Buying a home doesn’t just mean budgeting for your mortgage, taxes, and insurance—HOA fees can add hundreds of dollars to your monthly expenses. According to the National Association of Realtors, about 30% of American households now live in communities governed by homeowners associations (HOAs). In Pennsylvania alone, thousands of buyers each year purchase properties within HOAs.

Yet many underestimate how these fees impact long-term affordability. If you’re preparing to enter the Camp Hill PA real estate market, understanding HOA fees is just as important as understanding your loan terms.

What Are HOA Fees?

HOA fees are payments homeowners make to their homeowners association, typically charged monthly or quarterly. The purpose of these fees is to cover shared expenses that keep the community running. They’re common in condominiums, townhomes, and planned communities, but can also apply in some single-family neighborhoods.

What Do HOA Fees Usually Cover?

The exact breakdown varies by community, but most HOA fees go toward:

• Maintenance of common areas: Landscaping, parks, pools, or gyms.
• Repairs: Roads, roofs, elevators, or building exteriors in shared communities.
• Utilities: Some HOAs include water, trash, or even cable.
• Insurance: Policies covering shared structures or common spaces.
• Services: Snow removal, pest control, or security.

An experienced realtor can help buyers understand what’s included in the fees for a specific community. That matters because one HOA may cover major repairs, while another only handles lawn care.

How HOA Fees Affect Affordability

For buyers, HOA fees directly affect how much house you can afford. For example, if fees are $300 per month, that’s $3,600 a year on top of your mortgage and property taxes. Lenders consider these fees when calculating your debt-to-income ratio, which means higher fees can reduce your overall borrowing power.

Working with a local real estate agent ensures you factor HOA costs into your budget early on, instead of being surprised later.

Why Fees Differ From One HOA to Another

Not all HOAs are created equal. HOA fees can range depending on the size of the community, the amenities offered, and the level of services provided. A real estate professional will encourage you to ask for a copy of the HOA’s budget and reserve study before making an offer. This helps you see how well the association manages funds and whether future special assessments are likely.

Red Flags Buyers Should Watch For

• Frequent special assessments: Signs of poor financial planning.
• High delinquency rates: Many owners not paying fees could mean trouble ahead.
• Limited reserves: If the HOA doesn’t have funds for big repairs, homeowners may face surprise bills.

An experienced realtor will highlight these potential risks during your home search.

Consult Experienced Realtors From Smith Top Team Realtors

Thinking about buying in a community with HOA fees? At Smith Top Team Realtors, we can help you break down costs and spot red flags before you commit. As award-winning local real estate agents in Central Pennsylvania, we’ll guide you through every step to ensure your purchase is smart, affordable, and stress-free.

Contact us today to start your home search with confidence.