wrote in message
...
On Fri, 19 Dec 2008 01:02:45 +0000 (UTC), "SteveBell"
wrote:

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.


I live in a "voluntary HOA" community. We have an organization that
maintains the common grounds and we all chip in but it runs as a
"corporation not for profit" (Fla article 617) and they do not have
the power of lien. We get about 75-80% participation on the $150 a
year dues. It is enough money to maintain a community park, shelter
building, boat ramp and several boat slips (for a nominal rent). That
also buys an insurance policy for the common elements.
This is the best of both worlds. We have some organized participation
of neighbors but without any power freaks since there really isn't any
power to be had.
A few people tried to look into making this a "720" lien empowered
association and it got voted down by about 70% of the residents.

Wow, buddy! I know of associations that we've done studies on that run
$1,000 A MONTH.

$150 a year is very reasonable, particularly in a state that requires
reserve studies, and that rate is pretty much locked in and documented.

Steve