What Are Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and How Do They Work?

If you’re buying a home in the Kalamazoo, Portage or Mattawan area, you may come across neighborhoods with a Homeowners Association (HOA). For many buyers, the idea of an HOA can raise questions: What exactly do they do? Are they worth the cost? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What is an HOA?

A Homeowners Association (HOA) is an organization created to manage and maintain shared spaces in a neighborhood or housing community. When you buy a home in an HOA, you automatically become a member and pay monthly or annual dues.

These dues go toward things like:

• Landscaping and lawn care in shared spaces

• Snow removal and road maintenance

• Clubhouses, pools or fitness centers

• Neighborhood security or gated entry

What Rules Do HOAs Have?

HOAs don’t just maintain common areas, they also set community rules, often called covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs). These can cover:

• Exterior home appearance (paint colors, roofing, siding)

• Lawn and landscaping upkeep

• Parking restrictions

• Fence or shed installations

• Pet policies

While these rules may feel restrictive to some, others appreciate them because they help keep the neighborhood looking well-maintained and protect property values.

Pros of Living in an HOA

• Well-kept community: Shared areas stay attractive and usable.

• Amenities: Pools, clubhouses, parks or walking trails may be included.

• Property value protection: Rules and guidelines help maintain curb appeal.

Cons of Living in an HOA

• Monthly or annual fees: Costs vary depending on services and amenities.

• Restrictions: Some homeowners may feel limited in what they can do with their property.

• Rule enforcement: Disagreements can arise if you don’t agree with HOA policies.

HOAs in Kalamazoo, Portage, and Mattawan

In Southwest Michigan, HOAs range from low-cost associations that cover basic maintenance to full-service communities offering private parks, pools and more. The key is to review the HOA’s rules, fees and financial health before you commit.

Should You Buy in an HOA?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, it depends on your lifestyle. If you love amenities and a tidy neighborhood, an HOA could be a great fit. If you value independence, you may prefer a non-HOA community.

At the Keefer Fischer Team, led by Kerry Keefer Fischer, we guide buyers through the details of each neighborhood, including HOA rules and costs, so you know exactly what to expect before making a decision.

Final Thoughts

Understanding how HOAs work is an important step in the home buying process. By knowing the pros, cons and costs, you can decide whether an HOA community matches your lifestyle and budget.

Thinking about buying in Kalamazoo, Portage, or Mattawan? Contact the Keefer Fischer Team today, we’ll help you find the perfect neighborhood and home for your needs.