Congratulations on your new home purchase! And welcome to the world of HOAs…
Homeowners Associations (HOAs) are commonplace in Florida. If you’ve bought a new home, condo, townhouse or villa, your membership in an association is likely automatic. Most neighborhoods/developments in Florida have their own HOA to ensure the community residents’ best interests are represented, to protect their property values and enforce the covenants and restrictions outlined by the association.
As previously stated, if there is a homeowner’s association in your development, you do not get to choose whether you are a part of it or not. Typically, the purchase of your home creates a contract with the HOA. As a part of the homeowners’ association, you will be required to pay association dues. These dues go towards maintaining common areas of the community, like the front gates, a clubhouse, community pool, playground, etc. In some communities, your trash pickup, cable and/or internet services may also be negotiated as part of your dues.
Many rules and regulations are a part of homeowner’s associations. You commonly see rules and guidelines regarding the exterior look of your home (paint colors, siding/finish, additions, etc). This also includes additional garages and storage buildings. Some associations will allow an additional structure but only if the look is consistent with your house and the neighbor. Plans and contractors often must be pre-approved by the association board as well.
Storage with HOAs can become an issue as not all associations will allow additional buildings. Exterior storage sheds and 3-car garages are rare in subdivisions with homeowner’s associations. This can be storage difficult for those not only with typical storage items (seasonal, furniture, etc), but especially difficult if you enjoy the outdoors and your toys! Parking RVs, boats, jet skis, ATVs, and other recreational vehicles outside of your garage is typically frowned upon by HOAs.
A common solution for many homeowners is the use of self storage facilities. This allows for climate controlled, secure storage for their belongings. If your Florida homeowners association has storage restrictions, please contact Sunshine Self Storage for a location near you. We are happy to provide short- and long-term solutions to fit your needs.
