The Pros and Cons of Homeowner’s Associations (HOAs)


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When looking for a home, are you seeking a neighborhood with an HOA or without an HOA? A homeowner’s association is a governing body that will set rules and regulations on the neighborhood at a monthly cost. While the fee may not sound appealing, there are advantages to choosing a community with an HOA. Let’s take a look at the pros and cons.

Pros of HOAs

You may find that the monthly HOA charge is well worth it when it comes with these perks:

  • Preserves the Value of the Neighborhood: When there is a system in place to hold homeowners accountable for the upkeep of their homes, home values are preserved. This includes maintaining uniformity in the curbside appeal of the home. For example, HOAs typically do not allow homeowners to paint homes loud colors, add on to the front of the house, or leave a rusty car in the front yard.
  • Encourages Neighbors to Keep Up with Maintenance: HOA’s also send out violations for lack of landscaping and signs of wear and tear to the house’s exterior. So you don’t have to worry about the neighbor’s grass growing 2 feet tall and the shutters falling off the house.
  • Includes Community Amenities: Your HOA may include a community park and swimming pool. They may also arrange Easter egg hunts, hayrides, and other holiday parties for the neighbors to gather and enjoy each other’s company.

Cons of HOAs

While the advantages of an HOA are appealing, you will find some downsides:

  • Monthly Fee: Some HOA fees can increase your monthly mortgage payment by a hefty amount. You can look at how the HOA will benefit you and decide if it is worth it.
  • Restrictions: The restrictions could include not allowing RV parking, basketball hoops, or signs in your yard. If you have needs that don’t fit in with the limits, then a neighborhood without an HOA may be best.
  • Warnings and Fines: If you violate the HOA, you will receive warnings and fines. The violations could be for something as minor as keeping your garbage can out on the curb for too long. It can feel tedious and frustrating at times.

Homeowner’s associations come with the good and the bad. Contact me if you want to learn more about the HOA guidelines typical to Temecula. You can reach me through text, phone, or email at (951) 473-0390 or [email protected].