Homeowners associations can govern several different types of residences, and each organization’s structure is bound to be different. If you’re moving from a single-family home HOA in Phoenix, AZ to a condominium association, for example, it may be run much differently from what you’re used to. Generally, this is due to the differences in what kind of upkeep an HOA member is responsible for, as opposed to the HOA itself. The following is an overview of the main types of HOA communities and what to expect from each.
Single-family home HOAs
Single-family home HOAs in Phoenix, AZ have the least amount of responsibility for repairs and maintenance. Homeowners take care of their own home and yard maintenance, but the HOA covers shared spaces like clubhouses, pools, parks and other neighborhood amenities.
The HOA may not play a major part in a homeowner’s daily life, other than keeping yards and exteriors up to the HOA’s standards—that’s part of an effort to maintain the community’s property values, so the HOA has authority.
If you prefer owning a home with some community standards, but without the level of involvement you’d see from a condo or townhome HOA, a single-family home might be right for you. However, be sure to read the covenants carefully to ensure you’re willing to undertake the maintenance and exterior requirements you do have. For many, the benefits of an HOA outweigh the rules, but some owners prefer to have total control over their property.
Condominium and townhome HOAs
Condominium and townhome HOAs are much more involved, largely due to the nature of their structures. Condos and townhomes often share walls, roofs and yards as well as common areas. The HOA fees cover maintenance and repair to these shared spaces—for example, your dues will pay the landscapers to mow the lawn regularly, or to repair the roof if it springs a leak. That’s important to keep the building and grounds in good shape, and it divides the cost among residents.
The idea behind this type of HOA is to evenly distribute costs that you’d have to manage if you lived in a single-family home, while ensuring equal rights for each resident. HOAs can regulate many shared interests, such as garbage collection, pet policies, new construction and renovations and even elevator maintenance. Nearly every condominium or townhome you buy will be part of a homeowners association, whereas there are plenty of single-family neighborhoods without this kind of governance.
HOAs typically enforce rules with fines and other penalties, while unpaid dues may result in serious consequences such as a lien placed on the property. If you’re unsure about what to expect from a potential homeowners association, be sure to visit their website in Phoenix, AZ to check out the rules and restrictions.
Are you in need of an experienced team to manage your homeowners association? Thrive Community Management wants to help you build a happy and stable community. Reach out today to get started or learn more about our services.