HOA Election Management
Hoa Elections
Preparing Your HOA for the Shift to Electronic ...

Is your HOA ready for the future of elections? Starting January 1, 2025, California HOAs can adopt electronic voting for secret ballot elections. In this blog, we outline the key steps your HOA needs to take, from updating election rules to organizing records, ensuring a smooth transition to digital voting. Learn how to prepare your association, address homeowner concerns, and stay compliant with new legal requirements. Embrace the convenience of electronic voting while maintaining transparency and efficiency in your HOA's election process.

Preparing Your HOA for the Shift to Electronic Voting

quorum requirements

HOA Elections 101: Your Guide to Voting, Quorum, and Board Member Selection

As your HOA Election Inspector, we’re here to bring some clarity to the process—from casting your vote to understanding quorum requirements and selecting board candidates. Our mission? Let’s simplify things so we can all participate with confidence (and maybe a little less paperwork).

How Do We Cast Our Votes?

Voting in your HOA election is your chance to shape the way the community is run. While it may seem complex, the process is usually straightforward. Here’s what to expect:

  • Paper Ballots: These will likely arrive in your mailbox with instructions. Just follow the guidelines, mark your choices clearly, and submit the ballot by the deadline. And remember, the post office may deliver your ballot with style, but they won’t fill it out for you!

  • Electronic Voting: If your HOA has embraced the digital age, you’ll get a secure link to cast your vote online. This method is convenient, and quick, and gets you back to your day without needing to find a stamp. Just be sure it’s an option in your community.

Regardless of how you choose to vote, double-check those selections! Missing signatures on paper ballots can turn our smooth process into a game of "find the signature."

Who’s Eligible to Vote in HOA Elections?

Typically, eligibility to vote depends on property ownership. Let’s break it down:

  • Homeowners: If your name is on the deed, you’re good to go!

  • Tenants: Unless they’re also listed as owners, tenants don’t usually get a vote. (They may have opinions on the landscaping, though.)

  • New Owners: Recently bought a home? If you’re on the deed and took ownership before the record date, welcome you’re eligible too!

What Is a Quorum, and What Happens If We Don’t Reach It?

A quorum is the minimum number of votes or voters required for an election to be valid. For example, if your HOA has 100 homes and the quorum is set at 50%, at least 50 homeowners need to vote for the election to move forward.

If we don’t hit that quorum? Well, the election may be rescheduled. No one wants to be stuck in an endless voting loop, so let’s all chip in and make sure we hit the mark the first time around!

How Are Board Candidates Selected, and What Do They Do?

Here’s where it gets exciting—the board candidates!

  • Nominations: Homeowners can nominate themselves or be nominated by a neighbor. As long as they meet the HOA’s eligibility requirements, they’re in the running.

  • Responsibilities: Board members make key decisions about budgets, maintenance, and community policies. These are crucial roles, so it’s worth getting to know the candidates. Many HOAs provide candidate bios or hold forums, giving us the chance to make informed decisions!

How Are Votes Verified?

Here’s how we ensure a fair election:

  • Verification: Each ballot is inspected to ensure it meets the guidelines. Any ballots missing essential information (like those pesky signatures) are set aside and not counted.

In Conclusion

HOA elections might not come with the fanfare of national elections, but they’re just as important for shaping the future of your community. We hope this guide makes the process clearer, so you can confidently cast your vote and help steer our neighborhood in the right direction.

Remember, we’re here to ensure everything runs smoothly and fairly. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Happy Voting! (Yes, there’s joy in paperwork—when it’s done right.)