Skye Bridge

A Community Association is a group of Homeowners, who own similar style homes, within a specific geographical area. The goal of these Communities is to create a positive environment where everyone agrees to and adheres by the Rules and Regulations of the Association as listed in the Governing Documents. By agreeing to these rules, property values are maintained and even enhanced. A sense of harmony is also spread amongst the Community as Homeowners agree to the set of standards and Rules and Regulations. 

How does this happen?

Governing Documents set Architectural Standards. In many Associations, the Governing Documents will indicate what Architectural standards are permitted. The Governing Documents may even refer to a rule that includes “Architectural Standards” that were adopted by the Board of Directors. These standards will tell you what colors you can use to paint, if your shutter has to match your door, the trim permitted on your house, the color of the roof — anything on the outside of your home is included, sometimes, up to the finest detail – like the color and style of your door handle. 

Uniformity. When houses follow a set architectural standard, as approved by the Board of Directors, they are expected to maintain their house to look a certain way. It has to be kept in good condition at all times. This consistency throughout the neighborhood increases the beauty of the Community and the value of the homes.

Must be Maintained. Homes have to be maintained in a Community Association. They cannot become run down, ragged, or an eye sore for other neighbors to look at; they cannot create a situation that detracts from your own property value because of where you live (or who you live next to). If the home is not properly maintained, the managing agent or Board of Directors will issue a violation that has repercussions included, such as fines, the inability to vote, losing a parking space, and/or losing access the amenities. A lot of Associations prevent Board and Committee members from having any open violations.

A sense of Harmony. If you think about it, how great would it be to live in a neighborhood where all of the Homeowners were of the same like-mind? If you are that Homeowner who has a pet peeve about your neighbors not cutting the grass, or leaving their trash in an unsightly area …. all of these problems should be resolved if everyone in the Community followed the same set of Rules and Regulations. This then enables those stressors to disappear (like people not shoveling or failing to pick up after their dog), or else consequences will happen —- the Manager or Board will send violation letters that have consequences for non-compliance. Meanwhile, complying Homeowners can focus on things that matter to them – like enjoying their day at the pool, using the tennis court, or just sitting on their porch enjoying the beautiful view.

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Summary: Community Associations create a sense of harmony, while maintaining and increasing property value. While not all Homeowners may enjoy living in a Community Association, for those who wish to follow the rules, it is a great place to live and build a true sense of community with neighbors.