A Homeowner Association (HOA) is a legal entity created to manage and maintain the common areas of a community. Generally these"common areas" consist of things like pools, clubhouses, landscaping, parks, streets and roads, but a HOA also governs the CC&Rs, the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions, or set of rules that are typically set up by the developer and updated/changed by the Board of Directors. The CC&Rs are what determines if it is ok for you to leave your garbage can out for more than a day or if you are allowed to leave a car up on blocks in your front yard, or if your neighbors will have recourse if you choose to paint your shutters purple when theirs (and the rest of the neighborhood's) are black.
The HOA will enforce these CC&Rs in the way that is approved by the Board of Directors, often with the assistance of a property management company. These polices are developed to protect the neighborhood, the value of the homes and the quality of life for the residents. However, these policies can be changed if the majority of the voting neighbors would like them to be. So before you buy a home in an HOA, here are some things to consider:
1) You should thoroughly read and examine the CC&Rs that govern the community and make sure you can live with and abide by them. If the regulations state that you cannot have goats on your property, and you are a goat owner... this may be a sticky point! But if you think that 24 hours is plenty of time to leave out your recycling bin and you feel that is a fine policy and want your neighbors to abide by the same....an HOA may be perfect for you.
2) You are perfectly reasonable to ask for a copy of the financial statements of the HOA and have a person such as a lawyer or accountant examine them to make sure there is nothing irregular. Checking to see if the HOA runs its business in a responsible manner will help you determine if the neighborhood will have enough cash on hand to make upgrades and repairs to roads or other common areas such as the pool.
3) Find out what the monthly dues are and make sure you can afford them. Dues can be reasonable... or not depending on where you live, what the HOA does and your tolerance for the price-tag. But not paying them could put you in some serious hot water and potentially get you sued.
4) Find out if the HOA has a strategy for replacing of major items such as heating, cooling, roads, buildings and roofs and how the reserve requirements are funded. (i.e. has money been saved, or would the neighbors each be required to pay an additional amount should the basketball court need to be re-surfaced.)
5) Find out if there is any litigation pending against the HOA. This could be a red flag in a couple of different ways, and certainly something you should know before you sign your contract.
6) Ask about when the last time dues were raised, and how often this happens. For obvious reasons you want to know how much you may be expected to fork over!
An HOA community may be a great fit for you and your family and more an more Carolinians are making this choice. But be educated before entering into any contract, especially one concerning where you live and what you can do with your property.
Property Manager
Kuester Property Management
Showing posts with label Carolina Homeowners Association. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Carolina Homeowners Association. Show all posts
Sunday, September 5, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Not happy with your HOA? Get involved.
I myself live in a community - just outside Charlotte - with an HOA. The other day our neighborhood held its annual "neighborhood garage sale." It was a beautiful sunny spring day - the perfect Carolina weather!
As I sat with my neighbor (a good friend) I heard her say, over and over again, what a shame it was that the neighborhood association did not advertise the garage sale properly. She complained to herself, to her husband, to me, to the one or two people who stopped to look at the old children's toys... But fact is, we had hardly any traffic at all and it made for a very long day!
After a while I had to say something. Homeowner's associations work when the neighborhood residents get involved. And since my friend had not been on the garage sale committee, and since she did not make any effort that I could tell to help organize the event, participate, help, or lend her opinion beforehand, I truly felt that she did not have a reasonable complaint.
Many of us in Charlotte live in HOA communities and many are run well. The property management company takes care of things like the park and the pool and common area. The architectural committee approves fences and patios. But too often too much falls on too few.
If you are not happy with how your HOA is run, or how they handle the annual Easter Egg Hunt, or the color of the new playground equipment--then it is ultimately your responsibility to get involved. The folks that have taken the time and effort to step up and make the decisions for the community are not compensated. They do what they can, and sometimes that means there is no one to place an ad in the newspaper or update the neighborhood website.
Every HOA has large jobs and small jobs and if you are able--please consider doing your part. If you can't, that is fine too... but it leaves little room for you to complain when things don't go the way you would like!
Property Manager
Kuester Property Management
As I sat with my neighbor (a good friend) I heard her say, over and over again, what a shame it was that the neighborhood association did not advertise the garage sale properly. She complained to herself, to her husband, to me, to the one or two people who stopped to look at the old children's toys... But fact is, we had hardly any traffic at all and it made for a very long day!
After a while I had to say something. Homeowner's associations work when the neighborhood residents get involved. And since my friend had not been on the garage sale committee, and since she did not make any effort that I could tell to help organize the event, participate, help, or lend her opinion beforehand, I truly felt that she did not have a reasonable complaint.
Many of us in Charlotte live in HOA communities and many are run well. The property management company takes care of things like the park and the pool and common area. The architectural committee approves fences and patios. But too often too much falls on too few.
If you are not happy with how your HOA is run, or how they handle the annual Easter Egg Hunt, or the color of the new playground equipment--then it is ultimately your responsibility to get involved. The folks that have taken the time and effort to step up and make the decisions for the community are not compensated. They do what they can, and sometimes that means there is no one to place an ad in the newspaper or update the neighborhood website.
Every HOA has large jobs and small jobs and if you are able--please consider doing your part. If you can't, that is fine too... but it leaves little room for you to complain when things don't go the way you would like!
Property Manager
Kuester Property Management
Saturday, March 20, 2010
HOA Rules and Regulations
Rules are meant to protect people and property, and HOA rules are the same way. While some people may be offended by the notion that they have to request permission to build a swing set, or put up a fence in their own back yard, there is always a good reason--or at least a good intention when an HOA set the rule.
If you do not want to live in a community that has restrictions on the size of shed you can put up, or how long your grass can get in between mowings, than perhaps living in an HOA community is not for you. But if you see the value in a neighborhood which abides by the same guidelines in order to protect the property values and the residents, then an HOA-neighborhood may be a great fit
If you are new to living in a homeowner's association regulated area and do not read the CCRs, it may be a bit of a shock to you the first time you are given a warning letter about a minor violation such as leaving your garbage can outside for several days after garbage day. But rest assured the committee member who noted the violation and the property management company that sent the letter to you are not "out to get you." No one likes to be the bearer of bad news--and if the issue is minor and a first-time problem, they will likely wave any fee if you take care of the issue quickly.
It is an adjustment if you have never had to follow the policies of an HOA, but in the end they rules are meant for you. After all, if there weren't a rule about keeping a rusted-out car in one's front yard, there would be little recourse for you if your next-door neighbor were to choose a '79 Buick as a lawn decoration!
Also, you should remember, if you feel that a policy of the HOA, or neighborhood covenant is unfair or ill conceived, you have the ability to have it put up for a vote if you are an active committee member. The HOA is there for you -- so participate and enjoy the benefits of having a community interested in protecting you, your family, and your home.
If you do not want to live in a community that has restrictions on the size of shed you can put up, or how long your grass can get in between mowings, than perhaps living in an HOA community is not for you. But if you see the value in a neighborhood which abides by the same guidelines in order to protect the property values and the residents, then an HOA-neighborhood may be a great fit
If you are new to living in a homeowner's association regulated area and do not read the CCRs, it may be a bit of a shock to you the first time you are given a warning letter about a minor violation such as leaving your garbage can outside for several days after garbage day. But rest assured the committee member who noted the violation and the property management company that sent the letter to you are not "out to get you." No one likes to be the bearer of bad news--and if the issue is minor and a first-time problem, they will likely wave any fee if you take care of the issue quickly.
It is an adjustment if you have never had to follow the policies of an HOA, but in the end they rules are meant for you. After all, if there weren't a rule about keeping a rusted-out car in one's front yard, there would be little recourse for you if your next-door neighbor were to choose a '79 Buick as a lawn decoration!
Also, you should remember, if you feel that a policy of the HOA, or neighborhood covenant is unfair or ill conceived, you have the ability to have it put up for a vote if you are an active committee member. The HOA is there for you -- so participate and enjoy the benefits of having a community interested in protecting you, your family, and your home.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
There are No Stupid Questions
There are no stupid questions…
When people buy a home in a neighborhood that is governed by a homeowners association (HOA), there is always a slew of questions that come up…And that is okay, Frankly, we expect them and are shocked when people don’t have questions, If you are the type that feels uncomfortable asking questions – we thought we’d answer some of the basics for you here!
What is a HOA?
A homeowners' association (HOA) is an organization created for the purpose of developing and managing homes. Most homeowner associations are incorporated, and are subject to state statutes that govern non-profit corporations and homeowner associations. State oversight of homeowner associations is minimal, and mainly takes the form of laws, which are inconsistent from state to state. An HOA provides people with shared neighborhood values, an opportunity to enforce regulations, consistent with overarching statutory constraints, to achieve a community representative of such values. The HOA is financially supported by all members of the homeowners association. Membership is both automatic and mandatory.
Why do I have to pay Association Fees and what do they cover?
Association fees are used by the HOA to pay for any costs that are incurred to common areas. These common areas can vary from association to association – but they can be pools, courtyards, parks, gates, playground, equipment and many many more items. Many homeowners' associations include management of a development's recreational amenities, maintained for exclusive use of its members. This can allow an individual homeowner access to a maintained pool, clubhouse, gym, tennis court or walking trail that they may not be able to otherwise afford to maintain on their own.. Talk to your association leaders and management about what your money is actually going toward… But yep – you gotta pay those fees…
What is a "managing agent"?
The managing agent is a person, or more likely, a company hired by the HOA’s Board of Directors to the day-to-day operation of the Association. You didn’t think the HOA is doing the lawn mowing and fence painting themselves, did you? They would, but they are home-owners too and they have day jobs as well. So to make sure that everything runs smoothly and swiftly, they hire the managing agent to implement the policies and decisions that the Association has decide upon. Here at Kuester Management Group, that is OUR role. It is our job to serve any Association, big or small, as a Managing Agent.
When people buy a home in a neighborhood that is governed by a homeowners association (HOA), there is always a slew of questions that come up…And that is okay, Frankly, we expect them and are shocked when people don’t have questions, If you are the type that feels uncomfortable asking questions – we thought we’d answer some of the basics for you here!
What is a HOA?
A homeowners' association (HOA) is an organization created for the purpose of developing and managing homes. Most homeowner associations are incorporated, and are subject to state statutes that govern non-profit corporations and homeowner associations. State oversight of homeowner associations is minimal, and mainly takes the form of laws, which are inconsistent from state to state. An HOA provides people with shared neighborhood values, an opportunity to enforce regulations, consistent with overarching statutory constraints, to achieve a community representative of such values. The HOA is financially supported by all members of the homeowners association. Membership is both automatic and mandatory.
Why do I have to pay Association Fees and what do they cover?
Association fees are used by the HOA to pay for any costs that are incurred to common areas. These common areas can vary from association to association – but they can be pools, courtyards, parks, gates, playground, equipment and many many more items. Many homeowners' associations include management of a development's recreational amenities, maintained for exclusive use of its members. This can allow an individual homeowner access to a maintained pool, clubhouse, gym, tennis court or walking trail that they may not be able to otherwise afford to maintain on their own.. Talk to your association leaders and management about what your money is actually going toward… But yep – you gotta pay those fees…
What is a "managing agent"?
The managing agent is a person, or more likely, a company hired by the HOA’s Board of Directors to the day-to-day operation of the Association. You didn’t think the HOA is doing the lawn mowing and fence painting themselves, did you? They would, but they are home-owners too and they have day jobs as well. So to make sure that everything runs smoothly and swiftly, they hire the managing agent to implement the policies and decisions that the Association has decide upon. Here at Kuester Management Group, that is OUR role. It is our job to serve any Association, big or small, as a Managing Agent.
Friday, September 25, 2009
Are HOA Neighborhoods Worth It?
Dear Property Manager:
IT Seems like suburbs in many parts of the country, including the Charlotte suburbs are full of developments with HOAs. What are the benefits and pitfalls of living in HOA development communities vs. just buying a house in a "regular" neighborhood?
Is it getting harder to find "regular" non HOA neighborhoods to live in in the suburbs of Charlotte? What is the appeal?
Ken - Fort Mill
Dear Ken:
It is possible to find houses not in a regulated HOA community in and around Charlotte, and you may find that they are less expensive than similar HOA homes, however there are pitfalls.
When a person moves into an HOA neighborhood they agree to the covenants of the neighborhood. They agree not to have more than say 5 animals in the home, or not to have a horse in the back-yard, or not to paint their front door purple. The rules of each neighborhood differ but they are designed to protect the homeowner, the value of the property and the neighborhood.
As a homeowner in an HOA neighborhood, you are given the opportunity to vote for changes in the rules and regulations, as well as participate on the committees that determine how much of the budget goes to things like common area maintenance or special projects, and what the covenants are. But majority rules, and you have to live with what the majority votes for--that is what you agree to when you move into the neighborhood.
The benefit to an HOA is that things are kept at a known norm. If the neighbor puts up a 12 foot fence all around his property, he will be fined and made to remove it. If he parks 3 rusted out Buicks in the back-yard he will be asked to move them, fined if he doesn't and potentially sued by the HOA if there is further non-compliance.
The down-side for you is if you are the kind of person who doesn't think they need any one's permission before digging a moat around their home, you will be the one who suffers the consequences with the Property Management company and the HOA. But for the most part, an HOA is a good thing, for most people they make sense, and that is why they are worth it, and that is why HOA neighborhoods are so popular!
I hope this answers your question!
Property Manager
Kuester Companies
HOA Property Management Company
IT Seems like suburbs in many parts of the country, including the Charlotte suburbs are full of developments with HOAs. What are the benefits and pitfalls of living in HOA development communities vs. just buying a house in a "regular" neighborhood?
Is it getting harder to find "regular" non HOA neighborhoods to live in in the suburbs of Charlotte? What is the appeal?
Ken - Fort Mill
Dear Ken:
It is possible to find houses not in a regulated HOA community in and around Charlotte, and you may find that they are less expensive than similar HOA homes, however there are pitfalls.
When a person moves into an HOA neighborhood they agree to the covenants of the neighborhood. They agree not to have more than say 5 animals in the home, or not to have a horse in the back-yard, or not to paint their front door purple. The rules of each neighborhood differ but they are designed to protect the homeowner, the value of the property and the neighborhood.
As a homeowner in an HOA neighborhood, you are given the opportunity to vote for changes in the rules and regulations, as well as participate on the committees that determine how much of the budget goes to things like common area maintenance or special projects, and what the covenants are. But majority rules, and you have to live with what the majority votes for--that is what you agree to when you move into the neighborhood.
The benefit to an HOA is that things are kept at a known norm. If the neighbor puts up a 12 foot fence all around his property, he will be fined and made to remove it. If he parks 3 rusted out Buicks in the back-yard he will be asked to move them, fined if he doesn't and potentially sued by the HOA if there is further non-compliance.
The down-side for you is if you are the kind of person who doesn't think they need any one's permission before digging a moat around their home, you will be the one who suffers the consequences with the Property Management company and the HOA. But for the most part, an HOA is a good thing, for most people they make sense, and that is why they are worth it, and that is why HOA neighborhoods are so popular!
I hope this answers your question!
Property Manager
Kuester Companies
HOA Property Management Company
Friday, July 17, 2009
Charlotte HOA Dog Stations
Dear Property Manager:
I was recently visiting a friend of mine south of Charlotte and I noticed that they have strategically placed "dog stations" throughout their neighborhood's common areas.
I am the president of our HOA and we have been considering a change in maintenance companies. It may seem like a minor thing, but having these is a nice touch for the residents with AND without dogs. I see this as just one of the things that shows an HOA cares and is paying attemtion, and I want our HOA property managemeny company to not only think of these kinds of things and bring them to us to make a decision on, but also to have readily available.
Can you tell me if you offer these "dog stations" and what other "value-added services" you might have for HOAs that you maintain.
Frank - Charlotte.
Dear Frank:
In addition to offering the best in propery management and HOA management services, Kuester does offer a variety of "value-added' professional services including:
-->Coordinating and supervising vendors on large projects
-->Providing clients with a reliable resource for all maintenance needs
-->Performing property inspections to gather preventative maintenance items
-->Tailoring a routine maintenance checklist to fit each community
-->Twenty four hour emergency service
-->Supervising capital reserve projects
-->Ensuring all maintenance repairs are completed with 100% client satisfaction
Kuester Maintenance services, LLC specializes in the following services but not limited to:
-->Siding / Fencing
-->Gutter service
-->Masonry
-->Roofing / Flashing
-->Lighting
-->Plumbing
-->Tree removal
-->Pressure washing
-->Sign installation
-->Painting
-->Drywall repair
-->Locksmith
-->Janitorial
-->HVAC
-->Fido stations
-->Appliances
-->Carpentry
-->Windows / Doors
So as you can see we not only offer those "Dog Stations," we also have a long list of other services. Please give us a call ( 704.973.9019) if you are seriously considering and HOA management company move, we would be happy to talk to you.
Kuester: HOA / Property Management
Kuester is the recognized leader in Charlotte HOA management, Charlotte property management and greater North Carolina Property Management.
I was recently visiting a friend of mine south of Charlotte and I noticed that they have strategically placed "dog stations" throughout their neighborhood's common areas.
I am the president of our HOA and we have been considering a change in maintenance companies. It may seem like a minor thing, but having these is a nice touch for the residents with AND without dogs. I see this as just one of the things that shows an HOA cares and is paying attemtion, and I want our HOA property managemeny company to not only think of these kinds of things and bring them to us to make a decision on, but also to have readily available.
Can you tell me if you offer these "dog stations" and what other "value-added services" you might have for HOAs that you maintain.
Frank - Charlotte.
Dear Frank:
In addition to offering the best in propery management and HOA management services, Kuester does offer a variety of "value-added' professional services including:
-->Coordinating and supervising vendors on large projects
-->Providing clients with a reliable resource for all maintenance needs
-->Performing property inspections to gather preventative maintenance items
-->Tailoring a routine maintenance checklist to fit each community
-->Twenty four hour emergency service
-->Supervising capital reserve projects
-->Ensuring all maintenance repairs are completed with 100% client satisfaction
Kuester Maintenance services, LLC specializes in the following services but not limited to:
-->Siding / Fencing
-->Gutter service
-->Masonry
-->Roofing / Flashing
-->Lighting
-->Plumbing
-->Tree removal
-->Pressure washing
-->Sign installation
-->Painting
-->Drywall repair
-->Locksmith
-->Janitorial
-->HVAC
-->Fido stations
-->Appliances
-->Carpentry
-->Windows / Doors
So as you can see we not only offer those "Dog Stations," we also have a long list of other services. Please give us a call ( 704.973.9019) if you are seriously considering and HOA management company move, we would be happy to talk to you.
Kuester: HOA / Property Management
Kuester is the recognized leader in Charlotte HOA management, Charlotte property management and greater North Carolina Property Management.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
The Relationship between the Board, HOA Management and the homeowner
It is sometimes found in the Charlotte HOA management industry and beyond that the property management company is looked at as the "bad guy" due to the requirement that it send written notification to homeowners where there is a violation of the Association Covenants and Restrictions. Most times, the first contact that a homeowner may receive from one of our Charlotte property managers at Kuester is a courtesy letter. This letter is not a violation notice, just an initial communication from us to let the homeowner know that something might be going on that they need to look at before it gets worse. When communicating with homeowners, we constantly encourage them to remember that we are contractually bound to partner with the Board of Directors in its fiduciary duty to uphold the Association's Covenants and Restrictions in the manner that is described by South Carolina or North Carolina homeowners association law. We always strive to work in a friendly manner to meet the challenge of dealing with homeowner’s concerns or possible escalating problems by acting as mediator so neighbors need not deal with neighbor issues. In the South Carolina and North Carolina property management and HOA management industry, we feel our superior communications and service make us the best. Give us a call today at 888.600.5044 to discuss how we may be of assistance to your community or homeowners association. You can also visit our website.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Virginia Graeme Baker Act Governing Public Pools
REMINDER:
As pools across the United States open for the summer, we want to put out a reminder to all North and South Carolina Homeowners Associations that all public pools and hot tubs are now required to install anti-entrapment drain covers meeting the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 standard. If there is only a single main drain, a second anti-entrapment system must also be installed.
While the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was actually established in 2007 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, it went into effect on December 19, 2008.
The act was named after a 7 year-old girl named Virginia Graeme Baker, who accidentally drowned in a hot tub, due to the suction from a drain that pulled the child under and trapped her there.
Although enforcement of this law is left up to each state and may not have active enforcement until 2010, we are advising all North and South Carolina Homeowners Associations to replace their current drain covers with anti-entrapment drain covers, since very few drain covers installed before 2009 meet the standards.
For more on this Act, visit the US Consumer and Product Safety Commission on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.
This way, everyone can be sure of a SAFE and happy summer!
As pools across the United States open for the summer, we want to put out a reminder to all North and South Carolina Homeowners Associations that all public pools and hot tubs are now required to install anti-entrapment drain covers meeting the ASME/ANSI A112.19.8-2007 standard. If there is only a single main drain, a second anti-entrapment system must also be installed.
While the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act was actually established in 2007 by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, it went into effect on December 19, 2008.
The act was named after a 7 year-old girl named Virginia Graeme Baker, who accidentally drowned in a hot tub, due to the suction from a drain that pulled the child under and trapped her there.
Although enforcement of this law is left up to each state and may not have active enforcement until 2010, we are advising all North and South Carolina Homeowners Associations to replace their current drain covers with anti-entrapment drain covers, since very few drain covers installed before 2009 meet the standards.
For more on this Act, visit the US Consumer and Product Safety Commission on the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and Spa Safety Act.
This way, everyone can be sure of a SAFE and happy summer!
Kuester
Monday, April 27, 2009
Kuester Homeowner Association Web Portal
About Kuester's Web Portal Services
We have found that our web portal is a service many of our clients love! If you become a Kuester client where we manage and operate your North or South Carolina Homeowners Association, you will have access to your own unique community website. Each of your homeowners will be able to check their account balance 24/7, they’ll receive the latest community updates and announcements, and they can download documentation about your community. They’ll also have the ability to pay their assessments online through the same secure web portal.
Many of our clients have shared with us that this ability to access the information on their community gives them a sense of security and added sense of reassurance that their Association is in good hands (which, of course, it is!)
We would be happy to meet with you to discuss in more detail our portfolio of services to assess how we might be your company of choice for property management in Charlotte and throughout the rest of the Carolinas.
With best regards,
Charlotte Property Manager
We have found that our web portal is a service many of our clients love! If you become a Kuester client where we manage and operate your North or South Carolina Homeowners Association, you will have access to your own unique community website. Each of your homeowners will be able to check their account balance 24/7, they’ll receive the latest community updates and announcements, and they can download documentation about your community. They’ll also have the ability to pay their assessments online through the same secure web portal.
Many of our clients have shared with us that this ability to access the information on their community gives them a sense of security and added sense of reassurance that their Association is in good hands (which, of course, it is!)
We would be happy to meet with you to discuss in more detail our portfolio of services to assess how we might be your company of choice for property management in Charlotte and throughout the rest of the Carolinas.
With best regards,
Charlotte Property Manager
Friday, March 27, 2009
What is an HOA?
Here is a little info in on North and South Carolina Homeowners Associations:
A homeowners' association (HOA) is a legal entity created by the real estate developer of a development for the purpose of building, managing the neighborhood and selling homes.
An HOA allows the developer to cleanly exit financial and legal responsibility of the community when they are done, (or as they are finishing development) usually by transferring ownership of the association to the homeowners in the community after selling off a predetermined number of lots.
The pros and cons vary from community to community, state to state, however in general, having a HOA that is looking out for a neighborhood's common areas (pool, ponds, common areas, parks, etc.) as well as for the value of the neighborhood as a whole is a good thing. While it may seem (and be) restrictive to have limits on home colors allowed or what kinds of fence you can build, no one wants to be next door to the family that decides to put up a 12 foot metal wire fence around their home, or run their part-time car-repair shop in the front yard. HOA's help keep the overall value of the neighborhood high and help keep order and solve disputes amongst the homeowners.
Our advice is always to check out the HOA rules and regulations before you decide on a neighborhood, ask any questions you have ahead of time and keep an open line of communication with your Realtor as you are finding the perfect new home.
If you have any more questions, please let us know. We are very experienced in the Charlotte HOA arena and would love to answer any question you may have.
Property Manager - Charlotte
www.kuester.com
A homeowners' association (HOA) is a legal entity created by the real estate developer of a development for the purpose of building, managing the neighborhood and selling homes.
An HOA allows the developer to cleanly exit financial and legal responsibility of the community when they are done, (or as they are finishing development) usually by transferring ownership of the association to the homeowners in the community after selling off a predetermined number of lots.
The pros and cons vary from community to community, state to state, however in general, having a HOA that is looking out for a neighborhood's common areas (pool, ponds, common areas, parks, etc.) as well as for the value of the neighborhood as a whole is a good thing. While it may seem (and be) restrictive to have limits on home colors allowed or what kinds of fence you can build, no one wants to be next door to the family that decides to put up a 12 foot metal wire fence around their home, or run their part-time car-repair shop in the front yard. HOA's help keep the overall value of the neighborhood high and help keep order and solve disputes amongst the homeowners.
Our advice is always to check out the HOA rules and regulations before you decide on a neighborhood, ask any questions you have ahead of time and keep an open line of communication with your Realtor as you are finding the perfect new home.
If you have any more questions, please let us know. We are very experienced in the Charlotte HOA arena and would love to answer any question you may have.
Property Manager - Charlotte
www.kuester.com
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Pros and Cons of a Managed Community
Question: To live in a managed community or not in or near Charlotte, NC?
Dear Margie-
In many communities and housing tracts, there are some restrictions. When there are none, you can end up in a situation where several homes are not cared for and the value of nearby properties is adversely affected. In such communities, there is no one to mediate complaints or look out for the common interests of all homeowners.
There are distinct advantages to a managed community, when the management is done well. You have a professional service to assure work is done efficiently and cost-effectively. A management company can mediate complaints and controversies and care for many issues homeowners prefer not to handle.
While there are fees in managed communities, the fees should be fairly assessed based on the amount and type of service offered. You will want to read the contract to see what the management company handles. Is the fee fair for services offered?
Be sure to read a copy of the Contract, the Bylaws, the Budget and the Current Financial Statements to make sure the community is on solid ground. Find out whether there are scheduled assessment increases and whether there are improvements planned that will bring about an assessment. Determine whether the HOA Management Company is responsive to the Homeowners’ Association.
Although this may seem like a lot to think about, if you select a home in a managed community, be sure the management is handled by a responsible and responsive professional company with a solid history of happy association homeowners.
We would be delighted to work with you and your husband to find the perfect home that suits your needs, tastes and budget. We pride ourselves in helping families and business throughout the Carolinas since 1975. Please call us at 1 (800) 782-2453.
Dear Margie-
In many communities and housing tracts, there are some restrictions. When there are none, you can end up in a situation where several homes are not cared for and the value of nearby properties is adversely affected. In such communities, there is no one to mediate complaints or look out for the common interests of all homeowners.
There are distinct advantages to a managed community, when the management is done well. You have a professional service to assure work is done efficiently and cost-effectively. A management company can mediate complaints and controversies and care for many issues homeowners prefer not to handle.
While there are fees in managed communities, the fees should be fairly assessed based on the amount and type of service offered. You will want to read the contract to see what the management company handles. Is the fee fair for services offered?
Be sure to read a copy of the Contract, the Bylaws, the Budget and the Current Financial Statements to make sure the community is on solid ground. Find out whether there are scheduled assessment increases and whether there are improvements planned that will bring about an assessment. Determine whether the HOA Management Company is responsive to the Homeowners’ Association.
Although this may seem like a lot to think about, if you select a home in a managed community, be sure the management is handled by a responsible and responsive professional company with a solid history of happy association homeowners.
In additon to providing many other real estate services, Kuester is a Homeowners Association (HOA) management company here in Charlotte, NC.
We would be delighted to work with you and your husband to find the perfect home that suits your needs, tastes and budget. We pride ourselves in helping families and business throughout the Carolinas since 1975. Please call us at 1 (800) 782-2453.
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