Looking for feedback on handling HOA/water/trash

[Rick Reed]

I'm looking to purchase my first rental and just found out that the HOA dues are $165 month. BUT, that amount covers exterior maintenance, water, and trash pickup. The property is a townhouse.

If I include the HOA dues in the rent and try to remain competitive with other rent prices in the same community, the numbers are very tight and only leave about $155 in monthly cash flow.

My question... Would you have the tenant pay the HOA dues directly since it includes water and trash removal, or would you include it in the rent?

If the tenant is to pay the dues directly and just decides not to pay them, could I face a lien against the property?