Statistics detailing the perceived relationship between residents and community associations

CAI recently released a report discussing findings from a national survey conducted in early 2014 by Public Opinion Strategies, and the findings reaffirm what we've learned from previous surveys in 2005, 2007, 2009, and 2012. We've highlighted the most important information for you below, but to see the full report, click here.

The 2014 survey found, among other statistics, that 90% of residents rate their overall community association experience as positive or neutral (65% positive and 26% neutral). 92% say they are on friendly terms with their association board and 83% of residents said that their community managers provide value and support to the residents and association. 70% of residents believe that their association's rules protect and enhance property values, and only 4% say that the regulations harm property values.

The report also details the best and worst aspects of living in an association. Residents agree that a clean, safe attractive neighborhood is the best aspect of living in a community association, and that paying assessments is the worst aspect. The report also discusses disagreements with associations and found that 24% of respondents have experienced a significant disagreement or issue with their association.

So what's the biggest key takeaway from the findings in the report? Community Associations work. The number of community associations in the US has increased from 10,000 to over 328,000 since 1970, and they help build a sense of community in a neighborhood. Part of the increase in popularity of community associations is a result of the benefits they provide including amenities and options, expanding affordable homeownership, maximizing efficiencies, privatizing public functions and a useful collective management structure.

To learn more about community associations and how to make sure that as an association, you're protected, click here.