Once you buy a home that's part of an HOA, you automatically become a member of the HOA. HOA rules are legally binding, and you must adhere to all rules and regulations in the governing document. Yes, there are bylaws that you may not like, but there are no HOA loopholes.
State laws. Some states have laws that prohibit raising fees over a certain percentage. For instance, in Arizona, ing to Revised Statutes §33-1803, HOAs may not hike up fees by over 20% per year without a majority vote from the members of the community.
Here are some of the documents you can ask for as a homeowner: CC&Rs: The covenants, conditions and restrictions (CC&Rs) outline the rules and regulations of the community. Bylaws: The bylaws establish operational procedures for the HOA, like voting rights, elections, meetings, powers of the board, and more.
The Homeowners Association Dispute Process is administered by the Arizona Department of Real Estate, which has the statutory jurisdiction to hear issues between residents and homeowner or inium associations.
The Supreme Court held that an HOA may not rely on a general amendment power provision in its covenants, conditions, and restrictions to place restrictions on landowners' use of their land only as to those restrictions for which the HOA's original declaration has provided sufficient notice.
State laws. For instance, in Arizona, ing to Revised Statutes §33-1803, HOAs may not hike up fees by over 20% per year without a majority vote from the members of the community. Before increasing regular assessments, an HOA must check state laws or consult an attorney first.
Lien Process Limitations: In Arizona, an HOA cannot foreclose on a home solely for unpaid fines (Arizona Revised Statutes 33-1807). While unpaid fines can lead to legal action or liens on the property, foreclosure is only permitted for unpaid assessments (like maintenance fees or dues), not fines alone.
The ARS grants the board specific powers such as the ability to foreclose on a house for unpaid liens and establish rules concerning the exterior appearance of homes and other community-related restrictions. HOAs in Arizona are also bound by rules set forth in their own governing documents.