HOAs too Oppressive? (apartment, HOA, houses)

[BriansPerspective]

The next time you are mad that your HOA is getting out of line, think about this: Canton Ohio just passed legislation that can send someone to jail for 30 days on their second "high grass" violation Here's the story: Uncut Lawn = Jail Time (broken link)

[altus2006]

That story is talking about "high grass", not grass which hasn't been cut weekly.

I think it is a good deal to lock up the owners because some owners will let their lots and abandoned property turn into jungles if there is not a penalty like jail time.

We have a similar law where I live, but the city usually mows the property and then bills the owner for the cost of mowing. It would probably be easier if they threatened to lock up the people instead.

altus2006

[sablebaby]

Oh crap, I'd be in jail once or twice.

[MotleyCrew]

My husband and I may contemplate leaving the US and this would just about push us to the airport if our HOA adopted this insanity. What a world. We give real criminals a pass every day in court, but will jail you if you should grow some weeds.

[Seventh Son]

I think putting someone in jail for high grass is just a little extreme. But I do think that some sort of penalty or fine is in order for extreme cases. There are several houses in my nieborhood that have been let go so badly they look like they should be torn down.

[ILuvAZ]

I wish we could be harder on offenders. I live in a neighborhood that has different sections. The lower end sections are turning into the ghetto before our very eyes... it's sad and most so for the few ho's in those sections who DO take pride in their home. Noone is saying someone who typically takes care of things and slides a time or two should be slapped with a massive fine (and I think jail is taking it a bit far maybe) but those who just don't seem to care about their house should be MADE TO CARE. If you don't want upkeep on a house live in an apartment instead of bringing down all your neighbors home values and quality of life.

[Keehome]

Does anyone who lives in Vistancia have a comment on what they think the most strict HOA rule is there? Are the HOA rules there reasonable? Thinking of moving there, but never lived in an HOA, as we live on the east coast now. Thanks!

[esselcue]

Seems to me that when someone buys into a community where HOA's or CC&R's are part of the deal, they really need to read what they are signing...and then that would eliminate future problems, such as knee-high grass or purple houses. I don't like HOA's or CC&R's so I live in an area where I am not governed by them, but when I did live in a housing development and had to sign a contract for CC&R's, I was sure to know what I was agreeing to.

[poolgirl51]

Originally Posted by Keehome

Does anyone who lives in Vistancia have a comment on what they think the most strict HOA rule is there? Are the HOA rules there reasonable? Thinking of moving there, but never lived in an HOA, as we live on the east coast now. Thanks!

Ask for a copy of the covenants and restrictions before you make an offer on a home in any community that has an HOA. It is the responsibility of the potential homeowner to read the rules BEFORE you move into an HOA community. If the rules don't work for you then simply don't buy a home in that community. It amazes me how many folks buy homes in HOA communities without reading the documents and then complain about the rules. Your home, for most people, is your largest single investment!! For goodness sake do your homework.

[Bummer]

Originally Posted by poolgirl51

Ask for a copy of the covenants and restrictions before you make an offer on a home in any community that has an HOA. It is the responsibility of the potential homeowner to read the rules BEFORE you move into an HOA community. If the rules don't work for you then simply don't buy a home in that community. It amazes me how many folks buy homes in HOA communities without reading the documents and then complain about the rules. Your home, for most people, is your largest single investment!! For goodness sake do your homework.

WOW, Poolgirl . . . TOO MUCH COMMON SENSE . . . SHAME ON YOU!

I agree with your advice 100%! Sadly, due to today's blatant disrespect for neighbors and fellow human beings, HOA rules are necessary and probably here to stay!