"SteveBell" wrote in message
a.org...
One of my neighbors came by the other day and asked that I sign a
Christmas card and chip in for a gift card for another neighbor, Mike.
It turns out that Mike is the guy who's been mowing the big right of
way around the entrance to our subdivision. I just assumed it was the
city. Nope, it's Mike, and he's been doing it for free for more than
two years. I was happy to kick in a few bucks. Thanks, Mike!

While she was here, she casually mentioned that "some of us" were
trying to set up an "unofficial HOA" that would ask people to
voluntarily donate a suggested amount to do things like decorating
around the entrance. I'm generally opposed to HOAs, so I just ignored
that and gave her some cash for Mike.

If someone asks me to help plant shrubs, I'll be glad to participate,
but I'm not going to support setting up an HOA. About what do I need to
worry here?

* I assume they can't impose an HOA after the fact unless we agree. Am
I right?
* What if 75% of the homeowners agree to the HOA?

It's unlikely this will ever get past the talking stage, but if nothing
else, it's an interesting question. I'll go talk to my lawyer if it
becomes a reality.

In your opinion, what's likely to occur, and what can I do about it.

Steve:

Don't know about Texas, but most places a HOA is not a Government (like a
city or township), but a contract freely entered into by owners of the land
and the association. HOAs cannot force you to agree to the contract if you
own the land before the association comes into being. If the cost /
benefits ratio of the HOA is not to your liking, don't go for it. Don't
matter what the others think or say, only your local or county courts
(Judges) can force you into binding and attaching your land to a HOA against
your will.