What Is a Homeowners Association (HOA) and How Do They Work in New Hampshire?
- Jim Johnson
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
🏡 What Is a Homeowners Association (HOA) and How Do They Work in New Hampshire?
If you’re buying a home or condo in Plymouth, Campton, Thornton, Rumney, Ashland, or anywhere in Central NH, you may come across properties that are part of a Homeowners Association (HOA).
Here’s what an HOA is — and how it affects your purchase.
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What Is an HOA?
A Homeowners Association is an organization that manages shared areas, rules, and community services for certain neighborhoods, condo buildings, and development projects.
When you buy in an HOA, you agree to follow the HOA’s rules and pay monthly or yearly fees.
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What Do HOA Fees Cover?
Every HOA is different, but common items include:
✔ Maintenance & Services
Road maintenance
Snow removal
Landscaping
Trash removal
Community water/septic systems
✔ Amenities
Clubhouses
Pools
Fitness centers
Playgrounds
Trails
✔ Insurance
Exterior building insurance (common with condos)
Liability insurance for shared spaces
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How Much Are HOA Fees in NH?
It varies based on location and services:
🏘 Townhomes/Condos:
➡️ Typically $200–$500/month
🏡 Single-Family HOAs:
➡️ Often $25–$150/month
🎿 Resort or Vacation Areas: (Campton, Thornton, Waterville Estates)
➡️ $600–$1,200/year or more depending on amenities
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Common HOA Rules in NH
Most HOAs have rules regarding:
✔ Parking
✔ Pets
✔ Exterior changes
✔ Landscaping requirements
✔ Trash pickup
✔ Noise
✔ Short-term rentals (Airbnb)
✔ Maintenance standards
Always review the Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs) before making an offer.
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Pros & Cons of Living in an HOA
Pros
✔ Low-maintenance living
✔ Shared amenities
✔ Consistent neighborhood standards
✔ Exterior maintenance covered (for condos)
✔ Protected property values
Cons
❌ Monthly fees
❌ Rules and restrictions
❌ Approval needed for certain changes
❌ Special assessments (rare but possible)
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Do Lenders Consider HOA Fees?
Yes — HOA fees affect your loan approval because they count toward your DTI ratio.
If fees are high, your buying power decreases.
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Q&A
Q: Can HOA fees increase?
A: Yes. Fees can rise based on maintenance needs, inflation, or community upgrades. Always check the HOA’s financial health before buying.
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Keywords
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Jim Johnson Real Estate Agent
58 NH Route 25A
Wentworth, NH 03282
P: (857) 249-7392
Licensed New Hampshire REALTOR® with Three Hills Real Estate Services
Broker Email: info@ThreeHillsRES.com
Broker Website: www.ThreeHillsRES.com