Homeowners Association Fee (HOA Fee)

Written by True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF®

Reviewed by Subject Matter Experts

Updated on March 29, 2023

Are You Retirement Ready?

Defining Homeowners Association Fees

Homeowners Association Fees are monthly payments, made by a homeowner to their neighborhood Homeowner's Association (HOA).

HOA fees are common for those who own or rent condominiums, but may also be levied on single-family homes as well.

Typically these fees are applied at a set rate that is known at the point of purchase of the respective home.

What Is the Purpose of HOA Fees?

HOA fees are collected and then put to use for the purpose of maintaining or expanding shared common areas within the neighborhood or complex.

For example, in most condo complexes there is typically a lobby of some kind, maybe a pool, a couple of sports courts and a gym.

All of which need to be maintained up to a certain level. HOA fees ensure that this takes place.

What Is the Cost?

The size of an HOA fee depends largely on the neighborhood, or complex you're living in and what services the HOA provides.

So, in short, expect a larger HOA fee, with the more available public amenities that are available.

The average monthly fee is about $200.

When Payment Is Deferred

If you were to decide to not pay their HOA fee, then depending on the agreement you and the HOA have made, the HOA has the right to charge late fees, or even take measures toward foreclosing on your property.

So be sure to pay those HOA fees, they're no joke!

Also, HOA fees, although a possible annoyance, really do a lot to raise the quality of life, as well as the value of your home.

Homeowners Association Fee (HOA Fee) FAQs

About the Author

True Tamplin, BSc, CEPF®

True Tamplin is a published author, public speaker, CEO of UpDigital, and founder of Finance Strategists.

True is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance (CEPF®), author of The Handy Financial Ratios Guide, a member of the Society for Advancing Business Editing and Writing, contributes to his financial education site, Finance Strategists, and has spoken to various financial communities such as the CFA Institute, as well as university students like his Alma mater, Biola University, where he received a bachelor of science in business and data analytics.

To learn more about True, visit his personal website, view his author profile on Amazon, or check out his speaker profile on the CFA Institute website.

Meet Top Certified Financial Advisors Near You

Find Advisor Near You