Organization's Formation: Collective Action Theory Perspective for HOA

Abstract

Ability to make collective agreements determines life of many organizations. But does it matter for the decision to make a new organization? On the data of 82 homeowners associations (HOAs) in Moscow and Perm factors that underpin HOA formation are studied. A logit-regression analysis is used. Physical conditions of the housing stock, size of the buildings and socio-economic parameters of homeowners’ community are revealed; ability of tenants to resolve the collective action problem in operating housing infrastructure is shown to be of primary importance. Thus HOA formation by homeowners is a signal of their ability to manage a house. Collective action paradox begins to play role not only ex post, but also ex ante, prior to organization’s establishment.