Being part of a homeowners association can be worthwhile for some people, while it might not be the right fit for others. Whether it’s worth joining an HOA depends on your priorities.
Is an HOA Right for You?
It can make sense to join an HOA if you’re interested in shared amenities and clear community standards. However, if you prefer the freedom to do whatever you want with your property, then you may want to avoid HOAs.
To determine whether HOAs are worth it for you, run through the list of perks that an HOA could potentially offer, like security and amenities like pools and fitness centers. Then think about whether you’d be OK with paying regular dues for those perks, and following rules on things like exterior paint colors, pets, home maintenance, and more.
What Are HOA Fees?
The benefits from being part of an HOA come at a cost. You’ll need to pay regular HOA fees that cost about $200 to $300 per month for an average single-family home.
Keep in mind that the exact cost of your HOA dues varies based on the services provided, your location and the size of your home.
Pros and Cons of Homeowners Associations
Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of joining an HOA:
Pros and Cons of HOAs
| Advantages of HOAs | Disadvantages of HOAs |
| Services like landscaping, snow removal, and security. | Monthly dues. |
| Community standards that help maintain property values. | HOA fees can increase over time. |
| Amenities like pools, common green areas, and fitness centers. | Restrictions on what you can do. |
| HOAs can mediate conflicts between neighbors. | Fines and other consequences for breaking HOA rules. |
| Maintenance and repairs for shared spaces are covered. | Membership usually isn’t optional. |
