If you’ve ever browsed a listing and seen the phrase “HOA fee: $400/month” and thought…
“Wait… what even is an HOA? And why am I paying them every month?” 👀
You’re not alone.
Whether you’re thinking about buying a condo, townhome, or even a single-family home in a planned neighborhood — chances are you’ll run into an HOA.
Let’s break down what that actually means, what it covers, and what to watch for — even if you’re not planning to buy yet.
🏘️ 1. What Is an HOA, Anyway?
An HOA (Homeowners Association) is a governing body that manages and maintains shared spaces and community rules for a neighborhood, condo, or development.
If you buy into a property with an HOA, you automatically become a member — and agree to follow the rules and pay the fees.
Some HOAs are super hands-off. Others are… not. (More on that below.)
💰 2. What Do HOA Fees Usually Cover?
Every HOA is different, but here are some things that monthly fees might include:
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Exterior maintenance (roofs, siding, paint)
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Landscaping and snow removal
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Trash and recycling
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Water or sewer service
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Insurance for shared structures or areas
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Amenities (pool, gym, clubhouse, trails)
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Reserve funds for long-term repairs
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Management company services
💡 Some HOAs cover a lot — and can save you money vs. paying for those services on your own.
⚠️ 3. What to Watch For in an HOA Community
Not all HOAs are created equal. Some are well-run and financially healthy. Others? Not so much.
If you’re considering a property with an HOA, here are a few questions to ask:
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Are the monthly fees reasonable for what’s included?
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How much is in the reserve fund (for big future expenses)?
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Have there been recent special assessments (big one-time charges to owners)?
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Are there any lawsuits pending against the HOA?
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What are the rules? (Some can be surprisingly strict — think: paint colors, landscaping, even Christmas lights.)
Your agent (👋 that’s me) can help you dig into the HOA docs before you make any decisions.
📦 4. HOAs Can Be a Dealbreaker — or a Dealmaker
It all depends on your lifestyle.
HOAs can be amazing for:
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Busy professionals who don’t want to mow lawns or shovel snow
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First-time buyers who want predictable maintenance
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People who love amenities like pools and gyms
But if you want full control over your property (or just don’t love following rules), it’s worth thinking twice.
HOAs aren’t good or bad — they’re just one more thing to understand when looking at homes or planning for the future.
I strongly recommend reviewing the zoning and bylaws to confirm what types of uses are not allowed — especially for special or commercial uses. This is particularly important in smaller associations where just one unit can significantly impact the character and quiet enjoyment of the property.
A quick cautionary tale: I had a client in a 3-unit building who didn’t double-check the zoning and association rules before buying. Turned out the property had mixed-use zoning, and one of the units became a daycare shortly after closing. The constant foot traffic, noise, and liability concerns were definitely not what they expected in a residential setting.
If you ever see a listing with an HOA and want help figuring out whether it’s a smart investment or a hidden headache, I’m always happy to take a look.
No pressure, no commitment — just real advice when you need it.
Whether you’re just curious or ready to dive in, I’d love to help you navigate the process with confidence. Call/text me at 773-865-5661 or email me at [email protected]
