What to Ask During Your First HOA Meeting as a Homebuyer

7 January 2026

Buying a home in a community with a homeowners association (HOA) comes with its own set of perks and challenges. While an HOA can maintain property values and enforce community rules, it can also bring unexpected restrictions, fees, and obligations.

Your first HOA meeting is a golden opportunity to get clarity on what you're signing up for. But what exactly should you ask to ensure you're making a well-informed decision?

Let’s break it down so you walk into that meeting confident and leave with all the answers you need!

1. What Are the HOA Fees and What Do They Cover?

First things first—how much are you paying, and what do you get for it?

HOA fees can vary dramatically from one community to another. Some cover basic landscaping and common area maintenance, while others include perks like security, pool maintenance, and even utilities in some cases.

Key follow-ups to ask:
- How often are HOA fees reviewed and increased?
- Are there any upcoming fee hikes I should be aware of?
- What happens if homeowners fail to pay their dues?

Understanding these financial details will help you budget appropriately and avoid unexpected expenses.

2. Are There Any Special Assessments Coming Up?

Special assessments are additional charges homeowners must pay for unexpected community expenses—like major repairs or new amenities.

Imagine buying a home only to find out that a $5,000 special assessment is due next year. That’s the kind of costly surprise you want to avoid by asking in advance.

Important questions to consider:
- When was the last special assessment, and how much was it?
- Are there any planned upcoming assessments I should know about?
- How does the HOA decide when to issue a special assessment?

A well-managed HOA should have a reserve fund to cover major repairs, but if they don’t, special assessments could become a frequent burden.

3. What Are the Community Rules and Restrictions?

HOAs enforce rules—sometimes strict ones—related to everything from landscaping to exterior paint colors. You don’t want to move in only to find out your dream renovation or even parking your truck in the driveway is prohibited.

A few rules to clarify:
- Are there restrictions on exterior modifications (painting, fencing, solar panels, etc.)?
- What are the parking rules for residents and guests?
- Are short-term rentals (like Airbnb) allowed?
- Can I have pets, and are there breed or size restrictions?

These rules can significantly impact your lifestyle, so it’s better to know them upfront.

4. How Are Disputes Between Homeowners and the HOA Handled?

No one likes conflicts, but let’s be real—they happen. It’s crucial to understand the process if you ever have a disagreement with the HOA.

Ask these essential questions:
- What’s the process for resolving disputes?
- Are there fines for violating HOA rules? If so, how are they enforced?
- Have there been any major homeowner-HOA conflicts in the past?

Having a clear idea of how the HOA handles disputes can help you assess whether they’re reasonable and fair.

5. How Are HOA Board Members Chosen?

HOA board members make decisions that affect the entire community, so it’s important to know who they are and how they’re selected.

Ask the following:
- Are board members elected by homeowners, and how often does this happen?
- Can any homeowner run for a board position?
- What qualifications or experience do board members typically have?

A well-run community should have a transparent election process and an HOA board that represents the best interests of homeowners.

6. What Is the HOA’s Financial Health?

You wouldn’t invest in a company without checking its financial standing, right? Well, think of an HOA the same way.

A financially struggling HOA could mean higher fees or emergency assessments down the road.

Ask these critical financial questions:
- Can I review the most recent HOA budget and financial statements?
- How much is in the reserve fund?
- Are there any outstanding debts or financial issues?

A solid reserve fund suggests the HOA is well-prepared for major expenses. If they’re strapped for cash, be cautious—it could mean financial trouble ahead.

7. What’s the HOA’s Policy on Maintenance and Repairs?

Knowing what the HOA is responsible for versus what falls on you is essential for future budgeting.

Find out:
- Who maintains common areas, including roads, sidewalks, and landscaping?
- Are homeowners responsible for roof repairs, siding, or exterior maintenance?
- How long does it take for maintenance requests to be completed?

You don’t want to buy a home assuming the HOA will handle certain repairs, only to realize later that you’re on the hook for unexpected costs.

8. What’s the Process for Making Changes to My Property?

If you’re dreaming of adding a deck, installing solar panels, or even changing your front door color, you need to know how much control the HOA has.

Ask these questions:
- What’s the approval process for exterior modifications?
- Are there restrictions on landscaping or adding outdoor structures?
- How long does the approval process take?

Some HOAs have strict design rules, while others are more flexible. Knowing this upfront prevents headaches later.

9. Are There Any Pending Lawsuits Against the HOA?

This is a big one. If the HOA is involved in legal disputes, it could lead to financial instability or even impact property values.

Ask the board directly:
- Are there any ongoing or past lawsuits involving the HOA?
- If so, what’s the nature of these disputes?
- How does the board handle legal issues when they arise?

Pending lawsuits could be a red flag, so take this seriously before making a final decision.

10. What’s the HOA’s Policy on Renting Out Homes?

Even if you plan to live in the home yourself, things change. Maybe you’ll move in a few years and want to rent it out. Some HOAs have strict rental restrictions, which could impact your investment potential.

Ask about:
- Are rentals allowed, and if so, are there restrictions?
- Is there a cap on the number of rental properties in the community?
- Are short-term rentals like Airbnb or Vrbo permitted?

Knowing these details ensures you won’t get stuck with limitations that could affect your property’s value.

Final Thoughts

Your first HOA meeting shouldn’t feel like an interrogation, but it should be an opportunity to get real answers. The last thing you want is to be blindsided by hidden fees, unexpected restrictions, or a poorly managed community.

By asking the right questions now, you’ll have a much clearer picture of what life will be like under that HOA’s management. And that can make all the difference in ensuring your new home is truly the right fit for you.

If you’re about to attend your first HOA meeting, take this list with you. It might just save you from a world of surprises!