Communication can make or break your homeowners’ association. Budgets, maintenance, updates and rule enforcement: every piece of what the board does depends on how well it’s communicated. Yet, most HOAs are stuck in an outdated loop of printed newsletters, long email threads and complicated meeting minutes.
Here’s the hard truth: the average homeowner today scrolls faster than they read. They’re busy and overloaded with information. And if your updates are tucked into long blocks of text, there’s a good chance they’ll miss what matters.
That’s where video comes in. We’re not talking about hiring a production crew or scripting a 15-minute explainer. Just simple, high-value videos that build trust, humanize your board and help residents feel more connected to the community they call home.
Let’s explore 5 ways your HOA can use video as a game-changer.
1. Board Member Introductions: Break the Ice (Connection = Engagement)
One of the most common complaints in any community?
“We don’t know who’s on the board or what they do.”
Fix that with short video intros. Each board member can film a quick 30-second clip sharing their name, position and why they serve the community. That small moment of connection goes a long way in breaking down the “us vs. them” feeling many HOAs unintentionally create. Prompt each member to include an interesting personal detail to add a relatable twist that generates a meaningful connection.
HOA Marketing Action Step:
Use a smartphone. Record vertically or horizontally, whichever feels natural. Upload to YouTube (unlisted if needed) and embed on your website’s board page. Yes, it can be that easy.
2. Monthly Update Recaps: More Digestible Than Complicated Minutes
No one enjoys reading through seven pages of meeting minutes these days. But a quick 2-minute video recap that hits the highlights? That’s something people will happily spend their time on.
Use a format like:
Keep it informal. It doesn’t need fancy editing. Residents just want to feel in the loop.
HOA Marketing Action Step:
Pick one board member each month to record the recap. Film after the meeting while the updates are still fresh. Upload and share via email and your website.
3. Project Walkthroughs: Show, Don’t Just Tell
Planning a pool renovation? Fixing drainage? Updating the clubhouse? Walkthrough videos are an incredibly effective way to build transparency. Instead of writing a five-paragraph explanation about a project’s timeline or cost, show the area on video and talk through the plan. It turns abstract updates into something visual, which helps build trust, especially when dealing with spending or board decisions.
HOA Marketing Action Step:
Use your phone to film a walkthrough of the current space. Narrate your plan casually. Upload to YouTube and link in your next update. Not only does this provide value, it saves you from answering the same question countless times.
4. Policy Explainers: Help Residents Understand the “Why”
Let’s say you’re enforcing new guest parking rules or limiting short-term rentals. Residents are more likely to push back when they don’t understand the reasoning behind a rule change. But if you explain the “why” clearly on video, people listen.
A short policy video creates clarity and shows residents that you’re not just creating rules behind closed doors. It also helps reduce repetitive questions and confusion.
Example Approach:
“Hey neighbors! We wanted to take 2 minutes to walk through our upcoming parking policy. This change comes from feedback about limited spaces and safety concerns during events. Here’s what to expect starting in June…”
HOA Marketing Action Step:
Keep it under 3 minutes. Focus on one key issue. Be direct, but empathetic. Link to the written policy for full details.
Video isn’t just for policy and updates. It’s also one of the best ways to create a stronger sense of community. By sharing footage of events, you’re likely to boost participation and strengthen the bond between residents.
Consider filming clips from:
-
Annual HOA events or BBQs
-
Holiday decoration contests
-
Garden clubs, clean-up days or neighborhood garage sales
Even a 15-second clip of kids at the playground or neighbors planting flowers can give your website or email newsletter some personality. It reminds residents they’re not just part of a board-governed property — they’re part of a community.
HOA Marketing Action Step:
Create a shared Dropbox or Google Drive link where residents can submit their own short videos or photos. Feature one per newsletter or post a monthly “community reel.”
Where to Host Your Videos (And Keep It Simple)
The easiest way to host videos is to upload them to YouTube or Vimeo. You don’t need to make them public. An unlisted link still allows you to embed them on your website or share in email updates. If you want something more private, you can also host videos directly in a member portal on your HOA website.
Just make sure:
Video Isn’t Flashy In 2025. It’s Functional.
If you’re still thinking, “This feels like overkill for a small HOA,” remember this: good communication isn’t about volume. It’s about clarity and consistency.
Video lets your board speak directly to the community, reduce misunderstandings and build trust faster than any email or bulletin board post ever could. And when residents feel informed, they also feel valued. That’s how you create a better, more connected community.
Slamdot Helps HOAs Communicate Like Pros
At Slamdot, our mission is to leverage 20+ years of marketing strategies for HOAs who want to stand out. From mobile-friendly websites to resident portals, email automation and content strategy, we help boards show up with professionalism and ease.
In doing so, residents stay engaged while saving your team a ton of time. If you want to simplify your updates, make video work for your HOA and turn your website into a true resident hub, we’re here to help.
Reach out today for a free proposal and let’s talk through your goals.
