We've had a rather in-depth discussion about HOA's on this board recently. I recently bought a house in one and 2 months later was slapped with a "PAINT YOUR HOUSE IN 15 DAYS" notice. I was not too happy to say the least. The house I moved from had started out in a beautiful neighborhood, about the past 5 years houses started being painted very odd and ugly colors, cars parked on lawns, trashcans left on curb all week, cars up on blocks in driveways. I sold and went looking for a HOA so my neighborhood would not be run down again (hopefully) There are pro's and cons to living in one. You just have to weigh which are more important to you. If it is freedom to do what you want with your house, then obviously it is not for you. If you want to live in a well kept, well maintained neighborhood and protect your property values, then a HOA is for you. I made my choice, I did NOT like being told to paint my newly purchased house, which iin my opinion did not need a paint job immediately. I did alot of research about what HOA's can do to you and it scared me. THis is just my opinion but if it were me, I would pay off the arrears and get that mess squared away, THEN go after whoever you have to go after. You probably will not win with the HOA and if you don't pay while you fight the builder or whover, you are just going to rack up more fines, interest and leins. I hope it works out for you, please keep us updated.
