What Should You Know About a Homeowners Association Before Buying?

By Alexander ParmenidezBuying, Community, Financing October 20, 2026

TL;DR

Buying a home in a community governed by a homeowners association (HOA) means purchasing more than the property itself. Buyers should understand the HOA's fees, rules, financial condition, insurance responsibilities, and potential assessments before making an offer. Reviewing the governing documents and asking questions about the association can help you understand both the benefits and responsibilities that come with the property.

What Should You Know About a Homeowners Association Before Buying Alex Parmenidez

What Does a Homeowners Association Do?

A homeowners association is an organization responsible for managing and maintaining certain shared aspects of a residential community. Depending on the community, an HOA may maintain common areas, landscaping, private roads, recreational facilities, or other shared property.

HOAs can also establish and enforce rules concerning how properties may be used or modified. These rules can cover items such as exterior changes, parking, pets, rentals, landscaping, and other property-related matters.

The responsibilities of an HOA vary from one community to another. Buyers should never assume that two communities with similar homes have the same rules or services.

How Much Are the HOA Fees?

HOA fees are typically paid by homeowners on a recurring basis, such as monthly, quarterly, or annually. The amount can vary considerably depending on what the association maintains and the services it provides.

Before buying, find out exactly what the fee covers. It could include maintenance of common areas, landscaping, snow removal, exterior building maintenance, amenities, insurance for shared structures, or other services.

Also ask whether the fee has changed recently and whether increases are anticipated. A relatively low fee is not necessarily better if the association does not have enough money to properly maintain the community.

What HOA Rules Should Buyers Review?

Buyers should carefully review the association's governing documents before committing to a purchase. These documents may establish restrictions involving renovations, exterior colors, fences, landscaping, parking, pets, leasing, or other aspects of property ownership.

Rental restrictions are particularly important if you may eventually want to rent the property. Some associations limit rentals, require approval, impose minimum lease terms, or restrict the percentage of homes that can be rented.

If you have specific plans for the property—such as adding a fence, installing certain exterior improvements, keeping a particular type of pet, or renting the home—confirm that those plans comply with the HOA's rules before making an offer.

Is the HOA Financially Healthy?

An HOA's financial condition can affect homeowners even when the community appears well maintained. Buyers should ask about the association's budget, reserve funds, outstanding obligations, and major upcoming projects.

Another important issue is the possibility of a special assessment. A special assessment is an additional charge that an HOA may impose to pay for expenses that regular dues do not cover, such as major repairs or capital projects.

Reviewing available financial documents and recent meeting information can help buyers identify potential concerns. Your real estate attorney or other appropriate professional can help you understand documents or obligations that are unclear.

What Should You Ask Before Buying an HOA Property?

Before making an offer, ask for the HOA's governing documents, fee information, budget or financial statements, rules and regulations, and information about pending assessments or major projects. Buyers should have enough time to review these materials and understand their obligations.

It is also useful to ask about the community's maintenance responsibilities. Find out what the homeowner is responsible for versus what the HOA maintains. This can affect your future expenses and the amount of maintenance you will personally need to handle.

For buyers in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut, the specific legal and financial details of an HOA can vary by community and state. If you have questions about an association's documents or legal obligations, consider consulting a qualified real estate attorney before proceeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are HOA fees included in my mortgage payment?

Usually, HOA fees are separate from the principal, interest, property taxes, and homeowners insurance included in a typical mortgage payment. However, lenders may consider HOA dues when evaluating your overall housing expenses and loan qualification.

Can an HOA increase its fees?

Yes. HOA fees can change over time based on the association's budget, maintenance needs, insurance costs, and other expenses. Buyers should review the association's history and available information about anticipated increases.

Can an HOA prevent me from making changes to my home?

Potentially. HOA governing documents may establish rules regarding exterior modifications, landscaping, additions, fences, and other changes. Always check the applicable rules before planning an alteration.

What is a special assessment?

A special assessment is an additional amount charged to homeowners for expenses that are not covered by regular HOA dues. It may be used for significant repairs, improvements, or unexpected expenses.

Should I review HOA documents before making an offer?

Yes. Reviewing the documents early can help you understand the rules, fees, financial obligations, and restrictions associated with the property before you become too far along in the purchase process.

If you're considering buying a home with an HOA in Rhode Island, Massachusetts, or Connecticut, understanding the association before making an offer can help you evaluate the property's full cost and responsibilities. Alex Parmenidez can help you identify the key property information to review and coordinate with the appropriate professionals throughout the buying process.

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Alexander Parmenidez · Broker Associate | REALTOR® · Coldwell Banker Realty · Licensed in RI, CT & MA
196 Waterman St, Providence, RI 02906 · C: (401) 426-4857 · O: (401) 351-2017 · [email protected] · alexparmenidez.realtor