What You Should Know About HOA Laws

by Ann Hayward 04/26/2020

Photo by LinkedIn Sales Navigator from Pexels

Homeowners Associations (HOAs) were originally created to give everyone a larger say in their community. The rules and regulations are there to provide structure, preserve property values, and increase a sense of unity within the neighborhood boundaries. But not all HOAs function in the same way, and some can lead homeowners to feel stifled or even alienated. We'll look at how HOA laws work and what you can expect.

Location Matters

HOAs vote on a number of different laws for their community, but the majority of laws are passed down by the state. A state like Florida will have a number of hurricane regulations in its laws while a state like California may concentrate more so on earthquakes. Property owners are expected to comply with all state mandates to ensure their homes are protected in case of a disaster. But HOAs can definitely expand those state laws, depending on everything from personal values to property values.

HOA Fees

HOAs will typically require dues in order to keep the association going. These fees generally total anywhere between $200 and $400 a month, and typically go toward maintaining the shared amenities (e.g., clubhouse, tennis court, etc.) of the property. For some residents, these fees are more than worth what they receive in return. You may want access to a pool without having to schedule maintenance or pay for repairs out-of-pocket. However, not all property owners get the same utility out of shared spaces, so it's important to take this into account before opting for a property with an HOA.

HOA Code of Conduct

A code of conduct is essentially there to ensure that all property owners keep up their homes and grounds. It may dictate what colors can be used to paint the home, or how tall grass can be before it needs to be mowed. The larger the general property, the more detailed their HOA laws are likely to be. While some residents love the order and predictability of an HOA, others feel resentful of the restrictions imposed upon them. The good news is that the code of conduct is dictated by the residents.

HOA laws are typically governed by the original developers of the property until a minimum percentage of units have been sold to the public. From there, it's the collective who will make decisions moving forward. Before choosing an HOA, make sure that you're picking an area with like-minded property owners. Otherwise, you may end up feeling trapped by rules that you neither agree with or approve of.

HOA

Homeowners Association

Laws

About the Author

Ann Hayward

Born in Philadelphia and raised in the suburbs, Ann Hayward got her Pennsylvania real estate license at age 18 even before going to college. This second-generation real estate professional followed in the footsteps of her father and two uncles, inheriting their passion for the business. Licensed in DC, Maryland and Virginia, Ann is accomplished in her career, with numerous designations including SFR, SRES, PSA, WHC, and multiunit Housing Development Finance Professional (HDFP) from the National Development Council. She specializes in Prince Georges and Montgomery Counties, Northern Virginia and Washington, DC, all jurisdictions where Ann has lived and knows very well. In addition to her professional expertise, she owns and manages personal investment property, understands and has been involved in the renovation/remodeling process, and has great resources which she shares with clients. When you hire Ann to represent you, she will make your buying or selling experience an enjoyable, rewarding one. Her compassion, sensitivity to her clients’ needs, eye for detail, and ability to see the big picture when guiding you through a purchase or sale are unique assets that will ensure your success. A diverse and relevant background also gives Ann a distinct edge. For 30 years, she worked in fast-paced, high-pressure television and theatrical production, attaining the highest achievement – DGA membership as a Director, and as an award-winning staff and freelance writer. Her keen audio visual skills and design sense benefit sellers in marketing their properties, and are invaluable in helping buyers see the potential of space. A true renaissance woman, Ann was also an income tax professional and office manager for H&R Block, so she thoroughly understands the tax and financial implications of acquiring and selling real estate. Her superior organizational skills are further evidenced as owner of a downsizing/professional organizing business, Managed For You, which allows her to connect with everyone from millennials to boomers and seniors, whether for small space planning or assisting with major decluttering and transitioning. Ann holds an AB in American History from Simmons College, Boston, plus attended Robert Wagner Graduate School of Public Administration where she was a candidate for Doctorate. She additionally studied Film Direction at the American Film Institute in LA, and was a Stanford University post-graduate Professional Journalism Fellow. Personally, Ann is an avid if not very good golfer, and the co-founder of a nonprofit 501c3 organization offering educational guidance, tutoring and counseling for youngsters from elementary school through college admission. She sits on the board of trustees of a nonprofit educational film production corporation as well. (202) 494-6252 [email protected]