10 Points to Know about Homeowners Associations

Understanding HOAs in Denton County and North Fort Worth

Homeowners’ Associations (HOAs) often come with misconceptions, but they exist for a very good reason. They play a pivotal role in enhancing community living and creating an ordered and peaceful daily life for their residents. If you’re considering a new home in Denton County or the far North Fort Worth area, it’s essential to understand what an HOA is and how it can impact your living experience.

What is an HOA?

An HOA is a governing body for a residential real estate community, typically found in planned neighborhoods, new home communities, condominium developments, and townhouse complexes. These organizations are usually run by a Board of Directors, often composed of community residents who are elected to their positions. The board’s role is to set and enforce the community rules and manage the communal property.

Services Provided by an HOA

In exchange for communal dues, an HOA offers a wide variety of services designed to promote a harmonious living environment and raise the lifestyle standard for all community members. This can include the following:

• Maintenance and Upkeep: Many HOAs take responsibility for maintaining the community’s common areas and facilities, which can include landscaping, repairs, and upkeep of all shared spaces.
• Community Events and Activities: Additionally, some HOAs organize social events, activities, and programs that foster community engagement and provide residents with opportunities to connect and socialize.
• Dispute Resolution: HOAs can play an active role in resolving disputes between neighbors, especially those related to property and community rules. This structured approach to conflict resolution helps maintain peace and order within the community.
• Security and Noise Management: HOAs make sure common areas are well lit and that community amenities are secured with appropriate locks and cameras where necessary. They may also handle noise and disturbance complaints within the community.

What is an HOA Community?

An HOA community is a neighborhood of homes that is designed around the lifestyle and benefits afforded by the management and oversight of an HOA. These HOAs in these communities are typically managed by companies who specialize in providing this service. Pecan Square by Hillwood in Northlake, Texas is one such HOA community whose residents can enjoy the amenities and lifestyle that come with living in a community managed by the friendly, experienced people at FirstService Residential.

Benefits of Living in an HOA Community

Living in an HOA community comes with a unique set of advantages that contribute to a higher quality of life including:

• Access to Quality Amenities: One of the most significant benefits of HOA communities is access to premium amenities. These can include swimming pools, fitness centers, clubhouses, and recreational areas.
• Enhanced Community Appearance: HOAs maintain strict standards for property appearance, ensuring that each home and its surroundings are well-kept. This not only creates an aesthetically pleasing environment but also contributes to a sense of pride among residents, increasing property values by as much as 15-20%.
• Increased Property Values: Homes in HOA communities often retain their value or appreciate more than those in non-HOA neighborhoods, thanks to the consistent maintenance and stable management provided by HOAs. According to a study conducted at George Mason University, properties within HOAs appreciate at a faster rate compared to those outside of such communities.
• Lifestyle Programs: HOA communities with lifestyle programs increase community engagement and social opportunities for residents by organizing social events, clubs, fitness classes, workshops, community service opportunities, and more. This fosters a strong sense of community and belonging and can be particularly beneficial for new residents looking to establish connections in their new neighborhood.

Do You Have to Join an HOA?

In many new home communities (like Pecan Square), membership in the HOA is automatic upon purchasing your home. This automatic enrollment is typically outlined in the property’s deed restrictions and is a binding part of the home purchase agreement.

Understanding Mandatory HOA Membership

• Binding Agreement: In communities with mandatory HOAs, the agreement to join and abide by the HOA’s rules is tied to the property itself. This means that anyone who purchases a home in the community is legally obligated to become a member of the HOA.
• Consistent Standards: Mandatory membership ensures that all residents contribute to and benefit from the community’s standards and amenities.
• Financial Obligations: As a member of an HOA, homeowners are required to pay regular dues or assessments.
• Participation in Governance: Membership often comes with the right to participate in the HOA’s governance, such as voting in board elections or on community issues. This gives homeowners a say in the decisions that affect their community.

What Are Some Common HOA Rules?

HOAs establish rules to maintain the community’s aesthetics and harmony and foster a sense of wellbeing. These may include:

• General rules
  • Home and yard maintenance standards
  • Pet waste disposal rules
  • Noise regulations
• Architectural standards and guidelines
• Usage rules for community amenities (such as pools)
• Rental policies for community facilities

HOA Fees: What Do They Cover?

HOA fees typically cover amenities, community upkeep, lifestyle programs, community insurance, and employee salaries. In some cases, special assessments may be levied for unexpected expenses (like those arising from accidents or weather events).

How Much are HOA Fees?

Simply put, HOA fees can vary significantly depending on the communities they apply to. Factors such as the size and type of property, community amenities, and the community’s location and financial health can all affect the fees.

For specific details on the fee structure at Pecan Square, including how it’s calculated based on property size and the amenities included, residents and prospective buyers can refer to the Pecan Square HOA page. This resource provides a transparent breakdown of fees and what they cover, helping homeowners understand their financial commitments to the community.

Can You Pay HOA Fees in Advance?

Yes, some HOAs do allow advance payment of fees, offering convenience and financial planning benefits to their members.

Are HOA Dues Tax Deductible?

Generally, HOA dues are not tax-deductible. However, there can be exceptions, especially if you use part of your home for business purposes.

Discover Pecan Square’s HOA

If you’re looking for an exemplary HOA experience, look no further than Pecan Square by Hillwood. Our professionally managed HOA offers meaningful perks, including:

• Front yard maintenance for 40’ rear entry homes, 70’ rear entry homes and townhomes
• Beautifully landscaped common areas
• Exceptional amenities
• The Canopy Technology bundle
• A vibrant lifestyle program
• Frontier 500/500 Internet

To learn more about Pecan Square by Hillwood, stop by the Greeting House today – we’d love to take you on a community tour! Our builders have available inventory and many are offering incentives! Browse for your new home online, then visit the builder’s models to learn more about special offers.