Is there a difference between a homeowners association and a neighborhood association?
The only real difference between a homeowner’s association and a neighborhood association is the source of the group. A homeowner’s association is legally established by a builder or developer. The builder or developer maintains ownership of the fees collected and handles any grievances until mandated by the covenants or by-laws. Usually, this is when 80 percent of the homes are sold, or whatever has been formally and legally determined. I, personally, live in a condominium community where they are almost done building new units. Therefore, it only will be a short time before the association will be turned over to the homeowners. They will then elect officers, maintain secure accounts to receive and disburse payments, and maintain the community as mandated in the by-laws. Membership is usually mandatory of all homeowners. A neighborhood association, on the other hand, grows out of concern of area homeowners and works to collectively maintain a neighborhood. Participation is usually vol
