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hike the annual dues to create
future reserves.
The vast
numbers of new homeowners in Bexar County in our price range are
governed by some kind of association. It is the forum that is
closest to the people. It is our neighborhood government.
Nationwide, an estimated 40 million Americans live under the realm of
homeowners associations. The CHOA maintains our green space and
ensure our residents abide by the deed restrictions (covenants).
Those
restrictions include a wide range of prohibitions and requirements
designed to protect our aesthetics and property values. Limits
include the size and type of fences; pools; outbuildings, such as
sheds; and swing sets. The covenants are part of the deed and pass
from one owner to another when the property is sold. A board of three
residents governs our homeowners association. Each household gets one
vote in the annual election.
The board
collects dues for maintenance, capital improvements, repairs and
recreational projects. The idea is to build strong communities
and protect property values.
Our primary
purpose is to make sure that people stay within compliance of our
covenants regarding building and the upkeep of their homes. If
someone is violating the covenants, we are required to and will
approach them directly and put it in writing. Normally, we are
willing to work with people. Legal action is a tool we have,
but is our last resort.
It is obvious
many Americans appreciate the way Home Owners Associations
operate. Why else would 20 per cent of the population
voluntarily place themselves under their control?
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