How does a homeowners association operate?

Some people call homeowners associations (HOA) the most representative and responsive form of democracy in America today. Community residents freely elect their neighbors to serve on the Board of Directors. Numerous other owners serve on committees to help with special tasks as they arise. These volunteer leaders meet regularly to discuss pertinent details about running their community. The process is comparable to a town council meeting.

What is the role of an HOA property management company?

Property managers serve as advisors. They fulfill the decisions of the Board of Directors, who always remain in charge of the community. Property managers follow instructions from and are accountable to the Board of Directors.

How are HOA rules enforced?

Rule and regulation enforcement is important for a community's upkeep and appearance. It is consistently enforced in conjunction with the plan set by the Board of Directors.

How do I pay my HOA dues?

Several different payment methods are available to homeowners. Please visit ghertner.com/owner to log into your owner’s portal to learn about these options and to make a payment.

What do my HOA dues cover?

This varies between communities. Generally, HOA dues cover things like common area upkeep, HOA insurance and administrative costs. To see more specifics for your HOA, log in to your owner’s portal and look at the budget to see what your HOA dues go toward.

When a caller contacts Ghertner & Company, will he or she hear an automated message?

Yes, if the caller dials our general company number (615) 255-8531, they will get a short, automated message allowing them to enter an extension of the person they are calling, or they can opt to talk with a Homeowner Service Center rep. If our reps are already on calls, you may experience a hold time of 30 seconds or less. If the caller is dialing one of our Homeowner Service Center numbers (615) 277-0358 or (615) 277- 0359 shown on a statement of account or other letter, the call will go directly to the Homeowner Service Center. Outside of our normal business hours of 8:00am - 4:30pm, Monday through Friday, callers will be directed to leave a voicemail, or if it is an emergency, they can call (615) 255-4736. Our Homeowner Service Center can also be reached by emailing email@ghertner.com or submitting a request through your owner’s portal.

What are the benefits of signing up for my HOA owner’s portal?

Click here to sign up or log in.

  • Fee payment options

  • Association documents

  • Obtain and submit an architectural request

  • Enter a work order request

  • View personal account information

  • Send your association manager an email

  • HOA insurance information

  • Receive instant notices should an emergency arise - e.g., water being turned off for repairs

I'd like to start exterior projects at my home, such as installing desert landscaping, building a shed, etc. Are there any requirements/guidelines?

Any exterior modifications or additions to your home or structural changes must have prior written approval from your Architectural Review Committee. Please log in to your HOA owner’s portal for information, forms and further details. Please note that you should not schedule construction work or purchase equipment until written approval has been received.

I do not have internet access; how can I obtain a copy of the architectural change form?

Call our Homeowner Service Center at 615-277-0359 and request one to be mailed.

How long does it take for an Architectural Form to be approved after it has been submitted?

As soon as possible. The exact timing depends on the governing documents for your community, the complexity of the request, and how often the volunteer Committee or Board of Directors meets.

I have sold my home and am still receiving statements. Why?

Generally, when selling your home, it is a good idea to inform the title company that you are part of a homeowners association and give them your name and address. If you are still receiving statements, we have not received the information necessary to change your account information to the new owner.  We receive this information from the title company. Please contact email@ghertner.com if it has been over one month since you sold your home and are receiving statements.

How does Ghertner & Company manage the transition from prior management?

Our staff follows a transition program to ensure the smooth flow of records related to your association from the former management/developer to Ghertner & Company. The transition is transparent to the Board members, other owners and service providers.

How do I dispute a fine?

Please login to your owner portal and submit a question. Your Community Association Manager will forward it to the Board of Directors for review. Once the Board makes a decision, you will receive a timely response.

Does Ghertner & Company offer full and partial management services?

Yes, our programs are tailored to the requirements of individual communities.


Question not answered above? Reach out to our team by logging into your owner’s portal and we will respond as soon as possible to your request.