Welcome to your new home and community! Becoming part of a community association is an exciting step, and getting set up early ensures a smooth transition. This guide will walk you through the key things to know, both the official steps and helpful ways to get involved as a new property owner.

How to Get Set Up with Your Association

1. Review the Governing Documents

Start by reviewing the documents you received at closing, including:

  • Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)

These documents explain:

  • Community rules
  • Property maintenance requirements
  • Architectural standards
  • Owner responsibilities
  • How your association operates

If you need another copy, your seller or property owner account may have them available.

2. Ensure You're Registered

Keep an eye out for your welcome letter, which includes:

  • Your property owner account login credentials and instructions to access
  • Any additional registration steps for your community

Your property owner account is your central hub for:

  • Governing documents
  • Payment options
  • Association events
  • Contact forms
  • Compliance details
  • Account balance and payment history

If you aren’t sure how to access your profile, check out our Access My User Profile resource.

Some communities also maintain a resident directory. Your welcome letter will note if registration is required.

3. Understand Dues and Fees

Your association collects dues (also called assessments) to maintain shared spaces and fund community operations.

As a property owner, you are responsible for paying:

  • Monthly, quarterly, or annual dues (based on your community’s schedule)
  • Any association-specific fees

Because your association is managed by All-In-One, you may make payments:

  • Online
  • By mail
  • In person

See our How to Make a Payment guide for full instructions.

4. Receive Any Access Items

If your community has amenities or gated entry, you may need:

  • Pool keys
  • Amenity access fobs
  • Gate codes or remotes

If the previous owner did not provide these items:

  • Contact All-In-One to request replacements
  • Some associations require a fee for new or replacement devices

Important: For mailbox keys, contact the U.S. Postal Service directly. The HOA does not manage mailbox lock changes or key distribution.

5. Read Past Newsletters

If your association publishes newsletters, take time to read recent editions. They can help you understand:

  • Ongoing community projects
  • Rules reminders
  • Upcoming events
  • Board updates

6. Follow Rules and Regulations

To avoid violations or fines:

  • Follow architectural guidelines
  • Maintain your property
  • Be mindful of noise rules
  • Respect common areas

7. Observe and Adapt

Spend time learning the community’s culture by observing:

  • Landscaping standards
  • Seasonal decor norms
  • Parking habits
  • Holiday or event traditions

These unwritten expectations help you integrate smoothly.

Ways to Get Involved with Your Community

Walk the Community

Explore your surroundings and familiarize yourself with:

  • Amenities
  • Walking paths
  • Common areas
  • Entry points

This is a great way to get comfortable and meet neighbors.

Meet Your Neighbors

Introduce yourself! Neighbors can share:

  • Tips for living in the community
  • Unwritten rules or traditions
  • Advice about nearby vendors, services, or resources

Join Community Social Media Groups

Many associations have:

  • Private Facebook groups
  • Online forums
  • Neighborhood chat groups

These can help you stay informed and connect with residents.

Attend Meetings and Events

Association meetings and community events help you:

  • Stay informed
  • Participate in decisions
  • Meet your board
  • Build relationships

Events are also a great way to get involved socially.

Volunteer for Committees

If your association has committees (such as landscaping, architectural review, or social events), consider volunteering. This is a meaningful way to contribute and build connections.

FAQ: New Homeowner Setup & Getting Started

Do I need to register somewhere after closing?

Yes. Your welcome letter includes instructions to access your online portal and any additional community registration steps.

What if I never received my governing documents?

Ask your real estate agent or seller. If needed, you can download copies from your property owner account.

How do I know when payments are due?

Payment frequency and due dates are listed in your governing documents and often on your assessment coupons.

Who do I contact for amenity access items?

Contact All-In-One unless your welcome letter states otherwise. For mailbox keys, contact USPS.

Do tenants get access to the online portal?

Only property owners have full portal access. Tenants may receive limited access if the owner adds them as a user.

Can I attend board meetings as a new owner?

Absolutely! Most association meetings are open to members unless otherwise noted.

Where can I find community updates?

Check:

  • Your property owner portal
  • Newsletters
  • Social media groups
  • Email updates (make sure your email is up to date!)

How do I update my email, phone number, or address?

You can edit your contact information in your User Profile within the portal. You can check out our articles to help get started.