Re: HOA fees. Probably are some HOA's that are poorly run. About like anything else involving people. Have lived in communities where standards were poorly enforced. No one wants to sink money into such a place. Have lived in some places where the standards were enforced by the municipality. Usually worked out fine. Last house we had, the HOA could get a bit frisky. Will say, everyone kept their place up to standards agreed upon at purchase. Standards were enforced regardless of what type house or location within the subdivision. Basically you couldn't rebuild a car in the driveway, had to keep shrubbery trimmed and grass cut, etc. Not a big deal. Now retired. Live in a condominium w/ a HOA. Outside of condos, lawns, shrubbery, etc. stays nice. Also have playgrounds, very nice swimming pool, tennis courts, nice areas for grilling, very well maintained parking areas, no crazy loud jacked up music in the middle of the night, etc. Happy not to have to deal with a 5 acre yard, jungle of bushes, etc. All in all, its a good deal. Sincerely. bruce.