The Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMAD) is responsible for ensuring that the property management services of the neighborhood association to meet the organization’s guidelines and mission statement. He or she must have a thorough knowledge of the laws governing HOAs, as well as the specific responsibilities and duties of each member in the organization. The Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMAD) must also be aware of the best practices associated with maintaining and enhancing the neighborhood association’s reputation.
There are many programs offered by community associations today which help to educate its members in the area of property management. Many of these classes are designed to give you hands-on experience with real estate management, and will help you obtain your license and become a Certified Manager of Community Associations (CMAD). These classes may include topics such as home improvement, building codes, environmental awareness, budgeting and accounting and even real estate business planning.
Most community associations require their community managers to complete a minimum of two years of experience in the area of community management. Although this is not a requirement by any means, it is often beneficial to an applicant for membership in the association in question as well as the local city or town.
When choosing a CMAD to work with, it is best to ask questions pertaining to the community associations that they have been employed with. For example, ask to see references, and speak with former residents of the community. This will allow you to gain a first hand insight into the organization and its leadership. If possible, also speak with those individuals who have worked with this person before as to their professional experience with them.
You should also inquire about previous jobs that the individual has had within local community associations and in the city or town that you reside in. Some examples of jobs include serving as a leasing administrator, financial manager or accountant, or even an appraiser. Some people have also worked in government positions, such as a public relations specialist or a social worker. These are just some examples of different experiences that an individual could have.
In addition to being well qualified and experienced, the Certified Manager of Community Associations must also have the necessary training to properly assess the current state of the community in question. A person who is qualified to work in a community may be able to handle many facets of the community that is in need of attention, including the following areas: finances, housing, purchasing and selling real estate, planning community improvements, and/or even marketing the community. It is also vital to consider if a person possesses the interpersonal skills necessary in order to work with various types of people in the community.
There are many opportunities to get started in the field of community management today. If you are interested, please contact your local County Clerk and/or County Recorder for more information.
If you choose to apply to a community association, be prepared for an interview. Your success will be directly related to how well you prepare for the interview. The interview will consist of several parts; you will be asked questions pertaining to the areas of your education and work history. Other areas that are often asked about our past projects that you completed, your background in the area, and perhaps even some references.
If you feel that the Certified Manager of Community Associations that you are interviewing seems to lack in some of these areas, you can always ask questions. Be sure to speak up to show that you are capable of doing the job. Even if you do not get the position that you are seeking right away, you will be happy that you did.
Community associations are a great place to be if you want to enjoy your community and make a positive contribution to it. Being part of this community and having a direct impact on its future is one of the greatest joys in life. With the right knowledge and the right training, you can certainly accomplish that and much more.