If there’s anything most people know about homeowners’ associations (HOAs), it’s that there are rules to follow and dues to pay. This is true, but hear us out: those rules and regulations are actually a good thing. These guidelines are intended to make your community a happy, stress-free place to live. Homebuyers seeking peaceful, comfortable living not only in their home, but also in their community, might be surprised by everything an HOA offers. It may be Home Sweet HOA for you!
Designed to provide homeowners with a better living experience, here are the top six benefits of living in a neighborhood with an HOA.
- Your property value remains consistent. One of the main reasons people buy into an HOA is the consistent property values. Purchasing a home is a significant investment; however, you never know what may change your home’s worth. Part of a board of directors’ job is to ensure that investment maintains its value. All homeowners must comply with the rules related to the upkeep of their lawns, homes, and personal property. Similarly, the board is responsible for overseeing other parts of the association and being involved in what happens inside and outside the community.
- A board works hard to engage homeowners in the community. They know that the strength of a community is in its members, and there’s no better way to create a sense of community than to offer opportunities for homeowners to get involved. RSVP “yes” to the picnic, attend a board meeting, or serve on a committee. Participate in the fun stuff or dive into the operational side; getting in on the action allows you to meet neighbors, build personal bonds, and do good for your community.
- You can make friends. The biggest emotional perk is a feeling of belonging. Whether it’s a condominium or a master-planned community, you, your neighbors, and your board of directors are in it together. Collectively, you’ve invested in the neighborhood, live in it, and may hope to see it thrive as much as others around you. Residents usually have similar goals for the community and similar lifestyles, too. This makes forming friendships an effortless endeavor—especially for people who have relocated to a new area and don’t have the convenience of close friends or family nearby.
- The amenities support your lifestyle—wherever you are in life. Walking paths, pools, recreational areas, gyms, and parks are featured in many single-family communities. Some high-rises or active-adult communities may boast more luxurious options like spas, a concierge, restaurants, and car services. Young adults may appreciate car-charging stations and a dog park, while seniors might be drawn to a development with a bocce court and garden.
- The rules in place help you sleep peacefully. There are guidelines that all homeowners and board members must comply with, and buyers should make themselves familiar with the governing documents before signing on the dotted line. Typically, associations won’t tolerate unruly behavior—whether it’s a loud late-night party in a neighbor’s backyard or a clear disregard for architectural rules. While you’re encouraged to report a violation, you can rest knowing you don’t have to enforce a violation. With the support of a board, you can get on with your day-to-day and let leaders handle the tough situations. They’ll get to the bottom of things, mediate disputes, and implement the appropriate consequences.
- Someone (not you) is looking out for the maintenance of common areas. A maintained community isn’t only nice to look at, but also easy to live in. For some HOAs, maintenance is at the top of their contracted services. A clean and attractive neighborhood offers a feeling of Zen and helps sustain the well-being of the community. When maintenance services are taken care of, HOA living is just a little bit sweeter. Home Sweet HOA!
Beth Brake REALTOR® 214-769-2947
Positively impacting your life as you move toward your dreams.