- What expenses should every HOA budget include?
- A complete HOA budget includes: insurance premiums, landscaping and groundskeeping, utilities for common areas, regular maintenance and repairs, management or software fees, reserve fund contributions, and administrative costs (postage, printing, legal). Most boards underestimate their reserve contribution, which is typically 15–40% of the total budget.
- How do I determine the right reserve contribution amount?
- A proper reserve contribution is based on a reserve study — a professional assessment of your major components (roofs, pavement, pools, etc.), their replacement cost, and remaining useful life. As a rule of thumb, aim for at least 15–25% of your annual operating budget going into reserves. Use the Reserve Fund Calculator to check your current funding level.
- How do I calculate monthly dues per unit from the annual budget?
- Divide your total annual budget by 12 to get the monthly total, then divide by your unit count to get the per-unit monthly assessment. The budget builder does this automatically. Remember to factor in expected delinquency rates — most boards budget as if 90–95% of units will pay on time.
- Can I export this budget to present at the annual meeting?
- Yes — use the Print or Copy button to export a clean, formatted budget summary. Most boards present the budget at the annual or budget ratification meeting before the fiscal year begins. State law or your bylaws typically require that the proposed budget be distributed to homeowners 10–30 days before the meeting.
- How often should an HOA update its budget?
- Most HOAs prepare a new budget annually, typically 60–90 days before the end of the fiscal year. At minimum, review insurance premiums (which change yearly), utility rates, and contract renewals. Any planned capital projects should be reflected in the new budget and your reserve study.