Homeowners Associations (HOAs) are becoming more common across the country — and Massachusetts is no exception.
Nationally, 43.6% of homes for sale in 2025 include HOA fees, up from just 34.3% in 2019. At the same time, the average monthly HOA fee has climbed to $135, a $10 increase from last year alone.
With more new construction communities and condominium developments popping up across the South Shore and Greater Boston, it’s important to understand what that really means for buyers and sellers.
Let’s break it down.
✅ The Pros of Living in an HOA Community
1. Amenities & Lifestyle
Many HOA communities offer perks like:
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Pools
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Clubhouses
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Fitness centers
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Landscaping services
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Snow removal
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Security
In areas like Quincy, Weymouth, Braintree, Hingham, and Medford, we often see buyers drawn to condo associations and newer developments specifically for the low-maintenance lifestyle.
For busy professionals, downsizers, and investors, that “lock-and-leave” convenience can be incredibly attractive.
2. Maintained Property Values
HOAs typically enforce appearance standards. While that can feel restrictive to some (we’ll get there), it often protects neighborhood consistency — which can support long-term property values.
In condo-heavy markets like Boston, association oversight is often essential for building maintenance, reserves, and overall financial health.
3. Budget Predictability (Sometimes)
In many condo communities, HOA dues cover:
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Exterior maintenance
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Roof repairs
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Landscaping
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Master insurance policies
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Trash removal
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Common utilities
That can make budgeting simpler compared to managing everything independently.
⚠️ The Cons of HOA Living
1. Monthly Fees (That Can Increase)
The average HOA fee nationally is $135 per month — but in Massachusetts, particularly in Greater Boston condo buildings, we frequently see higher monthly dues depending on amenities and building size.
And fees can rise.
In some parts of the country, HOA costs have become a significant burden. In Florida’s Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach metro, HOA fees can account for up to 26.9% of a homeowner’s mortgage payment.
While we don’t see numbers quite that dramatic locally, it’s an important reminder: buyers should review HOA budgets, reserves, and financials carefully.
2. Rules & Restrictions
HOAs can limit:
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Exterior paint colors
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Porch decor (yes, even porch swings and bird baths)
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Landscaping changes
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Tree removal
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Rental policies
For some homeowners, those rules provide peace of mind. For others, they feel restrictive.
If you’re someone who values total control over your property, a single-family home without an HOA may be a better fit.
3. Special Assessments
If reserves are underfunded and a major repair arises (roof replacement, structural work, etc.), homeowners may face special assessments.
This is why we always guide our buyers to review:
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Reserve studies
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Condo docs
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Pending litigation
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Financial statements
Not all HOAs are created equal.
Regional Trends: Why This Matters If You’re Moving
The West and South have seen the largest growth in HOA communities since the pandemic, largely due to new construction.
Nevada leads the country, with 68.3% of listings including HOA fees.
States like Florida, Hawaii, South Carolina, Minnesota, and Wisconsin also report higher HOA costs.
For our South Shore & Greater Boston sellers planning an out-of-state move, this is important context. If you’re relocating to places like Florida or the Carolinas, HOA living may be far more common — and more expensive — than what you’re used to here.
So… Is an HOA Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.
In our experience serving buyers and sellers across the South Shore and Greater Boston:
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Downsizers often appreciate HOA-managed living.
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Investors look closely at rental restrictions.
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First-time buyers may benefit from maintenance coverage.
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Long-term homeowners sometimes prefer the freedom of no HOA.
The key is understanding the full picture before you commit.
At The Jenkins Group, we don’t just help you buy a property — we help you evaluate the lifestyle, the long-term financial impact, and how the decision aligns with your goals.
If you’re considering a move — locally or out of state — we’re happy to walk through the pros and cons together so you can make a confident, informed decision.
Because in real estate, clarity leads to smart moves.
