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Believe it or not, but there are benefits to having HOA fees.

If you a buy a house in a planned development, subdivision or gated community, you’ll likely have to join a homeowners association (HOA). This means that you’ll face paying mandatory annual dues to the board for the maintenance, security, and upkeep of the surrounding area. The HOA have a certain amount of control over your home choices: they can make and enforce rules such as the house’s exterior color, what pets are approved, and whether holiday decorations are allowed on properties.

While the HOA is necessary to maintain or increase resale values of the homes in the community, they can benefit you in multiple ways, including the following:

• The grass is greener. The homeowners association takes care of landscaping such as mowing the lawn, planting and pruning trees, and taking care of flowers, lakes, and clubhouses. They also manage the amenities, garbage disposal, and pest control.
• There are well-maintained facilities. HOAs typically do an outstanding job of maintaining amenities, including walking trails, sports courts, swimming pools, barbecue pits, and more. Amenities can easily convince buyers of the benefits of an HOA because the added entertainment and convenience far outweighs the cost of the fees.
• Financial stability. The charges come with insurance for the condo or housing development. It also has a reserve in place for future common area repairs and improvements, such as natural disasters and flooding. This reduces the likelihood of individual assessments down the road.
• They set standards. There will be rules and regulations that deter nuisance activity and promote conformity. With rules in place, you know what you expect when it comes to your neighbors and social activity on the premises. This ultimately makes it an excellent and safe place to live.
• The property value is protected. The HOA restricts activity that can harm your property value. There will likely be HOA meetings where the residents can have a voice in any community changes and enforcement of regulations within the community.

Your dues protect you from the prospect of paying larger amounts, meaning that they do indeed perform a useful function. They also mean that you can save money in the long run.

To find your ideal home, in a gated community or not, contact Jenn Blake Real Estate Group at Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty in San Diego, California at 858-663-6788.