Introduction

Homeownership is a significant milestone for many, but the decision between purchasing a standalone home or a condo within a Homeowners Association (HOA) community can be challenging. While condos offer certain conveniences, recent events in Florida highlight some of the potential pitfalls of living under an HOA. This article explores why moving to a home might be a better option, using the resignation of an entire HOA board in Florida as a case study.

The Florida HOA Board Resignation: What Happened?

In June 2024, the entire homeowners association board of the Villas of Carillon townhome community in Feather Sound, Florida, resigned after a contentious dispute over a $60,000 special assessment. The board had proposed this assessment to address the community’s underfunded reserves, a problem that had persisted for over 20 years. The assessment was intended to cover necessary repairs and ensure the community’s financial stability, especially in light of stricter regulations following the 2021 Surfside condo collapse.

However, the proposed assessment faced significant backlash from homeowners, many of whom feared they would be unable to afford the additional costs. The situation escalated to the point where the board felt compelled to resign, leaving the community in a state of uncertainty.

Why It’s Better to Move to a Home

• Financial Autonomy

One of the primary advantages of owning a standalone home is financial autonomy. Homeowners are solely responsible for their property and can make financial decisions without the constraints of an HOA. In contrast, condo owners must adhere to the financial decisions made by the HOA, which can include unexpected special assessments like the one in the Villas of Carillon. These assessments can place a significant financial burden on residents, leading to potential foreclosures and financial distress.

• Freedom from HOA Rules and Regulations

HOAs often impose strict rules and regulations on residents, dictating everything from exterior paint colors to landscaping choices. While these rules are intended to maintain property values and community standards, they can also limit homeowners’ freedom to personalize their living spaces. In a standalone home, owners have the liberty to make changes and improvements as they see fit, without needing approval from an HOA board.

• Avoiding HOA Fees

Condo owners are required to pay monthly or annual HOA fees, which can be substantial. These fees cover maintenance, amenities, and other community expenses. However, they can also increase over time, adding to the overall cost of living in a condo. By moving to a standalone home, homeowners can avoid these recurring fees and allocate their money towards their own property maintenance and improvements.

• Reduced Risk of Community Disputes

Living in a condo community means sharing common spaces and responsibilities with other residents, which can sometimes lead to disputes? The situation in the Villas of Carillon is a prime example of how disagreements over financial decisions can escalate and create tension within the community. In a standalone home, homeowners have more control over their environment and are less likely to be affected by conflicts with neighbors.

• Greater Privacy

Standalone homes typically offer more privacy than condos. In a condo, residents share walls, floors, and ceilings with their neighbors, which can lead to noise and privacy issues. A standalone home provides a more secluded living environment, allowing homeowners to enjoy their space without the constant presence of neighbors.

Conclusion

While condos with HOAs can offer certain benefits, such as shared amenities and maintenance services, the recent events in Florida highlight some of the significant drawbacks. The resignation of the entire HOA board at the Villas of Carillon due to a $60,000 special assessment dispute underscores the potential financial and communal challenges of living in a condo with an HOA. For many, the financial autonomy, freedom from strict regulations, avoidance of HOA fees, reduced risk of community disputes, and greater privacy make moving to a standalone home a more appealing option.

Ultimately, the decision between a condo and a standalone home depends on individual preferences and circumstances. However, it’s essential to consider the potential risks and benefits carefully before making a choice. The case of the Villas of Carillon serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the implications of living under an HOA and the value of having control over one’s own property.