What Do HOA & COA Fees Actually Pay For?
When prospective board members or homeowners search, “What do HOA fees actually pay for?”, they want clarity. At Vertex Professional Group, we believe in transparency and ensuring your community understands where every dollar goes. Here’s a clear breakdown of what your HOA/COA fees typically cover—and why they matter.
1. Upkeep & Maintenance of Common Areas
HOA/COA fees are primarily used to maintain shared spaces—landscaped lawns, parks, private roads, sidewalks, and parking areas. This includes snow removal, pest control, and routine repairs to keep your community looking and functioning its best.
2. Shared Amenities
Pools, gyms, clubhouses, playgrounds, tennis courts—these perks enhance residents’ quality of life and increase property values. Maintenance, cleaning, staffing, and repairs for these amenities are funded through your HOA/COA dues.
3. Utilities & Services for Common Spaces
Some communities include utilities like water for irrigation, lighting for streets and common areas, and trash or recycling services as part of HOA/COA fees.
4. Insurance Coverage
HOAs maintain insurance policies that cover common areas and amenities—protecting the community from liability and damage. Individual homeowners typically carry separate property insurance for their personal spaces.
5. Reserve Funds & Financial Health
A portion of your fees goes into reserve funds—savings for major, infrequent expenses like repaving roads, replacing roofs, or upgrading elevators. A well-funded reserve helps avoid surprise “special assessments.”
6. Professional Management & Staffing
HOA/COA fees often pay for professional property management—staffing, vendor relations, administrative tasks, and compliance management—that lightens the workload of volunteer board members.
7. Legal & Governance Compliance
Behind the scenes, fees support legal essentials like enforcing CC&Rs, managing meetings, paying licenses or dues for required governing bodies, and ensuring compliance with laws like California’s Davis–Stirling Act.
How Much Can Fees Vary?
- Nationally, average HOA fees range from $200–$300/month, typically lower for basic services and higher for amenity-rich or luxury communities.
- Houston context: Single-family home fees averaged about $58/month, while condos reached around $375/month.
- Some specially developed communities have experienced dramatic hikes—from $20 to upwards of $300 or more—underscoring the importance of strong financial planning and clear communication.
Why Transparency Matters—and Why Boards Should Showcase It
- Build Trust: Transparent breakdowns help homeowners see the true value they receive.
- Shape Budgeting: Understanding categories like reserves and insurance helps boards advocate for sustainable budgets.
- Attract Quality Board Members: Clearly described responsibilities and fund usage encourage informed, valuable board participation.
- Avoid Complaints and Surprises: When community members understand what their fees support, they’re less likely to push back against necessary increases.
Spotlight on Vertex Professional Group
At Vertex Professional Group, we partner with your HOA or COA board to deliver:
- Tailored financial and reserve planning
- Transparent reporting tools for improved homeowner satisfaction
- Responsible governance compliance and document management (CC&Rs, budgets, meeting minutes)
Let us help your community thrive—reach out today to create clarity around your HOA/COA fees.