When buying a home in a neighborhood with a Homeowners Association (HOA), it’s important to understand exactly what you’re signing up for. HOA rules—also known as covenants, conditions, and restrictions (CC&Rs)—can significantly influence how you enjoy your property and what responsibilities come with it.

While HOAs are designed to maintain property values and ensure a community’s visual appeal, their rules can sometimes feel restrictive if you’re not prepared. Before closing on a home, every buyer should take the time to know and understand what HOA rules cover—and what they don’t.

1. What Is a Homeowners Association (HOA)?

A Homeowners Association is an organization that manages a residential community, such as a subdivision, townhouse complex, or condominium. It collects monthly or annual dues from homeowners to fund maintenance, repairs, and shared amenities like pools, clubhouses, and landscaping.

In return, homeowners must comply with a set of rules and regulations intended to preserve the neighborhood’s standards and harmony.

2. Why HOA Rules Exist

HOA rules are designed to:

• Maintain a consistent aesthetic across the neighborhood

• Protect property values for all residents

• Ensure fair use of shared spaces and amenities

• Promote peaceful coexistence among neighbors

These rules can vary significantly between communities; some are strict, while others are more lenient. Knowing what you’re agreeing to before buying can save you from future headaches or unexpected fines.

3. What HOA Rules Typically Cover

While each HOA is unique, here are the most common areas their rules and restrictions usually address:

a. Exterior Appearance and Landscaping

HOAs often regulate how homes look on the outside—everything from paint color to roof materials, mailbox designs, and even which trees you can plant. These rules help maintain a cohesive look throughout the community.

b. Property Maintenance

Owners are generally required to keep lawns mowed, driveways clean, and homes well-maintained. Failure to comply could result in written warnings or fines.

c. Vehicles and Parking

Many HOAs limit where you can park your car, RV, or boat. Overnight street parking or commercial vehicles in driveways may be restricted.

d. Pets and Animals

HOAs often have guidelines about the number, size, or breed of pets allowed. They might also regulate where pets can be walked and require owners to clean up after them.

e. Noise and Nuisances

To maintain peace in the community, HOAs enforce noise rules—especially during nighttime hours. Loud parties or construction at odd hours may result in penalties.

f. Rentals and Leasing

Some associations restrict or prohibit short-term rentals (like Airbnb or Vrbo). Others may require board approval before leasing your property to tenants.

g. Shared Amenities

HOA rules define how and when residents can use common facilities such as gyms, pools, tennis courts, and clubhouses.

4. What HOA Rules Usually Don’t Cover

While HOAs govern many aspects of community living, there are things they typically don’t control, including:

• Interior modifications that don’t affect structural integrity

• Personal decor or furnishings inside the home

• Lifestyle choices that don’t violate noise or safety rules

• How you manage private utilities or service providers

However, if interior changes (such as removing a load-bearing wall or altering plumbing) impact the building’s structure, they may require approval from the HOA.

5. What Happens If You Violate HOA Rules

If a homeowner violates a rule, the HOA typically issues a written warning. Continued non-compliance can lead to fines, suspension of amenity privileges, or, in extreme cases, legal action or liens placed on the property.

That’s why it’s crucial to review the HOA’s governing documents—including the CC&Rs, bylaws, and rules and regulations—before purchasing a home in the community.

6. Benefits of Living in an HOA Community

While some homeowners see HOA rules as restrictive, they do offer several advantages, such as:

• Well-maintained neighborhoods and higher curb appeal

• Consistent property values across the community

• Shared access to amenities like gyms, parks, or private pools

• Conflict resolution mechanisms for neighbor disputes

By following HOA guidelines, residents contribute to a more pleasant and organized community environment.

7. Tips for Homebuyers

If you’re considering a home within an HOA:

• Request and read all governing documents before closing.

• Ask questions about rule enforcement and fee increases.

• Check for pending lawsuits or financial troubles within the HOA.

• Budget for dues—and understand what those fees include.

Knowing these details helps you make a confident and informed decision.

Understanding your HOA rules is an essential step toward responsible homeownership. These guidelines aren’t just about compliance—they’re about preserving community standards, protecting investments, and fostering good neighbor relations.

Whether you’re buying your first condo in Boston or a family home in North Andover, knowing what your HOA covers will help you avoid surprises and enjoy your new neighborhood with confidence.

Matt Witte strives to be the best realtor in North Andover, MA.

Any questions about real estate, reach out to Matt Witte, North Andover Realtor, MA-