[JavaBrewer]

I have lived in 4 communites over the past 30 years, 2 were HOA and both were a generally positive experience. Yes dealing with the various committees could be difficult but I do believe that home values trended higher then neighboring ones without HOA. I don't miss sending the $125/200 per month dues or the parking 'violations' put on visitors cars who parked on the street. Worst for me was the requirement to get front landscaping approved within 6 months and finished 12 months after escrow closed. The builder left us dirt lots with fencing to start with. The by-laws for front landscaping required no more than 60% hardscape (concrete/walls/pavers). After scrambling to find a contractor (many months) I submitted my plan which was nearly 70% and got denied. I was going to be investing over $100K in for front yard improvements and they said NO! I had to submit pictures of 2 HOA board members homes that were almost 100% hardscape before they relented. PITA.