How to Create Your First Property
Learn how to add properties to your HOAMS system and start managing them effectively.
Overview
Properties are the foundation of your HOAMS system. Each property represents a unit, home, or lot that you manage within a client's portfolio. This guide will walk you through creating your first property.
Prerequisites
- You must have at least one client created in the system
- You need appropriate permissions (manage_properties role)
- Have property owner information ready
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Navigate to Properties
From the main dashboard sidebar, click on Client Management → Properties.
2. Select Your Client
Use the client selector dropdown at the top of the sidebar to choose which client this property belongs to. All properties must be associated with a client (HOA, apartment complex, etc.).
3. Click "Add Property"
Click the "Add Property" button in the top right corner of the Properties page. This will open the property creation form.
4. Enter Basic Property Information
Fill in the required fields:
- Address: Full street address of the property
- Unit Number: Apartment number, lot number, or unit identifier
- Owner Name: Full name of the property owner
- Owner Email: Contact email for the owner
- Owner Phone: Primary contact number
5. Add Property Details
Complete additional property information:
- Property Type: Single family, townhouse, condo, duplex, or other
- Square Footage: Total square feet (optional)
- Bedrooms/Bathrooms: Number of bed and bath (optional)
- Year Built: Construction year (optional)
- Monthly Dues: Regular HOA or maintenance fee amount
6. Configure Rental Information (If Applicable)
If the property is a rental:
- Check the "Is Rental" checkbox
- Enter tenant name, phone, and email
- Add leasing company information if applicable
7. Add Location Details
Enter city, state, and zip code for proper categorization and reporting.
8. Set Initial Status
Choose the property status:
- Active: Current, active property
- Delinquent: Property with outstanding payments
- Suspended: Temporarily inactive
- Sold: Property no longer managed
9. Add Notes (Optional)
Use the notes field to record any special considerations, historical information, or important details about the property.
10. Save the Property
Click "Create Property" to save. You'll see a success message and the property will appear in your properties list.
What Happens Next?
After creating a property:
- The property appears in your Properties list
- You can associate tenants with the property
- Payment tracking begins based on monthly dues
- The property shows on your dashboard statistics
- You can create maintenance tickets for the property
Tips & Best Practices
- Double-check addresses: Accurate addresses are critical for communication and reporting
- Keep owner info updated: Ensure contact information is current
- Set monthly dues correctly: This affects payment tracking and financial reports
- Use consistent unit numbering: Establish a standard format for unit numbers
- Document special cases: Use the notes field for anything unusual
Common Issues
Can't create property? Verify you have manage_properties permission and a client selected.
Missing required fields? Address, unit number, and owner name are required.
Duplicate property? Check existing properties - you may have already added it.
