Homeowner’s Associations, 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 GG
Only minutes from UF Health Shands Hospital, this family-friendly neighborhood offers 550 acres of beautiful scenery, state of the art amenities and new homes.
Quiet, narrow streets in this historic neighborhood date back to 1854, with architecture from the 1880’s-1950’s.
A suburban neighborhood that is in close proximity to top-rated schools and a plethora of restaurant options.
A New Urbanist planned development with beautiful homes and amenities galore. With nine miles of roads, walking trails, shopping, dining and Haile’s Village Market Center, the community also has excellent health care facilities and an equestrian center.
Tioga (Newberry) is a blend of modern convenience, mixed with old southern style and comfort. There is a community garden and a town square that invites residents to gather together.
Non-HOA Benefits
Neighborhoods without HOAs typically have less restrictive covenants, allowing residents to landscape their homes as they wish. With working from home and side businesses becoming very popular, residents who need to build an additional workspace 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 GG
A family friendly neighborhood with many luxury-style amenities. UF Health Shands Emergency Center and Bangkok Square are conveniently located nearby, as well as many other hot spots in Gainesville.
Voted as a “favorite neighborhood” in Gainesville for 2022, this community is known for its beautiful scenery, quiet location and convenience.
An established neighborhood with large lots and top-notch schools, Buckingham offers convenience and a serene atmosphere. It was honorably mentioned as a “favorite neighborhood” in Gainesville for 2022.
Duval—Eagle Eyes Crime Watch Neighborhood
Known for its stellar neighborhood watch organizations, this community is close to UF campus, restaurants and coffee shops.
A beautiful neighborhood in NW Gainesville that is established and conveniently located.
There are several viable, vibrant and scenic living options in GG that are both HOA and non-HOA regulated.
By Meredith Biesinger.