How to Navigate HOA Rules When Buying in Colorado
You’ve found the perfect mountain home—great views, solid bones, and tucked in a community that “comes with amenities.” Then you see it: Homeowners Association (HOA). Some buyers breathe a sigh of relief. Others cringe. Either way, in Colorado, HOAs are a big part of the real estate landscape, especially in mountain neighborhoods and planned developments.
So how do you make sure the HOA doesn’t derail your dream home? Here's how to navigate the rules, restrictions, and realities of HOAs before you close the deal.
1. Understand What an HOA Actually Does
An HOA is a governing body that maintains shared spaces and enforces community standards. In Colorado, HOAs are legally recognized entities with the power to:
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Collect monthly or annual dues
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Enforce architectural and design guidelines
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Manage snow removal, roads, water systems, and other shared resources
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Approve or deny changes to your home’s exterior or property use
🎯 Not all HOAs are bad—but not all are helpful, either. It depends on how they’re run.
2. Review the HOA Docs Before You Commit
Once you're under contract in Colorado, the seller must provide HOA documents—and this is where the homework begins.
🔍 Key documents to review:
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Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs)
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Bylaws and rules/regulations
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Meeting minutes (look for disputes, fines, or neighbor drama)
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Budget and reserve fund (how healthy is the HOA financially?)
📄 If you see unclear rules or signs of poor management, we’ll flag them for you.
3. Ask These Questions Before You Close
Not sure what to look for? Ask:
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Can I rent out the home (short-term or long-term)?
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Are RVs, trailers, or boats allowed on the property?
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Can I add a garage, fence, or shed?
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Are there pet restrictions?
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How much are dues—and do they ever go up?
💡 Even simple things like paint color or firewood storage may be regulated.
4. Mountain HOAs: Different Animal, Same Rules
In Colorado’s mountain communities, HOAs may manage:
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Private roads and snow removal
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Shared wells or water systems
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Wildfire mitigation policies
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Gate access or security
🏔️ These HOAs can be more relaxed—but they still have power. You’ll want to ensure your lifestyle plans align with their rules.
5. Know Your Rights as a Buyer
Colorado has specific HOA laws under the Colorado Common Interest Ownership Act (CCIOA). As a buyer:
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You have the right to review docs during your due diligence window
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You can terminate the contract if the rules don’t work for you
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You can ask for clarification on any unclear or missing HOA documents
That’s why working with a team (👋 hey there) that knows how to read HOA docs and negotiate accordingly is so important.
The Bottom Line
An HOA shouldn’t be a dealbreaker—but it shouldn’t be ignored either. Whether you’re buying a home in Evergreen with private road access or a condo in Denver with a gym and rooftop deck, we’ll make sure you know what you’re signing up for—and that the rules work for you.
📞 Contact Us
🏡 Moxie Property Group
📞 (303) 578-1220
💻 [email protected]
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