HOA vs. No HOA: Which Is Right for You?

When buying a home in Harford County, one of the decisions you may face is whether to buy in a neighborhood with a homeowners association, commonly called an HOA, or choose a home without one.

Where I grew up in upstate New York, HOAs were not common at all. In Harford County, however, roughly two-thirds of homes are located in HOA communities. Because of that, buyers should understand both the advantages and disadvantages before deciding which option fits them best. It really depends on your lifestyle, budget, and how much freedom you want over your property.

What Are the Benefits of Living in an HOA Community?

In my opinion, one of the biggest advantages of an HOA is access to community amenities.

Some neighborhoods offer swimming pools, fitness centers, playgrounds, pickleball courts, clubhouses, walking trails, and other shared features. Bulle Rock in Havre de Grace is one example of a community known for offering a wide range of amenities.

These features can add convenience and provide activities close to home. They may also reduce some of your personal expenses. A community fitness center could eliminate the need for a gym membership, while a neighborhood pool may mean you do not need to install or maintain one yourself.

Another major benefit is the appearance of the neighborhood.

HOAs typically establish rules regarding exterior maintenance, landscaping, parking, fences, and other visible parts of a property. This often creates a more uniform and well-cared-for appearance throughout the community.

That can matter when it comes to property values. Believe it or not, the condition of your neighbor’s home can affect how buyers view your property. A neighborhood that appears clean and properly maintained will most likely be more attractive to future buyers.

What Do HOA Fees Cover?

HOA fees are often viewed as a negative, but buyers should look beyond the amount and understand exactly what the fee includes.

Some associations cover trash removal, lawn care, snow removal, common-area maintenance, recreational facilities, or other services. These are expenses you may otherwise have to pay separately.

For example, lawn care may save you the cost of buying equipment or hiring a company. A pool or fitness center may reduce the need for outside memberships.

The important question is not simply, “How much is the HOA fee?” It is, “What am I receiving in exchange for that fee?”

It is also important to review whether fees have increased in the past and whether the association has discussed future increases or special assessments.

What Are the Drawbacks of an HOA?

The biggest frustration for many homeowners is the need to follow the association’s rules.

You may need approval before making exterior changes, even when the work is being done on your own property. This could include installing a fence, changing the color of your front door or shutters, adding landscaping, building a shed, or making other improvements.

Some buyers appreciate these restrictions because they help maintain consistency. Others feel they limit personal freedom.

HOA fees are another disadvantage. Even when the fee covers useful services, it is still an ongoing housing expense. It should be included in your monthly budget when determining what you can comfortably afford.

What Are the Benefits of Buying Without an HOA?

The two biggest advantages of buying a home without an HOA are avoiding HOA fees and having more freedom.

Without an HOA, you generally have more control over exterior changes, landscaping, fencing, colors, and how you use your property. You may still need to follow county zoning requirements or obtain permits, but you do not have an additional association reviewing your choices.

For buyers who enjoy personalizing their homes or who dislike being told what they can do with their property, a non-HOA neighborhood may be the better fit.

You also avoid monthly or annual HOA dues, which may lower your total housing costs.

What Are the Disadvantages of Living Without an HOA?

The freedom of a non-HOA neighborhood applies to your neighbors too.

If a nearby property becomes messy, poorly maintained, or filled with vehicles or outdoor items, there may not be a third-party organization available to enforce neighborhood standards.

County codes may address serious violations, but they may not cover every issue that affects the appearance of a neighborhood.

This is the tradeoff. You gain more control over your property, but you also give up some control over the appearance and maintenance of the homes around you.

What Should Buyers Review Before Purchasing in an HOA?

Before buying, request and carefully review the association’s rules, fees, budget, financial statements, meeting minutes, and information about pending assessments.

Maryland law requires certain HOA information to be provided to prospective buyers. Buyers can review the Maryland Homeowners Association Act for additional information about HOA definitions and requirements.

Do not assume every HOA operates the same way. Some are relatively relaxed, while others have detailed rules and more active enforcement.

How Do You Decide Between an HOA and No HOA?

My advice is simple: know yourself.

If you like more freedom and do not consider yourself much of a rule follower, an HOA may not be the right choice. My husband is not an HOA person, which is one reason we eventually moved from an HOA community to a home without one.

On the other hand, if you value neighborhood standards, shared amenities, and a more consistent appearance, an HOA community may be worth considering.

The goal is not to determine whether HOAs are good or bad. The goal is to choose the type of neighborhood that best matches the way you want to live.