If you’re shopping for a home in Maryland, there’s a good chance the property may be part of a homeowners’ association (HOA) or condominium association. In fact, about 1.1 million Maryland residents live in communities governed by these associations and their rules.
Before you buy, it’s important to understand something called HOA covenants, because they can influence everything from how your home looks to how the neighborhood operates.
What Are HOA Covenants?
HOA covenants are the rules and expectations for homeowners living in a community governed by an HOA. These rules are usually written in a legal document called Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs).
These documents are recorded with the property and “run with the land,” meaning they apply to current and future owners of the home. It also means you agree to follow these established rules as a resident of that community.
What HOA Covenants Can Regulate
Every HOA community is different, but many covenants address day-to-day property use and neighborhood standards. For example, rules may govern the exterior appearance of homes, such as approved paint colors or fencing styles, as well as expectations for lawn care and property maintenance.
Covenants may also include restrictions on pets, parking, or landscaping choices. These guidelines are designed to create a consistent look throughout the neighborhood.
HOA Fees and Community Amenities
Most HOA covenants also require homeowners to pay HOA dues or assessments. These fees support shared amenities and services within the community. Depending on the neighborhood, dues may cover the maintenance of common areas, landscaping, snow removal, trash service, or amenities like pools, clubhouses, or fitness centers.
Homeowners are required to pay these fees for as long as they own the property, and the amount can change over time depending on the community’s needs.
What Happens If Rules Are Broken?
HOAs typically have enforcement procedures to ensure residents follow the community’s rules. If a covenant is violated, the association may issue warnings, impose fines, or require corrective action depending on the situation. Because these rules are legally binding, they can have real consequences for homeowners.
Why Buyers Should Review HOA Covenants Carefully
Before purchasing a home in an HOA community, buyers should take time to review the governing documents carefully so they fully understand the rules they will be expected to follow. This includes learning about any restrictions on pets, rentals, or exterior property changes, as well as understanding the current HOA dues and how those fees may increase over time.
Under Maryland law, you have strict timelines to review these documents and retain the ability to cancel your home sale if you find something in the HOA resale disclosure packet that is not to your liking. Your REALTOR® can advise you on this process.
Living in an HOA community can provide benefits such as well-maintained neighborhoods and shared amenities. However, these benefits also come with certain responsibilities and limitations. Before you buy, know what you can – and cannot – live with in your future community.
