Are you considering relocating to a house that is part of a homeowners association? You should weigh all of the benefits and drawbacks of HOA living first. Remember that the level of service provided by a HOA varies depending on the organization. For example, although many homeowners associations maintain possibly the best communities for their members, others may be poorly managed and plagued by issues. Before buying or renting a home in a neighborhood, it's critical to study and evaluate the HOA's efficiency. Take a look at the benefits and drawbacks of HOA living below to help you decide if it's right for you.
Benefits
You are not required to mow the lawn.
A homeowners association is a community of homes that is overseen by an agency that sets and enforces rules as well as maintains the grounds. HOAs are most common in apartment buildings and planned communities. Those who buy a home in a HOA community are required to pay some fees and dues in order to live there. Prospective homeowners are frequently required to meet with the HOA to evaluate community rules before renting or purchasing in the neighborhood. HOA dues will range anywhere from $20 to $1,000 or more per year.
You have access to a variety of amenities.
Do you enjoy playing golf? How about a game of tennis? You may have good access to these recreational facilities if you reside in a HOA community. Pools, tennis courts, golf courses, club houses, hotels, recreation areas, fitness centers, and other shared amenities are common features in many HOA communities. What's the best part? You are not required to clean or maintain any of these facilities. Your HOA will handle it for you by deducting the cost from your monthly fees.
You won't have to deal with annoying neighbors.
Barking dogs, loud parties, illegal parking, and stinky trash are just a few of the disgusting habits of irresponsible neighbors. Fortunately, if you reside in a HOA community, you won't have to face your next door neighbor with trouble. One of the most significant benefits of a HOA is the ability to resolve community conflicts. If you have a problem with a neighbor, you should talk to the HOA about it. All HOA laws and regulations should be able to be enforced directly by the association against any neighbors breaking rules.
Drawbacks
It's possible that your HOA fees would be prohibitively costly.
If you want a lot of amenities you'll have to pay for them through the HOA. It's a lot less expensive than paying for everything individually. However, if you want to get your money's worth, you'll need to move into a HOA with facilities you'll use.
You must pay these fees regardless of your financial situation. The HOA's bylaws can give them the authority to place a lien on your property, which must be paid before you can sell or refinance.
You won't be able to customize the exterior of the house.
It is likely that you will not be able to personalize the exterior of the home if you are part of the HOA community. This ensures that no exterior painting or remodeling will be permitted. Your HOA rules may also limit what type of furniture or plants can be placed outside your premises. Living in a HOA community is probably not for you if you want to customize and design the outside of your house.
Mismanagement
Unfortunately, not all homeowners' associations are created equal. Although the majority of HOA societies are well-kept, there are still a few rotten apples. Failure to provide routine lawn care or landscaping, failure to follow parking laws, allowing public access to facilities, and failure to repair damaged walkways or stairs are all signs of a poorly maintained HOA. Before buying a home in a HOA neighborhood, we suggest that you ask residents about the management. It's also a smart idea to inquire about HOA reserves in the event of a disaster. For example, if a hurricane destroys your roof, your HOA should have funds set aside to repair at least a portion of the damage.
If you’re planning for a move in near future, contact the Residential Moving Company in Fairfield, CT
