Your slice of heaven. A 2005 study, which appeared in the Cato Institute’s "Regulation" magazine, compared a group of Washington, D.C., area HOA properties with similar homes without community benefits -- a total of about 12,000 homes. While the goal of this organization is to protect the value of your land by enforcing the rules, sometimes those rules can seem a bit unfair to those who like to grow their own food.
We have a homeowners association that has a set formula for front and rear landscaping and hardscaping. Top 7 insane homeowners association rules December 15, 2009 Supporters of homeowner's associations claim the rules increase a sense of community and help boost home values. If the HOA can point to no relevant rule, or if you disagree with the HOA’s interpretation , discuss the matter (civilly) with the HOA. How can the HOA kick you out of your house when you own it? To get you started on the basics in time for the spring and summer, here’s a list of dos and don’ts from the experts at IKO Community Management in Olney, Maryland: It might back down. It’s beautiful. One of the rules is that my backyard (which nobody can see) be landscaped in accordance with their guidelines. And there’s value in the fee. HOA boards can help eliminate confusion by communicating with homeowners about landscaping rules, Holden says. We have talked to others in our community who have small backyards, and they are upset because they have to get a small pool or … We have a small backyard, so the formula has a greater effect on our dream backyard then those with larger backyards, especially when adding a pool and spa. Consider seasonal newsletters that outline the services the landscaping company will be doing in the coming weeks and months. If you live in a subdivision, development, or condo, chances are you have to deal with an HOA (Homeowners Association). And it’s in your backyard. One day you stroll out to your mailbox to find a letter from your HOA telling you your garden is in violation of HOA rules. If it's relying on a general rule (such as one prohibiting owners from creating nuisances upon their properties), do your best to convince the board that this does not apply to your use. According to REALTOR® Magazine, properly maintained landscaping increases the value of your home by 12 percent.Imagine what quality shrubbery and garden beds can do for an entire HOA community. There is a bit of a legal process. Your HOA cannot directly kick you out of your home. Average annual dues for a homeowners association is $396, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Your respite. The place where you can get your hands dirty growing wholesome, nourishing foods for you and your family.
Dedicate part of the HOA website to Frequently Asked Questions about landscaping issues.