For many associations, the Board of Directors' most significant issue is dealing with demanding homeowners. Even the most even-tempered folks have "hot buttons." Dealing with the emotions entwined in ownership of one's home can push those buttons and create problems in an association.

Like any relationship, one built on trust is an important one between an association's board members and its community association management company. It's the primary reason this relationship exists in the first place. A board of directors calls on a management company to help execute the responsibilities it has to its residents. Therefore the way a management company pays its bills can significantly impact the level of trust and overall quality of the relationship—for better or worse.