If you’ve been home shopping in Massachusetts—or anywhere in the U.S.—you’ve likely come across properties that require HOA fees. But what exactly are these fees? Are they worth it? And what are you really paying for each month?
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of Homeowners Association (HOA) fees, what they typically include, when they can be a red flag, and how to evaluate if an HOA is well-managed—or headed for trouble.
🏘️ What is an HOA?
An HOA (Homeowners Association) is a private governing body within a planned community, condo complex, or subdivision. Its purpose is to:
Enforce rules (called CC&Rs: Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions)
Manage shared amenities and property maintenance
Protect the appearance and value of the neighborhood
If your home is part of an HOA, you’re required to pay monthly or quarterly fees to support its operations.
💸 How Much Are HOA Fees in 2025?
In Massachusetts:
Condos in Boston: $400–$1,200/month depending on location, size, and amenities
Suburban townhomes or gated communities: $100–$400/month
Luxury communities: Upwards of $1,500/month
The amount is determined by the annual HOA budget divided among all homeowners.
📋 What Do HOA Fees Cover?
Every HOA is different, but most fees go toward:
🛠️ Maintenance & Repairs
Roofs, hallways, elevators (for condos)
Landscaping, snow removal, trash services
Parking lots, sidewalks, and fences
🏊 Amenities
Pools, gyms, clubhouses, parks, tennis courts
Shared laundry facilities or co-working lounges
Security gates, concierge services
📑 Insurance
Master insurance policy for the building or common areas
Liability coverage for slips/falls on shared property
🧑💼 Administrative Costs
Management company fees
Legal or accounting services
HOA board operations
🧱 Reserves
A portion of your fee is set aside in reserves—a savings account for large expenses like:
Roof replacements
Elevator upgrades
Repaving roads or parking structures
🚨 What HOA Fees Don’t Cover
It’s a common misconception that HOA fees cover everything. They usually don’t include:
Property taxes
Interior maintenance (appliances, plumbing, HVAC inside your unit)
Homeowner’s insurance for personal belongings or interior damage
You’ll still need your own HO-6 condo policy or homeowners insurance, depending on your property type.
⚠️ Watch Out for These HOA Red Flags
A well-run HOA is a good sign—but some HOAs can be disorganized or even financially unstable. Watch for:
Underfunded reserves (ask to see reserve study or recent budget reports)
Frequent special assessments (surprise fees to cover unexpected repairs)
Ongoing litigation involving the HOA or board
High turnover in board or management company
Overly restrictive rules (e.g., no rentals, strict paint or décor policies)
Ask your real estate agent or attorney to review the HOA documents during the inspection phase.
🏠 Are HOA Fees Worth It?
That depends on your lifestyle and the property.
💡 HOA Might Be a Good Fit If:
You want low-maintenance living
You value shared amenities
You don’t mind rules that protect neighborhood appearance
You plan to stay long enough to benefit from shared investments
❌ Might Not Be Right For You If:
You want complete control over your property (painting, pets, etc.)
You prefer independent property upkeep
You dislike shared financial obligations or board governance
📑 Questions to Ask Before Buying in an HOA
How much are monthly dues? Have they increased recently?
What is the reserve balance?
Are there any pending assessments or legal issues?
What rules or restrictions apply (e.g., rentals, pets, remodeling)?
Who manages the HOA—volunteer board or paid company?
What is the delinquency rate (how many owners are behind on dues)?
🏁 Final Thoughts
HOA fees are more than just a line item—they represent how your community is maintained and managed. When run well, an HOA can increase property value, reduce headaches, and offer amenities that improve your quality of life.
But when poorly managed, high fees and restrictive rules can cause frustration and financial strain. So always do your homework, ask for the documents, and evaluate the HOA like you would the home itself.
Michael Reilly is a real estate attorney and housing policy advisor with over 15 years of experience helping buyers navigate property ownership in Massachusetts and beyond.