Month: January 2026

AAM is a Great Place to Work

Posted on by Crystal Chandler

Associated Asset Management (AAM), a nationally recognized provider of community association management and accounting services, is once again a Certified™ Great Place To Work® organization. This marks the second consecutive year AAM has earned the achievement, which is based solely on direct feedback from employees about their workplace experience.

In this year’s survey, 85% of AAM employees reported that the company is a great place to work.

Great Place To Work® is the global authority on workplace culture and employee experience, recognizing organizations that demonstrate leadership behaviors proven to drive strong business results, employee retention, and innovation.

“Great Place To Work Certification is a highly coveted achievement that requires consistent and intentional dedication to the overall employee experience,” says Sarah Lewis-Kulin, the Vice President of Global Recognition at Great Place To Work. She emphasizes that Certification is the sole official recognition earned by the real-time feedback of employees regarding their company culture. “By successfully earning this recognition, it is evident that AAM stands out as one of the top companies to work for, providing a great workplace environment for its employees.”

“Being Certified as a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row is incredibly rewarding,” said Amanda Shaw, President of AAM. “Our employees are at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition reflects the culture we have built together. I am grateful for the passion, professionalism, and dedication our team brings to AAM every day.”

AAM’s commitment to its employees is reflected in its focus on wellness, growth, and opportunity. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package and wellness initiatives designed to support healthy lifestyles while helping employees reduce monthly health insurance costs. AAM also prioritizes professional development by investing in internal training, external education, and industry certifications, while encouraging career advancement through internal promotion opportunities.

According to Great Place to Work research, job seekers are 4.5 times more likely to find an outstanding boss at a certified Great Place to Work. Additionally, employees at Certified organizations are 93% more likely to look forward to coming to work and are twice as likely to feel they are paid fairly, receive a fair share of the company’s profits, and have equal opportunities for promotion.

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Tips for Living in a Homeowners Association

Posted on by Crystal Chandler

Whether you’re new to a homeowners association (HOA) or a longtime resident, living in a homeowners’ association offers unique opportunities and responsibilities. From understanding your governing documents to connecting with neighbors, these ten tips will help you make the most of HOA living and enjoy the full benefits of your community.

An image depicting a vibrant community with well-maintained common areas, showcasing community amenities like a playground and a swimming pool, where residents might gather and attend meetings to discuss property values and governing documents. The scene reflects the importance of shared spaces in enhancing the quality of life within the community.

1. Read Your Governing Documents

When you purchased your home, you received governing documents such as the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) and the Architectural/Landscape Guidelines. These guidelines provide a clear understanding of community standards and homeowner responsibilities, helping you enjoy your home and neighborhood.

2. Get to Know Your HOA Management Company

Most associations partner with a professional HOA management company to support the Board and serve homeowners. Take time to familiarize yourself with your management team and the resources they provide. Many communities now offer digital tools—such as homeowner portals or mobile apps like AAM All Access—to provide 24/7 access to account details, documents, and updates.

3. Connect with Neighbors and Get Involved

One of the greatest benefits of HOA living is the sense of community. Attend neighborhood events, volunteer on a committee, or participate in a block watch program that promotes safety and connection. Building relationships not only creates lasting friendships but also strengthens the fabric of your community.

4. Attend Board and Annual Meetings

Community meetings are where important decisions are made. Attending Board or annual meetings allows you to stay informed, share your ideas, and raise concerns. It’s also a chance to understand better how decisions impact your neighborhood—and, if you’re interested, to run for a Board position yourself. Tools like BoardVue make it easier than ever for Board members to collaborate and for homeowners to stay engaged.

5. Respect Your Neighbors and Shared Spaces

A successful community thrives on courtesy. Be mindful of parking rules, pet noise, and the neighborhood’s quiet hours in general. Simple actions—such as keeping common areas tidy and respecting your neighbors’ property—go a long way toward creating a welcoming and harmonious environment.

6. Submit Architectural Changes for Approval

Thinking of adding a patio, painting your home, or updating landscaping? Submit your plans to the homeowners’ association architectural committee before beginning work. This ensures updates align with guidelines and avoid costly changes later. By following the process, you’ll keep your project stress-free while supporting the community’s overall look and feel.

7. Maintain Curb Appeal

From neatly storing trash receptacles to caring for lawns and landscaping, small actions make a big difference. HOAs often conduct routine inspections to help preserve property values and ensure the association looks its best. By staying on top of maintenance, you’ll not only avoid compliance issues—you’ll contribute to neighborhood pride.

8. Enjoy Community Amenities Safely

If you’re living in a homeowners association that offers amenities such as pools, playgrounds, or fitness centers, use them responsibly. Keep an eye on children around water features or play areas and follow posted guidelines. When everyone uses the community’s common areas with care, they remain safe, enjoyable, and well-maintained for years to come.

9. Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Pets are part of the family, and responsible ownership keeps your community associations clean and comfortable. Always clean up after your dog, especially in shared areas, and follow leash or noise policies. These small steps show respect for your neighbors and keep common spaces pleasant for all residents.

10. Take Pride and Stay Engaged

Your HOA management company and Board are here to help, but every homeowner plays a role in protecting the community. Stay alert, report maintenance issues promptly, and use tools like AAM All Access to communicate with your management team. When everyone participates, your neighborhood becomes more than a place to live; it becomes a community to be proud of.

 

A successful HOA strikes a balance between structure, communication, and community spirit. With the right knowledge—and tools like AAM All Access to keep you connected—you’ll enjoy the full benefits of HOA living while helping your neighborhood flourish. And don’t forget to attend meetings. 😉