New Year, New Priorities: What CAMs Should Focus on in Q1

The holidays are over, the inbox is full, and it’s time to hit the ground running.

January sets the tone for your entire year—and for Community Association Managers (CAMs), that means focusing on the right priorities early to avoid playing catch-up later. From vendor coordination to resident communication, Q1 is your chance to reset, realign, and build momentum for the rest of 2026.

Here’s a breakdown of where to focus your energy in the first quarter.

✅ 1. Confirm Vendor Startups and Contract Terms

Why it matters: Many vendors renew or change service on January 1—but not all transitions go smoothly.

Action steps:

Confirm all vendors have resumed service as expected
Double-check new scopes of work, pricing, and service frequency
Ensure vendors received all access info, keys, codes, or updated contact lists
Address any early issues quickly to set expectations for the rest of the year

Don’t assume every vendor is aligned—verify early.

📄 2. Review January Invoices Against Approved Budgets

Why it matters: Your first round of invoices reveals if contracts were implemented correctly.

What to check:

First-month charges match updated rates and services
No unexpected fees or off-scope charges
Accounting has been notified of all new vendors or invoice processes

Catching errors in January prevents budget headaches in Q2.

🛠 3. Schedule Preventive Maintenance and Early Inspections

Why it matters: Spring is coming—and vendors book up fast.

What to schedule now:

Irrigation system reviews or repairs
Fence, pool gate, or exterior amenity checks
Gutter, roof, or drainage system inspections (especially after winter storms)
Janitorial deep cleans or pressure washing before outdoor usage ramps up

January and February are ideal months for quieter but essential tasks.

🧑‍💼 4. Prepare for Early Board Meetings and Resident Touchpoints

Why it matters: Q1 meetings are where momentum builds—or dies.

Action steps:

Provide boards with clean updates on project carryovers, vendor performance, and YTD financials
Plan a resident communication strategy: welcome message, calendar, or community goals
Consider open office hours, surveys, or events to re-engage after the holiday slowdown

Even a simple email can go a long way in re-establishing trust and visibility.

🗂 5. Organize Your Annual Planning Documents

Why it matters: Your 2026 success depends on the clarity and organization you build now.

Best practices:

Clean up files, folders, and vendor contact sheets
Set reminders for contract renewals, upcoming inspections, or key board meeting deadlines
Create a Q1 “at-a-glance” checklist for each community or property you manage

Starting organized means staying proactive—not reactive.

✅ Set the Tone for a Smooth Year

The first quarter of the year is where good habits are built—or missed opportunities begin. With just a little front-loaded effort, you can avoid early missteps and put yourself, your vendors, and your communities on the path to a productive and well-managed 2026.