Managing a residential property isn’t just about maintenance and finances—it’s about creating a thriving community where residents feel heard and engaged. One of the easiest ways to achieve that? Surveys.
Surveys allow property managers to gather feedback, make informed decisions, and build trust with residents. But what types of surveys work best for condos and HOAs? Here are five smart examples to get you started:
1. Repairs and Maintenance Survey
Why it’s important: Every building has a to-do list: elevator upgrades, landscaping improvements, or a fresh coat of paint in common areas. But which projects matter most to your residents?
What to ask:
Which of the following areas require the most attention in your building?
Do you feel that maintenance issues are addressed promptly by management?
How satisfied are you with the response time for maintenance requests?
Are you satisfied with the quality of repairs performed in your building?
How it helps: Residents feel involved in decision-making, and you can focus your budget on what matters most. It’s a win-win.
2. Amenity Usage Survey
Why it’s important: Gyms, pools, BBQ areas—amenities are great, but are they being used? Knowing what’s popular and what’s not can help you allocate resources more effectively.
What to ask:
How often do you use [specific amenity]?
What additional amenities would you like to see?
How satisfied are you with the cleanliness and accessibility of existing amenities?
Would you be interested in building-hosted activities or events that utilize the amenities (e.g., yoga classes, movie nights)?
How it helps: Unused amenities can be repurposed or upgraded, ensuring the community’s resources are being used wisely.
3. Community Satisfaction Survey
Why it’s important: This survey acts as a report card for how residents feel about their living environment, property management, and overall experience.
What to ask:
How satisfied are you with the overall management of the property?
Do you feel communication from the management team is clear and timely?
Are there any recurring issues you’d like to bring to our attention?
How it helps:This survey gives you a pulse on resident satisfaction and identifies areas for improvement before they escalate into bigger issues.
4. Budget and Fee Allocation Survey
Why it’s important: Condo and HOA fees are a significant concern for residents. Surveys can help gauge resident priorities for how fees should be allocated.
What to ask:
Which services or upgrades should receive more funding?
Are there areas where you feel costs could be reduced?
Are you aware of how your condo fees are allocated?
Do you feel the condo board provides enough information about the reserve fund and its purpose?
Would you support an increase in fees for [specific improvement]?
How it helps: Transparency around budgets fosters trust, and involving residents in these decisions makes fee increases (if necessary) easier to communicate.
5. Meeting and Voting Preferences Survey
Why it’s important: Annual meetings and elections are a cornerstone of community life, but residents may have different preferences for how they want to meet and vote. Understanding their needs can help ensure participation and satisfaction.
What to ask:
How would you prefer to meet for annual meetings: in person, hybrid, or virtually?
What voting method do you prefer: paper ballots, or electronic voting?
Do you feel current meeting formats allow you to participate effectively?
How it helps: By tailoring meeting and voting options to resident preferences, you can boost participation and create a more inclusive environment for everyone. For busy residents, electronic voting can be a game-changer. It lets them participate on their own time, from anywhere. It’s secure, convenient, and takes the stress out of staying engaged.
Pro Tip: Keep It Simple
When creating surveys, keep them short and focused. Aim for no more than 5–10 questions to ensure high response rates. And don’t forget to follow up—share the results with residents and explain how their feedback will shape decisions.
Why Surveys Matter
Surveys are more than just a feedback tool; they’re a way to show residents that their voices matter. By running targeted surveys, you can address their concerns, improve property management, and create a happier, more engaged community.
Ready to get started?
You can now create and send surveys with CondoVoter. Join the Early Access List Here and start collecting feedback today.