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Message: [QUOTE="huskeynut, post: 4642914, member: 750"] We moved from CT to Florida in 2016. We purchased a home in a 55+ community. We have an HOA. At the time we purchased the HOA was controlled by the builder. Just about every community in FL has an HOA. We purchased a house that was built in 2014. My mother-in-law was in real estate for well over 30 years in CT and RI. Her advice was always purchase an existing home versus new, unless you have the time to follow the entire building process with the contractor. Better buy. In our community, we saw the model homes and were advised that a new build was at least 7 months. Plus we found out that certain items like ceiling fans, appliances, AC and lighting fixtures were extra. Since it Florida, the lanai was not included. Landscaping was minimal. But plenty of upgrades were available. As to the HOA, 2 plus years ago the HOA board was turned over to the residents. The builder gave a 3 month transistion which was no were near enough time. According to the by-laws, the first resident board was limited to 3 people. Elections went smoothly despite some complainers. A year later, elections were held again but this time for a 5 member board. The first board president did not run again. The present board works well together. I know 2 of them personally - good people. So far the board has addressed issues such as contracts well. We have just sign a contract with a new cable/ internet provider. Out cable costs are included in our HOA fees. This one has been a doozy!!!!!!! The board sub-committee charged with reviewing the old cable contract was extremely specific in what the cable company must provide. Board did an excellent job but the complainers are out in force. We have HOA documents that spell out outside painting. Ours is every 7 years. There are specific colors you can choose. Painting requires paperwork. The companies that paint do the paperwork. Additions such as lanai construction/ expansion all need paperwork for community approval and county approval. Anything done on the inside of the house does not need paperwork. So far we have had no problems with the HOA. Of course we read the documents and asked tons of questions for clarification. [/QUOTE]

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