Homeowners Associations

A homeowners association (HOA) can create a harmonious community with rules and regulations established for the greater good. HOAs have effectively outlawed lenient living in the interest of the appearance of homes and surrounding areas.

Deed-initiated homeowners associations have become an essential part of the overall concept of residential property ownership in today's marketplace and have become the cornerstone of many planned residential communities. They bring continuity and order to the community and preserve the architectural integrity while maintaining the common elements. The association promotes the concept of "community" while meeting all of the local County enforced codes/restrictions and zoning ordinances.

HOA residents often benefit from community amenities that individual homeowners might not otherwise be able to afford or accommodate, such as swimming pools, health clubs, ponds, and walking/bike paths, as these items can all be financed and maintained from homeowners' dues.

The association's responsibilities may be limited to basic maintenance functions or they may be expanded to include sophisticated and extensive upkeep of the property. Below are some of the areas that may be governed by the association:

• Common/public areas such as parks, entrance-ways, and sidewalks (not service walks)
• Recreation facilities
• Periodic weeding & mulching
• Planting seasonal flowers
• Fertilization of common areas, ponds, lakes, detention areas,
• In some subdivisions, cutting grass & landscaping at individual lots
• Working with utility companies on bill payments.

All homeowners must conform to certain cosmetic design restrictions, such as approved colors and architectural elements and abiding by a submission and approval process prior to making any exterior additions, improvements, or modifications. Yard displays of excessive toys and eclectic decorations may be prohibited. Conducting auto maintenance in the driveway or on the street for an extended period of time is an item that often is not permitted.

The purchase of a home or lot within the community brings a mandatory membership in an association which then provides the structure for operation and management of the residential development. With membership comes certain maintenance obligations, financial responsibilities, and a commitment to abide by the deed restrictions and other rules of the association.

To be successful, its officers and directors must uniformly and fairly govern the community, and it must have a reasonable level of participation by each of its members over time. The builder/developer appoints the initial trustees and typically no meetings will take place until the subdivision is completely built. Once that happens, homeowners/members will have the right to attend meetings, vote and elect trustees.

For any questions or concerns, please contact your property management company.