Homeowner’s associations, or HOAs, are not always the easiest topics to understand. Every HOA can be different but that is why it’s important to understand HOA basics and what it could mean for you and your family. Here are some HOA In’s and Out’s.

An HOA is an organization in a planned community, subdivision, or condominium that creates and enforces rules for the dwellings and their residents. HOAs are comprised of and run by the residents of the community in which the HOA is active. Membership to an HOA is normally a requirement to buy a home within the community where the HOA runs. In addition to the residential members that an HOA will have, an HOA usually has a board of directors as well that are elected to enforce the HOA’s rules. The rules of an HOA will normally be described in the Declaration of Covenants and Conditions and Restrictions. Also known as CC&Rs, this document contains specific conditions for owners regarding the maintenance of their dwelling. Although each HOA varies, its conditions can include items such as structural restrictions or even the color of paint on the home. 

In addition to the guidelines that the CC&Rs establish, many of them also outline the consequences for violating those conditions. Once again, as not every HOA is the same, penalties for violations can vary. Some HOA penalties could be forced compliance while others are litigation. It all depends on what your HOA states in their CC&Rs.

The key takeaway from an HOA is to be aware of what your community wants its residents to follow. Penalties or uncomfortable conflicts can all be avoided through reading and following what is laid out for your communities rules regarding HOA. HOA rules can be complicated but your local Realtor can guide you on more specific HOA In’s and Out’s.