How to Tell if a Home is in an HOA

Question

How can I tell if a home is in an HOA? I have found an area I am interested in targeting for a new construction project. The property I am interested in has a permit pulled 3 years ago for a SFR. The foundation forms were laid and some plumbing was done. But, then the site was abandoned. Why? I want to evaluate potential HOA regulations before pursuing purchases. I have looked at the CAD website, the county clerk's website, and have looked at everything available online regarding the permit. I do not see any HOA mentions. But, also, I notice that the permit information available online does not show anything about the proposed home except for simple things like square footage and number of bedrooms. Surely there is more... What else am I missing and where would I find it?

Jim

Ronald Rohde · Answer

Honestly, I wouldn't trust the MLS listings anyway, I've seen many errors between mandatory or voluntary HOAs, fees being listed wrong, etc. The deed is the only legally binding document, MLS and agents are just opinions.

If you checked the deed and there is no restriction, then its clear.

Ronald Rohde · Answer

You would check the deed.

James H. · Answer

Hello Everyone,

Followup:  I have discovered that some cities have a list/map of HOAs that can be used to determine if a property is in an HOA.  Here is an example for Frisco:

https://friscotexas.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1446

And here is a link to an interactive map of Dallas neighborhoods and HOAs.  This one answered my original question.

http://gis.dallascityhall.com/hoana/

Hope that helps someone else!

Jim

Teri Feeney Styers · Answer

Ask a title company. That's part of their due diligence on any property. Ask for an O&E - around here they only charge $5 and you find liens and such too.

Aaron K. · Answer

@James H. Even if the house is off market redifn will still tell you if there is an HOA fee for neighboring properties that are already built.

Aaron K. · Answer

If it is in a developed neighborhood just look at the neighbor's houses on places like redfin, or the MLS and you will see whether or not it is in an HOA.  If you are looking at land in an undeveloped or developing neighborhood your best bet would be to ask the listing agent if it is listed.

How to Tell if a Home is in an HOA

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