NEW LAWS REGARDING HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATIONS

In Texas, Homeowner Association (HOA's) wield a lot of power.  That is starting to change, which will help 5 million Texans who live in neighorhoods with HOA's.  In other states, HOA's do not have as much power.

Most of the new laws effect single-family homes, not condos or townhomes,and became effective January 1, 2012. The biggest change  is that it is now more difficult for a homeowner to lose his or her house to an HOA.  

Before the HOA forecloses on a homeowner, usually for non-payment of HOA dues, the HOA must:

1.        Obtain a court order

2.        Allow for payment plans

3.        Send additional notices before handing it over to an attorney or collection agency.

HOA's must also provide 72 hour notice of board and open meetings.  All of this means more expenses for the association; but, hopefully, will save a homeowner from losing their home because they didn't pay their HOA fees.