Local HOA’s

By James Vaughn

In a previous blog, we outlined some of the basics to help you make a more informed decision regarding Homeowners Associations (HOAs) and your next home purchase. Let’s explore some of the most prominent HOAs in Fredericksburg and surrounding communities more in depth.

1) HOA Basics

First, let’s recap the basics. Put simply, an HOA is an organization that regulates housing within a given area by making and enforcing rules that can govern many different aspects of home ownership like lawn maintenance, paint color, and pet regulations. HOAs can oversee multi-unit housing like condos or townhomes, as well as single family housing within a tract. They require payment of regular membership fees, and membership is required if the home is purchased within the HOAs jurisdiction. In other words, if applicable, the HOA fee becomes another factor of owning a home.

2) Lake of the Woods

Located in Locust Grove, Lake of the Woods is one of the larger HOA communities in the area and offers homes in a wide range of prices, from more modest abodes for those on a tight budget to million dollar estates on the lake. The community covers about 2,600 acres, with about 4,200 lots. The gated community offers a wide range of amenities, including lake access for fishing, swimming, and watersports; fitness center and pools; parks; camping and horseback riding; golf and a clubhouse; and several walking trails. Residents are also allowed a certain number of vehicle entry permits for their family and friends, who must pay a nominal yearly fee to maintain access. The HOA fee is approximately $140 per month.

3) Fawn Lake

Located in Locust Grove just a few miles from Lake of the Woods, Fawn Lake caters primarily to upper-middle tier homebuyers looking for a bit more space and exclusivity than what is provided by Lake of the Woods. The community spans 2,350 acres and features an Audubon certified wildlife sanctuary. Activities and amenities include water sports and fishing; golf course; ten miles of hiking trails; pool and fitness club; sports park; country club; dog park; community garden, and many social clubs. HOA fees are approximately $230 per month.

4) Cornerstone

Cornerstone actually developed two separate communities in the Fredericksburg area, Barley Woods and Regency Park. Both offer affordable, low maintenance living with homes that are around 2,000 square feet. Barley Woods is a 55+ community, and offers a clubhouse with pool and patio area, as well as outdoor hiking and parks. HOA fees in Barley Woods are about $270 per month. Regency Park also features a pool with a fitness center; clubhouse; and putting green. HOA fees there are about $300 per month. These fees are higher than Lake of the Woods or Fawn Lake, in part, because they cover additional services such as lawn care.

5) Summerlake

Summerlake also offers affordable housing for senior citizens 55 years and older. The community features a clubhouse; heated pool and spa; woodworking shop; tennis courts; walking trail and lake; an RV park. All 161 homes were built between 1987 and 1997 and are around 2,000 square feet. HOA fees in Summerlake are about $230 per month and covers low maintenance living similar to the Cornerstone communities.

Home buyers should carefully consider the pros and cons of HOA membership before deciding to buy a house. As always, at Sands & Associates, we are ready and willing to assist those in Central Virginia who want to make this important decision.