First-Time Condo Buyer? Here’s What to Know About HOAs Before You Buy
Buying your first home is a major milestone—congratulations! If that first step happens to be a condo, you're joining a unique type of homeownership that comes with some perks… and a few extra rules.
One of the biggest differences? The HOA.
Let’s break down what it means to own a condo with a Homeowners Association and what first-time buyers should watch for—before signing on the dotted line.
What Is an HOA and Why Does It Matter?
When you buy a condo, you’re not just purchasing the walls around you—you’re also becoming part of a shared community. The HOA is the governing body (usually made up of fellow condo owners) that manages and maintains the shared spaces and enforces community rules.
Think of it as a mini local government—they’re in charge of:
Landscaping and exterior maintenance
Roofs, pools, gyms, hallways, and common areas
Budgeting for repairs and future upgrades
Setting and collecting monthly dues
Enforcing community rules (yes, even your paint colors or pet policies!)
What to Ask About the HOA Before You Buy
Before falling in love with the granite countertops or that killer view, take time to do your due diligence on the HOA. Here’s what to dig into:
1. Monthly Dues
How much are they, and what do they cover?
Do they include utilities like water, trash, or internet?
Have they gone up recently?
2. Reserve Fund & Financial Health
Does the HOA have enough savings for major repairs (like roofs or plumbing)?
Are there any special assessments planned—big one-time fees owners must pay?
3. Rules & Restrictions
Are there pet, rental, or noise restrictions?
Can you remodel your unit or install a washer/dryer?
Are short-term rentals (like Airbnb) allowed?
4. Litigation or Insurance Issues
Is the HOA currently involved in any lawsuits?
Are they adequately insured?
Your real estate agent and home inspector can help flag any issues, but these are key questions to ask upfront.
What Your Home Inspector Looks For in a Condo
You might think: “It’s a condo—do I really need a home inspection?”
Absolutely. Even though the HOA is responsible for exterior areas, what’s inside your walls matters.
During a condo inspection, we focus on:
Plumbing and water pressure (especially in multi-unit buildings)
Electrical panel and wiring
HVAC system and ventilation
Windows, insulation, and soundproofing
Appliances, drainage, and moisture levels
We’ll also note any visible signs of HOA-neglected maintenance—like roof leaks that have made it into your ceiling or poor drainage around the building. These issues can impact you and indicate a larger problem with how the community is managed.
Tips for First-Time Condo Buyers
Here’s how to make your condo buying process smoother:
Attend an HOA meeting if possible before you buy—see how things are run.
Read the CC&Rs (Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions) carefully. It’s a lot of legalese, but crucial.
Talk to a few neighbors—they’ll give you the inside scoop on life in the building.
Get a home inspection even if it’s a newer building. Surprises = stress.
Plan for the long term. What will your HOA fees look like in 5 years? Are there upcoming projects?
The Bottom Line
Condo living can be amazing—less maintenance, built-in amenities, and a tight-knit community. But make sure you know what you’re signing up for with your HOA. Doing your homework now can save you from surprises (and special assessments) later.
As a home inspector, I’ve seen condos that are turnkey dream homes—and others that come with red flags buyers didn’t notice until it was too late. That’s why a thorough inspection, a review of HOA docs, and a good real estate agent are your best tools as a first-time buyer.
