Ever hear one of these moral outrages? "Why am I paying more homeowner dues than my neighbor? There are six people living in that unit and I live alone. I only shower once a week and should get a dues reduction." Or, "I'm paying the same amount as Jim in 3B and his unit is twice as big as mine. What's up with that?" Or, "I don't see why I have to pay for that expensive pool. I don't swim and never intend to. Why not knock $25 a month off my dues?"

It's interesting how creative folks can be. But in spite of efforts to get a better deal, the dues structure cannot be changed without 100% approval of all members. And it can only be accomplished by legally amending the governing documents. Since shuffling dues levels means some members will end up paying more, this amendment is virtually assured of defeat. So, the dues structure is what it is.

Rather than fighting over the unchangeable, consider this: The HOA dues structure, as inflexible as it is, opens the door to wonderful opportunities. Group buying power is mighty. From utilities to contract services, owners of HOA property pay wholesale prices on things provided by the HOA. Part of every budget review should include opportunities to take advantage of this concept. For example, by the HOA entering into bulk rate agreements for cable TV and high speed internet service can save end users 30-50% on average. We're talking thousands of dollars of savings each year. If the HOA is large enough, the newsletter can be funded by advertising revenue which could even turn a profit!

So stop fighting over pennies and concentrate on opportunities that make sense. They're out there to be had and taking advantage of them confirms the wisdom of HOA living. Get your just dues.

Published: January 28, 2004

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Richard Thompson owns Regenesis, a management consulting company that specializes in condominium and homeowner associations. He is a nationally recognized expert on HOA management issues. Regenesis publishes The Regenesis Report, a monthly newsletter for HOA boards, developers and managers. To subscribe, go to Regenesis.net. He can be contacted by email at .