First Time Home Buyers Considering an HOA: What You Should Know

It is the desire of almost every person, especially younger families, to own a place they can call home. There are many decisions to make during the home-buying process and one of them is the decision whether or not to purchase into a community with a homeowners association (HOA). Our Scottsdale HOA management company at City Property Management is one of the companies that you can look for when you want to get a home in a homeowner association. This article highlights the key things to note before you buy a house that has a Scottsdale HOA management company so that you will be able to make the best choice when considering your first home.

Understand the HOA Covenants and Bylaws

Homeowners associations have governing documents that dictate rules and restrictions for the community. Due to this, Scottsdale HOA management companies have rules that govern the way they can provide services. Ensure that you read these governing documents and understand them so that you can determine whether you will be able to abide by them or not. For example, you could be happy with rules that prevent your neighbors from building a structure on your property line. However, these same rules could also limit you from setting up a basketball hoop where your kids can practice their jump shots. This is why considering the governing documents is so important prior to buying a home in a Scottsdale HOA.

Seek to Know the Monthly Fees and What They Cover

Remember that an HOA requires monthly fees on top of and separate from your mortgage or property taxes. These fees go to community projects and maintaining common facilities and amenities. Consider these fees and what it could cost you in addition to your other fixed costs and see if the HOA home is still in your budget. Before you make a move, ensure that you fully understand your responsibilities to avoid potential problems in the future.

How the Board Works

You may also consider getting to know the kind of people who sit on the community’s board of directors. You can start by reaching out to the Scottsdale HOA management company who is managing the community to gain a better understanding. Knowing them and their expectations of the residents can help you decide if you have the type of personality that would or wouldn’t mind living in a community safeguarded by different rules and regulations.

The Bottom Line

Are you ready to become a homeowner? If you understand that rules are put in place to ensure things run smoothly, then a Scottsdale HOA may just be the best channel for you to own a home. Feel free to request any information from a potential HOA so that you don’t encounter any problems when finalizing your new home purchase. Make sure to also find out if your HOA is managed by our Scottsdale management company at City Property Management. For more information, you can visit our website or contact us.

What Can Happen When a Homeowner Doesn’t Pay HOA Fees
Where You Can Find Your HOA Bylaws in Gilbert