Clark Simson Miller

10/31/2026

Trick or treat! 🎃 Wishing every community a safe, spooky, and fun-filled Halloween. Porch lights on, candy bowls full, and neighbors out celebrating together. Happy Halloween from Clark Simson Miller!

10/19/2026

Foreclosure filings are climbing, and associations feel the ripple effects too. 📉

A homeowner who can’t pay their mortgage may stop paying dues as well, which can strain the whole community’s finances.

In our latest article, we share how boards can prepare:
🔹 Delinquency Policy: Clear, consistently enforced collection steps.
🔹 Closer Monitoring: Regular reports that show trends early.
🔹 Reserves & Budgeting: Conservative collection assumptions and a contingency fund.
🔹 Vacant Homes: Procedures to monitor upkeep, safety, and curb appeal.

Plan ahead and protect your community. Read the full guide here! 👇

Rising foreclosure rates are causing alarm and distress among many HOA and condo communities. How can your board prepare? Find out here!

10/05/2026

HOA managers are often the first face homeowners see when emotions run high. 🎥 That's led some to wear body cameras, but it isn't a simple fix.

In our latest article, we weigh both sides:
🔹 Why Some Do It: Documenting tough interactions and deterring aggression.
🔹 The Drawbacks: Privacy concerns, recording laws, cost, and strained relationships.
🔹 Best Practices: A written policy, training, and clear notice to residents.
🔹 Alternatives: Meeting in shared spaces and learning to de-escalate.

Safety and privacy both matter. Read the full guide here! 👇

HOA manager safety is a common concern in today's world, but is wearing a body camera the answer? Click here to read more!

09/21/2026

Did you know your HOA might qualify for grant funding? 💰 It's not common, but for the right project, it's worth exploring.

In our latest article, we break down what's out there:
🔹 Federal Options: CDBG, FEMA's Dam Safety Program, and energy efficiency grants.
🔹 State-Level Grants: Vary widely — check your local programs.
🔹 The Catch: Most require partnering with a local government or nonprofit.
🔹 The Application: A formal letter, clear budget, and defined project goals.

Extra funding might be closer than you think. Read the full guide here! 👇

What are HOA grants? Are there any federal or state grants available to HOAs and condo communities? FInd out here!

09/08/2026

Frustrated with your HOA manager but happy with the management company? 🔄 Good news — you likely don't have to fire the whole company to fix the problem.

In our latest article, we cover:
🔹 Who Decides: The board, not individual homeowners, holds this authority.
🔹 Common Reasons: Poor communication, disorganization, and weak vendor management.
🔹 The Process: Document concerns, vote, and request a reassignment.
🔹 If They Refuse: What boards can do next.

Know your options before making a change. Read the full guide here! 👇

Can an association change HOA manager without terminating the contract with the management company? Click here to find out!

09/07/2026

Communities don't run themselves. This Labor Day, Clark Simson Miller salutes the hardworking people behind the scenes who make it all possible. Enjoy the day off! 🇺🇸🛠️

08/24/2026

Not all HOA financial reports get equal attention — but the accounts receivable report deserves a closer look. 📊 It shows exactly who owes the association money, and for how long.

In our latest article, we break down why it matters:
🔹 What It Tracks: Owner dues, late fees, and third-party balances.
🔹 Aging Categories: From current to over 90 days past due.
🔹 Guides Collections: Helps the board decide when to escalate.
🔹 Risk Management: High delinquency can strain cash flow and reserves.

Understanding this report protects your community's finances. Read the full guide here! 👇

What is an HOA accounts receivable report? What does this report include? And how can the board interpret this report? Find out here!

08/10/2026

Budgeting season doesn't have to be stressful. 📊 With the right process — and the right support — boards can build a budget that actually works for their community.

In our latest article, we walk through how boards and management companies collaborate:
🔹 The Board's Role: Strategic review, reserve study integration, owner presentation.
🔹 Management's Role: Aggregating data, drafting the budget, sourcing vendor bids.
🔹 The Approval Process: Notice requirements and ratification steps.
🔹 After Approval: Ongoing monitoring and variance tracking.

A well-planned budget builds a stronger community. Read the full guide here! 👇

What is the HOA budget process? How can an HOA management company improve an association's budgeting practices? Find out here!

07/27/2026

Can an HOA donate to charity? It's a nice idea — but it's not as simple as cutting a check. 🎗️

Since association funds come from homeowner dues, boards have a fiduciary duty to make sure any donation actually benefits the community.

In our latest article, we cover:
🔹 The Ground Rules: Governing documents must allow it, and the cause should benefit the community.
🔹 Reserve Funds Are Off-Limits: These are reserved strictly for capital repairs.
🔹 When Approval Is Needed: Larger or unbudgeted donations may require a homeowner vote.
🔹 Choosing a Cause: Local, relevant, and ideally chosen with resident input.

Give back the right way. Read the full guide here! 👇

Can an HOA donate to charity? Does the board need approval? What charities or causes can an HOA support? Click here to find out!

07/13/2026

Ever wonder why some HOAs seem to have volunteers lined up while others struggle to fill a single committee seat? 🙋

It usually comes down to strategy, not luck.

In our latest article, we share what actually works:
🔹 Ask Directly: Many residents won't sign up unless personally invited.
🔹 Start Small: Short-term, project-based roles feel less intimidating than long commitments.
🔹 Match Skills: Pair each volunteer's talents with the community's real needs.
🔹 Show Appreciation: Recognition goes a long way in keeping volunteers engaged.

A stronger community starts with stronger participation. Read the full guide here! 👇

Attracting HOA volunteers isn't always an easy task. Click here to learn what strategies boards can use to get more sign-ups!