The Pros And Cons Of Living In An HOA

Should You Live in an HOA? Here’s What to Know

Let’s be real—HOAs have a bit of a reputation. Some folks love the structure, amenities, and neighborhood consistency. Others… not so much.

Whether you’re team “rules make life easier” or you’d rather fly solo, it’s important to understand how HOAs work—especially if you’re considering buying in a Florida 55+ community. From fees and fences to pet policies and property values, here’s what to know before signing on the dotted line.

What is an HOA?

An HOA (Homeowners Association) is a legal entity created to manage a residential community. In a deed-restricted neighborhood—like most 55+ communities—HOAs oversee the shared spaces, uphold rules, and make sure the community stays looking good and running smoothly.

Think of it as a team that helps protect your property value while keeping the clubhouse clean and the lawn neatly trimmed (even if it’s not yours).

Who Makes and Enforces HOA Rules?

Every HOA is guided by a set of governing documents—things like Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs), Bylaws, and Declarations. These lay out what’s allowed, what’s not, and who gets to decide.

The decision-makers? Typically a Board of Directors, made up of elected homeowners who volunteer their time to represent the community. Some communities also bring in a professional management company to help handle day-to-day tasks.

How HOA Rules Affect Daily Life

When considering what community might fit best for a certain lifestyle, it is incredibly important for a buyer to consider how the rules and guidelines set forth within the association’s governing documents might affect them. All owners are expected and required to follow the rules and guidelines set by the HOA. Some examples are monthly, quarterly, and or annual HOA fee amounts. Other rules could include, but are not limited to:

• Architectural restrictions
• Dates of meetings
• Responsibilities of the association vs responsibilities of owners
• Number of pets allowed within a household
• Types of signs allowed in front of the home
• Types of vehicles permitted to park in the driveway or on the street

HOA Management: Professional vs Self-Managed

There are two options when it comes to the management of HOAs. Some associations choose to manage the HOA themselves, while others choose to employ a management company for the community. While you don’t have to pay the monthly cost of a management company living in a self-managed HOA, you also lack the oversight that you have from a property management professional and their team. The experience, knowledge, and connections that a reputable HOA management company can provide, can be extremely valuable when it comes to ensuring that an HOA is not being mismanaged. Here's how they compare:

Self Managed

• Lower operating costs
• May lack structure or consistency
• Board handles everything
• Works best in smaller communities

Professionally Managed

• Expert guidance on legal & financial matters
• Smoother day-to-day operations
• Support team helps implement board decisions
• Ideal for larger or more complex neighborhoods

Benefits of Living in an HOA

If you're the kind of person who likes structure, consistency, and shared responsibility, you might actually love HOA life. Here’s why:

• Low-maintenance living: No more mowing the lawn or fixing broken sprinklers
• Amenity access: Pools, pickleball, tennis, fitness centers—all maintained for you
• Neighborhood pride: Uniform rules help keep the community attractive
• Property value protection: Prevents that one neighbor from turning their yard into a junkyard
• Built-in community: HOAs often plan social events, meetings, or volunteer opportunities

And if you like being involved, serving on the Board is a great way to shape your neighborhood’s future.

Downsides of HOA Living

HOAs aren’t for everyone—and that’s okay. Before you commit, here are a few things to keep in mind:

• You’ve got rules to follow—like what color you can paint your home, how long your grass can be, what kind of plants or fences are allowed, and even how many pets you can have.
• You’ll need approvals for changes—from holiday décor to major renovations, the Board or an Architectural Review Committee will likely need to weigh in.
• Fees can go up—HOA dues can change yearly, and special assessments may pop up when large expenses arise.
• Less flexibility—If you like to do things your own way, the guidelines might feel restrictive.

That’s why we always recommend reviewing the HOA’s financials and governing documents before making an offer.

What Does an HOA Board Actually Do?

In short: They keep the wheels turning.

HOA Boards are made up of community volunteers who are elected by residents. They make decisions on budgets, community improvements, enforcement of rules, and future planning. Most serve staggered terms and meet regularly to ensure things are running smoothly.

And hey—if you’re the kind of person who likes to get involved, becoming a Board member is a great way to shape your community and connect with neighbors. Just remember: they’re volunteers, and sometimes they have to make tough decisions that not everyone agrees with.

Questions to Ask Before Buying in an HOA

If you’re interested in a certain community and want to learn more about the HOA—call them! Reach out and ask questions to help find a community that is the right fit for you. Start with these questions—or better yet, ask your Explore55Plus expert to help you get the answers:

• What’s the current HOA fee, and how often does it increase?
• What do the HOA fees cover?
• Are there any upcoming special assessments?
• Are pets allowed? How many?
• Can I install fencing or make exterior modifications?
• How often does the Board meet?
• Can I review a copy of the governing documents before purchasing?
• What community improvements are planned in the next few years?
• What kind of lifestyle or events does the community promote?
• Is the HOA financially stable?

Final Thoughts on Living in an HOA

The bottom line on HOAs: No association is perfect. HOAs can offer peace of mind, property protection, and a sense of community—especially in Florida’s 55+ neighborhoods. But they’re not one-size-fits-all. If you prefer maximum flexibility and minimal oversight, a non-HOA community might be more your speed.

No matter where you land, doing your homework—and working with a knowledgeable agent—can help you make a choice that aligns with your lifestyle and your values.

Have Questions About an HOA? We Can Help.

At Explore55Plus, our agents know the ins and outs of Florida’s 55+ communities—including what’s covered, what’s flexible, and what to watch for in the fine print. If you’re unsure whether HOA life is for you, let us help you navigate the pros and cons before you fall in love with a community.

Connect with an Explore55Plus agent today—we’re happy to help you find a home that fits your style, budget, and comfort level.