Just Moved Into an HOA? Start With This Checklist
You’ve signed on the dotted line and are moving to a home in a homeowners’ association (HOA). You’ve made a great choice, and are probably wondering what to do after buying a home in an HOA.
There’s so much to explore about your new lifestyle and neighborhood, but there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. We’re here to guide you every step of the way with a new HOA homeowner checklist outlining everything you need to do as you settle in.
1. Browse Your Welcome Packet
As a new HOA homeowner, you should receive all the necessary information to get situated in your community in a welcome packet. Think of it as an operating manual, only instead of providing instructions for a new gadget, it contains details about your neighborhood and association.
HOA Welcome Packet Checklist
- Contact information. Locate ways to get in touch with your HOA board of directors, community managers, emergency personnel, security, and maintenance teams.
- Homeowner responsibilities. Get a clear understanding of your duties, from lawn care and pet management to internet, cable, and trash collection.
- Amenities and facilities. Figure out operating hours, usage rules, and reservation instructions.
- Retail and entertainment. Discover what your local area has for food, fun, and more.
- Forms. Check out your HOA bylaws, emergency plans, insurance, and pet registration documents.
- Community calendar. Stay up to date on neighborhood activities so you never miss a beat.
Read your welcome packet and keep it handy as you get acclimated. If questions pop up, you’ll likely find your answers there.
2. Review the Rules
Homeowners’ association rules and community policies are the backbone of a well-run association. These guidelines help maintain the attractive, pleasant, and harmonious environment that residents invested in.
Next on your HOA checklist for new homeowners is to confirm you can access your governing documents and read them thoroughly so you know what flies and what doesn’t.
Where to Find HOA Documents
- HOA website or member app
- Board members
- County office records
- Property management company
- Closing documents
3. Set Up Utilities
After buying a home in an HOA, don’t forget about all the utilities and services you need to set up: electricity, water, gas, internet, and cable, just to name a few. Be sure to activate everything on time to avoid interruptions or late fees, and add service billing dates to a calendar for an easy reminder.
4. Budget for Additional Expenses
In addition to a mortgage and utilities, residents often pay HOA fees to cover items like amenity maintenance, neighborhood security, and insurance. Learn what you must pay for and opt-in to receive updates on payment amounts, deadlines, and other information. If available, enroll in autopay for timely payments—nobody likes late charges!
5. Connect With Key People
When it comes to community association living, there are several individuals you’ll want to get to know. Start with the HOA board of directors, a group of volunteer residents who oversee operations. Your community association manager, who reports directly to the board, is another valuable contact. They can answer questions, connect you with service providers, and even recommend nearby attractions. And, of course, there are your neighbors—who will hopefully welcome you with open arms.
6. Make the Most of Your Amenities
Amenities are one of the best parts of community association living. As a resident, you pay to maintain them—so use them and check them off your new HOA homeowner checklist!
Popular HOA Amenities
- Pools
- Fitness centers
- Clubhouses
- Walking paths
- Golf courses
- Playgrounds
- Picnic areas
- Basketball, tennis, and pickleball courts
First-time HOA homeowner guide bonus tip: Remember to get any entry keys or codes needed to access your favorite features. Plus, double-check hours of operation before you go—nothing dampens a trip to the pool like being locked out.
7. Explore Your Surroundings
There’s fun beyond your neighborhood, too. After buying a home in an HOA, get out and explore the area. Look for the services you use most, like:
- Shopping centers
- Schools
- Doctor and dentist offices
- Gyms
- Parks
- Mechanics
8. Attend Events
You get out what you put into community association living. Last on the HOA checklist for new homeowners is to talk to neighbors, attend meetings, and participate in HOA events. At meetings, you’ll get the lowdown on community operations and a chance to speak up and shape how the community functions. Social gatherings like cookouts and block parties are prime moments to create bonds that can last for decades.
The Takeaway: This is What You Should Do Immediately After Buying in an HOA
Moving into a new HOA is exciting. While there’s plenty to learn, embracing community association living is rewarding. Here’s the quick new HOA homeowner checklist:
- Read your welcome packet
- Review the rules
- Set up utilities
- Make your budget
- Meet key people
- Use amenities
- Explore the area
- Go to events
Before you know it, you’ll go from new-in-town to a trusted community member, welcoming those who come after you.
New HOA Homeowner FAQs
Can an HOA fine you right after you move in?
Yes, if you violate community rules right when you move in, your HOA can fine you.
What are the most common HOA violations?
The most common HOA violations include:
- Overgrown landscaping
- Parking incorrectly
- Trash infractions
- Noise complaints
- Pet violations
- Unauthorized holiday decorations
- Illegal short-term rentals
What documents should I review before moving into an HOA?
It’s important to thoroughly review your HOA governing documents, including the CC&Rs, Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, and more, to decide if an HOA is right for you.
When you buy a house in an HOA, do you own the land?
Yes, when you buy a single-family home in an HOA, you own the land it sits on. However, this is different in condo associations.