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Peter Mohylsky, Beach Expert, Call me at 850-517-7098 (PMI. Destin)

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Debe Maxwell, CRS
Savvy + Company (704) 491-3310 - Charlotte, NC
The RIGHT CHARLOTTE REALTOR!

Generally, I am in favor.

However, I am not in favor of the residents giving complete authority to the management companies (that THEY hire) to rob them at the Closing table for processing paperwork (name changes, emailing financials or CC&Rs, etc.). Something needs to be done about that.

Aug 16, 2019 07:15 AM
Rainmaker
1,052,211
Candice A. Donofrio
Next Wave RE Investments LLC Bullhead City AZ Commercial RE Broker - Fort Mohave, AZ
928-201-4BHC (4242) call/text

I grew up in Southern California wayyy before Mello Roos and PUD overgrowth.

Many like me did not/do not want HOAs with 'Little Gestapos' w too much time on their hands walking around with magnifying glasses and tweezers to pull the wings off butterflies. So we get plenty of 'no HOA please' folks who want to move to rural/semi-rural living.

HOWEVER, the tradeoff is, you can do what you want, SO CAN YOUR NEIGHBORS. AND. We have MANY subdivisions (mine included) with no HOA BUT we still have CCRs. Agents neglect to tell homebuyers this subtle but critical truth. In the absence of an operating HOA, you complain to County if your neighbors are burning something noxious, loud dogs or music or working on 20 cars in their driveway.

Further, the additional and huge tradeoff is, plain fact HOA properties retain value better than the rest.

Also, this day and age, for better/worse there are large HOA management companies, many out of area that service these subdivisions and that eliminates some of the 'Napoleons' in local management but it also makes it very difficult to communicate with a voice/email out of LA or Florida where several are HQd.

So pick yer poison! In my neighborhood, WE SELF POLICE. And generally, it works.

Aug 16, 2019 09:01 AM
Rainmaker
1,502,998
Ryan Huggins - Thousand Oaks, CA
https://HugginsHomes.com - Thousand Oaks, CA
Residential Real Estate and Investment Properties

I dislike HOAs and try to avoid them whenever possible.  People always give the argument of "well someone could paint their house purple or have cars up on blocks in the front yard."  I have yet to see that happen in decades of living outside of an HOA.

 

Monthly fees make it harder for people to qualify for the loan.  If you get some knuckleheads on the HOA board (as happened around a sale of mine), they can make life painful for the rest of the members.  Generally no one wants to be on the HOA board, so if you're crazy enough to volunteer, you'll be there a long time.  Getting anything done in the front of your house is a PITA.  We had one flip where a tree died in the front yard. We had to get the approval of all of the neighbors AND the architectural committee in order to plant a replacement.  Took 3 different applications to find a tree everyone could agree on.  Don't even get me started on paint color!  Had to repaint one house because the prior owners painted it a color that was in the area but didn't file the appropriate paperwork with the HOA!

 

Communist China can take lessons from our HOAs!  Never will I buy a house to live in that has an HOA.

Aug 16, 2019 09:01 AM
Rainmaker
1,543,823
Thomas J. Nelson, REALTOR ® e-Pro CRS RCS-D Vets
Big Block Realty 858.232.8722 - La Jolla, CA
CEO of Vision Drive Realty - Coastal San Diego

It's ignorance (they don't do the math), inexperience (fear) or a bad experience (wounded) or lifestyle (in conflict with rules) that causes that.

I have lived in an HOA for 16 years, however I lived in single family homes for 34 years and still own them as rentals, but i truly enjoy where I live and the HOA makes life cheaper for me, while enjoying perks like a swimming pool, hot tub, club house, tennis court, roof maintenance,etc. I couldn't afford a house where I live, so an HOA allowed me to live in one of the best San Diego/La Jolla neighborhoods as a result. 

Aug 16, 2019 07:59 AM
Rainmaker
1,196,798
Doug Dawes
Keller Williams Evolution - 447 Boston Street, Suite #5, Topsfield, MA - Topsfield, MA
Your Personal Realtor®

We have an HOA in our neighborhood. It was established in 1954 but primarily have dues to cover the taxes on 2 pieces of common land. 1 being a pine grove and the other a private neighborhood beach on the Pond

Aug 16, 2019 07:17 AM
Rainmaker
1,725,996
Sandy Padula & Norm Padula, JD, GRI
HomeSmart Realty West & Florida Realty Investments - , CA
Presence, Persistence & Perseverance

HOAs can bring value provided the Incorporation docs provide checks and balances against power grabs by those thirsting for power and control.

Aug 16, 2019 07:12 AM
Rainmaker
1,712,676
Joe Pryor
The Virtual Real Estate Team - Oklahoma City, OK
REALTOR® - Oklahoma Investment Properties

As a rule I am for them.

Aug 16, 2019 07:11 AM
Rainmaker
5,772,575
Ron and Alexandra Seigel
Napa Consultants - Carpinteria, CA
Luxury Real Estate Branding, Marketing & Strategy

Peter,

We would not live in an HOA.  Fortunately, it is not the main thing here in our area.  Since we are in a no growth area, we do not aniticpate any.  A

Aug 16, 2019 07:53 AM
Rainmaker
226,922
John Van Hogen
Keller Williams Realty Professionals - Hillsboro, OR
Serving Sellers / Buyers / Investors 503-680-9390

Cat people vs. dog people...all depends on one's personal taste. Most clients with a strong opinion on HOAs are not open to change, and, in my experience, are a minority.  

Aug 16, 2019 02:38 PM
Rainer
182,915
Harjeet Bhatti
FITH THIRD BANK - Chicago, IL
Home Mortgage Consultant 25 States

I am in favor of HOA  as  a lender and personal opinion. The properties under HOA are in much better conditions compare to others.

Aug 16, 2019 01:20 PM
Rainmaker
1,751,129
Mike Cooper, Broker VA,WV
Cornerstone Business Group Inc - Winchester, VA
Your Neighborhood Real Estate Sales Pro

Peter, it is a common request that buyers want no HOAs in this area. They can keep the neighborhood from falling into disrepair, but I've seen a few that were like Nazis.

Aug 16, 2019 09:47 AM
Rainmaker
617,935
David Gibson CNE, 719-304-4684 ~ Colorado Springs Relocation
Colorado Real Estate Advisers LLC - Colorado Springs, CO
Relocation, Luxury & Lifestyle residential

I educate my clients and show them that all HOA’s are not alike.

Do the residents manage it or is there a professional management company in place?

What is the dues history? Escalating or stable?

Is the HOA involved in litigation or are their factors, such as a pool owned and managed by the HOA, that could cause the HOA to be sued?

What percentage of the properties are behind in paying their dues?

And a big item, what power does the HOA have to levy large special assessments and why might they do so?

There is much more but  to me, an HOA is a case by case basis.

 

Aug 16, 2019 08:21 AM
Rainmaker
469,510
Dan & Laurie Pittsenbarger Team
Keller Williams Western Realty - Bellingham, WA
Lakeside & Coastal Single Family Homes

In my opinion the non-HOA public is approximately 25 to 30% - that is my WAG simply based on the public that I work with. And even some of those end up being OK with some of the looser HOA neighborhoods. It all depends on what the HOA restrictions are and how those rules align with the buyer's desired lifestyle.

Aug 16, 2019 07:31 AM
Rainmaker
4,882,355
Richard Weeks
Dallas, TX
REALTOR®, Broker

It depends on the rules and regulations imposed by the HOA.

Aug 16, 2019 07:24 AM
Rainmaker
5,104,931
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Realtor

Personally, I wouldn't live in a community without an HOA.

Aug 16, 2019 07:19 AM
Rainer
321,564
Melissa Jackson REALTOR
Trinity Premier Properties - Azle, TX
Helping You Make The Right Move

Most of the buyers I deal with prefer not to live in a community with HOA. Although it could be good for resale and property values I have heard homeowner experiences vary depending on the chosen few that are in charge. Earlier this week I had a previous buyer tell me she wished there was a HOA in her community, she wouldn't mind paying.. because a younger family had a swimming pool in front yard for a few days & it didn't look good plus once removed the grass was dead. Subdivisions are popping up all over DFW and most have HOA. The fees are also outragous for buyers. I always suggest my clients get all the details and pricing before we get serious about any property. Some buyers won't view homes with HOA.
Personally I have never lived in a community with a HOA and never plan to purchase home within a HOA community.

Aug 16, 2019 09:37 PM
Rainmaker
2,071,025
Evelina Tsigelnitskaya
SIB Realty - Sunny Isles Beach, FL

Well, HOA or Condo, it is hard to controll where the money go

Aug 16, 2019 04:49 PM
Rainmaker
1,598,452
Valeria Mola
SIB Realty - Miami, Sunny Isles Beach - Sunny Isles Beach, FL
305-607-0709 SIB Realty Condos for Sale and Rent

I am with Debe Maxwell, CRS 

Aug 16, 2019 04:00 PM
Rainmaker
4,572,183
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

There is no shortage of differing opinions.  This is yet another example. Likely countless reasons. On both sides of the issue.

Aug 16, 2019 03:18 PM
Ambassador
6,393,494
Bob Crane
Woodland Management Service / Woodland Real Estate, KW Diversified - Stevens Point, WI
Forestland Experts! 715-204-9671

I have enough govt interference in my life already, not signing up for a pseudo govt agency to tell me to paint may mailbox and other silliness.

Aug 16, 2019 02:26 PM
Rainmaker
911,338
Jeff Pearl
RE/MAX Distinctive / LIC in VA - Lovettsville, VA
Full Service Full Time Realtor

Many people hate HOA's, and I've seen builders adverting " No HOA" in their marketing. I see many complains in facebook groups about HOA's constantly complaining and fining people.

Aug 16, 2019 01:27 PM
Rainmaker
711,852
Lynnea Miller
Bend Premier Real Estate - Bend, OR
Premier Real Estate Service in Central Oregon

We just lost a sale due to HOA restrictions on RV storage in the driveway - not permitted.  HOAs are not for everyone.

Aug 16, 2019 01:18 PM
Rainer
417,221
Caroline Gerardo
Licensed in 20 states - Newport Beach, CA
C. G. Barbeau the Loan Lady nmls 324982

HOA's - The Board are retired people who feel they never got the power and glory they deserve SO they are going to fine you for: leaving your garage door open more than an hour, putting up a kids basketball hoop in the cul de sac, repainting your house the exact same color without paying them, parking your Mom's car when she visits...  Charge you $1000 to transfer when you sell-  I posted online free to download many of the CCR's, bylaws, budgets for the ones that charge $1200 for these in my county, it's not right

Aug 16, 2019 10:48 AM
Rainmaker
5,583,278
Barbara Todaro
RE/MAX Executive Realty - Happily Retired - Franklin, MA
Previously Affiliated with The Todaro Team

every subdivision should have an HOA.... they're rare in my area....but they will eventually be a requirement with all new subdivisions.... 

Aug 16, 2019 10:31 AM
Rainmaker
1,513,143
Raymond E. Camp
Ontario, NY

We as an agent must be able to explain the pro's and cons to the client otherwise we are in trouble as well. especially since FHA is supposed to make it easier to buy townhomes.

Aug 16, 2019 10:11 AM
Rainmaker
2,390,620
Bob "RealMan" Timm
Ward County Notary Services - Minot, ND
Owner of Ward Co Notary Services retired RE Broker

I would NEVER enter into a HOA as I see them in the same light as time share operators when it comes to maintenance fees Peter Mohylsky, South Walton . I know there are good ones out there but it doesn't mean that after the next condo/HOA election it will still be a good conservative group in charge of the purse strings.

Aug 16, 2019 09:12 AM
Rainer
195,422
Karen Climer
Demetree School of Real Estate - Orlando, FL
Teaching people to pass the real estate exam

I do not have an HOA and hope to never live in a neighborhood with an HOA.  

Aug 16, 2019 09:01 AM
Rainmaker
1,311,397
John Juarez
The Medford Real Estate Team - Fremont, CA
ePRO, SRES, GRI, PMN

Buyers often look at HOA dues as an added expense. They do not realize that the HOA is responsible for making sure deferred maintenance does not come back and bite the owners as happens in many homes. Stuff happens and the HOA is there to fix it. Without an HOA, a homeowner can simply put off repairs and upkeep and the situation will only get worse.

Of course, the HOA must be well managed.

Aug 16, 2019 08:52 AM
Rainmaker
758,035
Peter Testa
Nationwide Homes - Danbury, CT
PETER TESTA

HOA's are a necessity in condo complexes & subdivisions. I don't see anyone disputing the need for them, the fees have just gone up so much that it's a turnoff. 

Aug 17, 2019 06:12 AM
Ambassador
3,125,842
Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!
Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT
St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent

In a planned community, it is best to have CCRs and more important to enforce diligently. Clients who want no part of that, live where their comfort level resides.

Aug 16, 2019 06:26 PM
Rainmaker
1,844,301
Lyn Sims
Schaumburg, IL
Real Estate Broker Retired

We have them here & no body is bothered with them. Over 55's are just a part of life. If you don't want to do the maintenance, then that's your choice & vice versa.

Some people are against other people telling them what to do with 'their' property. These are the same owners who paint their front door pink.

Aug 16, 2019 01:30 PM
Rainmaker
3,416,038
Scott Godzyk
Godzyk Real Estate Services - Manchester, NH
One of the Manchester NH's area Leading Agents

Here in NH there are many PUD "Planned unit developements" that have an HOA but are not condos. Typically a builder can build more houses on smaller lots and provide a great portion of the land as "green space". Usually the big difference is you use the lots as yours, can have a garden, pool, pets but rules exhist like no campers, boats or cars parked on your front lawn

Aug 16, 2019 01:29 PM
Ambassador
2,178,603
Carol Williams
Although I'm retired, I love sharing my knowledge and learning from other real estate industry professionals. - Wenatchee, WA
Retired Agent / Broker / Prop. Mgr, Wenatchee, WA

Take them through a junky area with no HOA.  We have some excellent examples in my town. 

Aug 16, 2019 01:12 PM
Ambassador
3,587,960
Anna "Banana" Kruchten
HomeSmart Real Estate - Phoenix, AZ
602-380-4886

Personally I am fine with HOA's. We live in an area with no HOA and honestly there is that 'one' neighbor that could care less about the homes appearance. Everyone else is great. Always 'that one', isn't there!!

Aug 16, 2019 10:40 AM
Rainmaker
5,216,409
Wayne Martin
Wayne M Martin - Chicago, IL
Real Estate Broker - Retired

There are some that are good and some that, well, are not so good. I generally think they have much to offer

Aug 16, 2019 10:39 AM
Rainmaker
921,504
Annette Lawrence , Palm Harbor, FL 727-420-4041
ReMax Realtec Group - Palm Harbor, FL
Making FLORIDA Real Estate EZ

Nyet.

Those searching for relevance in life find a safe harbor with an HOA in making the lives of others miserable.

Ask the mother of the soldier returning from war who installed a 'Welcome back Soldier' banner or the community of mothers who enjoyed an afternoon out by sharing babysitting duties. Those depleted of relevance in this life found some in the misery they inflicted on others.

Aug 16, 2019 10:16 AM
Ambassador
1,452,819
Susan Emo
Sotheby's International Realty Canada - Brokerage - Kingston, ON
Kingston and the 1000 Islands Area

I don't know if I've ever come across a HOA where I've lived in Canada.  They are not something we need or want up here.  I cannot imagine someone else placing rules on what can be done with your own property.  If someone wants to paint their front door pink, we would embrace it as it is THEIR door.  If you want more control over what you see out your windows, buy acreage!  Otherwise, keep your head down, eyes on your own paper and love thy neighbour.

Aug 17, 2019 04:37 AM
Rainmaker
2,182,552
Michael J. Perry
KW Elite - Lancaster, PA
Lancaster, PA Relo Specialist

There are also a lot of busy bodies who stir up trouble

Aug 17, 2019 04:15 AM
Rainmaker
5,868,554
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

I have had buyers request some neighborhoods without an HOA, but usually they have toys that are not allowed in covenant controlled areas.

Sep 11, 2019 09:06 AM
Ambassador
1,076,551
John Meussner
Mortgages in AZ, CA, CO, DE, FL, GA, IN, MD, MN, MT, NC, NJ, NV, OK, OR, PA, SC, SD, TN, TX, UT, VA, WI - Fair Oaks, CA
#MortgageMadeEasy Fair Oaks, CA 484-680-4852

I've seen a lot of properties with HOAs......the scary thing is, many of them collect checks and do little else to help anyone.  Some are great.  For buyers, they often don't know which they're getting into until after the fact.  I personally look down on HOAs when shopping

Aug 19, 2019 05:48 PM
Rainmaker
901,535
Carla Freund
Keller Williams Preferred Realty - Raleigh, NC
NC Real Estate Transition & Relocation 919-602-848

Most neighborhoods here have HOAs and even if they don't they may have recorded restrictions. They can be good as long as the ones in power don't get power hungry. There are certainly advantages of living in an HOA. However, not every buyer fits an HOA. For example, many HOAs ban high frequency radios. So, if the client is a Ham radio operator, then an HOA neighborhood is probably not for them. If they like tons of trinkets in their yard then an HOA may not be for them. If you want to keep junk cars in your yard, run an auto mechanic business (or any business), or keep trucks with company logos, an HOA may not be for you. You have to see it for the good it does and stay away if it doesn't fit your criteria.

Aug 18, 2019 02:43 AM
Rainer
378,517
Don Baker
Lane Realty - Eatonton, GA
Lake Sinclair Specialist

In my market HOAs are the exception and only out of town folks want areas wtih them.  

Aug 17, 2019 01:31 PM
Rainmaker
1,090,762
Diana Zaccaro Broker Associate
ZOOM Realty Group - Cocoa Beach, FL
"The Accidental Blogger" Cocoa Beach, Florida

That's a hard question to answer since not all HOAs are created equally and here we have subdivisions that are not HOAs but still have CCRs. I'm not sure about your comment that HOAs in subdivisions are different than those in condos, your area must be different than mine. HOAs/condos are best suited for people who want to simplify their life and are willing to give up a little to get a lot. Yes, you give up certain things and must agree to the rules (which are provided before purchase) but in return you don't have to do lawn and pool care, etc. 

It's interesting to note that here HOAs and condos are a huge part of the market and actually a selling point to retirees and our snowbirds and investors who like the convenience of it. 

It really comes down to the individual's perspective and temperament, some people can make the transition successfully, others can't.

 

Aug 17, 2019 12:34 PM
Ambassador
3,345,091
Kathleen Daniels, Probate & Trust Specialist
KD Realty - 408.972.1822 - San Jose, CA
Probate Real Estate Services

HOA's if run well serve a purpose. Some people like the "rules" and that is the benefit they are willing to pay for and others don't.  If an HOA is well managed I am all for one. 

Aug 17, 2019 07:48 AM
Rainmaker
1,239,901
Sam Shueh
(408) 425-1601 - San Jose, CA
mba, cdpe, reopro, pe

Just walk out of a new condo purchase because of $450 monthly HOA due for a small dog poo park.  That $450 is just a starter.

Aug 17, 2019 06:48 AM