How much are your HOA dues ($150K-250K housing price range)?

[superhero]

Originally Posted by Barli

Wow, I'm sorry to say this, but I can't wait to come there and pay some of the dues I'm reading about. Where we are in Maryland, we have a pool, playground and tennis court, (all singular) and 1 very small area of common ground. The pool is open 2 months out of the year, and it's not even a nice, up-kept pool. We have no sidewalks, curb and gutter or entrance sign. There are around 500 single family houses and we pay $840 a year!

yes but wait until you see some of the neighborhoods...

[Jsciusco]

We are going to be moving into Amberly Village Sq and it is $150/month for maintenance of the property. pluss $1200/year for the club facilities

[cchampagne232000]

11 bucks a month. That gets us mowing and landscaping of the common areas, big brother watching tennants not keeping up their property, and about 3-4 neighborhood gatherings a year. I chose this neighborhood partially because I hate the idea of high HOA fees.

[cry884]

For those complaining about paying into social events that they don't participate in, I have two thoughts for your consideration:

1) Participate if you can- just once. Even if it's a kid-themed event, for example, it's a good way to meet and interact with neighbors. Plus, you'll see all the people who enjoy the event.

2) There are benefits to neighborhood socials beyond the actual bounce house and cotton candy. One is that neighborhoods will socials and other amenities sell better. Families search out these neighborhoods. This translates to better resale value. I get calls all the time asking if the neighborhood dues include parties at the pool, movie night, bunco, or other neighborly get togethers. Many people like it and will pay for it- think of that when you sell your house. Additionally, neighborhoods where people know one another are safer. Ask any cop assigned to the community watch beat speaking to an HOA, and you'll hear him say that neighborhoods should have a lot of communication (e-mail lists, websites, etc.) and a lot of participation (meetings, socials, get togethers). The drive into your garage without even waving neighborhoods where people can't even name their next door neighbors are less safe. No one is looking out for one another. You can't alert your neighbor that you saw someone poking around his house when he's on vacation if you don't know he's on vacation, don't know his number, and don't even know what he looks like. Maybe that guy was the neighbor. Who knows?