What is the difference between a homeowners association and a neighborhood association?

The term neighborhood association is sometimes incorrectly used instead of homeowners association (HOA). Some key differences include:

  • HOA membership is mandatory generally through rules tied to the ownership of property like deed restrictions. Neighborhood association membership is voluntary or informal.
  • HOAs often own and maintain common property, such as recreational facilities, parks, and roads, whereas neighborhood associations are focused on general advocacy and community events.

The rules for formation of a neighborhood association in the United States are sometimes regulated at the city or state level. Neighborhood associations are more likely to be formed in older, established neighborhoods, whereas HOAs are generally established at the time a residential neighborhood is built and sold. In some cases, neighborhood associations exist simultaneously with HOAs, and each may not encompass identical boundaries.

Show All Answers

1. What is an assessment?
2. Are 'dues' different than 'assessments?'
3. What is a homeowners association (HOA)?
4. What is a community association?
5. What is a neighborhood association?
6. What is the difference between a homeowners association and a neighborhood association?
7. What is association management?
8. What is an association management company and what do they do?
9. Does my community have an association management company, and if so, how do I contact them?
10. What is a 'managing agent'?
11. What is a 'proxy'?
12. What is a 'quorom'?
13. What is a 'recuse'?
14. What is a board of directors?
15. How do I contact my board of directors?
16. What is Community Associations Institute?
17. Is the Community Associations Institute a national organization, or are they local to my area?
18. What are CC&Rs?
19. What are 'bylaws'?
20. What are governing documents?
21. What is a lien?
22. What is the 'declaration'?
23. What is an estoppel letter?
24. What is an 'easement'?
25. What is a 'notice of noncompliance'?
26. What is a 'common area'?
27. What are ordinances?