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Feb 03, 2004 -- Homeowner's association hell

Do you live in a community with a homeowner’s association? The organizations are becoming new de facto governments across the country as many local governments don’t want to get involved. For instance, these communities provide their own lighting, security and utilities in some states. And in many cases, everybody wins. People like not having to worry about someone putting their car on blocks or another neighbor putting up an unwanted fence. In theory, the rules protect everyone’s home values, and the dues allow for nice amenities in these communities. But sometimes these associations can get out of hand. Some residents have lost their homes over issues involving a couple hundred dollars. In one recent case, a resident who owed $1.50 lost his $285,000 home. It’s an extreme case, but it happens. Why? In many states, there was no judicial review before a foreclosure can take place. So, a board can arbitrarily vote to oust you from a community and there is nothing you can do about it. States need to step in and establish some kind of court system within these communities. There should be a right to appeal because in most states, homeowner’s associations are judge, jury and executioner in these matters. Clark thinks the idea of putting a lien against a home until a payment is made is much more reasonable than going straight to foreclosure. Just be sure to choose your battles wisely. You don’t want to lose your home over $150, much less $1.50.

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What others are saying

  • HOA Fees
    I purchased my home in 7/05 & the paperwork that I initialed in reference to HOA fees stated the fees were $500 per year. I received my first bill from the HOA in 10/05 & the fees were $1100 per year which was double what I signed & agreed to pay at the time of the sale. I contacted the HOA & asked if this was an error & they told me no. They have the right to increase their fees at any time & also that my sales agent made a mistake when I purchased my home. I responded by notifying them that my neighbor's fees are $500 annually whom closed only 3 months prior to my closing & we live next door to each other & how could we have different fees. I still have not receive a legitimate answer to this question yet. I would like to know if there is a percentage cap for HOA fees in which they can be raised & also should we be notified up front prior to receiving a bill like I did that was totally different from the sales documents that I signed when purchasing my home. I am now facing the possibility of having a lien placed on my property & I don't feel the HOA practices were done ethically. Also, everyone in this subdivision is being billed differnt amounts for HOA fees. Please advise me what legal actions can be taken on my behalf to protect myself & other consumers, thanks.

    Albert B.
  • hoa doesnt pay water bill now maybe no h2o
    hoa fees 200.00 per month .ground upkeep horrible,hoa doesnt pay water bill now county is cutting off all water were do we go for help
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