[Profile.market2] Real Estate Expert [Profile.full_name] Discusses HOAs- Pros And Possible Cons

Looking at [Profile.market2] homes can be exciting and exhausting at the same time.  There is so much to consider and you have to make sure you're making the right decision.  So how much importance do things like HOAs count? Well, more than you think.

HOAs, or homeowners associations, are the governing force in a neighborhood.  They are the ones that establish the rules and make sure that they are kept.  In the event that one of the rules is broken, whether innocently or on purpose, they issue the punishment that goes with the infraction.

The purpose behind the need for these agencies is to maintain a certain standard in the neighborhood and to protect property values.  Without some kind of jurisdiction people could feel free to neglect their properties and cause disruptions that would create a bad element and bring down property values.  No one wants to live in a neighborhood where the yards are not kept up or homeowners disrespect their neighbors by piling junk in full view.  It brings the quality of the area down along with the morale.

When used fairly and honestly these groups basically maintain neighborhoods and police the yards.  Some of the rules that they may enforce are: what colors you are allowed to paint your home, where to install fences and what kind are allowed, and how many and what kind of animals someone may have.  This may sound outlandish until you come home from work one night and the house across the street is now a neon pink color.

Before buying you can find out what the HOA fees are for the neighborhood you are interested in and more importantly, what the rules are.  What does the HOA fees usually cover? Commonly, it is for amenities like a pool and tennis courts but some neighborhoods may not have these things or may have additional things like security, cable, internet, etc.  If the money is to upkeep the neighborhood entrance and street lights throughout then make sure it is being well spent. Just because there is an HOA doesn't necessarily mean they are doing their job.

Another thing to consider is if the fees are mandatory or voluntary.  This could be crucial.  If everyone is not encouraged to pay their share then the rest may have increased fees to cover the shortage.  I wouldn't go into a neighborhood if the fees are voluntary.  Mandatory fees is the fairest and most ethical way to handle HOA fees.  The looks of the neighborhood will tell you if there is an HOA, and if they are enforcing the guidelines.  After all, you want to make sure that you get what you are paying for.

In addition, check to see how many homeowners are behind on their HOA fees or how many homes are in foreclosure.  The more homes that are in foreclosure, the worse the neighborhood will look and the more you might have to pay.

To get more info on whether an HOA is right for you, contact [Profile.market2] real estate professional [Profile.full_name] at [Profile.cell_phone].  For everything Cape Coral Real Estate, visit my websites at www.livingincapecoralnow.com and www.dancraddock.com.

Have a Prosperous Day!