how do I create an HOA site with user registration, forums etc?

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  revnhoj · Member · Mar 20, 2026 at 1:14 pm

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  I am trying to create a basic homeowners website with user login, forums, document repository etc – stuff that has been done many times over.
  I can’t yet even figure out how to show the users name on the front page.

  The blog I need help with is: (visible only to logged in users)

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  atongalfred · Member · Mar 21, 2026 at 9:10 am

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  Hi revnhoj! What you’re describing, a members-only community site with login, forums, and document storage, is absolutely achievable on WordPress.com. Before diving in though, there’s one important thing worth knowing upfront that will save you a lot of frustration.
  Most of these features require the Business plan
  The features you’re after (forums, document repositories, showing a user’s name dynamically) rely on plugins, and on WordPress.com, plugins are only available on the Business plan or higher. If you’re currently on a Free, Personal, or Premium plan, you won’t be able to install the tools needed to build this.
  You can check your current plan by going to:
  My Sites → Upgrades → Plans
  If you’re not on Business yet, it’s worth knowing that before investing more time in the setup.