What Central Florida Homebuyers Must Know About HOAs & Condo Associations Before Closing

What Every Central Florida Homebuyer Should Know About HOAs & Condo Associations

Buying a home in Central Florida comes with beautiful weather, diverse communities, and a variety of property options. However, if you’re considering a home or condo in a neighborhood with a homeowners association (HOA) or condo association, there are important details you need to know before signing your contract.

Here’s why it matters, and what you should always review before closing on a property.

Why Central Florida Has So Many HOAs

From gated subdivisions in Lake Nona to golf course condos in Winter Park, many neighborhoods throughout Central Florida are governed by HOAs or condo associations. These groups manage community amenities, maintain common areas, and enforce neighborhood standards. While this can help protect property values and ensure a pleasant living environment, it also comes with rules, restrictions, and fees that directly affect homeowners.

What to Review Before Buying

Before finalizing your purchase, it’s important to request and carefully review the following documents:

• Association Financial Statements
  Understand the financial health of the community. Are there adequate reserves for future repairs? Is the association managing funds responsibly?
• Rules and Restrictions (CC&Rs)
  These documents detail regulations on parking, pet ownership, rental policies, exterior modifications, and more. It’s crucial to know what you can and cannot do with your property.
• Pending or Upcoming Special Assessments
  If major community repairs or improvements are planned, you could be responsible for additional fees beyond your regular dues.
• Recent Board Meeting Minutes
  Reviewing the minutes from the last two to three meetings can provide insight into ongoing community issues, upcoming projects, and resident concerns.
• Insurance Coverage Summary
  Understand what the association’s insurance policy covers and what additional coverage you may need as a homeowner.
• Fee Schedule
  Know how much the monthly, quarterly, or annual association fees are and what services they include.
• Reserve Study or Fund Balance Report (if available)
  This outlines whether the community is financially prepared for future large-scale repairs or replacements.
• Architectural or Modification Guidelines
  If you plan to make changes to your property’s exterior, check for rules on paint colors, fencing, landscaping, and more.

What Can Go Wrong If You Skip This

Many buyers fall in love with a property, only to discover after closing that:

• Their pet is not allowed under HOA guidelines

• A special assessment is about to be issued for major repairs

• Rental restrictions affect their investment plans

• Ongoing disputes make living in the community stressful

Having this information upfront lets you make a fully informed decision — or walk away from a property that isn’t the right fit.

Pro Tip: Always Request These Documents Early

In Florida, buyers have the right to review HOA and condo association documents during their inspection period. It’s wise to request these immediately upon entering the contract so you have time to review them thoroughly.

Central Florida Homebuyer HOA & Condo Association Checklist

Documents to Request:

• HOA or Condo Association Financial Statements

• Community Rules, Regulations, and Restrictions (CC&Rs)

• Pending or Upcoming Special Assessments

• Reserve Study or Reserve Fund Balance Report

• Recent 2–3 Board Meeting Minutes

• Insurance Policy Summary for the Community

• Association Fee Schedule

• Architectural or Modification Guidelines

Questions to Ask:

• Are there any upcoming major repairs or renovations planned?

• Is there a history of special assessments?

• What are the rules about pets, rentals, parking, and property modifications?

• Are there restrictions on vehicles such as RVs, work trucks, or trailers?

• Are there any lawsuits or legal disputes involving the HOA or association?

• Is the community financially stable with adequate reserve funds?

Pro Tips:

• Request all association documents during your inspection period in Florida.

• Always read recent board meeting minutes — they reveal ongoing issues and community dynamics.

• Know what your monthly or quarterly fees include, whether it’s lawn care, cable, amenities, insurance, or maintenance.

Need Help Navigating a Central Florida HOA Community?

Whether you’re buying in a master-planned neighborhood, a lakeside condo, or a vintage community, having an experienced real estate professional to help you review and interpret HOA documents is key.

If you’re thinking about purchasing a property in Central Florida, I’d be happy to guide you through the process, review important documents with you, and help you avoid hidden surprises.

Contact me today to get started.