Living Under a Homeowners' Association

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.