“Timbers Resorts gives you the gift of time through effortless experiences at world-class resorts…From the luxurious comforts of our properties, we attend to every detail so you can focus on what’s really important: spending time with those you love.”
When David Burden founded Timbers 25 years ago, his vision of crafting one exceptional resort in Snowmass, Colorado quickly evolved into a leader in the development and operations of luxury resort hotels, vacation residences, and private residence clubs thanks to his dedication to these ideals – effortless experiences with the people you cherish most. This meaningful vision underscores every task we undertake as a Timbers team, but it is especially applicable to my department. I’m Jillian Tice, Director of Operations for HOA at Timbers. With over 20 years of hospitality experience, I lead the HOA operations team in our endeavor to deliver the most effortless and luxurious Ownership experience in the industry. With steady coordination between property teams and the central support team here in our home office of Winter Park, Florida, no stone is left unturned in the mission to make Timbers’ vision a reality for our Owners.
What traits define a successful HOA?
Every Homeowners Association has three core responsibilities: property upkeep, financial management, and administrative support; but the difference between an average HOA and a truly exceptional one is in how efficiently these core functions are managed and how far they extend their level of detail. At Timbers, we go beyond basic HOA management by dedicating ourselves to excellence in every experiential touchpoint, from essential infrastructure to luxury amenities. This empowers Owners to enjoy their properties to the fullest without worrying about the logistics of property management. This thorough commitment to creating a worry-free experience sets Timbers apart in the HOA management space.
What are some responsibilities of an HOA management team that Owners might not be aware of?
Our Owners purchase Timbers properties because of the easygoing Ownership experience we offer; but behind the scenes, a multi-dimensional web of maintenance systems and hardworking team members makes this low-stress experience possible. Our Executive Housekeepers, for example, continuously connect with potential distributors to ensure that we source top-quality supplies at the best prices. Our Directors of Finance collaborate to ensure timely and accurate tax filings, while Human Resources Managers find new ways to recruit top talent that meets our high standards. Each General Manager oversees these departments at their respective properties, coordinating local efforts with those of our central support office to keep operations running smoothly. Timbers empowers our general managers to run their businesses, while the central support office team shares goals, resources, and best practices to help them deliver their best for Owners and guests. We measure their results and hold the resort teams accountable for delivering on behalf of the Homeowners Associations.
Every Association is unique, governed not only by state and local laws but also by specific club documents like Declarations, By-laws, and Rules and Regulations. We work closely with each Association’s Board of Directors to ensure full compliance and provide operational support where it is needed. Timbers’ long history of luxury property management allows us to resolve the varied and complicated challenges of each HOA.
One of our unique responsibilities – and one of Timbers’ greatest strengths – is adapting each Association’s management practices to continuously enhance the Owner experience. We prioritize unique, locally-inspired amenities and services tailored to each property’s location. Whether Sunset Sessions in Kaua‘i or Après Ski in Steamboat Springs, we are always searching for new ways to surprise and delight our Owners.
Ultimately, Owners want to enjoy their homes and feel on vacation immediately upon arrival. It should not be or feel like work. Our passion is working on behalf of Owners and their governing boards.
Fostering community is an important responsibility of an HOA – how does Timbers encourage connection?
Community is at the heart of the Timbers experience. Many of our Owners have known each other for years, whether through Timbers or through personal and professional connections. These treasured relationships transform Ownership from a simple real estate transaction to an invitation into a welcoming home of like-minded people from around the world. Our Owners’ children grow up together. Their families share in special moments over years of friendship. They find a profound sense of belonging and community in some of the globe’s most stunning locales.
Our team prioritizes creating opportunities for Owners to come together and build these connections. We assist the General Managers of each property in empowering their teams to organize and facilitate exciting group events, whether convivial wine dinners in Kiawah’s Beach Club, Owner receptions with homemade Tuscan fare at Casali di Casole, or energetic trivia nights in Jupiter. We also coordinate with properties to enhance informal gathering spaces like Owners’ Lounges, Kids’ Clubs, and even pool decks.
Communication is vital to building connections within the Owner community, but also between Owners and Timbers. We consistently look for new and engaging ways to provide clear, transparent communication. This newsletter, for example, keeps the community informed about property updates and broader Timbers Company news; our Owner portal, Scout, provides timely updates; and, of course, our property teams are always available to address any questions or concerns in real time.
Timbers’ sales teams and operations teams also play vital roles in establishing community. They coordinate to ensure smooth transitions from prospective Owners to Owners, and they work together to help new Owners integrate quickly to the extent that they are comfortable.
What benefits do Owners enjoy by having Timbers manage their HOA?
Owners benefit from our comprehensive, one-stop approach to HOA management. We provide expertise in every aspect of luxury resort administration: asset management, finance/accounting, resort operations, property management, human resources, marketing, and sales, among other proficiencies. By offering each of these services under a single umbrella, we save Associations the effort of sourcing and juggling multiple vendors, limiting waste and inefficiency with tried-and-tested community management solutions.
At Timbers Company, we are committed to delivering an easy and luxurious vacation residence experience. From behind-the-scenes teamwork to innovative services and a focus on community, our approach to HOA management is designed to create an effortless, enjoyable Ownership experience for every member of the Timbers family so you can make the most of your home away from home.
Oh, and associations we manage typically get to be part of the Timbers Reciprocity Program (TRP). This optional Owner benefit is highly valued by most members and allows you to monetize your investment through fabulous vacations outside of your home club.