The Homeowner’s Association, or the HOA, can be found in more than half of the country’s neighborhoods. 44.8% of Florida’s residents live in HOA communities. Many homeowners enjoy the benefits of having one established in their neighborhood, while others enjoy the flexibility of not having one.
There is not a one size fits all preference when it comes to HOA regulations. Here are the good, the better and the best of both sides of the fence.
HOA Benefits
Homeowner’s associations provide a sense of structure to communities with guidelines that often manage public or common areas. Items such as landscaping, pools, playgrounds, streetlights and community centers fall under their jurisdiction. They ensure each site is clean, safe and well-maintained.
HOAs can also provide a sense of community pride as each homeowner is held to a certain expectation of ownership. Mostly regarding the exterior of their homes and yards, the standard of upkeep is very high. By doing so, it is common for HOA neighborhoods to maintain or exceed their property values.
HOA Neighborhoods in GTB
Crystal Lagoon Community in Epperson
New construction homes are available in this highly desirable Pasco County community. Only minutes from The Grove, this neighborhood comes with a 7.5-acre lagoon and beach.
This community is located in Hillsborough County and has over 25 miles of gorgeous nature trails, A-rated schools and resort-style amenities. It was one of the first certified green communities in the county.
Everything you need in Pasco County is in Bexley. The community is known for its award-winning amenities, including seven parks, a full-service cafe, dog parks and fitness stations.
Just 12 miles south of Tampa, the Waterset Community is located at Apollo Beach. The neighborhood’s beautiful Landing Club & Cafe is at the heart of this community.
The friendly island neighborhood is not only surrounded by gorgeous watery views, but by parks that have something for everyone. Not to mention, Coquina Key is only 10 minutes to Tropicana Field, home of the Rays.
Non-HOA Benefits
Neighborhoods without HOAs typically have less restrictive covenants, allowing residents to landscape their homes as they wish. Side businesses have become very popular these days. Residents who need to have an additional workspace built in their backyard do not need permission to do so. Other common household additions such as fences, gardens or other exterior changes have much more creative and personal freedom in non-HOA neighborhoods.
A non-HOA neighborhood also means no HOA fees, which allows residents to save money.
Non-HOA neighborhoods in GTB
A modern community with six blocks of restaurants, shopping and indie brands that create a village feel with gorgeous fountains and art as a backdrop for residents and visitors.
This neighborhood in St. Petersburg offers a suburban feel to residents. With plenty of parks and proximity to the Mangrove Bay golf course, Tanglewood is bright and beautiful on the bay.
Located two blocks from Zoo Tampa, minutes from 275 and Downtown Tampa, this neighborhood offers convenience and affordability on new construction homes.
Terrace Park is in Hillsborough County and offers residents an urban feel with many restaurants, coffee shops and parks nearby.
Located in the Lake Magdalene area, this unique lakefront community is a sought-after neighborhood. It is close to Carrollwood shopping and restaurants, several nationally recognized hospitals, the USF campus and the I-275 expressway.
There are several viable, vibrant and scenic living options in GTB that are both HOA and non-HOA regulated.
By Meredith Biesinger.
