My friend, Gary Waters, from Rockledge, FL writes an informative post with regards to selecting your HOA Board. This information holds true for Charlotte NC homeowners as well.
I recently posted about being 'neighborly' in your Charlotte communities when your neighbor is selling their home. The price which they garner on their home can and oftentimes IS, a direct result of your home and lawn maintenance. So often, when HOA's step in to request that maintenance or landscaping be done, a homeowner responds with the, "You can't tell me what to do" attitude. These homeowners don't take into consideration that the appearance of their home and lawn is directly reflected in the sales price of their neighbors home, thereby affecting their own home values.
HOAs are a GOOD thing for homeowners. Read your CC&R's (Conditions, Covenants and Restrictions) and any By-Laws associated with the community in which you're about to purchase. This step can save you time and trouble down the road, after the purchase.
Say "homeowner association" (HOA) and the first thing many think of is - rules!
And many see these rules as a positive. Most associations have architectural restrictions that may keep your neighbor from painting their house a bright yellow chartreuse, for instance.
Association rules (as well as city ordinances) can restrict the use of a home. Some associations restrict the type of vehicle you may have on your driveway overnight. Some limit the rental use of your property – like never, or establish minimum lease periods. Some may require tenant screening and approval as well. And lets not forget the yard!
Associations are made up of people. And people do not always get along.
Having lived in developments with and without associations I tend to believe they are a good thing. It is up to each buyer to decide for themselves.
Here are a couple of posts that may be helpful."You ain't the boss of me!" To live with homeowner associations and deed restrictions or not?
Deed Restrictions, Homeowner Associations and the like... Help or Obstacle?
In Florida, before you purchase any place…if there is an association – read the rules and bylaws. Ask to speak to members of the Board of Directors, the association manager, attend an HOA meeting if it is allowed, review the latest financial statement. I would inquire about how many owners are dilinquent on dues as this may impact a later increase.
In Viera, Suntree and many of the newer areas in Brevard County, you will find homeowner associations are not an option!
The reality is....
As long as you own a home in a development with an association, you are going to either be hindered, oppressed, stressed, harassed or protected by belonging to a homeowner association.Gary L. Waters PLLC, Florida licensed real estate agent, Century 21 Baytree Realty, Rockledge, Florida serving Florida's Space Coast including the cities and communities of Melbourne, Viera, Rockledge, Suntree, Merritt Island, Cocoa Beach and the surrounding region.
Read my blogs Florida Homes for Sale, Moving to Brevard County, Florida, and Brevard County Florida Real Estate Information.
(THE best Charlotte home search available - no kidding!)
Debe Maxwell, CRS/Realtor®/Broker
Broker@TheCharlotteScoop.com
Phone (704) 491-3310
