How to Plan and Execute Successful Community Improvement Projects

by | Aug 19, 2025 | Community Association Management, HOA

Want to boost property values, modernize amenities, and make your neighborhood a place residents are proud to call home? 

Community improvement projects are among the most effective ways to achieve these goals. 

However, even the best ideas can fall flat without a clear plan and professional oversight. From minor upgrades to major renovations, every project deserves careful planning and execution. Below, you will learn about the most common community improvement projects and find tips for completing them.

Common Community Improvement Projects 

Every community is unique. However, certain improvement projects are common across community types, sizes, and budgets. These projects often deliver the most consistent benefits to both homeowners and property values. 

Some of the most common community improvement projects include the following. 

  • Amenity upgrades, such as resurfacing tennis or basketball courts, updating playground equipment, or renovating clubhouse interiors. 
  • Landscaping enhancements, including planting new trees, installing irrigation systems, or refreshing entrance signage and flower beds. 
  • Safety improvements, such as adding better lighting, security cameras, or crosswalks. 
  • Infrastructure repairs, such as repaving roads, replacing sidewalks, or repairing roofs on community buildings. 
  • New community features, including adding walking trails, picnic areas, dog parks, or community gardens. 

Tips for Planning and Executing Successful Community Improvement Projects

Regardless of the project’s size, careful planning and professional management are crucial to its success. 

Here are our top tips for taking your community improvement project from idea to completion. 

1. Identify needs and prioritize. 
Before beginning any community improvement project, you should gather input from your homeowners or residents. These discussions can help you understand what improvements are most valued by your community. Prioritize projects based on their safety concerns, legal requirements in your area, resident interest, and long-term value to the community. 

2. Set a realistic budget.
Your improvement project will not add value to your community if you go over budget. Work closely with your management team to review your reserve funds and create a detailed, yet realistic budget. Include materials, labor, permits, and contingency funds to cover unexpected costs. Ensure transparency regarding the budget and any fee increases with your residents.  

3. Develop a project plan.
To ensure success, develop a project plan with your management team. Outline the project’s scope, timeline, milestones, and responsibilities. A clear plan ensures Board members, management, and vendors stay aligned throughout the process. 

4. Hire reliable vendors. 
Most communities will be relying on vendors to complete their improvement projects. You will need to partner with experienced, licensed, and insured contractors. Request multiple bids, check references, and rely on your management team to provide recommendations. 

5. Keep residents informed.
Regular communication is key to maintaining homeowner support of your project. Utilize multiple communication methods to keep residents informed about timelines, potential disruptions, and project progress. 

Most importantly, partner with an experienced, professional community association management company, such as D.H. Bader Management. We specialize in helping boards plan, manage, and execute community improvement projects. Contact us today to learn how we can help bring your next project to life.