By Ashley Douglas
Many HOAs are burdened with aging or underused amenities—such as outdated pools, deteriorating tennis courts, or poorly maintained open spaces. While these can be seen as liabilities, they also present a valuable opportunity to reinvest in the community and enhance both home values and resident engagement. Repurposing these areas into amenities like pickleball courts, playgrounds, or community gardens can attract new buyers and encourage more active participation from current residents.
Before pursuing any enhancement project, it’s critical to first address all life safety issues and risks of structural deterioration. Ensuring that homes and common areas are safe and protected from the elements should always be the top priority.
Next, consult your HOA attorney to review your community’s governing documents and determine what options are available for modifying common areas. Legal guidance will ensure your plans align with association rules and procedures.
The Board should also identify a clear project budget and funding source. If the project requires a special assessment or loan, work closely with management and financial professionals to outline key milestones and deliverables early in the process.
With the groundwork in place, the Board can begin brainstorming ideas and priorities ahead of meeting with a qualified design professional. Consider factors like the community’s demographics, long-term vision, and the types of amenities that would most appeal to future buyers. For example, would a pickleball court pair well with an upgraded grilling area? Or would a serene garden with flowers and benches be a better fit for the neighborhood?
When selecting a design firm, look for one that offers both architectural and engineering services, as both disciplines will be essential for this type of project. While engineers focus on structural integrity, functionality, and safety, architects handle aesthetics, spatial layout, and design. Together, they form a comprehensive team to take your project from concept to completion.
Be sure to vet each firm’s experience with HOA projects and clarify team roles during the selection process. A strong design team will not only help you visualize the project through renderings and material samples but also guide resident feedback and help fine-tune the final plan.
Involving design professionals early is crucial. Most cities will require permits for amenity improvements and will need to review detailed architectural and engineering plans before approval. Your design team can streamline communication with the city, helping to anticipate and meet permitting requirements efficiently.
They’ll also help match your vision with your budget and recommend reputable contractors, ensuring you receive accurate, comparable proposals.
Ultimately, successful HOAs take a proactive approach—maintaining buildings and investing in resident experiences to preserve property values and strengthen community ties.
With 15 years of experience in complex construction project planning and 2 years in engineering business development, Ashley Douglas specializes in leading cross-company teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. Known for strong communication and customer service skills, Ashley thrives in collaborative environments focused on shared goals.
