One great thing about living in an HOA community is that it helps increase your home's value. The question is: is this worth the accompanying fees?
See, HOA fees can vary widely based on several factors. Some HOAs will only maintain common areas, whereas others will be in charge of a lot more. If you're not aware of how your HOA operates, your wallet could suffer.
Thinking of buying a home in an HOA community in Jefferson, GA? This guide to HOA fees will help you make a more informed buying decision!
What Is an HOA Fee?
The HOA fee is a monthly fee you pay for the services your HOA provides. You pay this fee on top of your mortgage, insurance, and property taxes. Even if you pay your mortgage off, you'll still need to keep paying HOA dues.
In general, paying these fees gives you quality-of-life comforts you may not get as an individual homeowner. If you're not interested in these amenities or services, you may be better off living outside an HOA community.
What Do HOA Fees Cover?
The HOA fee structure depends on the services available in the community. Check your HOA's governing documents to find out exactly what their fees cover. Some common services include:
- Ground maintenance and repairs
- Pest control in common areas
- Snow and trash removal
- Safety and security procedures
- Amenities (pool, fitness center, etc.)
In Jefferson GA communities, HOA fees can also cover enforcing HOA rules. These rules aim to make each home as visually appealing as possible.
How Much Are HOA Fees?
Homeowners association costs also vary widely depending on the location. The average HOA fee in the U.S. is $170, but an oceanfront condo association will set you back a lot more than an inland gated community.
HOA fees can also vary even within one community. Larger homes can pay more than smaller ones because they use more services. For example, cutting the grass costs more at a large home than at a townhouse.
Special Assessment Fees
Beyond regular fees, your HOA can also authorize special assessments. These fees cover the costs of unanticipated works, like restoring a building's facade. A special assessment can also go toward an HOA's reserve fund.
Though assessments are one-time charges, HOA boards have a lot of freedom to institute them. In some cases, they'll hire management services to handle this task for them.
How to Evaluate HOA Fees
If you're looking to buy a home in a Jefferson HOA community, look into their HOA rules and regulations. This allows you to see if the HOA has planned well for the future or not. Some questions you should ask yourself are:
- How often does the HOA increase its fees?
- Does the HOA have a reserve fund and how much is in it?
- Does the HOA have a history of charging special assessments?
Jefferson HOAs and You
As you can see, HOA fees are all about weighing the costs versus the benefits. This guide will help you decide on the right balance for your needs!
Looking to buy a property in an HOA community in Jefferson, GA? At PMI 23 East, we've helped people like you for over 10 years! Contact us here to learn more about how we can help you boost your home's value!
