If you've bought a condo, townhome, or other home in a new subdivision, common interest development (CID), planned unit development (PUD), or co-op, chances are good that you also automatically became a member of a homeowners' association, or HOA. That offers many advantages, in terms of the HOA attending to maintenance of green space and common areas, and making sure that all members abide by the various rules of the HOA, pay their dues, and maintain the overall quality of the community. Of course, abiding by those rules and paying the dues and other assessments can be a source of conflict, too. Learn more here.
What Are in the Basic Governing Documents of an HOA
Overview of basic documents that guide how an HOA is run and what owners must abide by.
Before Buying: How to Read the CC&Rs or Homeowners' Association (HOA) Documents
Taking a closer look at what's in your HOA's governing and other relevant docs.
HOA Homeowners' Use and Responsibility for Common Areas
Outside of your own unit, it's worth finding out what you're allowed to use and what you must bear part of the expense for.
Newly Built Houses: Pros and Cons of Buying
Buying a new home isn't for everyone -- learn about their pluses and minuses here.
Homeowners' Associations (HOAs) and CC&Rs: Know What You're Getting Into
Before you buy a house in a development, understand what sort of restrictions you might have to live with.
Will the HOA Enforce Community Rules and Regulations Against You?
If you break the homeowners' association rules, you might have to deal with fines, liens, and various other consequences.
Can Homeowners Make the HOA Enforce a Rule?
You bought real estate in a planned community expecting that everyone would be required to follow the rules—but what if they're not doing so?
What Owners Can Do If HOA Common Areas Are Not Maintained
Steps homeowners can take if the HOA is falling down on the job of maintaining the property.
When You Must Allow an HOA Representative to Enter Your Unit
Unlike with single-family homes, HOA community representatives may have the right to enter your dwelling space under certain circumstances.
Want to Enlarge Your HOA Home? Rights and Limitations
Unless you want to risk tearing down your work, check out all HOA rules and regulations about building and expansion before you begin.
Can Your HOA Prohibit You From Flying Your Favorite Flag?
Whether it's a rainbow flag or a Halloween pumpkin, your HOA rules may validly prohibit it; but watch out for discriminatory or uneven enforcement.
What Happens When Fellow Owners Don't Pay HOA Dues
When homeowners don't pay HOA dues, everyone is affected; find out what you can do.
Why an HOA Needs Sufficient Cash Reserves
Large expenses are to be expected in a development, and homeowners must cover the costs, one way or another.
How High an HOA Association Can Raise Dues or Assessments
An HOA can typically raise dues as much as it needs to in order to meet its annual budget, with some exceptions.
When HOA Associations Can Impose Special Assessments
Dealing with financial surprises from your homeowner's association based on emergency property needs.
Can I Rent Out My House in a Community Governed by a Homeowners' Association?
Your homeowners’ association (HOA) may have strict rules and restrictions--or a flat-out prohibition--regarding rentals.
What's Involved With Serving on the Board of a Homeowners' Association
Learn what's involved with serving on the board of your homeowners' association or HOA.
Liability of HOA Board Members for Personal Injuries on the Property
Learn about your personal liability when serving on your homeowners' association board.
Fiduciary Duties of HOA Board Members
How to protect yourself and limit your liability when serving on the board of your homeowners' association.
What HOAs Need to Know About D&O Insurance
Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance is a must for homeowner associations to make sure board members don't face personal liability.
Hiring and Working with a Property Manager in an HOA
What HOA board members need to know before choosing a property management firm.
Challenging an HOA Decision: Must I Pay the Attorney Fees?
Who pays attorney fees may depend upon who wins the lawsuit!
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.
Our Homeowners' Association Keeps Adding More Rules; Can It Legally Do This?
The rules that were in place when you moved into your condo might not be all the rules you end up living with.
Can the HOA Stop Me From Using My Yard the Way I Want To?
That yard may not be "yours" in the first place! Learn how townhomes and similar developments can restrict changes to landscaping.