Some changes are now in effect for the state's homeowners associations that now give homeowners more freedoms when it comes to outdoor decorating and installing environmentally friendly systems. The changes also make it harder for HOAs to foreclose due to unpaid fees.
The new HOA regulations passed by the Texas Legislature last year are considered the most sweeping reforms yet for property owner groups.
Now, HOAs won't be able to keep you from displaying the U.S. or Texas flag, or flags of military branches. Free-standing flagpoles 20 feet tall or less will be allowed, too. HOAs also won't be able to keep you from hanging religious displays on your front doors, but they can require you keep it at 25 square inches or less.
Rainwater harvesting and barrels, as well as solar panels, must be allowed within some limits.
Among other changes, HOAs now will have to go through a judge if they want to foreclose on owners behind on payments. Previously, they could use the quicker non-judicial foreclosure. Now, if homeowners fall behind on payments, the HOA must give them a payment plan.
Sources: Houston Chronicle, Texas Association of REALTORs
No comments:
Post a Comment