When you're planning to buy a home, your focus is likely on mortgage rates, home prices, and how much you’ll need for a down payment. But there’s another factor that can impact your monthly budget—homeowners association (HOA) fees.
Not every home comes with an HOA, but many do—especially in newer or planned communities. Understanding how they work can help you decide whether an HOA neighborhood fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
What Is an HOA, and What Does It Do?
A homeowners association (HOA) is an organization that manages shared spaces and enforces community rules. These can include everything from maintaining common areas and landscaping to setting architectural guidelines and restrictions on exterior changes.
While some buyers see HOAs as a great way to protect their investment and ensure neighborhood quality, others may view them as an added cost or limitation. The key is understanding what you're paying for—and whether the tradeoff makes sense for your lifestyle.
The Benefits of Living in an HOA Community
According to Keeping Current Matters, if you’ve ever admired a community’s pristine landscaping, clean streets, or consistent curb appeal, chances are there’s an HOA working behind the scenes. Here are some of the top reasons why homeowners appreciate HOA communities:
✅ Neighborhood Maintenance: HOAs typically handle upkeep for landscaping, common areas, sidewalks, and snow removal, helping preserve the neighborhood’s overall look.
✅ Built-In Amenities: Some communities include access to perks like swimming pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, or even private security—bundled into your HOA fee and often saving you money compared to outside memberships.
✅ Protecting Property Values: By enforcing community standards, HOAs help prevent neglect or disruptive changes, which can protect the value of your home over time.
✅ Reduced Personal Maintenance: In certain neighborhoods, HOA dues may cover things like exterior repairs, roof maintenance, or pest control—especially in condos or townhome communities.
How Common Are HOA Fees?
HOA fees aren’t universal, but they’re more common than ever. According to The Wall Street Journal, over 80% of newly built single-family homes in the U.S. are now part of an HOA. And it’s not just new construction—plenty of resale homes are located in HOA-governed neighborhoods as well.
In fact, Axios reported that about 4 in 10 U.S. homes had an HOA in 2024.
How Much Do HOA Fees Cost?
Costs can vary widely based on location, amenities, and services. Some HOAs charge monthly, while others bill quarterly or annually.
For reference, Realtor.com noted that the median HOA fee in 2024 was $125 per month—though fees in amenity-rich or luxury communities can be much higher.
Before making an offer on a home, be sure to ask your agent whether the property has an HOA, what the current dues are, and exactly what those fees cover.
As Realtor.com’s Chief Economist Danielle Hale puts it:
“When considering a home with an HOA, buyers should work to understand what benefits it provides—like maintenance, security, or communal amenities—and how the HOA fees factor into their overall budget.”
Is Living in an HOA Community Right for You?
For some buyers, HOA living is a huge benefit. For others, it may feel restrictive or unnecessary. What matters most is that you choose what works best for your needs, priorities, and financial situation.
Before you buy:
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Read the HOA’s rules and financial documents
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Evaluate what services are included
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Consider how the dues will impact your monthly budget
HOA fees can offer real value—but only if they align with your lifestyle and financial goals. Whether you’re searching in a newer development or a resale community, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons.
Not sure whether an HOA or non-HOA home is right for you? Let’s talk. I’ll guide you through the pros and cons so you can make the most informed—and confident—decision for your future home.
Source: Keeping Current Matters
