Advantages and Disadvantages of Homeowners Association

Advantages and Disadvantages of Homeowners Association

HOA means Homeowners Association or sometimes referred to as property owner's association or POA is a private association in a subdivision, planned community or condominium that makes and enforces rules for the properties and their residents.

HOA are established by groups with single-family homes or condominium. Those who bought properties with an HOA's authority automatically become members are required to pay HOA fees or dues. Being a member of homeowners has advantages and disadvantages.

Would it really be helpful for being a member? What will happen if you can't pay HOA dues? Here we listed some advantages and disadvantages of being an HOA member:

ADVANTAGES:

• Free use of all amenities, like pools, gym, basketball court or tennis court and clubhouse.
• When there is a misunderstanding between neighbors, HOA serves as a mediator to help settle things between them.
• Nice neighborhood, houses are in uniform and gated community for added security.
• If you hate pesky pests, living in a community like this, is for you, most associations are providing pests control, to eliminate those annoying mosquitoes that can cause sickness to our kids.
• Neighbors know each other, not only by face but by names too.
• Increase in home value in the neighborhood. The main purpose of the homeowners association is to make sure than an individual or group can not negatively affect the market value of property in the neighborhood.
• It discourages members who cause damage to the community. Since HOA is the one responsible for implementing rules and regulations, it can prevent disorderly behavior.

DISADVANTAGES:

• Recurring fees. Members have to pay for their monthly HOA fees. If you move in a place with HOA, membership is compulsory as well as the month or annual fees.
• If you want to change something or add up to your place or home, you can't just do it without letting the association know it first. It must be approved by the board before you can do some renovations or build something.
• You need to follow HOA rules, even if it's against your will.
• Foreclosure. If you can't pay HOA fees, they can or have the ability to foreclose your house.

Many things have to consider first before deciding if you want to be an HOA member or wants to live in an HOA community. Overall in having HOA, the advantages are a lot greater than disadvantages.