Should I avoid buying a house with high HOA fees?

How HOA fees should factor into your buying decision, and what additional information to look for.

Is It Legal for Dogs to Swim in the Condo Pool?

Find out what accommodations your condo owners are required to provide.

Our Homeowners' Association Keeps Adding More Rules; Can It Legally Do This?

The rules that were in place when you moved in may not be all the rules you end up living with.

Can the HOA stop me from using the common areas in my development?

Use of common spaces in an HOA community may come with its own rules and restrictions.

Can the HOA Stop Me From Using My Yard the Way I Want To?

That yard may not be "yours" in the first place!

Can my HOA tell me I can't fix my car in my driveway?

The HOA can tell you whatever is in its rules -- but check that it's interpreting the rules correctly!

Can my visiting friends and grandkids use the community pool and clubhouse?

The answer is a definite maybe! (And check your CC&Rs)

Can I rent my parking space to another homeowner in my development?

Your parking space may or not be "yours," and you'll have to research your HOA's rules on whether you can rent it out.

Can I sell my storage unit to another HOA homeowner?

Check your HOA's governing documents -- in most communities, storage units either cannot be separated from the property or aren't the homeowner's to sell in the first place.

With walls so thin, we hear neighbors' noise! Can we take action or sue the developer?

Dealing with noisy neighbors and flimsy walls in a common interest development.

Developer hasn't planted trees, and my view is of dirt -- what can I do?

If you were promised landscaping, the developer or HOA has an obligation to provide it.

Is It Fair for My HOA to Prohibit My Grandson From Using the Pool?

Whether an "Adult-Use Only" pool might violate federal or state discrimination laws, or be otherwise impermissible.

Shouldn't My HOA Have to Pay for My Wheelchair Ramp?

Understanding what federal housing laws require by way of accommodations for disabilities.

Can My Condo Association Stop An Owner From Smoking Marijuana?

If it's legal to smoke marijuana in your area, can condo owners take action against marijuana smoke drifting into their unit from neighboring units?

FAQs About Disputes With Condo or Homeowner Association

Living in a community of shared rules and obligations comes with stresses and sometimes serious disagreements.

Do I really have to pay the “flip tax” resale fee when I sell my condo?

I bought a condominium in a homeowner’s association a few years back.

Who pays for maintenance of common areas in a Washington townhome with no HOA?

I am thinking about buying a zero-lot line townhome. There appear to be common areas within the townhouse development, such as a pool, clubhouse, garden, and parking area.

Must I Pay HOA Dues and Assessments for Common Areas I'm Not Using?

Your obligation to pay HOA fees does not depend on how much, or little, you use the common areas.

What insurance do I need if I rent out my home in a development?

You'll need to make sure that a combination of insurance policies are in place to protect you.

What Happens If I Don't Pay the HOA Special Assessment?

As long as the HOA was acting within its powers, your nonpayment could potentially result in late fees, prohibition on use of common areas, and a lien on your property.

How can we stay involved in HOA decisions while renting out our home?

Designating someone as your HOA proxy might help you stay involved in your community and its decision-making while you're away.

No One Has Time to Volunteer for HOA Board -- Can We Pay Them?

When it's legal for HOA or community association board members to begin compensating themselves for their service to the community.