As you’re exploring potential neighborhoods to live in, one thing to be sure you don’t overlook is the HOA of each community. An HOA, also known as a homeowners association, is a self-governing group of residents. They gather and make decisions for a particular subdivision of homes, condominiums, or apartment units. HOA requirements can determine a lot about your experience living there, so it’s best to familiarize yourself with how they typically run.
The Purpose of a Homeowners Association
When you start the moving process, you’ll want to stay as informed as possible. By understanding why an HOA exists, you’ll have a better idea of what your ideal requirements might be like. This will help you factor it into your final decision on a new home.
The reason homeowners often form an HOA is to ensure their community is properly managed and kept up with. This is done by collecting a monthly fee from members. Then, this budget is used to maintain and improve different services and amenities. An HOA is also takes charge of group decisions, like neighborhood trash regulations or which renovations are needed.
Benefits of Joining
Living in a community that requires investing in an HOA does come with some perks. For starters, it keeps the neighborhood aesthetic looking polished. If there are common amenities like a pool or clubhouse, it will also account for these areas being taken care of. A big thing is that the process of making group decisions is streamlined. Plus, the bylaws that are implemented can make the neighborhood generally more pleasant to live in.
You can also become more involved by joining the HOA board. One reason to join your HOA’s board is to get to know your community. Aside from being in the loop on any decisions, you’ll have the opportunity to socialize with neighbors at special events and group meetings.
Common Rules and Regulations
Just like with any kind of governing body, there must be HOA rules. There are laws an HOA must abide with, but then they can put in place rules as they choose. Different regulations to expect from an HOA are factors that contribute to curb appeal. This includes certain types of landscaping, exterior paint on your home, and keeping an overall clean and manicured look.
With this kind of community management, residents who don’t follow bylaws may be fined. Examples of why this might happen are an overgrown lawn, improperly parked cars, or an unreasonable amount of noise. You’ll want to understand every rule beforehand to avoid any kind of violation.
Thoughts to Consider
If you’re debating whether a neighborhood’s HOA is the right fit for you, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, what is the cost, and is it worth it to you? Keep in mind extra factors, like how dues will lower your maximum loan amount. Then, think about if your personal lifestyle is a good fit for the goals the HOA has in mind. If you have children or pets, be realistic about how rules will affect you. There can be both pros and cons to weigh, but it ultimately comes down to your individual way of living and what you’re hoping to get out of your new home.
Once you’ve landed on a neighborhood with your ideal HOA requirements, consider hiring a white glove moving company for your next steps. Megan’s Moving will help take the stress out of your move by making sure you’re all set in your new home. Schedule a consultation with one of our moving experts today!