What is a HOA? A Homeowner’s Association (HOA) enforces rules in subdivisions or neighborhoods. So buying a home with a HOA means you’ll have to follow certain covenants and restrictions. Find out more about HOAs in this video, “What is a HOA?”:
HOAs in Alabama
A HOA usually comes with a subdivision and includes covenants and restrictions for living in the subdivision. Be sure to ask for a copy of the covenant and restrictions before you write an offer. This way you’ll know what’s to be expected when living in the subdivision.
The covenants and restrictions will tell you the rules of living within the subdivisions. A lot of people aren’t sure what these covenants and restrictions are as they never read them, but they are important, so take time to read over and understand these rules if you’re buying a home with a HOA.
HOA rules are usually for the better of the whole neighborhood! For example, there could be a rule that all homes need to bring in their garbage cans after pickup or keeping your yard mowed. Different HOAs cover different things.
Be sure to ask about HOA dues. Are the dues owed monthly or yearly? Each HOA is different. Another question to ask about a home with a HOA is if there are any pending assessments against the subdivision as a whole? The reason you want to ask about this is if you do buy the home, you could move in and then all the sudden you receive a surprise bill in the mail because there’s been a special assessment that’s been given to every homeowner.
So make sure that you get a copy of the covenants and restrictions and that you read and understand them and the rules and bylaws for living in the neighborhood. This will save you surprises in the future!
Want to Learn More about Buying A Home?
As you probably already know there is a lot to the home buying process. If you have more questions about buying or building a house, don’t worry! We have a list of common questions that homebuyers have HERE.
If you don’t see your question on this list, then please reach out! I would love to answer all of your buying questions.
Want more information? Download my Homebuyers Guide: Homebuyers Guide
If you’re a first time home buyer, download this Buyers Guide: First Time Homebuyers Guide
Do You Have More Questions on Buying a House in Birmingham, AL?
So now you know what to expect if you buy a home with a HOA. Be sure if you’re looking at homes with HOAs that you know what to expect! Make sure you weigh the pros and cons! There is so much to buying a home. Make the homebuying process easier on yourself by having an expert real estate agent guide you through the process. I’m here to help if you have more questions about the homebuying process! If you’re looking to buy or build a home in the Greater Birmingham, Alabama area, let me help you. If you’re new to the Birmingham area or looking to relocate to Birmingham, Alabama, please feel reach out to Dianna Howell with The Howell Group: 205-568-5435 or dianna.howell@kw.com
For information on Pelham, Alabama or Birmingham in general, contact real estate agent Dianna Howell, a top buyers agent in the Birmingham, Alabama area.
Visit our website for more information on the Birmingham area: https://diannahowellrealtor.com/category/lifestyle/
🔑🏡 Want to learn more about the buying process? Then read this article for 6️⃣ easy tips: Six tips to Buying a Home
📕 Read more about the Birmingham area in this post: Relocating to Birmingham, Alabama
I have plenty of resources and information to provide including my expert help. Call me today and let’s get started on the search for your new home, whether you want to buy or build!
Sincerely,
Dianna Howell
The Howell Group of Keller Williams in the Birmingham Alabama area
Top Birmingham Real Estate Agent
