Homeowners Association (HOA) fees are a common part of living in a planned community, but they can raise a lot of questions—what they include, how much they are, and who decides them. Chris Hawkes, President of West & Woodall Property Management, shares key insights to help homeowners understand how these fees work and how to make the most of their HOA membership.

An HOA is typically created by a developer and then turned over to the residents, who elect a board of directors to oversee the community. This board operates under a set of rules called covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs). Chris notes that while the bylaws summarize these rules, “If in doubt, check the CC&R.”

The board includes officers such as a president, vice president, treasurer, and secretary. They manage community operations—everything from budgeting and planning to hiring vendors and reviewing maintenance contracts. Many associations also work with a professional management company for support.

Because every community is different, it’s important to review the CC&R before purchasing a home in a neighborhood with an HOA.

What HOA Fees Typically Cover

HOA fees help fund the day-to-day and long-term needs of the neighborhood. Amounts vary based on the amenities and services provided, and they may be billed monthly or annually. In general, the more amenities a neighborhood offers—like pools, clubhouses, or walking trails—the higher the cost.

Here are some of the typical expenses covered:

Landscaping and lawn care – Includes maintenance of shared green spaces.
Common area upkeep – Repairs to sidewalks, parks, and recreational areas.
Insurance – Coverage for liability and property in common spaces.
Amenity maintenance – Pools, gyms, tennis courts, and clubhouses all require upkeep.
Exterior building maintenance – In townhome and condo communities, this may include roofs, siding, and gutter cleaning.
Private road repairs – If roads aren’t maintained by the state, the HOA is responsible for pothole repair and snow removal.
Utilities – In some cases, fees include water, sewer, or lighting for shared spaces.
Reserve fund contributions – A portion of each payment goes toward future repairs or emergencies.
Administrative expenses – Covers services like accounting, legal support, and management.
Community events – Some associations budget for social gatherings or neighborhood events.

Types of HOAs and How Fees Can Vary

Not all homeowners associations are alike. HOA fees are closely tied to the type of property and amenities involved.

Single-Family Home Communities – These often have lower fees since homeowners are usually responsible for their own home’s exterior and yard. Fees may cover shared green spaces, signage, or a basic reserve fund.
Townhome Communities – Fees tend to be higher here, as the HOA typically manages roofs, siding, driveways, and other exterior elements. Services like pest control or trash removal may also be included.
Condo Communities – Generally come with the highest fees. In addition to exterior maintenance and landscaping, costs may include elevator servicing, security, building insurance, and utilities for common areas.
Luxury or Amenity-Rich Developments – These often charge premium dues due to pools, gyms, private streets, gated entrances, and on-site staff.

Understanding which type of HOA you're dealing with will help you anticipate how much you’ll be expected to pay—and what you’re getting in return.

How HOA Fee Amounts Are Set

The HOA board determines the fee structure by assessing the community’s financial needs. Chris explains that they consider ongoing expenses, future projects, and reserve fund goals. The final amount reflects the level of services and amenities provided.

Before any changes are made, the board typically communicates with residents and may hold meetings to gather feedback. Homeowners are encouraged to attend and vote when needed. “That’s your chance to have a say,” Chris says. “Otherwise, changes move forward without your input.”

Pros and Cons of HOA Communities

Living in an HOA comes with both advantages and trade-offs. Here’s a balanced view:

Pros:

Well-maintained community appearance
Access to shared amenities like clubhouses, trails, and pools
Defined rules that help preserve property values
Conflict resolution handled by the board or management
Financial planning for long-term maintenance and unexpected repairs

Cons:

Mandatory fees that may increase over time
Rules and restrictions that may limit personalization of your property
Enforcement authority that can include fines or legal action
Lack of flexibility in how some issues are handled
Potential for mismanagement if the board is inexperienced or unengaged

Tips for Homeowners in HOA Communities

Whether you're new to an HOA or have lived in one for years, here are a few practical tips to get the most value out of your fees and stay informed:

Read the CC&Rs before buying. Understanding the rules upfront can help you avoid future surprises.
Attend meetings. Your presence and vote matter, especially when decisions are made about budgeting and fee increases.
Ask for financial reports. Most associations share annual budgets and reserve studies—don’t hesitate to review them.
Volunteer or run for a board seat. Getting involved is the best way to have a say in how your money is used.
Report issues early. Whether it’s a broken light or a landscaping concern, let the management or board know promptly.
Pay on time. Late fees can add up quickly, and repeated nonpayment can result in liens or legal action.

Why It’s Important to Pay Your HOA Fees

When you purchase a home in an HOA community, paying the required fees isn’t optional—it’s a legal obligation disclosed during closing. Chris emphasizes that once you buy in, you agree to follow the rules and stay current on all dues.

Nonpayment can lead to:

Late fees
Liens against your property
Legal action or even foreclosure

The Bottom Line

HOA fees play a key role in keeping your neighborhood well-maintained and financially stable. By contributing to these costs, homeowners help protect property values and ensure the community runs smoothly. Staying informed and involved gives you a stronger voice and greater peace of mind.