If you’re eyeing a neighborhood with well-manicured lawns and pristine amenities, chances are it’s run by an HOA — homeowners association. Basically, it’s a group of residents who enforce certain rules and regulations to keep the community looking sharp. When you buy a home in an HOA, you’re automatically a member, and you’ll be paying monthly or yearly dues that cover things like landscaping, shared spaces, and sometimes amenities like a pool or gym.
The upside of HOA life
What’s good about living in an HOA community?
Plenty, actually. Here’s why some people swear by it:
- Curb appeal
HOAs are all about that uniform look, so everyone has to follow the same standards for things like lawns, paint colors, and home improvements. The big benefit? Property values tend to stay up because everything looks clean and well-kept. - Perks and amenities
Many HOAs throw in some sweet perks—think community pools, parks, tennis courts, and clubhouses. Instead of paying for a gym membership or driving across town to find a decent pool, you’ve got it all in your backyard (and your HOA fees keep these places in good shape). - No hassle maintenance
Got a dead tree in the common area or cracked sidewalks? The HOA takes care of that. They handle all the community maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about chipping in for landscaping or road repairs. - No awkward neighbor drama
That neighbor who wants to build a neon pink shed in their yard? Not gonna happen under the HOA’s watch. The HOA can mediate disputes and enforce rules, which saves you from having to confront someone over noise or an eyesore on their property. - Added security
Some HOAs go the extra mile with gated communities or even neighborhood security patrols. If peace of mind is a priority, this can be a big selling point.
The downsides you should know about
It’s not all sunshine and swimming pools. Being in an HOA can have serious downsides that are the reason many homebuyers avoid them. Additionally, survey data shows that most homeowners who live in an HOA well… wish that they didn’t.
- Strict rules
Want to park your RV in the driveway or paint your house a bold color? Not so fast. HOAs come with a long list of rules and restrictions, and stepping out of line can get you fined. Some people find these rules stifling, especially if they like a little more freedom with their property. - HOA dues
That well-maintained neighborhood comes with a price—monthly or yearly fees. Depending on the community, these can be anywhere from a couple hundred bucks to a few grand a year. And if there’s a big project or unexpected expense (like fixing a pool or replacing roofs), get ready for special assessments — meaning extra charges on top of your regular dues. - Fines for small slip-ups
If you don’t mow your lawn to the HOA’s standards or leave your trash bins out a little too long, you could face a fine. It might seem like nitpicking, but non-compliance can cost you, and those fees can add up if you’re not careful. - Limited personalization
In an HOA, you might have to ask permission for anything from planting a garden to installing solar panels. While some HOAs are more flexible, others have a firm grip on what’s allowed, making it hard to put your personal touch on your property. - Power struggles
HOAs are typically run by a board of residents, and sometimes those power dynamics get messy. Petty politics or inconsistent rule enforcement can lead to tension, and the decisions the board makes don’t always align with what everyone wants.
How do I know if an HOA is for me?
It really depends on your personality and lifestyle. If you value neighborhood consistency, amenities, and low-maintenance living, an HOA might be right up your alley. But if you like freedom over your property and prefer to avoid extra fees or rules, you might feel a little boxed in.
What should I ask before buying in an HOA community?
Don’t jump in without getting the full picture. Here’s what you should ask before signing anything:
- What are the HOA fees, and what exactly do they cover?
- Have the fees gone up recently? Could they go up soon?
- Can I get a copy of the rules and regulations?
- How are disputes handled? What’s the process for getting approval on home changes?
- Are there any special assessments coming up?
Knowing the answers will help you figure out if this kind of living fits you
If you’re ready to start your journey to homeownership, get pre approved with Tomo Mortgage today.