“HOA Bans Wheelchair Ramp”. “HOA Sues to Prevent American Flag from Flying”. “HOA Forces Owner to Give Dogs Away”. Are these associations in America or in ISIS controlled areas? If you listen to many of these owners or cruise the internet for stories about HOAs seemingly run amok, you would think ISIS is in control. And that's total nonsense. In almost every instance, owners failed to either comply or follow protocol to do what they wanted to do. And in some cases, what they wanted to do was expressly prohibited and they knew that.
Who is forced to buy in an HOA community? Who can say that they "didn't know" about the expectations? The answer is NO ONE. That HOAs are routinely vilified is curious; membership is purely optional! During the due diligence period, buyers are expected to research everything - including HOA regulations. You didn't know? Well then you're a dummy for not researching this and for selecting an agent that didn't ensure you did.
Oh, the HOA is out of control? OK, then run for membership on the board. Petition whatever change you want. Get involved and be a catalyst for change and see if your desires are endorsed by the neighbors. It's not all about you, it's about the best things for the community.
HOAs exist for a specific reason - to ensure continuity and preserve value in a community. Living in HOA communities is not for everyone and fortunately EVERYONE has a choice of where to live. While some see no issue with an RV parked in the driveway, others might; it's about finding a place to live that works for you. Perhaps if you want to park that RV in the driveway an HOA run community isn't a good choice.
HOAs provide benefits as well. Maintenance and upkeep of common areas, recreational areas, exteriors, streets.....and they collect dues. When disaster strikes or updates are needed, they handle things. Situations like a dam break in a community lake can be disastrous if not planned for. While some consider them to be an annoyance, in the end HOAs provide clear and demonstrative benefits. Learn more by reading HOAs - Love them, hate them, but obey them. And remember, do your homework as a buyer and learn the "rules" before signing on the dotted line.
The Hank Miller Team counsels home buyers and sellers in the Atlanta area with over 25 years of sales and appraisal experience.
