Pine Creek Homeowners Association
What is an HOA?
Homeowner's associations (HOA) are formed by planned communities with single-family homes or multiple unit. An HOA is typically established to make and enforce rules regarding the properties within the jurisdiction. Most HOA are incorporated and are subject to state laws. The association has a board of directors that are elected to enforce and oversee the HOA governing documents. Membership in an HOA is usually a requirement for the purchase of certain properties.
Restrictions of an HOA
Homeowners associations can also have significant legal power over the property owners in their jurisdiction. The governing documents or covenants set certain conditions on the property and owners. The conditions may include structural restrictions such as the type of fences or landscape allowed or minor selections such as the color of paint on a house.
Benefits of an HOA
HOA members generally aim to maintain a standard of appearance for the property, and the HOA provides the regulations and guidelines for the community. The HOA management services may provide amenities such as landscape, pools and tennis courts that are available for all the HOA members. The community standards should support stable property values. There are architectural standards that are designed to keep a uniform appearance to the property. Some HOA fees cover the cost of trash collection and snow removal.
Principles of an HOA
A homeowners association ensures that the collective rights and interests of homeowners are respected and preserved.
A homeowners association is the most local form of representative democracy, with leaders elected by their neighbors to govern in the best interest of all residents.
A homeowners association provides services and amenities to residents, protects property value, and meets the established expectations of homeowners.
A homeowners association will succeed when it cultivates a true sense of community, active homeowner involvement and a culture of building consensus.
Association homeowners have the right to elect their community leaders and to use the democratic process to determine the policies that will protect their investments.
Association homeowners choose where to live and accept a contractual responsibility to abide by established policies and meet their financial obligations to the homeowners association.
Association leaders protect the community's financial health by using established management practices and sound business principles.
Association leaders have a legal and ethical obligation to adhere to the association's governing documents and abide by all applicable laws.
Association leaders seek an effective balance between the preferences of individual residents and the collective rights of homeowners.
Association leaders and residents should be reasonable, flexible and open to the possibility -- and benefits -- of compromise.