15 Must-Ask Questions Before Buying a Home in an HOA Community: What Every Buyer Needs to Know

Buying a home in a neighborhood governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA) can offer many perks, from well-maintained amenities to enhanced property values. But before signing on the dotted line, it’s crucial to ask the right questions. Doing so can prevent costly surprises and ensure the community aligns with your lifestyle, financial goals, and future plans.

Here are the most important questions every homebuyer should ask before buying in an HOA:

What Are the HOA Fees, and What Do They Cover?

HOA fees vary significantly by community. Some might be as low as $50/month, while others can be several hundred dollars. Ask:

• How much are the dues?

• Are they paid monthly, quarterly, or annually?

• What services are included? (e.g., landscaping, trash, security, amenities)

• Are there amenities you’ll be paying for that you may not use?

Are There Any Upcoming Fee Increases or Special Assessments?

It’s not just about current fees—you also need to know if increases are on the horizon. Special assessments are one-time charges used to fund major repairs or improvements. Ask:

• When were fees last increased?

• Are any increases scheduled?

• Have there been special assessments in the past?

• What triggers a special assessment, and who approves it?

What Are the Community Rules and Restrictions?

Every HOA has governing documents, often referred to as CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions). These outline:

• Exterior appearance standards (e.g., paint colors, landscaping)

• Rules about pets, home-based businesses, parking, noise, and more

• Holiday decoration rules and limitations on items like flags or lawn signs

Request a copy of these rules before committing to a property.

What Are the Penalties for Rule Violations?

Understanding how the HOA enforces rules helps avoid future frustrations. Ask:

• How are violations handled?

• What are the fines for common infractions?

• Is there an appeals process if you feel you’ve been unfairly cited?

Is the HOA Financially Healthy?

A well-managed HOA should have a detailed budget and a reserve fund for emergencies. You should:

• Review the most recent financial statements

• Ask about the size and adequacy of the reserve fund

• Check the percentage of residents who are delinquent on dues

A financially unstable HOA may struggle to maintain the neighborhood or issue surprise assessments to cover shortfalls.

Who Manages the HOA?

Some HOAs are self-managed by a board of residents, while others hire professional management companies. Important questions include:

• Who is on the board, and how are they elected?

• Is there a management company, and what’s their role?

• How responsive is the HOA to resident concerns?

Are There Rental or Leasing Restrictions?

If you plan to rent out the home in the future, it’s essential to know the HOA’s stance. Some HOAs:

• Ban short-term rentals (like Airbnb)

• Require leases to be a minimum length (e.g., 6 or 12 months)

• Limit the number of homes that can be rented in the community

What Is the Process for Making Home Improvements?

Most HOAs require homeowners to seek approval for changes to the exterior of their property. Ask:

• What kind of changes need approval?

• How do you apply for modifications?

• Are there limits on paint colors, fencing, solar panels, or additions?

What Is the Community’s Maintenance History?

Find out how well the HOA maintains shared amenities and infrastructure. You can ask:

• When were major repairs (like road paving or pool upgrades) last done?

• Are any large projects upcoming?

• How is maintenance funded—via reserves or assessments?

Are There Rules About Vehicles and Parking?

HOAs often have detailed parking rules. Common questions include:

• How many vehicles can be parked in the driveway or street?

• Are RVs, boats, or trailers allowed?

• Is guest parking available?

What About Pets?

Pet policies vary. Even if pets are allowed, there may be restrictions on:

• Breed or weight

• Number of pets per household

• Where pets can be walked

• Waste clean-up rules

What Happens If You Sell Your Home?

Ask whether there are restrictions that could impact resale. Questions might include:

• Are there any fees for buyers or sellers?

• Do buyers need to be approved by the board?

• Are there rules about “For Sale” signs?

What’s the Community Culture Like?

Talk to neighbors or attend a board meeting before buying. Try to get a sense of:

• How involved and responsive the HOA is

• Whether the board is open to homeowner input

• The overall satisfaction of current residents

Can I Review the HOA Documents Before Buying?

You should always request copies of:

• CC&Rs

• Bylaws

• Financials (budget, reserves)

• Recent board meeting minutes

Reading these will give you a clear picture of how the HOA functions and what to expect.  If you are working with a REALTOR® they can get you all the information you are needing. 

Does the HOA Offer Community Events or Amenities?

HOAs often organize events or provide amenities that foster a sense of community. Ask about:

• Pools, parks, gyms, and clubhouses

• Events such as BBQs, holiday parties, or community garage sales

• Security measures or gated access if applicable

What Are Red Flags to Watch For?

Here are signs the HOA may not be well-managed:

• Low or depleted reserve funds

• Frequent special assessments

• High delinquency rates

• Lots of resident complaints or legal disputes

FAQ: Common Questions About HOAs

What is an HOA? An HOA (Homeowners Association) is an organization that manages and enforces rules for a residential community. It typically maintains shared spaces and amenities and collects dues from residents.

Are HOA fees mandatory? Yes, if you buy a home in an HOA community, you are legally obligated to pay the dues and follow the community rules.

Can I refuse to join the HOA? Not if the home is in an existing HOA. Membership is usually automatic when you buy the property.

Can a HOA foreclose on your home? Yes, in some states, HOAs can foreclose if you don’t pay dues or comply with rules. It depends on state laws and the HOA’s governing documents.

Are HOA rules legally enforceable? Yes. When you purchase a home in an HOA, you agree to abide by the CC&Rs. These rules are enforceable like any legal contract.

Final Thoughts

HOAs can offer structure, community benefits, and property protection—but they also come with responsibilities and potential limitations. By asking these key questions upfront, you can make an informed decision that supports both your lifestyle and financial goals.

Dekota Oechsle

With a decade of experience in commercial construction and a degree in construction management, I bring a unique perspective to my work as a REALTOR® and real estate investor. Specializing in residential, land, and investment properties, I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate the complexities of the real estate market.

What drives me is more than just transactions; it’s the relationships I build along the way. I believe in serving my clients with integrity and providing detailed, clear communication to ensure they feel confident every step of the way. My passion for real estate, combined with my extensive knowledge of construction, allows me to offer insights that are both practical and strategic.

I am committed to creating a positive experience for my clients, whether they are first-time homebuyers or seasoned investors. Together, we can turn your real estate goals into reality.

I’m here to assist you with your real estate needs; you can reach me at

770-268-0907 or via email at [email protected].