What is the difference between a Homeowners Association and a Neighborhood Association?
What Is A Neighborhood Association?
A Neighborhood Association is a group of residents or property owners who advocate for or organize activities within a neighborhood.
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The term neighborhood association is sometimes incorrectly used instead of homeowners association (HOA).
Some key differences include:
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* HOA membership is mandatory generally through rules tied to the ownership of property like deed restrictions. Neighborhood association membership is voluntary or informal. HOAs often own and maintain common property, such as recreational facilities, parks, and roads, whereas neighborhood associations are focused on general advocacy and community events.
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* The rules for formation of a neighborhood association in the United States are sometimes regulated at the city or state level. Neighborhood associations are more likely to be formed in older, established neighborhoods, whereas HOAs are generally established at the time a residential neighborhood is built and sold. In some cases, neighborhood associations exist simultaneously with HOAs, and each may not encompass identical boundaries.
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* A city-recognized neighborhood association serves a fundamentally different purpose than a homeowners association. Homeowner associations generally exist to govern common areas or to oversee convents for the development. Neighborhood associations bring residents together from a larger area to address community goals. A neighborhood association would also serve as a conduit for information between the city and area residents. Homeowner associations and neighborhood associations can co-exist very successfully.