fees they charge. While their jobs have some similarities, the way that they charge for their services also differs. For instance, many property managers or management companies charge either a percentage of the monthly rent or a flat monthly rate. 

Property management pricing varies by market, property type, portfolio size, and the services included. Some residential property managers charge a percentage of monthly rent, while others use flat monthly fees or other pricing structures. Additional charges may apply for services such as leasing or lease renewals.

HOA management fees also vary based on factors such as community size, location, amenities, and the scope of services included in the management agreement. Associations should review proposals carefully to understand both the base management fee and any additional charges.

Common HOA and Property Management Certifications

Requirements for HOA and property managers vary depending on the state, the services they perform, and the type of properties they manage. While professional certifications are not always legally required, many managers pursue industry credentials to demonstrate their knowledge and experience. Depending on the jurisdiction, certain property management activities may also require a real estate or other professional license. Here are some common credentials associated with each field.

HOA Manager Certifications and Designations

• Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMCA®)
• Association Management Specialist (AMS®)
• Professional Community Association Manager (PCAM®)

Property Management Certifications and Designations

• Certified Property Manager (CPM®)
• Accredited Residential Manager (ARM®)
• Residential Management Professional (RMP®)
• Master Property Manager (MPM®)
• Certified Apartment Manager (CAM)

FAQ About HOA Managers vs. Property Managers

Is an HOA Manager the Same as a Property Manager?

No. Although their responsibilities can overlap, HOA managers and property managers generally serve different clients. An HOA manager typically works with an association and its board to help manage the community, while a property manager works on behalf of a property owner to oversee the day-to-day operations of a rental property.

What Does an HOA Manager Do?

An HOA manager may assist with collecting assessments, maintaining financial records, coordinating common area maintenance, organizing board meetings, communicating with homeowners, administering community rules, and working with vendors. The manager’s specific responsibilities depend on the management agreement, governing documents, and applicable laws.

What Does a Property Manager Do?

A property manager may handle rental marketing, applicant screening, lease administration, rent collection, property inspections, maintenance coordination, tenant communication, and other day-to-day rental operations. The exact services provided depend on the management agreement and applicable laws.

Can a Property Manager Manage an HOA?

Property management and HOA management require different knowledge and responsibilities. Some management companies offer both services, but experience managing rental properties does not necessarily mean a manager provides HOA management services. Associations should look for a company with relevant community association management experience and any credentials or licenses required for the services being performed.

Who Hires an HOA Manager?

An HOA’s board of directors typically selects and contracts with an HOA management company on behalf of the association. The management company then works with the board to carry out responsibilities outlined in the management agreement.

How Do You Choose Between an HOA Manager and a Property Manager?

It depends on what needs to be managed. An HOA or community association generally needs an HOA management company to assist the board and oversee association operations. Individual rental property owners typically hire property managers to help manage their rental properties and tenant-related responsibilities.

Find the Manager You Need With BMG

Whether you’re a real estate investor or looking to get into property management, it’s important to know the differences between an HOA manager vs. a property manager. While the two positions have some similarities, the roles of each type of manager are important in their own ways. 

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