May 15, 2025: By Mark Luis Foster, HOALN
Every once in a while we see an article about interesting HOA trends, and this one from a law firm in Texas (Manning and Meyers) caught our eye. They wrote an article looking at the future of HOAs with a lens on technological emerging trends. We thought we’d pass it along as a glimpse into the possibilities for HOA land in the near future. See if you agree that these options could be considered by your current (or future) board members:
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From Manning & Meyers: Technology is revolutionizing the way we live, work, and interact, and HOAs are no exception. From online payment portals and virtual meetings to smart home integration and community apps, technology is streamlining HOA management, enhancing communication, and fostering greater transparency.
Emerging Trends
- Smart Communities: Integration of smart home technology like automated lighting, security systems, and energy management tools, is enhancing efficiency, safety, and sustainability in HOA communities.
- Virtual Meetings and Voting: Online platforms are already facilitating virtual meetings and electronic voting, increasing accessibility and participation for every homeowner.
- Data-Driven Decision Making: HOAs are leveraging data analytics for insights into community trends, optimizing resource allocation, and making informed decisions.
- Artificial Intelligence: AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are automating communication, answering resident inquiries, and streamlining administrative tasks.
Sustainability | A Growing Priority for HOA Communities
As environmental awareness grows, sustainability is becoming a key focus for HOAs. From energy-efficient infrastructure and water conservation measures to waste reduction programs and electric vehicle charging stations, HOAs are embracing eco-friendly practices to reduce their environmental footprint and enhance community well-being.
Emerging Trends:
- Renewable Energy: HOAs are exploring solar panels, wind turbines, and other renewable energy sources to power common areas and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
- Green Building Practices: Sustainable building materials, green roofs, and landscaping practices are being adopted to minimize environmental impact and promote biodiversity.
- Water Conservation: Water-efficient irrigation systems, drought-tolerant landscaping, and rainwater harvesting are helping HOAs conserve water and reduce costs.
- Community Gardens and Green Spaces: HOAs are creating community gardens and green spaces to promote sustainable food production, enhance community engagement, and foster a connection with nature.
Fostering Connection and Engagement
In an increasingly digital world, HOAs are recognizing the importance of fostering a sense of community and belonging. From social events and shared amenities to volunteer programs and online forums, HOAs are creating opportunities for residents to connect, engage, and build lasting relationships.
Emerging Trends:
- Shared Workspaces: HOAs are creating co-working spaces and shared offices to cater to the growing number of remote workers and entrepreneurs within their communities.
- Multigenerational Amenities: Amenities catering to all age groups, from playgrounds and dog parks to fitness centers and community gardens, are fostering intergenerational connections and a sense of inclusivity.
- Social Events and Activities: HOAs are organizing social events, such as potlucks, movie nights, and holiday celebrations, to bring residents together and strengthen community bonds.
- Online Community Platforms: Online forums and social media groups are providing virtual spaces for residents to connect, share information, and build relationships.
Evolving Regulations and Disputes
The legal landscape for HOAs is constantly evolving, with new regulations, court decisions, and legislative changes impacting HOA governance, compliance, and dispute resolution. Staying informed about these changes and seeking expert legal counsel is crucial for HOAs to navigate this complex terrain.
Emerging Trends:
- Alternative Dispute Resolution: Mediation and arbitration are increasingly being used to resolve disputes between HOAs and homeowners, offering a less adversarial and more cost-effective alternative to litigation.
- Fair Housing Compliance: HOAs are facing increased scrutiny regarding compliance with fair housing laws, particularly concerning reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities and emotional support animals.
- Short-Term Rentals: The rise of short-term rental platforms like Airbnb is prompting HOAs to adapt their rules and regulations to address concerns about property use, safety, and community impact.
- Drone Usage: As drone technology becomes more prevalent, HOAs are grappling with issues related to privacy, safety, and regulation of drone usage within their communities.
Read the website version here.
