It’s estimated that 1.2 million households in Houston belong to an HOA. Governed associations are growing across the country, but Texas has seen an HOA increase of 20% since 2017!
This can be attributed to a number of factors, including rapid urban development, a desire for property value protection, and a growing appreciation for clear guidelines and expectations.
And while these communities offer a lot of benefits, they can experience serious issues if they are not properly managed or maintained. HOA fees are on the rise, adding to complications already plaguing some communities.
HOA software has already proven that it can save HOA managers and self-managed communities time and money, negating some of those increased costs. Now, leading software platforms are making improvements or leveraging additional tools, including implementing AI, to help HOA communities navigate persistent and new challenges.
Below is a practical rundown of five leading HOA management platforms in Texas for 2026. These five options were selected for their versatility, future-ready solutions, and market credibility.
Top HOA Management Software for 2026
Quick reference guide
Buildium – Best all-around for mixed-portfolio managers who want strong accounting.
HOA Central – Best for HOAs and management companies wanting specialized features to automate communications and operations.
CINC Systems – Best for large management companies that want deep, association-specific accounting with owner portals.
TownSq – Best for resident engagement and board collaboration. Great mobile experience for HOA members.
FRONTSTEPS – Best for gated communities that need amenity/gate access paired with a resident portal.
Buildium
Buildium is best known for its versatility and user-friendly features. The cloud-based software is appropriate for all types of property managers, including those who aren’t completely comfortable with new technology.
Many companies are looking to diversify their portfolios in 2026, and Buildium can help them do that successfully thanks to its mixed portfolio model.
Buildium has a mature accounting solution as well as work orders, violations, and communication built in.
Its all-in-one lease management software brings the entire lead-to-lease cycle online and keeps residents renewing with a refreshingly easy digital experience. This is a great asset for any company that regularly handles rentals.
HOA Central
HOA Central has successfully built a user-friendly platform that actually does what it says it can do. From simplifying online meetings to ensuring violations are handled fairly and consistently, it’s no wonder that HOA Central is trusted by hundreds of HOA communities.
The mobile app makes it easy for owners to use the strong collection of self-serve tools. This not only allows them to make payments or check governing documents when it’s most convenient for them, but staff and board members see a big reduction in call/email volumes, too.
Plus, HOA Central’s AI support can help any user, 24/7. Ask it about pet rules, payment procedures and more. It can even help managers draft emails or notices. We want to see more of this!
It’s good to know that in addition to its AI helper, HOA Central still maintains its exceptional customer support team. Boards and managers will have no problem connecting with a person if they need help.
CINC Systems
Count on CINC Systems for association-first accounting. Built around the needs of large-scale HOA management companies from day one, it’s got powerful GL, fund accounting, and board-grade financials that auditors like.
Tight integrations with leading banks and lockbox processing make this platform attractive to companies that manage millions of HOA dollars.
CINC Systems also has Cephai+, an AI tool that can automate invoice processing, generate board packets, and assist with violation management by analyzing photos to identify infractions. CINC Systems is one of the options to keep large management firms moving in the right direction.
TownSq
TownSq is a modern API platform with integrated tools and processes for HOA management. Its modern portfolio of digital solutions simplifies association communications through web and mobile applications.
TownSq Business caters to management professionals while TownSq Community is geared toward the owner experience. The latter option facilitates online payments, makes it possible for owners to connect with each other and with management, and improves the flow of information by storing important HOA documents online.
Management can get excited about TownSq AI, a thoughtful digital assistant that can suggest and draft responses, reduce routine tickets by triaging common questions, and help owners resolve common issues at their convenience. TownSq AI is hands-on, so you don’t have to be. Instead, managers can devote more energy to complex matters and projects.
FRONTSTEPS
If you are looking for customizable HOA management solutions, consider FRONTSTEPS. Its unified software platform allows property managers and board members to focus on what truly matters – building sustainable, harmonious community associations. It offers tools for management companies, back office managers, and self-managed communities.
Choice is important because some HOAs want partial assistance, but don’t need someone to help with all aspects of community management. In this case, FRONTSTEPS can fill in the gaps.
This platform also has a strong pedigree in access control, visitor management, and credentialing, making it a suitable option for gated Texas communities.
Safety is a big issue, especially for owners who are paying more to live in a gated community. Features such as in-app instant access, real-time visitor alerts and visitor logs help to balance safety and convenience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right HOA management software is no longer just about convenience; it’s about ensuring stability, strong community relationships, and trust. As Texas continues to experience rapid residential growth, HOAs require modern, adaptable platforms that can handle today’s needs, and tomorrow’s challenges.
The five platforms highlighted in this article represent some of the top-performing solutions for 2026, offering advanced capabilities, mobile access, and automation that management needs in order to get through their to-do lists.
Each option delivers unique strengths, from powerful accounting and compliance tools to cutting-edge communication and security features. These platforms reflect how HOA technology is evolving to meet the realities of 2026: hybrid workforces, data-driven decision-making, and increasingly tech-savvy owners.
Ultimately, the best software is the one that aligns with your community’s size, goals, and management style. Before making a final choice, ask questions, request a demo to see how it really works, and look at the fine print before signing a contract.
If you want to know more about top HOA management software for 2026. Reach out to Jennifer Yoingco, REALTOR®, and her team, The Houston Suburb Group. They’ll help you get ready to EXPERIENCE LIVING IN HOUSTON TEXAS!
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