Our first house was somehow exempt from the homeowner's association. The president, while we lived there, didn't like it one bit. However, there was nothing he could do about it. We kept our home and lawn immaculate because we take care of what we pay for. The downside is that sometimes you get a control freak like him and it's a battle. It does serve to keep people motivated to maintain.

Currently, we are in the county and only have to follow their ordinances. All of my neighbors keep their property well maintained. That's a factor in why we bought this house. We looked around at various times of the day and week, over a period of time.

Any homeowner's fees and requirements would/should be disclosed by a reputable realtor so the potential buyer has been advised.

Condo fees are different. Buying a condo means you have to pay a yearly fee which covers landscaping, building, tennis courts, pool, club house, and common area maintenance. Condo life is virtually maintenance free for the buyer once they step outside their door.

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