Homeowners Associations: They’re a common part of residential life here in Northeast Florida so let’s find out what they’re all about.

A Homeowners Association is a governing body, generally in a subdivision or condominium building, that makes and enforces rules for the residents, takes responsibility for maintenance of shared spaces such as pools, golf courses, playgrounds and gyms, and arranges for services such as trash pickup and landscaping. About 75% of homes in the southern portion of the United States are in HOA neighborhoods and these homes generally sell for more money than their non-HOA counterparts.

Living in a neighborhood or community with an HOA may mean more money out of your pocket in the form of dues, but it also means more work off your plate!

• Don’t have a green thumb? That’s okay! Your Homeowners Association will make sure that the plants and trees that beautify your view are always in top form!
• More interested in spending your weekends resting than working? Perfect! Your HOA will clean your pool so you can perfect your backstroke without doing backbreaking maintenance.
• Hoping to tone up without joining a gym? Want to perfect your golf game without going to the golf course? No problem. Your community gym and golf course are clean, well-maintained and ready to help you reach your goals.
• Dealing with a difficult neighbor who isn’t following the rules? That can be awkward, but your HOA will take care of that!
• Depending on your neighborhood and your HOA, you may even be able to let someone else worry about details such as an aging roof, peeling paint and outdoor lighting. What a gift!

But what if you live in an area without a Homeowners Association? While you may not have a built-in maintenance team, conflict resolution crew and landscapers extraordinaire, you will have a bit more freedom.

• You will be free from dues.
• You will be free from restrictions on the design and decoration of your home and yard.
• You can make your own decisions about where to direct your attention, energy and finances when it comes to your home.

If having easy access to a pool or a gym won’t add to your quality of life, then paying for it is a waste of money. Choose a non-HOA home.

If the thought of exchanging yard work for more time with your family sounds like a great deal, then an HOA residence is perfect.

If having other people tell you what kind of mailbox you can have or what color you can paint your house is going to cramp your style, you probably don’t want to conform to a Homeowners Association.

How will you know which kind of community is right for you? The most important thing is to be honest with yourself about what matters to you in your neighborhood and in your wallet. Take for example World Golf Village. The neighborhoods here have a wide array of HOA options, including more amenities and peace of mind living than you could imagine.

Your home is your castle so put some thought into how you want to live, what qualities will bring added value to your home life and how much you’re willing to pay to let someone else take charge.