So You Want to Get Rich Managing Your Pool? HOA Board Compensation in Washington State
Ah, the glamorous life of an HOA board member. Longing stares from your neighbors, whispers of awe in the grocery checkout line, and... absolutely no salary. That's right, folks, in Washington state, serving on your HOA board is generally a volunteer gig.
But wait! Don't slam the brakes on your dreams of yacht-hopping just yet. There are a few twists and turns in this HOA compensation rollercoaster.
Hold on to Your Pool Floaties: Exceptions to the Volunteer Rule
While Washington likes to keep things neighborly with volunteer boards, there are a couple of scenarios where you might see some cash:
Big is Beautiful (or at Least Big Enough): If your HOA has a large number of units (we're talking hundreds or even thousands), the workload can get intense. In these cases, the bylaws might allow for some form of compensation, like a stipend or per-diem rate. But remember, even then, we're probably talking movie ticket money, not mansion money.
Calling in the Professionals: Maybe nobody in your HOA is exactly chomping at the bit to tackle the legalese of a new covenant. The bylaws might allow the board to hire a professional, like a lawyer or property manager, to fill a specific role. But don't get too excited. This is about bringing in expertise, not creating a cushy executive position.
Bylaws: The Fine Print of Fun (or Not So Fun)
QuickTip: Reading carefully once is better than rushing twice.
The real key to HOA board compensation lies in the bylaws. These are the official rules of your HOA, and they might have something to say about board member pay. Cracking open the bylaws is like reading the fortune cookie of bureaucracy, but it's important to see what your specific HOA allows.
Pro Tip: If you're itching to know about compensation, don't be shy! Reach out to your HOA's current board or property manager. They'll have the inside scoop on the bylaws and any compensation policies.
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| Can Hoa Board Members Be Paid In Washington State |
So, Can I Retire on HOA Board Income?
Tip: Read at your natural pace.
Probably not. Being an HOA board member is about serving your community, not lining your pockets. But hey, there's always the satisfaction of knowing you're keeping the neighborhood looking sharp (and maybe putting the kibosh on that rogue inflatable flamingo situation).
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Bonus Round: HOA Board Compensation FAQs
How to find out if HOA board members get paid in my community?
Check your HOA's bylaws or reach out to the board or property manager.
QuickTip: Revisit key lines for better recall.
How much do HOA board members typically get paid?
In Washington, it's usually volunteer work. If compensation is allowed, it's likely a modest stipend or per-diem rate.
Can I negotiate my pay as an HOA board member?
Probably not. Compensation is usually set by the bylaws or board policy.
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
What if I don't want to serve on the HOA board but still want to help?
Many HOAs have committees that need volunteers. You can contribute your time and skills without the full board commitment.
Is being an HOA board member a thankless job?
It can be challenging, but it's also a chance to make a positive impact on your community. Plus, you might get to wield the mighty power of the HOA architectural review board. Just use that power responsibly... unless someone's got a giant inflatable dinosaur in their front yard. Then, all bets are off.
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