As a vacation rental host, it’s essential to be aware of homeowners’ associations (HOAs) and their effects on your business. HOAs can have a strong presence in communities worldwide, so it’s best to learn what they are, what they do, their fees, and how to be part of one. With the correct leadership and participation, an HOA can be a great asset to any community. This article explains Airbnb HOA restrictions and helps hosts understand what joining an HOA means as a short-term rental host.
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What is an HOA?
A homeowners’ association is an organization created by residents for the purpose of managing the common areas of residential development. The common areas can include parks, playgrounds, pools, gyms, and other amenities that are available for use by all residents of the development. The exact expectations, fees, and requirements of individual HOA’s vary, and it is important to learn specifics of yours.
How Much Does an HOA Cost?
The cost of an HOA varies depending on the size of the development and the number of amenities that are available to residents. Most HOAs charge a monthly or annual assessment, which the homeowner typically pays through their mortgage lender. Some HOAs also charge a one-time initiation fee, which the homeowner pays at the time of purchase.
The average monthly HOA fee is between $200 and $400 but can range from anywhere between $100 and $10,000 for luxury communities. HOA fees cover the costs of maintaining common areas, such as lobbies, patios, swimming pools, tennis courts, community clubhouses, and other such sites.
Sometimes, they will also help cover utilities such as water or sewage and garbage. Anything that is used by the community is upkeep by the HOA.
How to Be Part of an HOA as a Vacation Rental Owner
If you own a vacation rental property that is located within an HOA, you will need to become a member of the HOA in order to rent your property. You will typically need to pay a one-time initiation fee and monthly or annual assessments to become a member. You will also be required to follow the Airbnb HOA’s deed restrictions.
As a vacation rental owner, you may not be able to participate in the HOA as much as other members. However, you can still attend meetings and vote on issues that affect the community.
You may be able to volunteer to serve on the board of directors or committees. By getting involved in the HOA, you can help ensure that your property is well-maintained and that the community is a desirable place for your short-term rental guests.
What are deed restrictions?
Deed restrictions are rules that dictate how a property can be used and what type of improvements can be made to the property. Deed restrictions are enforced by the HOA and are typically designed to maintain property values within the development.
Common deed restrictions include:
– Specifying the minimum and maximum size of homes that can be built on a lot
– Requiring that all homes be built to specific architectural standards;
– Limiting the number of pets that can be owned
– Prohibiting commercial businesses from being operated from the home
– Dictating what type of landscaping and exterior improvements can be made to the home
– Limiting or creating specific rules around using your home as a vacation rental
The Benefits of Being Part of an Airbnb HOA for Vacation Rental Hosts
There are several benefits of being part of an HOA as a vacation rental host. For example, the monthly or annual assessments charged by an HOA can help to cover the cost of maintaining common areas and amenities, such as pools and playgrounds. That saves you time and energy hiring a cleaning crew to keep parts of the property in shipshape.
Another large benefit is that HOAs typically have insurance policies in place that can cover damages to the property or common areas. That way, if something does happen with your guests, you won’t be left footing the bill.
And finally, being part of an HOA gives you a say in how the community is run. You’ll be able to vote on things like changes to the rules, and elect board members who will help make decisions about the community.
The Downside of Being Part of an HOA for Vacation Rental Hosts
Of course, there are also some potential downsides to being part of an HOA. For example, you will be required to pay assessments whether or not your guests use the common areas or amenities. And if your guests violate any of the rules and regulations, you could be subject to fines or other penalties.
Additionally, HOAs can sometimes be bureaucratic and slow to make decisions. So, if you’re hoping to make changes to your rental property, such as renovating the kitchen or adding a deck, you might have to jump through a lot of hoops to get approval.
The biggest downside is if your HOA has rules that restrict short-term rentals. You should always make sure an HOA allows short-term rentals if you are looking to buy a property that has an HOA.
How to Navigate HOA Short-Term Rental Restrictions as a Vacation Rental Host
If you own a vacation rental property that is located within an HOA, there are a few things you can do to navigate the HOA short-term rental restrictions:
-Educate yourself on the specific rules and regulations set forth by the HOA.
–Work with your neighbors to create a good working relationship.
-Encourage guests in your house rules to be respectful of the property and common areas.
-Pay your monthly or annual assessments on time.
-Follow the rules and regulations set forth by the HOA.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, educating yourself on HOAs and their restrictions is essential before becoming a vacation rental host. By understanding the purpose of an HOA, the costs involved, and the rules they set forth, you can easily navigate the HOA’s short-term rental restrictions. With proper planning and communication, being part of an HOA can be a positive experience for you and your guests.
Host Tools provides an automated, unified calendar for short-term rental hosts, allowing you to seamlessly list on all major channels. Start your free trial today!